Cunard's liner MS Queen Elizabeth is set to make history as the first large cruise ship to navigate Townsville QLD's newly widened shipping channel on January 14th, 2025. This milestone marks a significant achievement for the Port of Townsville, following the completion of its US$251 million Channel Upgrade Project. The upgrade has enhanced the port's capacity to accommodate larger vessels, reinforcing its strategic importance to Northern Australia and providing a boost to the region's tourism and economy.
The occasion will be marked by a traditional plaque exchange ceremony between MS Queen Elizabeth and Port Townsville.
Ann Sherry AO (former CEO of Carnival Australia and current Chair of the Port of Townsville Ltd) will participate in this symbolic exchange to commemorate the vessel's maiden visit to the city.
Claudia Brumme-Smith (Townsville Enterprise CEO) highlighted preparations by local tour operators to tailor their offerings to the influx of visitors, including families and multi-generational travelers, drawn by large cruise ships like Queen Elizabeth. The upgraded port is expected to bring substantial economic benefits, strengthening Townsville's position as a premier cruise destination.
In addition to its enhanced cruise capabilities, the Port of Townsville remains Northern Australia’s largest container and automotive port, facilitating trade in 30+ commodities such as copper, zinc, lead, sugar, and fertilizer. Its dual role as a critical hub for commercial trade and a strategic defence and cruise port underscores its vital contribution to the region’s connectivity and global reach.