THE SOUTHERN NSW port of Eden is celebrating 20 years of cruise ship visits that have transformed the Sapphire Coast economy, increasing visitor numbers tenfold since the first cruise ship visited in 2005.
Over the 20 years, more than 195 ship visits have called Eden, bringing more than 400,000 visitors and crew, according to Port Authority of NSW, which supported the cruise industry by building the cruise ship wharf and a visitor centre.
Port Authority of NSW has also provided funding and in-kind support to Eden Tourism.
Port Authority of NSW CEO John McKenna said the success of the cruise ship industry in Eden reflected the “drive and determination” of the local community to embrace and grow cruise tourism.
“Together we’ve created a true gateway to the region’s natural beauty and coastal charm, where visitors are drawn to whale watching, bushwalking in Ben Boyd National Park and exploring Eden’s fishing and rich maritime history.”
Bega Valley Shire Mayor Russel Fitzpatrick acknowledged the role of volunteers at the Cruise Eden Welcome Centre in Eden’s cruise ship journey.
“Every community member who has proudly worn a red shirt and welcomed visitors has played a vital role in achieving this milestone.”
November 2005: Eden welcomes first modern cruise ship.
September 2019: The $44 million Eden Cruise Wharf opens, allowing large cruise ships to berth for the first time.
October 2020: Wharf planning improvements announced, allowing non-cruise vessels up to 100 metres and new equipment for handling, refuelling and maintenance.
May 2021: Cruise Eden Welcome Centre completed and open for business.
July 2022: Coral Princess sails into Eden – the first cruise ship to return after covid-19 pandemic pause.
July 2022: Port Authority of NSW, Bega Valley Shire Council and Eden Tourism sign a memorandum of understanding to strengthen collaboration and promote cruise visitation.
July 2024: Wharf planning enhancements approved, allowing 24-hour berthing, approving future mooring and walkway works and removing the 60-visit seasonal cap.
February 2025: Arrival of Ovation of the Seas, the largest cruise ship to visit Eden at 348 metres length and 168,666 tonnes, brining 4862 visitors and crew to Eden.
14 November 2025: Expected arrival of Celebrity Edge, the 200th cruise ship visit to Eden.
Click here to view a gallery of images supplied by Port Authority of NSW and Destination NSW.