Port of Newcastle CEO Craig Carmody said the 2018-19 cruise season is set to be one of the biggest yet.
The Port welcomed the first cruise vessel of the season this morning, the Caledonian Sky, which sailed past Nobby's at around 6am.
This morning's arrival is one of 15 ships that will visit Newcastle's shores this season ranging from luxury to smaller expedition-style ships.
"The 2018-19 season will bring around 27,000 visitors, with many pre-booked onshore excursions to popular tourist destinations across the region," Mr Carmody said.
It is estimated that cruise ship visits bring more than $11 million every year into the local economy from direct and indirect passenger spending flows, increased foot traffic during visits and pre-booked shore tours.
"The growth in cruise ship numbers through the Port this season is indicative of the growing popularity of cruising in Australia," Mr Carmody said.
The Port is also expecting the second-largest cruise ship operating on the Australian and Pacific coast, Explorer of the Seas.
"The arrival of the Explorer of the Seas highlights the Port's capability to handle the largest voyager-class cruise vessels in operation and its ability to accommodate further growth in coming years," Mr Carmody said.
