Cruise visits on the rise
Cruise visits have risen significantly over recent years, increasing from three vessels in 2019 to fourteen in 2024, with fifteen scheduled for 2025. This growth reflects Exmouth’s rising profile as a regional cruise destination and its strategic position as a gateway to the World Heritage–listed Ningaloo Coast.
The economic contribution of cruise tourism continues to strengthen. Local cruise‑related spending has grown from $950,000 in 2018/19 to $3.2 million by 2024/25, showcasing strong demand from passengers and increasing benefits for local businesses and outperforming national trends.
To respond to growth pressures and improve visitor experience, the Gascoyne Development Commission established the Exmouth Cruise Working Group (ECWG). Through the ECWG, GDC brings together key partners—including the Shire of Exmouth, Tourism WA, DTMI, ECCI, and Australia’s Coral Coast—to improve coordination, address operational gaps, and guide strategic planning for cruise development.
GDC’s leadership ensures a community‑led approach that focuses on local capability, stakeholder alignment, and long‑term industry sustainability.
This includes commissioning a comprehensive cruise infrastructure and operations review and developing a long‑term strategy to support investment, safety, and visitor experience.
Together, these efforts position Exmouth as a well‑managed, high‑value cruise destination and ensure that growing visitation translates into economic and community benefit for the region.
Key Statistics
Economic impact up year-on-year
Cruise-related economic impact 2024-2025
Shore excursions
Cruise-related local expenditure in 2025
