While visitor demand is one factor in cruise lines selecting the region as a destination port, there are a number of additional factors involved to make it onto cruise holiday itineraries.
Cruise lines study customer preferences, often through surveys or market research, to determine which destinations are most desirable. Townsville North Queensland has experienced ongoing increased growth across the tourism industry, recently crowned Australia's fastest growing tourism destination. Specific to cruise, the destination consistently ranks highly, with the passengers scoring the region 4.8 out of 5 in recent satisfaction surveys.
Ports with the necessary infrastructure to accommodate large cruise ships are prioritised, and with the recent upgrades to Townsville’s dedicated cruise terminal, and future plans for methanol refueling, the region is primed as a port of choice. From dock facilities, deep-water access, and efficient customs capabilities, Ports with well-developed passenger terminals, transportation options, and shore excursion services are more likely to be selected.
Cruise lines aim to select ports that are easily accessible for passengers and located within a reasonable distance from each other to minimise travel time. Ports that are close together in the same region are often grouped together in an itinerary to optimise cruise routes and improve fuel efficiency. Leveraging the heightened awareness of our neighbouring Ports, while offering a different visitor experience, again positions Townsville well to capitalise on the existing cruise network in North Queensland.
There is growing concern on the environmental impact of cruise tourism. Cruise lines are increasingly choosing destinations that emphasise sustainability, with eco-friendly practices and conservation efforts. Destinations that prioritise environmental protection – like Townsville which was recently accredited as an Eco-Destination in Nature Tourism, will be more attractive to passengers and cruise companies.
A destination with a well-developed tourism infrastructure, including attractions, local culture, historical sites, and entertainment, is a strong candidate for inclusion in cruise itineraries. As an emerging destination, our region is primed for growth with the increasing visitor demand, home to numerous operators with long-standing history of delivering excellence in the region. As our tourism sector and cruise arrivals continue to grow, our focus to increase tourism experiences, offerings and attractions will be at the forefront.
Ports that offer high-quality service, exceptional passenger experiences and positive interaction with locals, tend to attract more cruises.
