(WASHINGTON, DC – May 28, 2018) – The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has updated its official figures for the global cruise industry in 2017. The industry exceeded expectations, reaching 26.7 million ocean cruise passengers worldwide, up from a forecast of 25.8 million. For 2018, taking into account the launch schedule for new ships and planned regional deployment, CLIA projects further positive growth with a forecast of 28 million passengers.
“Once again, the cruise industry has raised the bar and exceeded projections and expectations,” said Cindy D’Aoust, president and CEO of CLIA. “I am proud to be a part of this dynamic industry that continues to grow and evolve to bring the cruise vacation experience to millions of people each year.”.
Global growth and volume of maritime passengers by region
Asia, which accounted for approximately 15 percent of total maritime passenger volume in 2017, saw a 20.5 percent increase last year compared to 2016. The US and Canada experienced impressive maritime passenger growth in 2017, with a 5 percent increase year-over-year. Australia also saw positive growth of around 5 percent, while Europe remained strong with a 2.5 percent increase in passengers.
North America accounted for the largest volume of ocean passengers in 2017 (49%) with a total of more than 13 million ocean cruise passengers, followed by Europe (26%) with almost seven million ocean cruise passengers.
- North America (49%)
- Europe (26%)
- Asia (15%)
- Australia / Pacific (5.4%)
- Central and South America (3.2%)
- Other (1.6%)
Demographic data and preferences of maritime passengers at a global level
The new analysis also reveals that the average age of cruise passengers last year was 47. These passengers also preferred cruises with an average duration of 7.2 days, 2% shorter than the average duration in 2016.
