MADRID — The global cruise industry is set to experience a significant increase in passengers over the next decade, with a projected 10% growth by 2028. This comes after the sector surpassed pre-pandemic levels in 2023, with 31.7 million people taking cruise holidays. In order to meet this demand, the industry has ordered 57 new cruise ships, in addition to the 300 already in operation.
Marie-Caroline Laurent, the European director of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), shared this exciting news at a recent conference in Madrid. However, as the industry continues to grow, it also faces challenges and criticisms, particularly regarding its impact on the environment and coastal communities.
In response to these concerns, cruise companies are taking steps to become more environmentally friendly. This includes adapting their ships to switch to electricity when moored at ports, as well as complying with EU maritime environment regulations by 2030. These efforts are a positive step towards reducing the industry’s carbon footprint and preserving the destinations it visits.
One of the main concerns surrounding the cruise industry is the issue of overtourism in popular European port cities, such as Barcelona. This month, the city saw protests against the influx of tourists, with a small group even resorting to spraying water pistols at visitors. However, CLIA representatives have pointed out that cruise ship passengers only make up 4% of all tourists in Barcelona.
Jaume Collboni, the mayor of Barcelona, has expressed his administration’s desire to reduce the number of one-day cruise calls in the city. He plans to negotiate a new deal with the port to achieve this goal. This is a positive step towards finding a balance between tourism and the well-being of local communities.
CLIA’s Laurent also acknowledged the potential impact of these protests on future cruise itineraries. She stated, “There will be some consideration of adapting the itineraries if we feel that all passengers will not be well-treated.” This shows that the industry is taking these concerns seriously and is willing to make changes to ensure the well-being of both tourists and locals.
In light of these challenges, the cruise industry is looking to diversify its offerings and explore new destinations. This includes increasing the number of cruise holidays in Asia, northern Europe, and the Caribbean, as well as visiting different ports in the Mediterranean. This not only provides more options for travelers but also helps to alleviate the strain on popular destinations.
The positive impact of the cruise industry on the global economy cannot be ignored. The World Travel & Tourism Council predicts that Spain’s tourism revenues will reach nearly 100 billion euros this year, which is 11% higher than pre-pandemic levels in 2019. Additionally, the cruise industry forecasts a 5% increase in visitors to Spain in 2024, which is lower than the 13% increase projected by Spanish authorities for summer visitor arrivals. This shows that the industry is taking a responsible approach to growth and is mindful of the impact on local communities.
In conclusion, the global cruise industry is set to experience significant growth in the coming years, with a projected 10% increase in passengers by 2028. While facing challenges and criticisms, the industry is taking steps to become more environmentally friendly and address concerns about overtourism. By diversifying its offerings and exploring new destinations, the industry is also working towards finding a balance between tourism and the well-being of local communities. With responsible growth and a commitment to sustainability, the cruise industry is poised to continue providing unforgettable holiday experiences for millions of travelers around the world.
