The NSW Government announced today it would be building the state’s second major cruise terminal in the Port of Newcastle.

The $12.7 million multi-purpose terminal will accommodate cruise ships up to 3,000 metres long and will be a similar scale to Sydney’s White Bay Terminal.

Lines which have visited Newcastle in the past include P&O Cruises as well as Cunard’s majestic Queen Elizabeth visiting earlier this year.

President of P&O Cruises Sture Myrmell said the new cruise terminal would attract lines to visit.

“It reinforced the great reputation the people of Newcastle have earned over the years for the warmth of their of their welcome for the thousands of cruise visitors to the region,” said Mr Myrmell said.

“This local investment in port infrastructure acknowledges the Hunter region’s attractiveness as a cruise destination, with its ease of access to the surrounding wine growing district and other quality attractions.

“It also acknowledges cruise tourism’s local economic contribution as the industry continues to record double-digit growth in passenger numbers in Australia with domestic itineraries and short break cruises among the big growth areas in this market.”