More than 13,000 cruise passengers passed through Shute Harbour Marine Terminal across three consecutive days, delivering a significant boost to local businesses and tourism operators across the Whitsundays.
The large-scale cruise operations supported activity across transport, tours, retail and hospitality, generating strong flow-on benefits for both small and large businesses while showcasing the region to thousands of visitors.
As a Council-owned facility, Shute Harbour Marine Terminal plays a critical role as a key gateway to the Whitsundays, connecting visitors with local experiences and supporting jobs and economic activity throughout the region.
Mayor Ry Collins said the recent cruise operations highlight the importance of Council-owned infrastructure in supporting the local economy.
“Shute Harbour is a Council-owned asset that delivers real economic returns for our community. When cruise ships arrive, visitors flow straight into local tours, transport, shops and hospitality venues, providing a direct boost to local businesses and jobs,” Mayor Collins said.
“Combined with the continued record-breaking performance at Whitsunday Coast Airport, it shows how our sea and air gateways are working together to strengthen visitor connectivity and keep our regional economy moving.”
Director Commercial Businesses Craig Turner said the scale and success of the cruise operations reflect careful planning and strong coordination across Council’s commercial facilities.
“Managing cruise operations of this size over consecutive days is a complex task, and the results reflect the professionalism of our teams and partners across the terminal,” Mr Turner said.
“Shute Harbour and Whitsunday Coast Airport are Council-owned gateways that complement each other. Together, they allow us to efficiently move visitors into the region by sea and air, connect them with local operators, and support a strong and growing visitor economy.”
Mr Turner said strong collaboration between terminal staff, tenants, transport providers and tour operators was critical to ensuring safe, efficient passenger movement and a positive experience for cruise lines and visitors alike.
Positive feedback was received from visiting cruise operators following the three-day period of operations.
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