What Is Happening To The Cruise Industry?

The global cruise industry is expected to carry 10% more passengers by 2028 than in 2023, when the sector surpassed pre-pandemic levels. However, some routes are exposed to protests over overtourism. The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has released its 2024 State of the Cruise Industry report, which highlights the industry’s recovery from the pandemic and progress. With 31.5 million passengers sailing in 2023 and 35.7 million expected to sail in 2024, the future of cruising is bright.

The cruise industry has invested billions in new ships and engines that allow for fuel flexibility using low to zero-GHG fuels. As the new year begins, the cruise industry will see record capacity, over a dozen new ships, and other key trends. Cruise tourism is booming once again and is rebounding faster than other forms of travel and tourism.

CIN provides inside news of the global cruise industry, covering all operators and ships. European cities are banning cruise ships, and pollution and overtourism are not just a problem in Venice. The Balearic city of Palma is also facing challenges from pollution and overtourism.

The global cruise market was valued at 7.25 billion in 2021 and is expected to grow 11% from 2022 to 2028. The industry has been working to launch new ships and experiences that are attractive to a younger, newer demographic. Cruise lines are responding by increasing the number of single-cabins in new ships and retrofitting some of their existing ships to include additional cabins.

In certain weather situations, it is not uncommon for a sailing from New York to the Caribbean to be diverted to New England and Canada.