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Northern Territory Cruise Forum told Darwin is the gateway for cruise ships from Asia

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Joel Katz addresses the Northern Territory Cruise Forum in Darwin this week
Joel Katz, MD of Cruise Lines International Association Australasia, told this week’s 2023 Northern Territory Cruise Forum Darwin is not only the gateway to the Kimberley, but also the gateway for international cruise ships coming to Australia from Asia.

The forum at Vibe Hotel Darwin Waterfront was staged by Tourism NT, in partnership with Tourism Top End and the Top End Visitor Information Centre, to discuss ways to improve shore experiences for passengers in Darwin, as well as long-term infrastructure planning.

Representatives from Port Darwin and the Darwin Cruise Working Group met in small groups with the tourism operators and cruise ship ground handlers.

Update on global recovery

‘The cruise community in Darwin is incredibly passionate and working together to support the industry’s development in a positive way,’ Katz, who gave an update on cruising’s worldwide return to growth, said.

‘There is a clear vision to capitalise on the opportunities cruise can deliver for the local community and to enhance the experience that visitors have on shore,’ he said.