The MS Caledonian Sky cruise liner will sail past the 12 Apostles on its way to Port Campbell, Port Fairy and Portland, providing a much-needed boost to local economies later this month.
About 70 passengers will depart Melbourne for the APT Coastal Victoria Discovery four-night tour.
The visit will take in Port Campbell National Park and Loch Ard Gorge and Portland tourist sites including Cape Bridgewater, Bridgewater Lakes and Tarragal Caves, the Cape Nelson State Park and lighthouse.
Passengers will spend the afternoons of December 27 and 30 in Port Fairy where they'll visit the port, Griffiths Island, the lighthouse and local shops.
IN OTHER NEWS:
APT senior communications manager Trudi Sheppard said Port Fairy was "a must" when cruising the Shipwreck Coast and knew it was something its guests would enjoy.
"We are pleased to be showcasing Port Fairy to our guests and contributing to the local economy of the region," she said.
Moyne Shire Council mayor Ian Smith said the ship would anchor in Port Fairy bay and guests would be transported to shore via smaller launch craft, dependent on the weather.
"It's certainly something different for Port Fairy," Cr Smith said. "It's not common to see a vessel of this size anchored in the bay.
"We have welcomed cruise ship passengers in the past who have been brought to town via bus from Portland, so we are very excited to be welcoming these guests directly from the ship."
He said the extra visitors would provide a welcome boost for Port Fairy after two years of COVID-19 lockdowns and restrictions.
"It's very exciting to see the tourism industry bouncing back and to see these unique opportunities like domestic cruises and the benefits they will bring," he said.
"We hope to be able to welcome more cruises to Port Fairy - Victoria's top tourist town and the national silver medallist - into the future.
"Right across the shire we have strong demand for accommodation and we are looking set for a very strong summer tourist season."
Now just one tap with our new app: Digital subscribers now have the convenience of faster news, right at your fingertips with The Standard:
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content:
- Bookmark https://www.standard.net.au/
- Make sure you are signed up for our breaking and regular headlines and newsletters
- Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn
- Tap here to open our Google News page.
- Join our Courts and Crime Facebook group and our dedicated Sport Facebook group
- Subscribe
