Since our involvement with the Port Douglas Cruise Ship strategy initiated in 2008 by
Chamber members, Meridien Marinas and tourismportdouglas.com, the Chamber has
worked to ensure that the approximately 20,000 cruise ship visitors yearly are
welcomed and provided with general and specific information on their arrival.

The Chamber has employed a cruise ship representative and, together with TPDD, has
embarked on a Cruise Ship Meet and Greet Program which has attracted eight
volunteers to date.  So, not only do they take away a positive memory of
their short visit but we have had confirmations from accommodation providers
that some of these visitors have returned within six months.

As some comments have been made by the passengers that our port is a bit ‘ho hum’
the organizers of the Program will be approaching music students to entertain
the visitors in 2012  And the passengers seem to respond to any children
in the welcome party … missing their grandchildren maybe?

We are expecting 26 ships in 2012 with the first arrival on the 18^th of January and  final arrival on the 12^th of December.  To check on the 2012 cruise ship schedule and any additions or cancellations, go to:  Cruise ship schedule and scroll down to Port
Douglas.