The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) presents Cruise Industry Outlook 2025, a report that highlights the dynamism of this tourism segment, driven by new trends, the diversity of options and innovation.
According to CLIA's director in Spain, Alfredo Serrano: “The cruise sector continues to be one of the most dynamic and resilient tourism segments. Our ability to attract new customers, meet the needs of multigenerational groups, and offer a wide range of experiences underscores the sector's vitality. We are committed to innovation and sustainability.”
Thus, in 2024, 34.6 million people worldwide enjoyed a cruise. Of these, almost 15 million sailed the Caribbean Sea/Bahamas/Bermuda Islands, the top cruise destination. Looking ahead to this season, CLIA forecasts that this number will exceed 37 million.
“While the results and forecasts are positive, it is essential to put these figures into perspective: cruise tourism represents around 2% of world tourism, a very small portion, but with a great capacity to generate wealth and opportunities,” explains Serrano.
More than 600,000 Spanish cruise tourists
Meanwhile, 610,000 Spaniards opted for this option last year, 3.9% more than in 2023. This figure places Spain as the fourth largest source market in Europe and the ninth worldwide.
The average Spanish cruise tourist was 44 years old and mainly chose a Mediterranean or Northern European cruise.
“Beyond the excellent work done by the shipping companies, Spain’s success as a source market would be incomprehensible without the work of travel agents, key influencers in the sector. Their experience, professionalism, and knowledge are crucial for answering consumers’ questions and recommending the option that best suits their needs,” says Alfredo Serrano.
- New cruise tourists. 31% of people who enjoyed a cruise in the last two years were doing so for the first time, reflecting the sector's ability to attract new consumers.
- Desire to take a cruise. 82% of those who have already cruised want to repeat the experience. Millennials, driven by the diversity of options and experiences, are among the most enthusiastic generations when it comes to going on another cruise.
- Multigenerational travel. Cruise vacations offer experiences for people of all ages. One-third of cruise tourists travel in a group that includes two or three generations, while 28% travel with three or more.
Cruise lines offer a wide range of options, making it easy for each customer to choose the one that best suits their tastes and needs. From family adventures to trips with a strong cultural focus, the companies are constantly evolving their offerings.
Shipping companies are exploring the use of different alternative fuels and investing in propulsion technologies that can use zero or low-emission fuels once they are available at scale.
More than 61% of CLIA's fleet is already equipped with systems that allow connection to the electrical grid on land, a figure that will reach 72% in 2028.
Economic impact
In 2023, the cruise sector's economic contribution in Spain amounted to €6.45 billion and stimulated the creation of 48,900 jobs. At the European level, these figures reached €55 billion and 440,000 jobs.
One of the characteristics of this economic impact is its cross-cutting nature, benefiting companies and sectors of activity of very different kinds: from shipyards and their extensive supply chain, to tour operators, including tourist guides, travel agents, agri-food companies, local shops, restaurants, transport, hotels, etc.
Furthermore, their contribution to the local economy extends even before the voyage begins. Approximately 69% of cruise tourists enjoy at least one extra day in the port of embarkation, primarily staying in a hotel.
Follow cruise news at Cruisesnews.es
