Future Brisbane: Queensland cruise industry is thriving but more support needed

Queensland tourism has the chance to go to another level – but we have to be bold first, writes Carnival’s Peter Little.

In 2024, more than 400,000 Queenslanders took a cruise holiday.

Cruising has emerged as one of the most popular and affordable holiday options for families, creating unparalleled opportunities for Queensland’s tourism sector.

With the cruise industry’s economic impact in Australia soaring to a record $8.43 billion in 2023–24, Queensland is poised to solidify its position as a leading destination for cruise tourism.  

This success is not confined to the South East corner, it extends to regional communities right up and down the coast. The cruise industry’s contribution to Queensland’s visitor economy is immense, generating over $2.4 billion annually and supporting more than 7300 jobs.

This contribution goes far beyond direct passenger spending. Carnival ships have been sailing from Brisbane year-round for 20 years, and our ongoing commitment supports thousands of Queensland jobs, from hospitality staff and tour guides to farmers and wine producers.  

Carnival brands include over 300 calls to Queensland annually to destinations such as Cairns, the Whitsundays and Moreton Island. Brisbane is the gateway to Australia’s premier cruise destinations, allowing us to showcase regional Queensland’s extraordinary beauty to domestic and international guests alike, encouraging repeat visits and sustained tourism growth. 

Catherine and Josh Hawkins with their kids Billie, 5, and Bobby, 3, onboard the Carnival Luminosa. Picture: Rohan Kelly

As the cruise industry grows, its benefits ripple across Queensland. Passengers spend an average of $455 per day onshore, boosting local businesses from cafes and retailers to transport providers and tour operators.

To sustain this growth, collaboration between government, cruise operators and local businesses is essential.

Targeted investment in regional port infrastructure whilst keeping port fees competitive will help ensure Queensland remains a key player on the global stage.

Carnival’s long-term partnership in developing the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal exemplifies the potential of such collaborations to create jobs and foster economic development.   

Queensland has a strong and powerful voice in the national discourse around tourism and can lend its weight to ensure that regulations at the federal level do not create barriers and disincentives for cruise activity in Australia.   

As the world’s – and Australia’s – largest cruise operator, we are proud to play a central role in Queensland’s cruise economy, with Carnival Luminosa returning last week from the northern hemisphere for her third summer season in Brisbane and the year-round home porting of Carnival Encounter.

Carnival’s cruise ship at the terminal at Pinkenba. Picture: Lachie Millard

Carnival Cruise Line is expected to contribute nearly $800 million to Queensland’s economy over the next year.   

Several Carnival brands have scheduled visits to regional ports, bringing guests eager to explore Queensland’s iconic attractions. Expedition cruising is another area of growth, drawing adventurous travellers to remote destinations along the Great Barrier Reef, the far reaches of North Queensland and Gulf country. These high-value visitors contribute significantly to local economies, helping small communities thrive.   

As more Queenslanders, Australians and international guests choose to cruise, the Sunshine State has a unique opportunity to lead the nation in delivering unforgettable holiday experiences while driving meaningful economic benefits for communities across the state.

If we get the regulatory settings right, foster a low-cost operating environment, together, we can ensure Queensland’s regional areas remain a cornerstone of this flourishing industry.

Peter Little is the Country Manager for Carnival Corporation & PLC