NEWCASTLE'S cruise season is expected to give the harbour's cruise passenger number record a nudge after it kicks off this week.
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Celebrity Solstice is scheduled to arrive in Newcastle on Wednesday, the first of more than a dozen visitors that the port says could bring more than 30,000 cruise passengers to town and set a new milestone.
Maiden visits are expected from Explorer Dream, Sea Princess and Golden Princess later this year, with Explorer Dream booked to berth six times between October 28 and December 2.
Port of Newcastle executive manager marine and operations Glen Hayward said Newcastle's continued growth proved the Hunter had appeal for the cruise industry.
With its close proximity to the Newcastle coastline and world class beaches, the rolling vineyards of the Hunter Valley wine region and natural beauty of Port Stephens, Newcastle remains a popular port of call amongst Australian and international guests, Mr Hayward said.
We are proud to play a role by facilitating cruise ship visits given the important economic benefits it has for the region and the community.
This season's expected 15 visits is down one on last season, which set a record with 29,000 visitors aboard 16 cruise ships.
Celebrity Solstice, which carries 2852 passengers and is slated for four visits in the 2019-2020 season, is expected to help take the visitor tally past last year.
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