Sun Princess cruises into Bunbury - 20 November 2007
The development of Bunbury as a destination for cruise ships will continue with the arrival in port of the Sun Princess this Saturday.
The 261-metre Sun Princess will tie up at the outer harbour at 8am and depart at 4pm.
South West Development Commission chairman Stan Liaros said the Commission had been working with the City of Bunbury, Bunbury Port Authority, Australia’s South West, Tourism WA and the Bunbury Chamber of Commerce and Industries to attract cruise ships to Bunbury.
“Cruise ships create interest and can deliver a significant economic benefit to the region. They bring with them travellers who spend an average of $200 per person per day,” he said.
“But the benefits from these visits are much more than that. The ships’ visits allow people to taste just what the region has to offer.
“Many of them are likely to consider returning and telling their friends about what we have to offer.”
Passengers will have the opportunity to visit other parts of the South West through arranged tours being offered aboard the ship. The Bunbury Visitors Centre will be providing a team of volunteers and staff to welcome visitors from the ship into the city and offering information about the region.
“A welcome marquee will be erected at the point of arrival and the Bunbury City Band will be playing,” Mr Liaros said.
“We’re working to bring more cruise ships into the city and see no reason why Bunbury, with its dolphins, and the South West with its world-renown wineries, tall timber, caves and coastline wouldn’t be a huge drawcard for cruise operators.
“The public is welcome to come and look at the ship close up and we encourage local people to enjoy the experience.”
The next scheduled visits include:
- Funchal 28th December 2007 and 13th January 2008
- Sun Princess 26th March 2008
- Dawn Princess 12th November 2008
…ENDS
Media contact:
Scott Maclean
Senior Media and Marketing Officer