Plans for Brisbane to build a US$158 million cruise ship terminal could be given the go ahead in case the ACCC (Australian Competitions & Consumer Commission) allows arrangements proposed by Carnival Cruise Line and Port of Brisbane.
Both parties are currently seeking approval for agreement, under which Carnival Cruise Line will pay fixed yearly amount to the Port over the term of 15-year deal.
The deal states that, in return, the cruise line will receive preferential berthing rights at the terminal, such as 100 “Foundation Berthing Days” per year, which allow Carnival to have first pick of 100 days per year at the new terminal, up to a maximum of 4 days per week.
The ACCC is concerned with the prospect of Carnival Cruise Line being granted the right of first refusal over possible future 2nd berth at the terminal, that could block other operators from being able to provide alternate options in Brisbane.
Port of Brisbane and Carnival have until April 2018 to make amendments to the proposal, following ACCC’s comments.