Tasmania’s cruise season kicks off with the arrival of Disney Wonder in Hobart, with a total of 104 cruise ship calls expected statewide between October and April, delivering an estimated $170 million economic boost to the state.
Posted
22 October 2025
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Tasmania’s cruise season kicks off with the arrival of Disney Wonder in Hobart on Tuesday 21 October, with a total of 104 cruise ship calls expected statewide between October and April, delivering an estimated $170 million economic boost to the state.
TasPorts’ Chief Executive Officer Anthony Donald said the 2025-2026 season brings exceptional diversity, with vessels ranging from luxury expedition ships to premium international cruise lines calling at Hobart, Burnie, Port Arthur and Coles Bay.
"The regional dispersal we're seeing is particularly encouraging, ensuring smaller communities also benefit from this growing sector."
"This season showcases Tasmania’s growing reputation as a world-class cruise destination, with eight maiden voyages scheduled, including the Douglas Mawson, Riviera, and Anthem of the Seas.
With more than 175,000 passengers expected to disembark this season, Tasmania is clearly establishing itself as a must-visit destination on the global cruise circuit,” Mr Donald said.
"The cruise season injects significant economic benefit across the state, with passengers spending on local tours, artisan markets, retail, and premium food and wine experiences during their visits,” Mr Donald said.
Recent economic analysis from the Australian Cruise Association shows that cruise tourism contributes over $170 million annually to Tasmania's economy, supporting approximately over 500 jobs across hospitality, transport, retail, and tourism sectors.
The arrival of Disney Wonder brings approximately 2,400 guests and 950 crew members, while the luxury and expedition vessels offer more intimate experiences with 150 to 800 passengers, creating diverse opportunities for our tourism operators, from major attractions to boutique experiences.
Destination Southern Tasmania Chief Executive Officer Alex Heroys said Hobart alone will welcome 112,291 passengers and 50,351 crew this season.
“Tasmania is preparing to welcome over 100 cruise ships carrying approximately 175,000 passengers and 77,000 crew during the 2025-26 season.”
“There will be 68 cruise visits in Hobart and 12 visits in Port Arthur, with the season running from October to April next year. The influx of visitors will provide an enormous economic boost to business in the Greater Hobart and wider regions.”
Mr Heroys said Hobart will host seven maiden port calls, 19 overnight stays, 20 international arrivals and four ship turnarounds; the Douglas Mawson, The World, the Scenic Eclipse II and Le Commandant Charcot.
“Hobart will see 11 ships with more than 3,000 passengers, 25 with 1,000 – 3,000 on board and 32 with less than 1,000.”
The 2025 – 2026 Cruise Shipping Schedule can be viewed on the TasPorts website, by visiting: https://www.tasports.com.au/shipping-schedule-all