3,600 tourists cruising into Darwin: Discovery Princess maiden stop

More than 3600 tourists will fill the streets of Darwin on Friday, hustling and bustling their way around the CBD and local tourist destinations when the Discovery Princess docks at Fort Hill wharf on its maiden Australian voyage.

Discovery Princess Darwin bound

More than 3600 tourists will fill the streets of Darwin hustling and bustling their way around the CBD and local tourist destinations when the Discovery Princess docks on Friday morning at Fort Hill wharf on its maiden Australian voyage.

The ship is due to arrive at 5.30am for a 12 hour visit.

Cruise ships delivered an estimated $206.6 million into the Darwin economy last cruise ship season in what was a record-breaking 2024/25 season that saw 113 ships and approximately 80,000 passengers visit the Northern Territory.

The Discovery Princess features include a multi-level piazza atrium, numerous dining options, diverse entertainment venues and several pools and hot tubs. It was only launched in 2022 and its19 decks will tower over Fort Hill wharf.

Minister for Tourism and Hospitality, Hon Marie-Clare Boothby said data shows that the Territory has become a destination of choice for cruise ships.

“While other states and Territories have seen a downturn, the Territory has bucked the national trend as the only jurisdiction to record an increase in cruise-related activity,” said Ms Boothby.

“It’s a huge win for local tourism operators, as passengers explore all corners – from our jumping crocodile cruises and spectacular parks to the Military Museum and local hop-on, hop-off tours,” she said.

Originally published as 3,600 tourists cruising into Darwin: Discovery Princess maiden stop