Princess Cruises to Homeport in Fremantle After Seven-Year Hiatus
In a momentous development for Western Australia’s tourism sector, Princess Cruises is set to base a ship in Fremantle once again come April 2027, ending a seven-year absence from the port. While the cruise line has occasionally called at Fremantle, this marks a significant return to homeporting duties. With a maximum of 3,140 guests, this is the perfect ship for seeing Australia.
The vessel expected to anchor this rebirth of cruise activity is the Grand Princess, which will embark on a 15-night journey to Brisbane followed by a 17-night voyage to Sydney in May 2027
An Economic and Tourism Boost for Western Australia
The return of homeporting services carries immense economic promise for Fremantle and its surrounding towns. Cruise passengers often spur spending on local tours, accommodations, dining, and retail — giving a major lift to regional tourism economies.
The announcement couldn’t come at a more strategic time as Fremantle gears up to host the Australian Cruise Association conference from September 3–5, 2025 — the first in two decades. Industry stakeholders, including representatives from cruise lines such as Princess, NCL, and Holland America Line, are expected to attend.
Government Backing and Long-Term Cruise Strategy
This move aligns closely with the WA Cruise Tourism Strategic Plan, a public initiative designed to enhance Western Australia’s cruise experience and global appeal. As part of this vision, the state government has committed an additional AUD 1 million investment over the next four years to bolster cruise tourism infrastructure and promotion.
WA’s new Minister for Tourism, Reece Whitby, emphasized the importance of positioning the state as a “unique, world-class cruise destination.”
What’s Driving This Return?
Australia — and especially Western Australia — has been underserved in terms of cruise departure points, with most itineraries starting from Sydney or Brisbane. This limitation has spurred demand for more accessible and varied options among local travellers.
By re-establishing Fremantle as a homeport, Princess Cruises is directly responding to growing interest in Western Australian cruising — offering passengers the convenience of local departures and cruise routes to regions like Broome and other coastal gems.
A Fond Farewell and a Triumphant Return
For longtime cruise enthusiasts, this news is the long-awaited return of the Sun Princess, which last called Fremantle home during the 2019–20 season for 141 days of regional departures.
Why This Matters You — and What to Look Forward To
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Less travel hassle: Western Australians can once again enjoy cruise departures without costly flights to eastern ports.
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Boost to local tourism: Fremantle and nearby towns stand to benefit from increased tourism spending.
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Expanded cruising options: Travellers will enjoy fresh itineraries and the possibility of regional exploration.
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Industry momentum: This move signals growing confidence in WA’s cruise potential and could spur further industry commitments.
Summary at a Glance
| Key Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| Homeport Return | Fremantle to host a Princess Cruises ship again in 2027 |
| Ship & Itineraries | Grand Princess launching 15-night Brisbane and 17-night Sydney cruises |
| Economic Impact | Boost to regional tourism, local businesses, and job creation |
| Government Support | AUD 1M investment under WA’s Cruise Tourism Strategic Plan |
| Strategic Importance | Diversifies Australian cruise offerings beyond eastern ports |
In conclusion, this homeporting revival marks a new chapter for Princess Cruises in Western Australia — one that promises economic vitality, enhanced accessibility for Aussie cruisers, and renewed spotlight on Fremantle’s potential. Here’s to charts set for the future — starting from right on our doorstep!
To learn more about Princess Cruises’ return to Fremantle as a homeport and other cruise enquiries, you can call us at 1300 799 758.
We are available 7 days a week.
