EDEN welcomed its largest-ever cruise ship on Sat, with 4,862 passengers aboard Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas visiting the South Coast town.
The ship’s arrival follows the NSW Government’s approval of a planning modification which permits vessels up to 370m long to berth in Eden (CW 25 Jul 2024).
Cruise passengers debarked to explore the destination, including the town centre and the Killer Whale Museum, and travel on a variety of shore excursions such as walking photography tours, a kayaking safari, and a cruise around Twofold Bay.
Passengers also enjoyed a pop-up Taste of Eden Festival (pictured) at the local Seahorse Inn Hotel & Villas, showcasing the best of the South Coast exclusively to Ovation passengers.
Hosted by Visit Eden and supported by the Federal Government, the festival offered local food & beverages, market stalls, fresh oysters, live entertainment, and more.
“Eden is one of NSW’s most stunning coastal destinations, and we’re delighted to partner with A Taste of Eden Festival to mark Ovation of the Seas’ debut visit,” Senior Director of Marketing Kathryn Lock told Cruise Weekly.
“This exclusive experience brings together the best of the region, giving our guests a true taste of the south coast.
“We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to Visit Eden for their support in creating this immersive experience.”
Ovation is one of 25 ships, including 12 maiden calls, to visit Eden this summer cruise season, with more than 40,000 passengers and 20,000 crew members estimated to inject millions of dollars into the local economy. MS
