The capacity deployed by companies this year in Spain suggests that figures will be close to those achieved in 2019.
According to data handled by the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the capacity that cruise companies plan to deploy in Spain throughout 2022 could reach levels almost similar to those of 2019.
Similarly, the volume of stopovers scheduled for this year in Spain would be close to that operated the year before the outbreak of the pandemic.
For his part, CLIA's director in Spain, Alfredo Serrano, points out that this is "very good news since it not only represents recognition of our country's attractions and the multitude of options offered by our destinations, but also a further step towards consolidating the recovery; an economic stimulus for numerous coastal areas that were hit hard by the paralysis of tourism.".
CLIA estimates that the industry generated more than 50,000 jobs in 2019 and its turnover reached nearly 6 billion euros, and more than 550,000 Spaniards chose a cruise as a holiday option during 2019, a figure that positions Spain as the fourth largest source market in Europe.
It also provides the following information:
- For every 24 cruise passengers, the equivalent of one full-time job is created.
- On average, each cruise passenger spends 660 euros on the destinations they visit during a seven-day cruise.
- 6 out of 10 people who have enjoyed a cruise say they have returned to one of the destinations they first visited during their boat trip.
- Around 90% of cruise passengers surveyed in Spain would consider it likely that they will sail again in the coming years.
- Nearly 90% of people surveyed in Spain who have not yet taken a cruise would be open to taking one in the coming years.
- Over 80% rate the policy implemented to mitigate COVID-19 as "successful" or "somewhat successful".
Globally, since the reactivation began, more than six million customers have already enjoyed a cruise.
It is expected that nearly 100% of the ships that make up the CLIA fleet will be in service this coming August, with 2022 being a vital year for the recovery of pre-pandemic passenger volume (more than 29 million) in 2023.
