Third Sydney cruise terminal?

A SOLUTION to Sydney’s seemingly intractable cruise capacity issues appears to be one step closer, with the NSW Government today confirming the launch of a “market engagement process” for a potential new Port Botany cruise terminal.

The project will consider options for a facility at Yarra Bay or Molineux Point, after the Federal Government earlier ruled out the option of Garden Island.

NSW Tourism Minister Stuart Ayres noted that about 350 cruise ships would visit NSW this season, supporting 10,000 jobs and creating $800m in wages.

“This season we are welcoming 317 cruise ships to the Overseas Passenger Terminal and White Bay terminals.

“It would be great to have the option to welcome even more.”

The process announced today is part of the first phase of a Detailed Business Case, which will be developed by the Port Authority of NSW in collaboration with NSW Treasury.

It will also involve detailed technical studies, considering the social and economic benefits along with impacts on traffic, the environment and communities.

Earlier this month outgoing Port Authority CEO Grant Gilfillan confirmed that a Yarra Bay terminal would be “technically feasible” during testimony before a NSW Legislative Council committee Inquiry.

Gilfillan confirmed talks were already under way with cruise lines including Carnival Australia, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean, which has offered to help fund a new facility.

CLIA Australasia welcomed the new phase, saying Sydney’s constraints were also impacting tourism growth in destinations around Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific.