TasPorts forecasts a total of 104 cruise ship calls at all ports in the state of Tasmania between October and April, which will generate an estimated economic boost of USD 110 million for the state.
The Chief Executive Officer of TasPorts, Anthony Donald, stated that the 2025-2026 season brings exceptional diversity, with vessels ranging from luxury expedition ships to premium international cruise lines calling at Hobart, Burnie, Port Arthur and Coles Bay.
“The regional spread we are seeing is particularly encouraging, as it ensures that smaller communities also benefit from this growing sector. This season showcases Tasmania’s growing reputation as a world-class cruise destination, with eight maiden voyages scheduled, including the Douglas Mawson, the Riviera and the Anthem of the Seas. With more than 175,000 passengers expected to disembark this season, Tasmania is clearly establishing itself as a must-visit destination on the global cruise circuit,” said Donald.
“The cruise season generates significant economic benefit across the state, as passengers invest in local tours, craft markets, retail shops, and premier food and wine experiences during their visits,” stated the Chief Executive Officer.
A recent economic analysis by the Australian Cruise Association shows that cruise tourism contributes more than USD 110 million annually to Tasmania’s economy and supports approximately more than 500 jobs in the hospitality, transport, retail and tourism sectors.
The Tasmanian cruise season began with the arrival of the Disney Wonder at the Port of Hobart, which brought approximately 2,400 passengers and 950 crew members, while luxury and expedition ships offer more intimate experiences with 150 to 800 guests, creating diverse opportunities for tourism operators, from major attractions to boutique experiences.
The Chief Executive Officer of Destination Southern Tasmania, Alex Heroys, noted that Hobart alone will welcome 112,291 passengers and 50,351 crew members this season. “Tasmania is preparing to welcome more than 100 cruise ships carrying approximately 175,000 passengers and 77,000 crew members during the 2025-26 season,” he stated.
There will be 68 cruise ship calls in Hobart and 12 in Port Arthur, and the season will extend until April of next year. The influx of visitors will provide a huge economic boost for businesses in the metropolitan area and other regions.
Heroys expressed that Hobart will host seven maiden calls, 19 overnight stays, 20 international arrivals and four ship calls, the Douglas Mawson, The World, the Scenic Eclipse II and Le Commandant Charcot. “Hobart will see 11 ships with more than 3 thousand passengers, 25 with between one thousand and 3 thousand on board and 32 with less than one thousand,” concluded the Chief Executive Officer.
