Port Authority of New South Wales - Term expires 2026
Martin Bidgood is a seasoned cruise and maritime operations leader, currently serving as General Manager, Cruise at the Port Authority of New South Wales. He brings over 15 years of international experience managing high‑performance destination management teams and delivering shore‑side services to the global cruise industry.
Martin, originally from London, earned a degree in International Hospitality Management from Bournemouth University. He began his career in the UK cruise support sector, leading Aragon Tours before the company was acquired by Intercruises in 2009. He then served as Regional Director for Intercruises UK & Ireland, before relocating to Sydney in 2011 to helm the company’s operations across Australia.
During his tenure, Martin was widely recognized for his leadership: developing and expanding cruise tour operations, supporting the growth of new ports, and driving ACA’s education programme to help tourism operators become cruise‐ready. As ACA Deputy Chair and management committee member for several years, he contributed strategic oversight and industry insight to the association.
With his move to Port Authority of NSW, Martin has continued to influence local cruise activity, championing new stakeholder engagement frameworks like the Port of Eden Stakeholder Group and emphasizing the economic benefits of cruise tourism for regional communities.