South Australia's multi-million-dollar cruise industry
South Australia’s multi-million-dollar cruise industry injected $198 million into the state’s economy during the 2024-25 season and supported 613 jobs.
Over the past decade, the cruise industry has been a fast-growing sector in South Australia, contributing significantly to the state. The 2024-25 cruise season saw 20 first-time voyages from cruise lines with a greater port dispersal, as ships visited Adelaide, Kangaroo Island, Port Lincoln, Robe and for the first time in almost 15 years – Victor Harbor.
The South Australian Tourism Commission (SATC) is the lead State Government body for the cruise industry in South Australia. The SATC's Cruise Plan Action 2035 will be launched soon.
South Australian ports and anchorages
Frequently Asked Questions
For the most up-to-date cruise ship schedule for South Australia, refer to the Flinders Ports website.
Cruise ships berth at the Port Adelaide Passenger Terminal at Outer Harbor, Adelaide.
More port information, including facilities available and how to get there, visit the Flinders Ports website.
Expedition vessels are smaller ships with no more than 300 passengers onboard.
These ships are able to visit more remote destinations around the state, such as Flinders Island and Troubridge Island.
The SATC works closely with Inbound Tour Operators (ITOs) who contract products for cruise shore excursion.
Refer to the SATC cruise shore excursions guide for more information about what's required to get involved in the cruise sector.
When it comes to alcohol, what can be taken on board? Are bottles of alcohol permitted? Does a corkage fee apply?
We've outlined the alcohol policies of cruise lines which call into South Australia to help clarify what can and can't be taken on board.
Key resources
South Australian Tourism Commission Cruise Ship Action Plan 2025
Focus: Cruise ship industry in South Australia
Released: 2021
The South Australian Tourism Commission Cruise Ship Action Plan 2025 sets out a vision for the state to continue to be a national leader and safe destination of choice by visiting domestic and international cruise lines.
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How to work with cruise
There are many layers to the cruise industry, so this guide aims to assist South Australian tourism operators interested in providing experiences to the cruise market. This resource outlines how to create memorable shore experiences for passengers, identifies key partners, and explains the cruise distribution system.
The guide also provides information about various cruise lines and their passenger demographics, along with key contacts and links for further information.
Cruise South Australia
This brochure is for cruise lines and inbound tour operators as they plan the perfect itinerary for their clients to help them experience the very best of South Australia.
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