Bumper cruise ship season shaping up

The arrival of the Seven Seas Navigator at the Port of Auckland yesterday marks the beginning of what may be a near-record season for cruise ships to New Zealand.

The ship began its New Zealand visit in Fiordland seven days ago.

The 500-passenger Radisson ship is the first of 39 cruise vessels expected in New Zealand waters this season, slightly fewer than last season.

This season will end in early May with a visit by P&O's newest vessel in the Princess fleet, the 700-passenger Pacific Princess.

A report by Market Economics for Cruise New Zealand predicts that direct spending by the cruise ship industry in New Zealand in the coming season will be $172 million - slightly down on last year's $181m.

The ships are expected to bring 55,000 passengers this season, compared with last year's record of 57,000.

Cruise New Zealand chairman Craig Harris said New Zealand was reaping the benefits of being considered a safe part of the world for cruise ships.

While the number of port calls had reduced from 385 to 250 this year, many of the ships were larger, meaning passenger numbers were similar to last year's.

"We are delighted with the overall growth we have seen in the New Zealand cruise ship industry," he said.

Mr Harris said, however, that international events such as a new war in the Gulf could put a cap on growth.

The most spectacular first-time caller this season will be The World, a floating permanent home with 110 private residences on board as well as 88 guest suites. The residences - at $US2.5 million ($5.22 million) to $US7.5 million - have two to three bedrooms, an en suite bathroom, kitchen and terrace.

The ship, built in Norway and managed by the Residensea Company, set out on its maiden voyage from the United States this year.

Mr Harris said the ship was owned by its residents, who "can literally keep sailing around the world for the rest of their lives if they want".

Its arrival is timed for the final of the America's Cup, in the company of other major events overseas such as the Cannes Film Festival and Monaco Grand Prix.

Two luxury ships of the Holland America Line, the Hollendam and Prinsendam, are making their first visits to New Zealand waters this season.

Nine of last season's visitors are returning, including the Queen Elizabeth 2, Clipper Odyssey, the Aurora, Legend of the Seas, Amsterdam, Oriana, Regal Princess and the Pacific Sky.

A highlight of next season is expected to be P&O's new super liner, Star Princess, which can take 3000 passengers.

- NZPA

Further reading
nzherald.co.nz/marine