Townsville charts course for record cruise season

Townsville is charting a course for a record cruise season, with 24 cruise ship visits expected to bring more than 35,000 passengers and almost 17,100 crew to the region, generating an estimated $10.5 million for the local economy.

The milestone season follows an early taste of what's to come, with Carnival Encounter making two rediverted visits to Townsville in September, providing an unexpected boost for 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.

"From our stunning waterfront to Magnetic Island and the many experiences across North Queensland, cruise passengers have access to a world-class destination from the moment they arrive.

"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 8 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 gets underway on Saturday, 7 November, with the arrival of Oceania Cruises' Riviera from Port Vila carrying approximately 1,250 passengers and 800 crew.

Across the season, Townsville will welcome 35,992 passengers and 17,088 crew, reinforcing the city's position as a gateway to North Queensland.

The season will 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 3,100 passengers and crew.

Fast facts

• 24 cruise ship visits
• 35,992 passengers
• 17,088 crew
• Estimated $10.5 million economic impact
• Five maiden voyage calls
• 8 large-class cruise ship visits
• Season officially commences 7 November 2026 with Oceania Cruises Riviera
• Two early visits by Carnival Encounter in September