The NSW Government has granted planning approval to the existing wharf at Eden which will allow larger cruise ships to visit the regional port.
The modification application approval to the Eden Cruise Wharf includes removing the current cruise-ship visit cap of 60 visits per season.
It would also allow vessels of up to 370 metres to call at the berth and remove the 100-metre length limit on other vessel types to call at the berth such as naval vessels.
The could mean that even a ship like Icon of the Seas at 364.75 metres could berth in Eden.
The Port Authority of NSW CEO Phil Holliday said the next step is to ensure the port authority has an updated Operational Environmental Management Plan in place for the start of the next season.
“We already have 26 cruise ship visits booked for the upcoming summer cruise season in Eden and we look forward to welcoming the first ship, Disney Wonder, into the Port of Eden on 30 October,” Captain Holliday said.
“As the upcoming cruise seasons build momentum and more bookings are secured, we are likely to see a greater number of cruise ships add Eden to their itineraries, which could include first-time visits for Majestic Princess and Ovation of the Seas.”
The port this year experienced its busiest summer cruise season on record, expected to pump an estimated $19 million into the local economy.
“Eden is already our state’s largest regional cruise port – and we’re making it even better, lifting the cap on visits and increasing NSW’s already booming market share of Australia’s cruising industry,” said Transport Minister Jo Haylen.
“Cruising is one of Eden’s biggest economic drivers, so allowing bigger international ships to sail will bring enormous benefits to the region for years to come.
“Investing in our regional ports is a no-brainer. We want people from all over the world to experience everything our stunning state has to offer and ensure we all reap the economic rewards.
Eden is fast becoming a popular cruise venue and it’s a popular destination for visitors to watch the annual migration of the southern right and humpback whale from May to November.
The cruise ship terminal is a short distance from the main shopping area. A hop-on, hop-off shuttle bus is available to take guests from the wharf to the shopping precinct, visitor centre and Aslings Beach.
Member for Bega Dr Michael Holland said, “Cruise visitors bring new energy to the local community, and locals – particularly our hard-working businesses – love seeing passengers step onto our shores.
“We’re pleased to grow our capacity and maximise the number of people who can spend time in our region, which is unparallelled in its natural beauty, hospitality, tours and charm.”
