The Australian cruise industry is preparing to drop anchor in Brisbane this September, with registrations officially opening for the 28th annual Australian Cruise Association (ACA) Conference and AGM.
Scheduled for 2–4 September 2026, the conference arrives with a theme that reflects an industry maturing and determined to deliver more than just ship visits and passenger numbers. Under the banner “Building Value Beyond the Berth,” the event will bring together cruise executives, port authorities, destination managers, tourism operators and industry stakeholders from across Australia and around the globe.
And if the first wave of keynote speakers is any indication, Brisbane is about to host one of the most influential cruise conversations of the year.
Leading the line-up are four internationally respected industry figures:
- Luis Ajamil, Chief Executive Officer of Bermello Ajamil
- Carole Biencourt, Vice President, Onboard Revenue, Holland America Line and Seabourn
- Charles Bud Darr, Chief Executive Officer, Cruise Lines International Association
- Stefano Torresi, Director of Port Operations, Viking Cruises
Brendan Connell, Port of Brisbane, Therese Phillips, Tourism and Events Queensland, Jill Abel, Australian Cruise Association
Collectively, they represent decades of expertise in cruise deployment, itinerary planning, destination development, port operations and commercial growth.
For delegates, the opportunity to hear directly from those shaping global cruise strategy is likely to be one of the conference’s biggest drawcards.
ACA Chief Executive Officer Jill Abel said Brisbane provides the ideal setting for discussions about the industry’s future.
“Brisbane is the perfect host city for this year’s conference as we look ahead to the next phase of cruise growth in Australia.
The theme ‘Building Value Beyond the Berth’ reflects the industry’s increasing focus on long-term economic, social and community value, and the important role cruise plays in supporting destinations, tourism operators and local businesses across the country.
We are delighted to welcome such a high-calibre line-up of international and domestic speakers who will provide valuable insights into the future of cruise deployment, destination development and industry collaboration.”
That focus on broader economic impact is becoming increasingly important. While cruise ships may only visit for a day or two, the benefits often linger much longer, supporting regional employment, local suppliers, transport providers, hospitality businesses and tourism operators.
(L – R) Scott Lovett, BDO, Peter Little, Carnival Cruise Line, Ben Angell, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Gavin Smith, Royal Caribbean Group, Jill Abel, Australian Cruise Association.
Brisbane, meanwhile, continues to strengthen its credentials as one of Australia’s most important cruise gateways.
Craig Davidson, Chief Executive Officer of Tourism and Events Queensland, said the conference provides an opportunity to showcase both Brisbane and Queensland to influential decision-makers.
“We are proud to welcome the Australian Cruise Association Conference to Brisbane in 2026.
Brisbane continues to strengthen its position as a leading cruise destination, supported by world-class infrastructure, growing international appeal, and exceptional visitor experiences. Hosting this event provides an important opportunity to showcase the city and wider Queensland region to influential cruise industry leaders and decision-makers.”
The conference programme extends well beyond the meeting room.
Delegates arriving on 2 September will participate in networking tours showcasing Brisbane’s tourism and cruise infrastructure. Highlights include visits to the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal, Howard Smith Wharves, riverfront attractions, cultural precincts and curated food and beverage experiences.
Conference sessions on 3 September will focus on cruise industry trends, innovation, regional destination development and future growth opportunities. The event concludes on 4 September with a breakfast gathering followed by the ACA Annual General Meeting.
The conference is supported by Tourism and Events Queensland, Brisbane Economic Development Agency and Port of Brisbane, alongside sponsors including Bermello Ajamil, Bob Wood Cruise Group, CLIA Australasia, Hughes Chauffeur Services, Port of Townsville, Select Fresh Providores and Viking Cruises.
For an industry navigating changing traveller expectations, evolving deployment patterns and growing destination demands, Brisbane’s gathering promises to be much more than another conference. It may well offer a glimpse of where Australian cruising is headed next—and how destinations can ensure they share in the journey.
Registrations and conference information: Australian Cruise Association Conference 2026.
By: Michelle Warner – © 2026.
Read Time: 3 Minutes.
About the Author.
Michelle Warner has always carried stories the way others carry passports lightly, faithfully, and with purpose. She learned her craft in newsrooms, shaping sentences with care, before swapping deadlines for departures as a flight attendant with some of the world’s great airlines. Years aloft sharpened her eye for character and deepened her fondness for the small, dignified rituals of travel, the quiet kindness of strangers, the poetry of arrival, the patience learned between time zones.
Now grounded by choice, Michelle has come home to writing with the same calm authority she once brought to turbulent cabins. Her prose blends an editor’s discipline with a traveller’s wonder, tinged with humour and reverence for the golden age of travel. Each piece feels like a handwritten boarding pass, gracious, observant, and unmistakably alive.
