| CLIA flags a better future

CRUISE Lines International Association (CLIA) said the future of the cruise industry is bright, forecasting strong growth expectations which will see passenger volumes recover and surpass 2019 levels by the end of 2023.

CLIA President & CEO Kelly Craighead said traffic was also predicted to reach 12% above pre-pandemic levels by the end of 2026, which will see more than 34 million people cruising every year.

New consumer research conducted by CLIA has found intent to cruise is rebounding, with 63% of cruisers or potential cruisers indicating they are “likely” or “very likely” to cruise in the next two years.

Interestingly, there’s also an improved attitude towards the sector by respondents who have never cruised, with 69% saying they are open to taking a cruise holiday – exceeding pre-pandemic levels.

Millennial cruisers are the most enthusiastic about returning to the water, with 87% indicating they will take a cruise in the next few years, followed by Gen X at 85%.