ABC

Hobart is preparing for the arrival of 3,000 American sailors tomorrow.

USS Tarawa is due to dock at Macquarie Wharf at about half past nine in the morning.

The amphibious assault ship has previously been involved in security operations in the Persian Gulf, as well as providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

The Lord Mayor of Hobart, Rob Valentine, says the visit will benefit the city's retailers.

"It's got to mean, you know, big things for business," he said, "but I always like to emphasise it's not just the holy dollar that we go for.

"You know, it's the fact that we like to promote Hobart as a great place to live and be and make sure that we're friendly and that we are welcoming to them."