Eden will enjoy the benefits of bigger cruise ships and more frequent visits, thanks to the NSW Government granting planning approval for a modification to the existing Eden Breakwater Wharf Extension.
It comes off the back of Eden's busiest summer cruise season on record, expected to pump an estimated $19 million into the local economy, based on previous data from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).
Eden is well equipped to handle cruise ship visits, and the approved planning modification will ensure the region is fit for future cruise growth by allowing greater capacity.
The changes will open Eden up to larger cruise ships from all over the world over the next decade and beyond.
The modification application approval to the Eden Cruise Wharf includes:
- Removing the current cruise ship visit cap of 60 visits per season, helping to grow the number of visits for the long-term future;
- Allowing vessels up to 370 metres to call at the berth (up from 325 metres);
- The opportunity for overnight berthing, increasing the opportunity for visitors to explore and experience the beautiful Sapphire Coast and beyond;
- Removing the 100m length limit on other vessel types to call at the berth including naval vessels, optimising the use of this world class facility.
Minor physical modifications with minimal construction will be required to the wharf, with Port Authority currently preparing the Operational Environmental Management Plan which is expected to be ready by the end of 2024.
Quotes attributable to Transport Minister Jo Haylen:
"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.
"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.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Planning and Public Spaces Paul Scully:
"Eden's maritime history stretches back to its whaling days almost 200 years ago and has evolved to become the popular tourism destination it is today.
"This modern-day maritime project unlocks huge opportunities for the Sapphire Coast region to support the local economy and create ongoing local jobs."
Quotes attributable to Member for Bega Dr Michael Holland MP:
"Cruise visitors bring a 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."
Quotes attributable to Port Authority CEO Captain Philip Holliday:
"We already have 26 cruise ship visits booked for 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.
"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.
"As part of the planning modification approval, the next step is to ensure we have an updated Operational Environmental Management Plan in place for the start of the next season."
