Cruise Lines International Association Industry Surges as UK and Ireland Hit New High with 2.3 Million Voyages

Thursday, April 18, 2024

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) announced that in the past year, travelers from the UK and Ireland embarked on 2.3 million cruise vacations, exceeding the previous record. According to data released on April 17, 2024:

• The total number of cruises taken rose from 1.7 million in 2022.
• The Mediterranean remained the top choice for UK and Ireland cruise-goers, with 35% traveling there, followed by 29% to Northern Europe and 12% to the Caribbean among the top three destinations in 2023.
• Exploration destinations saw a significant 53% increase in passenger numbers.
• The average age of cruisers from the UK and Ireland dropped to 55.1 years in 2023, down from 56.1 in 2022.
• The average cruise duration extended to 10.1 days, up from 9.8 days the previous year.
• 28% of cruisers were part of larger multigenerational groups, spanning three or more age categories.
• Before setting sail, 65% of passengers enjoyed a pre-cruise stay at their departure location, while 52% extended their stay after their cruise.

Regarding attitudes and plans, a survey of 4,500 global holidaymakers showed:

• 82% of cruise passengers expressed their intent to take another sea vacation, marking a 3% increase from 2019.
• 71% of individuals who had never cruised before stated they would consider it in the future.

Additionally, more than 300 ships are scheduled to sail this year, marking the first time the global CLIA fleet has surpassed this number. This increase will result in a 3.6% overall capacity boost.

Andy Harmer, Managing Director CLIA UK & Ireland, said: “Cruise continues to lead the way in travel and we can clearly see that from these encouraging latest figures. A holiday at sea offers something to suit all tastes and budgets, both on and off the ship, which makes for an ideal combination. With so many holidaymakers returning to the water, and many more eager to dip their toe for the first time, these figures reflect all the advantages a sea escape has to offer.”

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