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While people around Batemans Bay vied for the the best vantage point of The World on Wednesday, Kerrie-Anne Benton got a five-star glimpse on board the vessel.
The Eurobodalla Shire Council’s tourism marketing coordinator was fortunate to board the luxury ship on January 4 and observe its grandeur.
“The ship itself is very refined and beautiful,” Mrs Benton said.
“It’s nice to have something so majestic in the Bay. It’s not everyday we get one.
“I go on a lot of cruise ships around the world and it feels just like a home. You feel like you’re in someone’s extended house.”
The vessel, which has 165 apartments, last visited Batemans Bay in December 2009 for two nights.
Mrs Benton said a return visit was great news for the economy.
“The passengers determine where they go around the world,” she said.
“They decided they wanted to come back to Batemans Bay because they had a great time.
“Some are going on tours up to Pebbly Beach and others down to Tilba Tilba and Narooma. Any visitors to our region are always beneficial for us.”
Catherine and Robert Brownlie, of Denhams Beach, awoke to views of the majestic vessel from their backyard.
“We couldn’t believe our eyes when we woke up and saw it sitting out to sea,” Mrs Brownlie said.
“It is a hive of activity out there with helicopters, planes, boats, jet skis. We have never seen so many craft. Obviously coming to look at the ship – not that I blame them! What excitement for a small town!”
Residents and guests aboard the ship were due to spend one night in Batemans Bay before sailing down the coast to Eden on Thursday.
