The South West Development Commission is working with the Dolphin Discovery Centre and Bunbury Visitor Centre to maximise tourism opportunities for cruise ship passengers visiting the region.
The Cruise Bunbury committee has been working with stakeholders behind the scenes to showcase the attraction and other experiences in the Bunbury Geographe region to key tourism industry decision-makers.
Cruise Bunbury acting chair Mark Exeter, from the South West Development Commission, said the group was actively promoting the newly redeveloped Dolphin Discovery Centre to the cruise ship industry, along with other new shore excursions.
“The new facility has the wow factor that cruise ship passengers are looking for,” he said.
“We are working with stakeholders including the Dolphin Discovery Centre and Bunbury Visitor Centre to create packages that will really appeal to cruise ship passengers.
“For example, the opportunity to hear from the local marine biologist about the life of a dolphin is something we expect will be popular.”
Mr Exeter said a cruise up the Collie River and a chance to explore both Bunbury and Busselton were among the tours that were popular during the first cruise visit of the season, with a Noongar cultural tour set to tempt passengers during upcoming cruise ship visits.
Visitors have been receiving a warm welcome, with Cruise Bunbury organising for a band to serenade disembarking passengers, welcome packs from the Bunbury Visitor Centre, and a free shuttle bus service.
Cruise Bunbury is coordinated by South West Development Commission and comprises representatives from Bunbury Geographe Chamber of Commerce and Industry, City of Bunbury, Southern Ports and local businesses.
