Hobart has topped the nation for hotel occupancy for the third month in a row, with the city’s hotels among the most consistently booked in the country.
New figures from Hospitality Tasmania show Hobart hotels were 87.89% full in March.
Statewide occupancy reached 87.42%, slightly below last March’s record but up on February.
The north led all regions at 90.57%, followed by the north-west on 86.20% and the east coast on 82.19%.
Room rates and returns also rose. The average room cost $264.47 a night, and yield increased to $231.19.
Hospitality Tasmania chief executive Steve Old said the sector was performing well.
“Leading the nation’s capital cities for a third straight month is a fantastic achievement and reinforces Hobart’s position as one of Australia’s standout destinations,” Old said.
“What’s encouraging is the consistency we’re seeing across the past three months. Occupancy remains high and, importantly, it has edged up again from February.”
Old said it was a positive sign that hotels were charging more and still filling rooms.
“While occupancy has softened slightly compared to a record year, businesses are continuing to achieve stronger returns, which supports the long-term sustainability of the sector,” he said.
The coming months will be the real test, with peak summer over and the cooler shoulder season setting in, when visitor numbers usually drop off.
“As we come out of summer and move into the shoulder season, the challenge is always maintaining strong levels of visitation, particularly as cost pressures remain high and global conditions remain uncertain,” Old said.
“That’s where continued investment in events, experiences and major drawcards will play a critical role in keeping people travelling to Tasmania outside of peak periods.”
