Cruise industry outperforms pre-pandemic figures with 7% increase in passengers during 2023

14-04-24

In 2023, the cruise industry experienced a remarkable rebound with 31.7 million people embarking on sea voyages, surpassing by 7% the 2019 figures, prior to the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic. So stated the Cruise Lines International Association's (CLIA) annual report, presented during the Seatrade Cruise Global forum in Miami Beach, Florida.

Carnival Corporation President Josh Weinstein highlighted at the event the superior value and experience offered by cruise ships compared to many land-based alternatives. CLIA's report also reflects a 71% increase in expedition and exploration itineraries from 2019, pointing to these niches as the fastest growing.

In addition, 27% of 2023 passengers were new to cruising, representing a 12% increase from the previous year. According to the report, there is growing interest in cruising among 28- to 43-year-olds, with a 6% increase in intent to use this type of vacation compared to 2019.

Kelly Craighead, president of CLIA, emphasized the resilience of the sector and its rapid post-pandemic recovery, contributing significantly to local and national economies. According to Craighead, there is still "plenty of room for responsible growth" in this industry that currently represents only 2% of total travel and tourism.

Looking ahead, cruise capacity is expected to increase by 10% between 2024 and 2028, with companies focused on achieving net zero emissions by 2050. Harry Sommer, president of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, underlined the industry's commitment to reducing greenhouse gases, noting that the major cruise lines are "100% aligned" on this goal.

The Seatrade Cruise Global forum, which began Monday at the Miami Beach Convention Center, has more than 10,000 attendees from some 120 countries and the participation of around 80 cruise lines. The fair, which opened its doors on Tuesday, features more than 600 exhibitors and offers a glimpse of the latest trends and innovations in the industry.