Passengers disembarking from cruise ships are still stepping into a second-rate area in a first class city, according to lord mayoral candidate Alderman Helen Burnet.
Ald Burnet is calling on Tasports to make good on plans to improve terminal facilities.
“We are now at the beginning of the season but there is little improvement to the docking area where 1000’s of visitors step off onto dry land.
“The cruise industry is a multi-million dollar injection into our city and the gateway to our city should be more than a hot dog stand and buses out of town.”
Ald Burnet is also calling for taxis to be able to access to the ports.
“There seems to be a closed shop regarding transport options and whilst I understand that needs to be coordinated with group tours and the shipping lines, it seems that there are limited options for tourists who may want a different, more local experience from organised onshore excursions. Many on cruise ships may have access difficulties and the taxi option would be helpful.
“It would also support the many Hobart cabbies, who are struggling with a flood of licences, which make their businesses marginal.
TasPorts do have a lot to answer for on this matter. Better facilities are what our city deserves, and is certainly what I would want passengers to remember as a lasting impression as the gateway o or city.”
