P&O Cruises Australia’s flagship Pacific Explorer, returned home to Sydney on Sunday morning, becoming the first cruise ship to return to Australia in more than two years and marking the start of the recovery of the country’s $5 billion a year cruise industry.
Greeted with a spectacular welcome of ceremonial water cannon salutes, the cruise ship sailed into Sydney Harbour after a 28-day voyage from Europe, where she spent most of the past two years awaiting her return to Australia.
Pacific Explorer was welcomed by chartered boats carrying cruise suppliers, loyal guests, travel agents and cruise line staff, who cheered and shed tears of joy as the ship came into view.
P&O Cruises Australia President Marguerite Fitzgerald said it was always going to be an emotional homecoming for Pacific Explorer and her crew.
“Pacific Explorer coming through Sydney Heads after two long years was a magic moment and I am proud to say there was hardly a dry eye among our suppliers, guests and staff,” Fitzgerald said.
“Her arrival has replaced uncertainty with optimism and marks the rebound of cruising, on the way to re-establishing Australia as the world’s most successful cruise market, previously contributing more than $5 billion annually to the national, state and regional economies, and supporting 18,000 jobs.”
Ms Fitzgerald said the first cruise carrying fare-paying guests would be on 31 May, for a four-night round trip from Sydney to Brisbane. It would operate with comprehensive health and safety protocols developed in collaboration with eastern seaboard governments.
NSW Transport Minister David Elliott said the day had finally arrived for Sydney Harbour to once again reclaim its rightful place as the epicentre of local and international cruising in Australia.
“Our maritime workforce has been working hard to put new protocols in place and is ready to welcome local cruisers and visitors with open arms,” Minister Elliott said.
In preparation for welcoming guests on board again, Pacific Explorer will get an additional crew and undergo the testing of guest services and equipment, and training of galley and restaurant staff.
