South Australia’s vibrant cruise industry has made waves this season, generating an impressive $227 million for the state’s economy during the 2023-24 cruise season. This remarkable figure surpasses last year’s record of $215 million and highlights the sector’s continued growth and significance.
The success of this season was marked by 122 cruise and expedition ship visits to the state, including 45 to Adelaide, 25 to Kangaroo Island, 10 to Port Lincoln, and 42 to remote coastal destinations. Over 208,000 passengers and crew experienced the stunning landscapes and rich culture of South Australia from October 2023 to June 2024.
According to the latest Economic Impact Assessment of Cruise Tourism in Australia for 2023-24, commissioned by the Cruise Lines International Association and the Australian Cruise Association, the cruise sector not only boosted the economy but also supported 738 jobs, an increase from the 704 jobs sustained during the previous season.
The economic benefits extended beyond just the numbers, with a total of 27,228 shore excursions taken throughout the season. Excursions across popular destinations like Kangaroo Island, the Eyre Peninsula, and the Adelaide Hills showcased the best of South Australia, drawing in tourists eager to explore the region’s natural beauty and unique offerings.
The success of the cruise sector is set to continue, with the 2024-25 cruise season already underway. The recent arrival of Princess Cruises’ Diamond Princess marks a promising start, with 119 ship visits scheduled this season, anticipated to bring over 241,000 passengers and crew to South Australia.
The upcoming season will feature more than 20 first-time voyages, including luxury cruise lines like MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Hapag Lloyd Cruises, which are expected to attract high-yield visitors and enhance the state’s appeal on the global cruise map.
Minister for Tourism, Zoe Bettison, expressed her excitement over the cruise industry’s impact.
“South Australia’s cruise industry has once again delivered a significant boost to our visitor economy,” she reflected.
“The benefit of cruise tourism is that it brings visitors from around the world directly to our stunning coastal towns.”
Bettison also acknowledged the challenges ahead for future seasons but remains optimistic about growing the number of cruise lines and ships choosing South Australia as a destination.
The Australian cruise sector is thriving nationally as well, generating a whopping $8.43 billion for the economy and supporting over 26,000 jobs nationwide during the same period. With cruise ships making 1,650 visits to ports around Australia, every coastal state and territory has experienced an uptick in visitor spending.
Jill Abel, CEO of the Australian Cruise Association, says that the value of cruise tourism in Australia has surged to a record high.
“This growth creates immense benefits for local businesses such as tourism operators, hotels, restaurants, and retailers, fostering long-term community ties as passengers often return to destinations discovered during their cruises,” she said.
With an exciting future ahead, SA’s cruise industry is poised to continue making waves and welcoming visitors eager to explore its breathtaking landscapes and rich culture.
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