The departure of the Royal Princess on Tuesday, April 15, marked the end of the main cruise ship season for Tauranga this year.

Prior to leaving, Tauranga’s cruise ambassadors, who volunteer their time to welcome visitors, wrapped up their season with a special farewell event, including a memorable visit onto the Royal Princess.

There is just one more cruise ship - the Insigmia - visiting the port on May 27, following which, no more are scheduled until the Celebrity Edge begins the next season on October 16, 2025.

Tourism Bay of Plenty said Tauranga has had a strong 2024/25 cruise season, with 91 ship arrivals bringing thousands of passengers and crew into the region.

“These visits provide a significant boost to our local economy, supporting hospitality, retail, tourism operators, and transport providers,” Tourism Bay of Plenty General Manager Oscar Nathan said.

Amadea leaving Tauranga harbour on February 12, 2025. Photo/Rosalie Liddle Crawford.

Nathan said the overall arrival experience and passengers’ direct disembarkation on to the port - with Mauao in the foreground - constantly rates Tauranga the best port experience in New Zealand amongst visiting cruise lines.

“The vibrancy that cruise visitors bring is felt right across the city, from our waterfront to our town centres, and we’re proud to be a key gateway for cruise travel in New Zealand.”

Final tallies for ship visits and the full economic impact are still being confirmed but Nathan said as of March 18, the 2024/25 season brought an estimated 143,279 passengers and 62,804 crew to our shores — over 206,000 people in total.

“These provisional figures are in line with recent seasons and represent a significant contribution to our local visitor economy,” Nathan said.

“There were a few itinerary changes due to weather, such as a cancelled berth from the Westerdam and adjusted schedules for the Crown Princess and MSC Magnifica, but the season remained strong overall.

“Throughout the season, ambassadors and staff were proud to showcase the best of the Coastal Bay of Plenty to guests from around the world.”

Raked sand drawings farewell passengers aboard the Royal Princess as it departs Tauranga harbour on Tuesday, April 15.  Photo/ Nikki Moloney.

The Insignia will make a late season call on May 27 before winter.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming back the Celebrity Edge in October and kicking off another exciting season this coming spring,” Nathan said.