| ACA Update 10 Nov 16: High tide for regional ports

THE growth in regional port visits
and the associated economic
impact is driving exciting success
stories for our members.
Kangaroo Island will double its
cruise ship visits from 10 to 19 this
year with a mix of domestic and
international passengers.
Leah Clarke, SATC observes “We
are a great ‘one day Island’ where
visitors can see amazing wildlife &
enjoy our fabulous local produce.”
She also cited the recent
infrastructure developments.
“The double tender berth was
custom designed for cruise ships – it
is in sheltered waters, close to shore
and is wheelchair friendly.”
Touring and infrastructure are
also driving growth at Port Arthur
which will increase its cruise ship
visitation from 10 ships last year to
an astounding 22 ships in FY16/17
and 32 next year.
Within one hour of the port,
visitors can find wineries, whisky
distilleries, lavender farms, a
Tasmanian Devil Park, heritage
tours and geological formations.
Over in WA, the Port of Busselton,
gateway to the beautiful Margaret
River region is thriving with a
phenomenal spike in ship visits
from zero to 18 in just two
years. Christine Cole, Tourism
WA reports that not only are the
visitors coming but according to
recent research with passengers
on Diamond Princess and Dawn
Princess, 100% reported a positive
overall experience.
It is clear regional destinations are
punching above their weight for the
cruise industry.
At ACA we look forward to working
with them to continue that growth.

CONTRIBUTOR: Jill Abel, CEO, Australian Cruise Association