Cruise ships buoy WA economy with cash, jobs as Pacific Eden calls Fremantle port home

Written on the 25 April 2016

THE cruise ship industry injected more than $275 million into the WA economy last financial year, generating more than 1000 jobs.

International cruise ships dock in Western Australia for only a few days, but their contribution to the state's economy is long-lasting, according to premier Colin Barnett.

Mr Barnett said WA was on track for a record cruise season, with 43 ships having already visited the state this year.

"Its not just the money the passengers and crew spend; ships visiting Fremantle also source local produce and other supplies which adds another boost," Mr Barnett said on Thursday.

The P&O cruise ship Pacific Eden will call Fremantle home for the next four months and sail from the WA port on 16 cruises.

During its season, Pacific Eden will carry more than 25,000 passengers and make 34 calls to WA and P&O believes it will generate more than $20 million for the state.

P&O Cruises vice president sales and marketing Simon Cheng said Geraldton, Broome and Exmouth would each receive four visits and Busselton and Esperance three.

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Source: Perth Now | AAP

Image: Pacific Eden in Broome Port, Toby Biddick