The Viking Orion will overnight in Darwin tonight with an influx of tourists visiting the region, providing a boost to the economy over the tropical summer.
With a capacity of 930 passengers, the 47,800 ton cruise ship focuses on exploring destinations with less days at-sea and more overnight stays in key spots like Darwin. The ship features a planetarium, Nordic Spa and infinity pool.
The overnight stop in Darwin gives passengers a chance to explore the Top End with passengers and crew undertaking tours, shopping at local retail outlets, cafes and restaurants and visiting attractions like Bruce Munro: Tropical Light. Passengers can walk the self-guided 2.5km art trail with a free audio tour app and take advantage of the Tropical Light tours and experiences on offer by local businesses.
With its tropical climate, Darwin enjoys year-round cruise activity, with larger ships visiting in the main season from October-March and a number of small, luxury expedition cruise ships using Darwin as a home-base to explore the remote Northern Australian coastline from April-September.
During the 2019-20 season, the Top End will welcome 76 cruise and expeditionary ships, carrying over 64,000 passengers to Darwin, providing a huge tourism and economic boost.
Tourism NT is renewing the Northern Territory Cruise Sector Activation Plan for 2020-2025, to maximise the benefits of cruise shipping to the Territory. The Plan is expected to be released by mid-2020. For more information, go to http://www.tourismnt.com.au/en/development/sector-strategies/cruise
Quotes from Andrew Hopper, Deputy CEO, Department of Tourism, Sport and Culture:
“Today is a win for the tourism industry as we welcome the Viking Orion to stay overnight in Darwin, providing a boost to the economy and an opportunity to showcase the Territory to international visitors.
“This is a great chance to give passengers a taste of what the Top End has to offer, encouraging them to return and holiday in the Territory for longer.”
Media Contact: Department of Tourism, Sport and Culture 0447 130 495