The Cruise Industry's Growth Got Big Boost in 2023

CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association), the leading voice of the global cruise community, has just released the “State of the Cruise Industry Report 2024,” which shows that demand for cruise travel exceeded pre-pandemic levels in 2023, with 31 .7 million people. traveling by ship around the world, almost two million more than in 2019. In Brazil, the growth was even greater, with an increase of 30% since 2019, from 567.5 thousand to 740.5 thousand cruise passengers in the period.

The global report also shows that this record number of people embarking is expected to grow as demand for cruise holidays continues. According to CLIA, 82% of cruise passengers who have already sailed want to sail again and 71% of international travelers intend to take their first cruise.

Another indicator that shows the strength of the cruise industry is that this type of travel has grown more than tourism in general. While cruise trips reached 107% of 2019 levels in 2023, international tourism reached a volume 12% lower than in 2019. Therefore, if the current trend continues, in 2027 the forecast is that cruises will reach the figure of practically 40 million passengers boarded. in the year.

In relation to the increase in cruise supply, the companies that are part of CLIA must inaugurate eight ships by the end of 2024. In addition, the forecast is that the global cruise capacity (number of beds offered) must grow by 10% between 2024 and 2028, the industry expects to receive 56 ships and 121 thousand new beds.

"Over the past 50 years, cruise tourism has demonstrated its leadership and is a sector that has much room for continued growth, representing only 2% of total travel and tourism," said Kelly Craighead, president and CEO. CLIA executive. The sector also continues to lead the way in environmental sustainability and destination management, with cruise companies advancing technology, infrastructure and operations,” Kelly added.  

By 2023, the economic impact is expected to be even greater, given the 50% increase in the number of passengers traveling in 2023 compared to 2022.

“The cruise industry is constantly growing around the world and seeing Brazil highlighted in this report shows the country's potential. We are about to close another successful season, but there is great concern about the competitiveness of our country compared to other destinations that are standing out globally. To keep pace with global growth and not only attract new ships that are under construction, but also not lose those that are already here, Brazil urgently needs to improve operating costs, infrastructure, regulation and the development of new destinations," he emphasized. Marco Ferraz, president of CLIA.