In a spectacular display of maritime majesty, two of Princess Cruises’ most iconic vessels, Crown Princess and Diamond Princess, converged on Sydney Harbour, bringing a tidal wave of economic benefits and a glimpse into the luxury world of cruising. This historic meeting of the sister ships marked a first for the iconic harbour, as over 11,000 guests and crew descended upon the city, injecting a staggering AU$2 million into the local economy.
As the Crown Princess, fresh from a South Pacific New Year’s cruise, welcomed 3,300 new passengers bound for New Zealand, the Diamond Princess arrived from an Eastern Australia itinerary featuring stops in Eden, Port Arthur, and an overnight stay in Hobart. The simultaneous visit by both ships demonstrated the significant impact of the cruise industry on Australia’s tourism sector, with a projected 1.2 million passengers and crew visiting NSW ports in the 2024-2025 summer season.

Sydney (11 January 2025) – Captain Michele Bartolomei (Diamond Princess) and Captain Mario Cosentino (Crown Princess) reunited aboard Crown Princess, with a view of Diamond Princess. Picture: Toby Zerna Media
“We’re delighted to be in Sydney today with our sister ship, Diamond Princess, in this beautiful city,” said Captain Mario Consentino of the Crown Princess. “It’s the first time our ships are together in Sydney, and it’s also the first time I’ll see my colleague, Diamond Princess’ Captain Bartolomei, in almost ten years. We’ll celebrate this special occasion in style with an espresso looking over the harbour.”
The economic benefits of the cruise industry cannot be overstated, with the Crown Princess alone set to contribute over $120 million to the national economy during its 78 visits to 21 different ports across Australia. This record-breaking season will see the ship provision 140 tonnes of locally sourced fresh produce, supporting Australian farmers and ensuring guests enjoy exceptional dining experiences during their voyages.
For local businesses, the arrival of the two Princess Cruises ships is a welcome boost. “A kayaking encounter with two cruise ships at sunrise on Sydney Harbour is a double bonus for our guests,” said Tierna Maguire, a tour guide with Sydney Kayak Experience. “The size and scale of a cruise ship gently sailing past us on our kayaks is unmatched, with our guests telling us it’s one of the main highlights of the tour.”
The Diamond Princess, built in Japan and weighing 115,875 tonnes, brings unique features, including the most prominent Japanese bathhouse at sea. Homeported in Melbourne and Brisbane over the summer of 2024-2025, the ship will make four calls to Sydney before returning to Japan in March for the Japan northern summer season.
As the cruise industry continues to grow in popularity, it’s clear that cities like Sydney will reap the rewards. With its stunning harbour and world-class attractions, Sydney remains an essential homeport for Princess Cruises in the region. “Our guests love Sydney, and it remains an important homeport for Princess in the region,” said Terry Thornton, Chief Commercial Officer for Princess Cruises. “Today, our guests from Diamond Princess and Crown Princess will enjoy the city’s world-class shore excursions, vibrant retail precincts, and cafes and restaurants.”
For those looking to experience the luxury of Princess Cruises, additional information is available by visiting princess.com or connecting with a professional travel advisor by calling 13 24 88. Travel agents are encouraged to call 1300 587 473 or visit onesourcecruises.com.au.
As the Crown Princess and Diamond Princess set sail from Sydney Harbour, they leave behind a city buzzing with excitement and a local economy boosted by their presence. With the cruise industry projected to continue its growth, it’s clear that cities like Sydney will remain at the forefront of this thriving sector.
Written by: Bridget Gomez
Excellent but sad that they cannot be berthed alongside of each other in a much larger cruise ship facility in Garden Island. I presume neither can go under the Harbour Bridge and even if they could the spectacle would not be the same at White Bay or perish the thought, Botany, or even Newcastle! Come on NSW Government and the Federal Government, get your acts together, move the Navy somewhere else and resolve this highly embarassing cruise ship berthing issue and secure Garden Island as a major cruise ship terminal.