16/09/2019 04:34 PM
Eden welcomes Pacific Explorer to new wharf
The arrival of Pacific Explorer to the new Eden Cruise Wharf marks the beginning of a new era for cruise in regional NSW.
Crowds gathered in Eden to welcome the very first cruise ship to berth at the town’s new wharf.
On Sunday 15 September, community, local businesses and cruise representatives turned out to see P&O Cruises’ 260m Pacific Explorer and its 2000-plus passengers sail into Eden.
The arrival marks the successful completion of the Eden Cruise Wharf, a $44 million project to extend the port’s wharf to allow vessels over 300m in length to berth in Snug Cove for the very first time.
Jointly funded by the Australian Government, NSW Government and Bega Valley Shire Council, the new wharf aims to cement Eden’s place on the Australian cruise map and drive economic growth in the region.
Image: The Pacific Explorer calls into Port of Eden
Philip Holliday, Chief Operating Officer, Sydney, Port Kembla, Eden & Harbour Master Sydney said the Eden Cruise Wharf said the arrival of the Pacific Explorer marks the beginning of a new chapter in cruise tourism for NSW’s South Coast.
“It is an honour to welcome the first ship to Eden Cruise Wharf safely today, and we are looking forward to welcoming the other 21 cruise ships forecasted for this cruise season, along with more cruise vessels in the years to come including the prestigious Queen Elizabeth in the 2020/21 cruise season.”
Image: Port Authority CEO Philip Holliday presents the captain of the Pacific Explorer with the traditional maiden-call plaque
Sture Myrmell, President of P&O Cruises Australia, said it was an honour for the cruise line’s flagship Pacific Explorer to become the first cruise ship to berth alongside in Eden. Mr Myrmell also paid tribute to the Eden community.
“Over the years, Eden has written the textbook for communities on how to embrace cruise tourism and the economic activity that it generates,” Mr Myrmell said. “Today, we especially acknowledge the shore tour operators who do so much to enable our guests to explore the beautiful Sapphire Coast.”
Eden is becoming increasingly popular as a destination for the cruise industry, with 22 ships set to visit over the 2019–2020 cruise season.
Find out more about cruise in Eden
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