Cruise ships visits to the Port of Burnie

20 January 2023

TasPorts has confirmed that the decision to cancel the cruise ships Regatta and Seven Seas Explorer visits to the Port of Burnie this week was taken by the cruise ship company and communicated to TasPorts by the agent.

The Coral Princess is currently in Burnie port today, successfully berthing early this morning and is due to depart this afternoon at 4pm.

TasPorts CEO Anthony Donald said there are a range of factors which influence scheduled cruise ship visits which can lead to itinerary changes or cancellation of a port visit. In regard to the Regatta and Seven Seas Explorer, TasPorts confirmed that the Australian Border Force (ABF) was available to provide services at the Port of Burnie.

“The ABF continues to be prepared, resourced and in a position to undertake passenger clearance shoreside as per normal operations at Tasmanian ports.

“We understand that the cruise lines, the industry and federal agencies continue to work closely together to ensure arrangements are in place to facilitate cruise ship arrival and departures at ports across the country and TasPorts remains committed to working with all industry participants to successfully facilitate cruise ship visits to Tasmanian waters.

“Factors which can influence cancellations include adverse weather conditions, and while unfortunate, these decisions are not taken lightly and TasPorts’ obligations will always be to marine safety, protection of infrastructure assets and the environment,” Mr Donald said.

“This season to date we have successfully facilitated 77 cruise ship visits to Tasmania ports, with a further 80 bookings scheduled across the remainder of the 22/23 season.

“These numbers signify a strong rebound to pre-COVID levels, which is incredibly pleasing and confirms that attractiveness of Tasmania as a destination with significant economic benefits flowing on for the State,” Mr Donald said.