The Port of Brisbane has reached a major milestone in Pinkenba, with the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal recording its 500th cruise ship visit since opening.
Milestone Arrival At Pinkenba Terminal
The milestone was marked on Sunday, 14 December 2025, with the arrival of Carnival Luminosa at the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal. The vessel became the 500th cruise ship to call at the terminal since operations began in 2022.
The terminal welcomed its first cruise ship on 2 June 2022. Since then, it has hosted vessels from many of the world’s major cruise lines, supporting both domestic and international cruise routes.
Growth Since Opening
In just over three and a half years of operation, the terminal has handled more than 2.5 million passenger movements. Cruise operations have continued through a range of operational conditions, including a cyclone experienced earlier in 2025.
Each cruise ship visit involves a coordinated operational effort, with around 130 staff and partner personnel supporting arrivals, departures and passenger processing.
Economic Contribution Of Cruise Activity
Each cruise ship call at the Pinkenba terminal contributes more than $1 million in economic value to Queensland. Over a ten-year period from the 2024 financial year, the total contribution is forecast to reach around $1.5 billion.
Cruise itineraries departing from Brisbane also include visits to other Queensland destinations, extending tourism and economic activity beyond the city.
Community Sentiment Around Access
Community feedback following the milestone highlighted strong support for terminal staff and onboard operations. Passengers frequently praised staff assistance and terminal organisation.
At the same time, comments raised ongoing concerns about road congestion and limited public transport access to and from the Pinkenba terminal, particularly during peak cruise periods.
Looking Ahead
The 2025–26 cruise season is expected to bring more than 140 cruise ship calls to the Brisbane International Cruise Terminal, involving 11 cruise lines and including nine first-time visiting vessels.
Published 21-Dec-2025
