21 October 2025
Jane Howlett, Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events
The Tasmanian cruise season has commenced with the first ship arriving in Hobart this morning.
Minister for Tourism, Hospitality and Events, Jane Howlett, welcomed passengers and crew of the Disney Wonder to Tasmania, the first of 114 cruise ships scheduled to visit Tasmania this season.
"It's wonderful to see cruise ships returning to our shores and bringing thousands of visitors eager to experience everything Tasmania has to offer," Minister Howlett said.
"Cruise shipping plays a significant role in contributing to Tasmania’s economy with many tour operators, retail centres, food producers and shipping services benefiting from the ship visits.
“Last season, cruise ship visits contributed an estimated $140 million to Tasmania’s economy through ship provisioning, direct spending from passengers and crew, port charges, and other services.
“This season we're expecting 114 cruise ship calls across Hobart, Burnie and Port Arthur, as well as additional regional ports, which means the economic benefits will be felt right across the State.
“We know a cruise ship call to a Tasmanian port is a catalyst for many travellers to book another visit to our State."
The Disney Wonder’s visit will be followed by the Crown Princess, scheduled to arrive in Hobart the very next day (Wednesday 22 October).
Cruise is an important part of the tourism industry, bringing travellers to the island from all over the world who want to experience Tasmania.
This is vital for many local businesses that rely on tourism including the 14.9 per cent of Tasmanian businesses and the 1 in 6 Tasmanian jobs that are supported by the visitor economy.
“It’s a great time of year when thousands of travellers arriving to Tasmania on a cruise can experience our island at its best through shore excursions, meeting our wonderful people and enjoying our fine produce - often planning their return visit while they are still here,” Minister Howlett said.