Eden is celebrating 20 years today since the first cruise ship sailed into town, with the region having since welcomed more than 195 ships and over 400,000 visitors and crew.
Port Authority of NSW has supported this journey by funding, constructing, and operating the cruise wharf, building the new cruise and tourism Welcome Centre, and providing funding and in-kind support to Eden Tourism.
Chief Executive Officer of Port Authority of NSW, John McKenna, said the double-decade of cruise has been a lifeline to the region through some tough times, helping drive tourism, jobs, and economic resilience.
“The 20-year growth of cruising in Eden has been nothing short of remarkable,” Mr McKenna said.
“In that time, visitor numbers have increased tenfold, injecting tens of millions of dollars into the local economy and supporting jobs across the Sapphire Coast. This success is a testament to the drive and determination of the local community to embrace and grow cruise tourism.
“Together, we’ve created a true gateway to the region’s natural beauty and coastal charm, where visitors are drawn to whale watching, bushwalking in Ben Boyd National Park, and exploring Eden’s fishing and rich maritime history.
“I want to acknowledge Eden Tourism and Bega Valley Shire Council for their partnership and vision in putting Eden on the cruising map and showcasing the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage to the world.”
Mayor of Bega Valley Shire Council, Russel Fitzpatrick, said: “Eden is a true regional success story. Over the past 20 years, cruise tourism has helped transform our town into a vibrant hub, supporting local jobs and businesses, and showcasing the best of our region to the world.
“The success of Eden’s cruise industry is a testament to the dedication of many volunteers. Every community member who has proudly worn a red shirt and welcomed visitors has played a vital role in reaching this milestone.
“The return of cruise after the pandemic, when visitor numbers dropped significantly, has played a vital role in our region’s recovery. We’re excited to see what the next 20 years will bring.”
Key milestones for the Port of Eden
November 2005: Eden welcomes its first modern cruise ship - setting the stage for twenty years of expansion and development in the region’s cruise tourism sector.
September 2019: The $44 million Eden Cruise Wharf is completed - funded and delivered by Port Authority NSW, allowing large cruise ships to berth alongside for the first time and unlocking new opportunities for regional tourism.
October 2020: Wharf planning enhancements approved - work undertaken by Port Authority to expand the wharf’s flexibility, allowing non-cruise vessels up to 100m, equipment handling, refuelling, maintenance, and extended operating hours.
May 2021: Cruise Eden Welcome Centre is completed – a partnership initiative enhancing visitor experiences and celebrating local tourism.
July 2022: Coral Princess sails into Eden – the first cruise ship to return after the COVID-19 pause, signalling the revival of Australia’s regional cruise industry.
July 2022: Port Authority, Bega Valley Shire Council and Eden Tourism sign a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen collaboration and promote cruise visitation to Eden.
July 2024: Wharf planning enhancements approved – increasing vessel size limits, allowing 24-hour berthing, approving future mooring and walkway works if required, and removing the 60-visit seasonal cap – supporting the next phase of Eden’s cruise growth.
February 2025: Arrival of the Ovation of the Seas - at 348 metres and 168,666 tonnes, the ship brought a record 4,862 passengers and crew to the Sapphire Coast – the largest ever to visit Eden.
14 November 2025: Expected arrival of the Celebrity Edge, marking the 200th cruise ship visit to Eden - a major milestone for the port’s growing cruise industry.
Cruise passengers exploring the Eden Welcome Centre in Eden
Eden Welcome Centre – official opening event – 29 April 2021
Hydrographic Survey work commences ahead of the planned wharf extension, 2017 – Ovation of the Seas, the largest ship to visit Eden, arrives – credit Port Authority of NSW
For more information visit www.portauthoritynsw.com.au.
