EDEN is sailing toward greater cruise capacity, with the town to enjoy bigger and more frequent ship visits thanks to planning approval from the Government of New South Wales (CW 03 Oct).
On the back of its busiest summer cruise season on record, authorities have given the green light for a modification to the existing Eden Breakwater Wharf Extension, which will unlock access to Eden to larger ships.
The modification will also remove the current visit cap of 60 ships per season.
Vessels up to 370 metres in length will also be able to call at the berth (up from 325 metres), with overnight visits also possible following the extension.
This could see Eden potentially included on Majestic Princess and Ovation of the Seas’ itineraries.
The two large ships, which currently homeport in Sydney, will be accommodated following the modifications.
Minor physical alterations with minimal construction will be required to the wharf ahead of the cruise season.
New South Wales Minister for Transport and Tourism, Jo Haylen, described investing in the state’s rural ports as a “no-brainer”.
“Eden is already our state’s largest regional cruise port — and we’re making it even better, lifting the cap on visits and increasing NSW’s booming market share of Australia’s cruising industry,” Minister Haylen said.
“Cruising is one of Eden’s biggest economic drivers, so allowing bigger international ships to sail will bring enormous benefits to the region for years to come,” Haylen added.
“We want people from all over the world to experience everything our stunning state has to offer and ensure we all reap the economic rewards.”
Cruise Lines International Association Managing Director, Joel Katz, said the modifications highlight the importance of taking a collaborative, long-term approach to developing and supporting cruise tourism.
“The [port upgrades] are a sign of the success Eden has enjoyed through having close partnerships between the local community, local businesses, government, port operators and cruise lines.”
“With careful planning and strategic investment in the future, we have the opportunity to deliver long-term benefits in ways that suit local communities and enhance their tourism economy.”
Eden has almost 30 cruise ship visits booked for the upcoming summer cruise season, with the first set to be Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Wonder on 30 Oct. MS