CLIA: A Growing Industry with Strong Global Impact
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has released its annual report on the state of the cruise industry, highlighting a vibrant and dynamic sector shaped by contemporary travel trends, a growing variety of offerings, and innovative experiences that meet the increasingly broad and diverse demands of consumers.
According to Bud Darr, President and CEO of CLIA, the 2025 report confirms that cruises remain one of the most resilient and fastest-growing segments of global tourism. This success is largely driven by strong demand from younger generations and first-time cruisers. The industry also continues to be a significant economic engine, contributing over $168 billion to communities worldwide, supporting 1.6 million jobs, and investing heavily in an increasingly sustainable fleet.
Royal Caribbean
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The report notes that much of this growth is attributed to first-time cruisers, who accounted for approximately 31% of total passengers over the past two years. This figure reflects not only high guest satisfaction but also the industry’s ability to continuously attract new customers. Equally important is the high rate of customer loyalty: 82% of past cruisers intend to cruise again, with particularly strong enthusiasm among Generation X and Millennials. These demographics are drawn to the variety of experiences offered, the ability to visit multiple destinations in one trip, and the overall value provided. Multigenerational travel is also on the rise, with nearly one-third of guests traveling with three or more generations, demonstrating that cruising appeals to all ages.
Cruises continue to stand out for their high satisfaction levels—exceeding that of traditional vacations—with many regular cruisers choosing to sail multiple times a year. Alongside traditional segments, expedition and exploration cruises are growing the fastest, with a 22% increase in passengers in 2024 compared to the previous year. This trend reflects growing demand for more adventurous and specialized experiences.
A wide range of options remains a key factor in the industry’s success, with over 300 ocean-going ships and thousands of itineraries catering to a diverse audience—from family getaways to high-end cultural experiences and remote expeditions. Cruise tourism also stands out for its responsible planning, with bookings made well in advance and port calls planned a year or more ahead—showing a careful and sustainable approach to resource management.
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Sustainability is a central theme for the future of the industry, which is investing in alternative energy sources and innovative propulsion technologies capable of using low- or zero-emission fuels. The cruise fleet is therefore preparing for a major energy transition, with forecasts indicating that by 2028, half of the new ship capacity will be equipped with engines capable of operating on LNG or methanol. These engines will later be adaptable to the use of bio-LNG or synthetic LNG with minimal modifications. Currently, over 61% of the ships in the CLIA fleet are already equipped for shore power connectivity, and this figure is expected to rise to 72% by 2028.
Although cruises account for only 2% of global tourism, their economic impact is significant and growing, having generated more than $168 billion in 2023—the highest value ever recorded. In the United States alone, the industry contributed over $65 billion in total economic impact, helping to support 290,000 jobs and $25 billion in wages. This impact also extends to the local level, thanks to the purchase of goods and services and spending before and after cruises, with 69% of passengers choosing to stay at least one night in a hotel. Additionally, six out of ten cruisers return to a destination first visited on a cruise, further extending the positive economic impact on the communities involved.
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In 2024, the cruise industry welcomed 34.6 million passengers globally, with projections indicating growth to 37.7 million in 2025. North America continues to represent the largest market, with a 13% increase in passenger numbers compared to the previous year. The most popular itineraries in 2024 were to the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Bermuda, chosen by 43% of cruisers, followed by the Mediterranean and other European destinations.
In 2025, 11 new ships will enter the market from CLIA member companies, while 56 additional vessels have already been ordered through 2036, representing a total investment of $56.8 billion. This data reflects strong confidence in the sector’s future, highlighting the ongoing preference for small and mid-sized ships—a trend expected to continue in the coming years.
Overall, the 2025 CLIA report emphasizes how the cruise industry continues to evolve in innovative and sustainable ways, effectively meeting the changing needs of travelers and reaffirming its role as a major economic force on a global scale.
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