Hobart has welcomed its first partial cruise turnaround, a significant step forward for the city’s cruise industry.
Princess Cruises’ Royal Princess docked at the MAC02 cruise terminal on Thursday, welcoming 400 new passengers onboard.
Another 400 will do the reverse and end their journey in Hobart on December 2.
The tourism industry says the partial turnarounds are expected to provide economic benefits to Tasmania.
Destination Southern Tasmania CEO Alex Heroys said many passengers plan to explore Hobart and surrounding regions before or after their cruise.
“These partial turnarounds are fantastic for the visitor economy,” he said.
“We know that the guests embarking and disembarking will stay in Tasmania before and after the cruise, delivering value into the accommodation and hospitality sector.”
Australian Cruise Association CEO Jill Abel said the turnarounds reflect Hobart’s growing appeal within the broader cruise industry.
“For Tasmanians, the ability to begin or end a cruise in their home port is a long-awaited opportunity,” Abel said.
“Additionally, visitors can now fly into Hobart to join a cruise or conclude their journey here, offering the perfect chance to explore Tasmania further with an extended land stay.”