THE LARGEST cruise ship ever to dock at Eden Cruise Wharf is due to make its maiden arrival next week – the first following the NSW government’s planning approval to allow bigger cruise ships at the port.

The state government in July this year granted planning approval for a modification to the Eden Breakwater Wharf Extension, a change that would accommodate larger vessels and more frequent visits.

The planning modification makes it possible for ships of up to 370 metres long (up from 325 metres) to berth. It also removes the cap of 60 cruise ship visits per year and allows for overnight stays.

The 330-metre-long Royal Princess is scheduled to arrive on Monday 11 November, with 3560 passengers on board.

NSW transport minister Jo Haylen said the arrival of Royal Princess would signal “an exciting new era” for regional cruise.

“[This] will see a gradual increase in bigger ships not only this season but also for many future seasons ahead bringing enormous benefits to the region,” she said.

Port Authority of NSW CEO Philip Holliday said since the first cruise ship arrived into Eden in 2005, there have been around 150 cruise ship visits at Eden.

“We are working closely with cruise lines to ensure the continuous growth of the NSW cruise market so even more cruise passengers can experience the best of NSW while injecting millions into local economies,” he said.

And member for Bega Michael Holland said the arrival on Monday would ensure the region has access to the economic boost brought by these bigger cruise ships.

“This time last year, the Royal Princess would have been five metres too long to dock here in Eden, but thanks to the new modifications to the port’s operations, Eden will see bigger ships and more frequent visits.”

The Royal Princess is one of 25 cruise ships lined up to visit Eden this season, bringing 44,000 passengers and 20,000 crew. Twelve of those ships will be making their maiden calls at the port.

The season begins on Tuesday 5 November with the arrival of Disney Wonder.

Royal Princess is due to visit Eden again on 15 March 2025.