The visits are much welcome for Geraldton, after the cancellation of 12 cruise ship calls, which were initially expected to arrive in 2025 and 2026. The stops were cancelled due to itinerary changes, cruise line withdrawals, and Australian Border Force (ABF) complications.
Eclipse II is scheduled to berth in Geraldton twice this season: once on 06 August, and again on 06 September. The local council has planned a family-friendly celebration at Blue Heelers Square on both dates, with local entertainment and hospitality on show.
The vessel’s calls are not the only good cruise news for the destination though, as it explores the Geraldton Port Maximisation Project, which seeks to deliver a new multipurpose berth to accommodate cruise vessels more reliably and efficiently.
“We are hoping that this facility, along with a positive turnaround of cruise deployment in Western Australia, will see more itineraries including Geraldton, and guests being welcomed by the amazing volunteers,” Australian Cruise Association Chief Executive Officer Jill Abel told travelBulletin.
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Managing Director Joel Katz told travelBulletin that Scenic’s visit will help highlight the potential Western Australia offers for the industry, particularly in the upper luxury and expedition sectors.
“CLIA has been advocating for the right settings to help encourage more cruise ships to visit WA, working closely with the WA Government, the Australian Cruise Association, and our industry stakeholders,” he said.
“WA has a very clear vision to support and develop cruise tourism, and we believe a collaborative approach among cruise lines, governments, destinations, and other industry supporters can help unlock the state’s huge potential.”
There are also hopes for a boost in cruise calls to Geraldton if the destination’s northern neighbour Broome is granted “first point of entry” status by the ABF.
“Broome becoming a first point of arrival for cruise vessels will have flow-on opportunities down the coastline, as vessels will have the opportunity to consider Dampier and Geraldton ports of call before arriving in Fremantle,” then-Tourism WA Managing Director Carolyn Turnbull told travelBulletin last year.
