Cruise boom: global industry projects 37.7 million passengers by 2025

12-06-25

The global cruise industry is making a strong comeback after a period of transformation. In 2024, it welcomed 34.6 million passengers, and projections for 2025 point to a record-breaking 37.7 million travelers, according to the latest report from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). This nearly 9% increase reflects a sustained revival of a tourism model that has successfully adapted to new trends, with value, innovation, and sustainability now leading the way.

The forecast of 37.7 million cruise passengers in 2025 also signals further expansion of the global fleet, which currently includes 310 ocean-going ships. There are an additional 56 new vessels scheduled for delivery through 2036, representing a total investment of $56.8 billion. This pipeline illustrates the industry’s confidence in sustained and responsible growth.

The cruise sector is not only attracting more travelers but also succeeding in building lasting loyalty. Of all cruise passengers in the last two years, 31% were first-timers, demonstrating the industry's capacity to reach new markets. Additionally, 82% of previous cruisers plan to sail again, and a significant portion travels more than once a year: 25% cruise twice or more annually, 14% take two cruises a year, and 11% go on three to five voyages within the same timeframe. The average age of passengers is 46.5 years, with 36% under the age of 40, indicating strong popularity among Millennials and Generation X.

Today’s cruise passengers seek diverse and enriching experiences. Multigenerational travel—featuring three or more generations journeying together—is increasingly common. Expedition and exploration cruises are emerging as the fastest-growing segment, with a 22% increase in 2024 compared to 2023. The rising demand for cultural, nature-based, and adventure experiences underscores the transformation of cruises from simple transportation to immersive, memory-making journeys.

In response to shifting expectations, the cruise fleet is undergoing a significant modernization focused on sustainability. By 2028, 50% of new ships will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG) or methanol, with the flexibility to adapt to future low- or zero-emission fuels. Furthermore, more than 61% of CLIA-member ships are already equipped to connect to shoreside electricity, a figure expected to rise to 72% in the coming years. These measures reflect the industry's commitment to balancing growth with environmental and regulatory responsibilities.

The cruise industry’s global economic footprint is considerable. In 2023 alone, it generated over $168 billion and supported around 1.6 million jobs worldwide. In the United States, it contributed over $65 billion to the economy, sustaining 290,000 jobs and accounting for $25 billion in wages. These figures highlight the industry’s impact beyond the seas: 69% of cruise passengers spend at least one night in their port of embarkation before or after their voyage, and 60% return to destinations they first visited on a cruise, fueling local economies through lodging, dining, shopping, and cultural activities.

North America remains the dominant source market, with a 13% increase in 2024. In terms of destinations, the Caribbean leads with 43% of global cruise demand, followed by the Mediterranean and other European regions.

The outlook is bright. In addition to the 56 new ships on order, the number of cruise passengers is expected to rise to 41.9 million by 2028. Shorter itineraries are also gaining popularity, particularly in the Persian Gulf and the Middle East, where new routes and a younger demographic are fueling rapid growth.

The recent evolution of the cruise sector confirms that it is a resilient and forward-looking industry, capable of renewing itself and responding to the demands of a new generation of travelers. With its combination of exponential growth, economic impact, customer loyalty, technological investment, and environmental awareness, cruising is emerging as a beacon of global tourism in the 21st century.

In collaboration with:

This site uses cookies from Google to deliver its services and to analyze traffic. Information about your use of this site is shared with Google. By using this site, you agree to its use of cookies.

Legal notice