Cruising is not only one of the fastest growing sectors of Australia's travel industry, but also holds huge potential.

Federal Tourism Minister Fran Bailey said that potential was behind the government's commitment to developing the cruise shipping industry through a review process currently underway.

"The continued development of a sustainable and efficient cruise shipping industry is a priority for the Government," she said.

"When we consider that a ship visit can inject about $1 million into the local economy, it is clear that cruising is a niche market with much to offer."

More than 150,000 Australians took a cruise in 2003 (an increase of 30 percent over 2002) and there were  790 visits by cruise ships to Australian destinations, carrying 360,000 passengers (an increase of 20 percent).

Ms Bailey said there was a need to continuously improve the quality of the cruising experience.

"As high-yield customers, cruise passengers are an important component in the future of Australian tourism, and we want them to experience unparalleled levels of service during their trip," she said.

- Travelpress travel news