Impact of cruise ship turbulence on benthic communities : case study in Tasmania’s south-west

Abstract

This project principally examined the potential impact the turbulence created by the passage of cruise ships may have on fragile benthic marine biota and additional aspects such as potential wave wake erosion of channel banks. It is based on research undertaken to determine whether small, expedition-style cruise ships should be permitted to enter past Port Davey and into Bathurst Channel within the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Australia. Instead of characteristics such as ship length, draught and tonnage being used to gauge the impact of a ship, a more accurate model was developed to predict ship turbulence and potential impacts. The model was partially validated in ‘real size’ in similar estuarine conditions outside the area. Further validation using a small cruise ship was done on site. Based on the results, recommendations were made to allow Parks and Wildlife Service to finalise their permit process for cruise ships wishing to access the area and the model has been integrated into the permit process to determine whether a specific cruise ship may enter the pristine and sensitive area of Bathurst Channel.