Small Island, Big Opportunities
YESTERDAY I was fortunate to spend time in Burnie supporting the Tasmanian Cruise Review launch. This important document analyses the global cruise market and how Tasmania can optimise its position. It also looks at the impact of cruise tourism on the state’s ports.
The bottom line is cruising continues to make an important economic contribution to the State with 125 visits recorded last financial year resulting in $34.5 million in crew and pax spend. The market is predicted to grow in the future, but not at the current rate given a balanced outlook. Tasmania provides a good snapshot of cruise in Australia.
It is a mix of major ports and a champion for regional dispersal. The ports of Hobart, Burnie and the anchorage at Port Arthur are well placed to cater to the new generation of larger ships, in line with industry and consumer trends. At the other end of the scale, expedition vessels and boutique cruise ships are also an ideal fit for Tasmania’s array of small group experiences showcasing its landscapes, culture, and history. This style of ship makes up around 30% of the total 109 ships on the order books through to 2027. Further opportunities exist to grow the benefits from cruise including discussion of a fourth port, additional port visits on itineraries, developing higher value shore tours to increase dispersal and yield and utilising more Tasmanian produce on board the ships.
For a small state, cruise is certainly big news!