PORT of Townsville is counting the days until the primary huge cruise transport shows up after the consummation of its Channel Upgrade Project.
The primary large cruise vessel to show up at the port, the Pacific Encounter, is set to show up on 20 January 2025, trailed by the Pacific Explorer.
Trade is expected to triple by 2050 as new mining and renewable energy projects come online, according to the Port of Townsville, which is already the largest container and automotive port in Northern Australia.
A 30-year, $1.6 billion expansion plan for the Port of Townsville includes the AUD251 million ($160 million) channel upgrade project.
The Queensland-based port likewise hopes to invite larger freight and cruise ships from late 2024, following the completion of a channel widening project, which will permit vessels up to 300 meters in length to get to the port.
Port of Townsville CEO Ranee Crosby said the channel widening project had been urgent in attracting bigger cruise vessels to Townsville.
“Pacific Encounter and Pacific Explorer will be the largest cruise ships Townsville has seen to date and will be carrying more than 4500 passengers and 2000 crew between them.
This milestone heralds a new era of maritime tourism for the region, promising to boost the local economy and offer visitors an unparalleled experience to explore our region right throughout the year,” Crosby said.
In anticipation of the appearance of bigger cruise ships in only 500 days, the Port of Townsville is working with Townsville Enterprise, Townsville City Board and nearby the travel industry and retail administrators to upgrade the city’s contributions for another segment of cruisers.