The global cruise industry expects 37.7 million passengers in 2025

The global cruise industry continues to expand. According to the new "State of the Cruise Industry 2025" report, published by CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), the industry is expected to welcome 37.7 million cruise passengers this year, driven by high travel intentions among audiences across different age groups, particularly millennials and Generation X.

The study also reveals that 82% of those who have already taken a cruise intend to repeat the experience, while 68% of international travelers are considering embarking for the first time. This sustainable growth is accompanied by technological innovations, responsible tourism practices, and a direct impact on the global economy.

“CLIA’s 2025 report shows that cruise remains one of the most dynamic and resilient tourism sectors, with growth commensurate with strong demand for vacations at sea, especially among younger generations and travelers new to cruising,” said Bud Darr, CLIA president and CEO. “The industry is also a significant economic force, contributing more than $168 billion to communities around the world, supporting 1.6 million jobs, and investing billions in the sustainable fleet of the future.”

Satisfaction, diversity and innovation

Among the highlights, the report shows that 31% of passengers in the last two years took their first cruise, reflecting the high level of experience satisfaction. The industry is also following the trend of multigenerational travel: nearly a third of guests travel with three or more generations of the same family.

Companies have invested in diversifying their experiences, with options ranging from family adventures to expedition cruises and high-end cultural itineraries. In 2024, expedition cruises grew 22% year-over-year, cementing their position as the fastest-growing segment.

Responsible tourism and sustainable technology

Advance planning is a hallmark of the industry: travelers tend to book their trips well in advance, and companies plan their stops more than a year in advance, contributing to managed and sustainable tourism.

The industry is also advancing the use of alternative energy sources and low-impact technologies. By 2028, 50% of new fleet capacity will feature engines ready to run on LNG, methanol, or biofuels, while 72% of vessels will be able to connect to shore-based electricity, reducing emissions during port calls.

Global economic impact

Despite representing only 2% of global tourism volume, the cruise industry generated a global economic impact of US$168 billion in 2023, the highest ever recorded. In the United States, this figure exceeded US$65 billion, generating 290,000 direct jobs and more than US$25 billion in wages.

Furthermore, 69% of cruise passengers stay in hotels before or after embarking, increasing the benefits for destinations. Data also indicates that 60% of passengers return to the places they first visited on a cruise, amplifying the positive effects for local tourism.

In 2024, the sector welcomed 34.6 million passengers, with North America remaining the largest source market. Destinations in the Caribbean, the Bahamas, and Bermuda led the way, accounting for 43% of departures, followed by the Mediterranean and other European regions.

Forecasts for the coming years remain optimistic: 11 new vessels will enter service by 2025 and 56 vessels are on order by 2036, representing an investment of $56.8 billion. More than 70% of the global fleet is made up of small and medium-sized vessels, reinforcing the focus on personalization and diversity of experiences.

Source: CLIA.