Joanna Tucker, Yorke Peninsula Country Times

Cruise ships are returning to the Copper Coast following a four-year campaign by Copper Coast Council.

The Seabourn Quest, operated by Carnival Corporation’s Seabourn brand, will dock in Wallaroo on March 20, 2027.

The booking marks the first return of cruise vessels since 2020.

The ship will carry around 458 guests and 335 crew on a journey that includes Adelaide, Kangaroo Island and Port Lincoln.

Flinders Ports and the South Australian Tourism Commission have confirmed the booking.

Mayor Roslyn Talbot first wrote to SATC in 2021 in a bid to bring cruise ships back to the region.

In March 2022, the YP Country Times reported that, despite the Federal Government confirming the national Covid-19 pandemic cruise ban would lift on April 14, 2022, cruise ships were not expected to return to the Copper Coast until at least the 2024-25 season.

Copper Coast Council chief executive Dylan Strong said the return of cruises reflected an ongoing partnership with the tourism sector and a growing interest in the region.

“The cruise ships will bring about an injection of visitors — that means money spent at our local businesses,” Mr Strong said.

“At a higher level, it puts and keeps Wallaroo on the map as a destination.

“We’ve got all of the attributes of a fantastic destination, and the fact we can welcome cruise ships into our own port is the icing on the cake.”

The economic ripple effect from this visit will be felt throughout the community,” he said.

“We intend to work closely with local businesses to ensure they are ready to maximise this incredible opportunity.”

Mayor Talbot said the announcement was welcome news for the community, which had strongly supported previous cruise ship visits.

“As a community, we love where we live and we love any opportunity to showcase that,” Mayor Talbot said.

“The community really rallied behind the cruise ships when they came here last time — they recognised the benefits.”

She also said it was disappointing when they stopped, especially for the many volunteers who had stepped up to help.

Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison described the announcement as a major milestone for the region and for South Australia.

“Wallaroo is an ideal destination for cruising, as the seaside paradise offers the best of South Australia in one place — with stunning scenery, immersive wildlife experiences and welcoming hospitality,” she said.

Ms Bettison said Tourism SA was working to expand cruise offerings across the state to bring more visitors — into local economies.

Council will now begin preparations with stakeholders to welcome the Seabourn Quest and its passengers.

In past seasons, council coordinated volunteer programs, markets, shuttle services and bookable local experiences — with further details to be confirmed later this year.

This article appeared in Yorke Peninsula Country Times, 15 April 2025.