SYDNEY residents are being warned of traffic disruptions over the next few days as people pour into the city to see the superliners berthing in Sydney Harbour.
Circular Quay was congested yesterday as people flocked to see the British cruise ship Arcadia IV, which arrived at the Overseas Passenger Terminal on Friday evening on its maiden voyage to Sydney. The 285-metre-long liner is carrying 1950 passengers and 880 crew on its round-the-world voyage.
Arcadia IV left Sydney for Brisbane last night to sail on to the Whitsundays, Asia and the Middle East before returning to Britain in April.
The Diamond Princess and the Dawn Princess arrive today, followed by the Royal Princess on Wednesday. The ship expected to draw most interest is the Queen Mary 2, which docks at Garden Island on Thursday. At 344 metres long, it is the largest cruise ship to visit Australia.
The RTA said there would be special event clearways and road closures to accommodate the influx of tourists. Motorists were advised to take public transport to the harbour.
Sign up for the Traveller Deals newsletter
Get exclusive travel deals delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up now.