Setting Sail for Regional Success: Cruise Tourism Charts New Waters in Newcastle

Newcastle Port

A new wave of opportunity has arrived in New South Wales as local councils and tourism leaders joined forces to launch a groundbreaking partnership aimed at growing the regional cruise industry. In a significant show of collaboration, a coalition of seven councils and two leading tourism organisations gathered in Newcastle to formalise a shared vision for long-term cruise growth across the Hunter and Central Coast.

 

A Landmark Agreement for Regional Collaboration

The official launch of the three-year partnership was marked by the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), spearheaded by the Port Authority of NSW. The alliance brings together Newcastle Council, Lake Macquarie Council, Cessnock Council, Singleton Council, Port Stephens Council, Maitland Council, Central Coast Council, along with Destination Sydney Surrounds North and the Newcastle Tourism Industry Group.

The aim is clear: enhance cruise visitor experiences and ensure local businesses across the regions are positioned to benefit from an expanding cruise market. This unprecedented collaboration will focus on transforming cruise visits into meaningful economic opportunities for communities from the vineyards of the Hunter to the beaches of the Central Coast.

 

Creating Curated Experiences with a Cruise Coordinator

One of the first major outcomes of the agreement is the creation of a part-time Cruise Coordinator role. This specialist will work closely with cruise lines to tailor shore excursions that capture the essence of the region — from boutique wine tastings and coastal hikes to cultural experiences and historic tours.

The Cruise Coordinator will also serve as a key liaison between the cruise industry and local businesses, helping them adapt their offerings to appeal to international cruise passengers and increase the visibility of the region on cruise itineraries.

 

Unlocking the Economic Potential of Cruise Tourism

Port Authority of NSW CEO John McKenna described the agreement as a strategic move that aligns community values with tourism development.

“This partnership is about more than just welcoming cruise ships,” he said. “It’s about showcasing the incredible experiences the regions have to offer — from the natural beauty of the Central Coast and the Hunter Valley’s world-class wine country to the vibrant energy of Newcastle itself.”

McKenna emphasised that the initiative was designed to offer lasting benefits to the local economy by helping businesses develop tailored offerings that resonate with cruise visitors.

 

Building on Proven Models of Success

Port Authority of NSW General Manager Cruise Martin Bidgood called the initiative a milestone for the region and a natural next step following the 10-year cruise licence agreement secured with Port of Newcastle in 2023.

He also noted that the program takes inspiration from the successful cruise model developed at the Port of Eden, which has become a national benchmark for regional cruise success.

“This model draws on the strengths of multiple councils and tourism groups to create a unified front that enhances the appeal of the entire region. It represents a long-term investment in regional tourism that will yield benefits well beyond the cruise season,” Bidgood said.

Looking Ahead

Newcastle Port

With this new agreement in place, the Hunter and Central Coast regions are well-positioned to play a major role in the future of cruise tourism in Australia. As global travellers continue to seek authentic, diverse, and immersive experiences, this collaboration ensures that New South Wales can deliver just that — with a warm regional welcome and unforgettable adventures at every port.

To learn more about this initiative, visit:
https://www.portauthoritynsw.com.au

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