Market engagement processes have begun on a potential third cruise ship terminal in Sydney, with both the Accommodation Association of Australia (AAoA) and Tourism Accommodation Australia pledging their support for the move.
The proposed terminal at Yarra Bay near Port Botany would be capable of catering to larger cruise ships taller than 48 metres in height which are unable to pass beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge to access Sydney’s second terminal at White Bay, near Balmain. Sydney’s main terminal at Circular Quay is routinely booked nearly every day of the cruise season, with cruise lines unable to access the city diverting ships to other cities or markets.
“This potential terminal at Port Botany would address the capacity constraints we’re seeing at the Overseas Passenger Terminal,” said NSW Ministers Andrew Constance and Stuart Ayres, who look after the Transport and Tourism portfolios respectively.
“A further terminal, supporting the ability of larger ships to berth in Sydney, will enable the cruise industry to have certainty and confidence in the Sydney market, generating more overnight stays for the accommodation sector,” added AAoA Chief Executive, Dean Long.
TAA National and NSW boss Michael Johnson said the lack of port options in Sydney was holding back the growth of the sector and associated hotel guest numbers.
“Whilst White Bay has been used for the domestic cruising market, the berths for bigger international ships which bring overseas tourists have been fully occupied during the busy summer cruising season. With Botany Bay as an additional option we can look forward to a return to growth which will not only benefit the $4.8 billion cruising industry but also increase hotel bed nights in Sydney.”