Joint CLIA/ACA report finds first year of revival created $5.63 billion for the national economy.
The rapid rebound of cruising has seen the sector bring record levels of employment and visitor spending to destinations around the country, according to an analysis released this morning by the Australian Cruise Association (ACA) and Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).
The independently compiled report found that in 2022/23 cruise tourism generated $5.63 billion in total economic output, up more than 22% on 2018/19.
Cruise tourism supported a total of 18,225 full-time equivalent positions across the country, with CLIA Australasia MD Joel Katz confirming the figures were the highest ever recorded.
“Cruising returned to Australia much later than other parts of the world, but the ships have been resoundingly welcomed by cruise fans who have been heading back to sea in huge numbers,” Katz said.
ACA CEO Jill Abel said tourism destinations across the country continued to benefit from the cruise boom, collectively welcoming 1,354 ship visits, creating benefits for tourism operators, hotels, restaurants, retailers, transport providers and port operators.
“The supply chain that supports cruising is extensive, from the travel agents who manage the passengers’ arrangements through to the farmers who provide Australian produce served on board,” Abel said.
NSW Transport Minister Jo Haylen launched the report this morning at Sydney’s Overseas Passenger Terminal, and also confirmed a new 10-year agreement between the Port Authority of NSW and the Port of Newcastle to facilitate the safe transit of cruise ships, a move expected to see more cruise liners adding the Hunter to their itineraries.
More details in today’s issue of Cruise Weekly.