INFRASTRUCTURE investment including a channel upgrade is set to contribute to an expected record cruise season at Townsville, port management says.
Some 24 cruise ship visits are expected to bring more than 35,000 passengers and almost 17,100 crew to the region in months to come, generating an estimated $10.5m for the local economy.
The milestone season follows an early taste, with Carnival Encounter making two rediverted visits to Townsville in September, supporting local businesses ahead of the official season.
Port of Townsville general manager business development Drew Penny said the record season reflected Townsville's growing reputation as a cruise destination and the opportunities unlocked by recent port infrastructure investment.
"Townsville is continuing to build its reputation as a leading cruise destination, and this record season demonstrates growing confidence from cruise lines in what our region has to offer," Mr Penny said.
"The completion of the Channel Upgrade project has been a significant milestone for the port and the region. The wider channel allows us to accommodate larger vessels, and this season we'll welcome eight larger-class cruise ships that previously would not have been able to access Townsville.
"We're proud to partner with tourism and industry stakeholders to showcase the region to thousands of visitors and continue growing cruise opportunities for North Queensland."
Townsville Enterprise CEO Claudia Brumme said the season would deliver widespread benefits for businesses in the region.
"A record cruise season is fantastic news for the North Queensland economy, with an estimated $10.5 million expected to flow into local businesses as passengers and crew explore everything our region has to offer," Ms Brumme said.
"Cruise visitors create economic opportunities across a broad range of sectors, supporting businesses across hospitality, retail, tourism, transport and more.
"Our local Townsville Enterprise volunteers and stallholders at the Quayside Terminal also play an important role in creating a memorable experience, connecting visitors with the people, products and stories that make our region unique."
The season got underway on Saturday, 7 November, with the arrival of Oceania Cruises' Riviera from Port Vila carrying about 1250 passengers and 800 crew.
Across the season, Townsville is set to welcome 35,992 passengers and 17,088 crew.
The season is to feature five maiden voyage calls, including the first visit by Princess Cruises' Grand Princess, one of the largest cruise ships ever scheduled to visit Townsville, carrying more than 3100 passengers and crew.