The 2025 State of the Cruise Industry Report by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reveals a thriving and resilient global cruise sector. The industry is on track to welcome 37.7 million ocean-going passengers in 2025, spread across 310 ships. This impressive growth is fueled by rising interest from younger generations, especially Gen X and Millennials, who are increasingly drawn to the unique value of cruise holidays.
First-time cruisers drive global market expansion
New-to-cruise travelers are significantly boosting global demand. In the past two years, 31% of passengers were first-time cruisers. Satisfaction is high across the board: 82% of cruisers plan to sail again, and 68% of international travelers are considering their first cruise. Cruising appeals across generations, with nearly one-third of guests sailing with three or more generations.
Strong global loyalty among cruise travelers
Repeat business underscores the sector’s appeal. Globally, 25% of cruisers sail two or more times a year, and 11% take three to five cruises annually. Expedition and exploration cruises are the fastest-growing segment, with a 22% increase in passengers in 2024 compared to 2023.
$168 billion global economic impact in 2023
Though cruising represents just 2% of global tourism, its economic footprint is immense. In 2023, the cruise industry generated over $168 billion in global economic impact – the highest on record. In the United States alone, it contributed $65 billion in economic value, supported 290,000 jobs, and provided $25 billion in wages. Globally, cruise tourism supports local communities through pre- and post-cruise stays (69% of passengers stay in hotels) and destination loyalty – 6 in 10 cruisers return to a place they first discovered by cruise.
Global commitment to sustainable cruise innovation
The cruise industry continues to invest globally in sustainable technologies. By 2028, 50% of all new cruise capacity will feature engines capable of running on LNG or methanol, adaptable for future low-to-zero-emission fuels. Already, 61% of CLIA member ships are equipped for shore power, a number projected to rise to 72% by 2028. These innovations reflect the industry’s long-term commitment to responsible global tourism.
Confident global outlook and fleet expansion
The global outlook for cruising remains positive. North America is still the leading source market, growing 13% in 2024 over the previous year. The Caribbean remains the most popular destination worldwide, followed by the Mediterranean and Europe. In 2025, CLIA cruise lines will introduce 11 new ships to the global fleet. Looking ahead, 56 additional ocean-going ships are on order through 2036 – representing a $56.8 billion investment in the future of cruising. Over 70% of cruise ships – present and future – are small to mid-size vessels, offering more intimate and customizable travel experiences.
Cruising remains a global force in tourism
The 2025 State of the Cruise Industry Report confirms that cruising is one of the most dynamic, sustainable, and globally relevant sectors in travel. High guest satisfaction, continuous innovation, and a significant worldwide economic impact make cruise tourism a key contributor to the global travel ecosystem.
Key highlights of the 2025 Cruise Industry Report
- Record passenger growth:
37.7 million cruise passengers expected worldwide in 2025, up from 34.6 million in 2024. - Massive global economic impact:
$168+ billion generated globally in 2023, with 1.6 million jobs supported across the cruise ecosystem. - Strong intent to cruise:
82% of past cruisers plan to cruise again. 68% of international travelers are considering their first cruise. - Rise of younger generations:
Gen X and Millennials are leading cruise demand, especially drawn to cultural, expedition, and multi-destination cruises. - Surge in first-time cruisers:
31% of passengers in the past two years were new to cruising, showing high sector appeal and growth potential. - Multi-generational travel:
Nearly one-third of cruise guests sail with three or more generations, emphasizing cruises as family travel experiences. - Sustainability leadership:
By 2028, 50% of new ships will be capable of using alternative fuels (LNG/methanol). 72% of the fleet will be shore power–ready. - Booming expedition segment:
Expedition and exploration cruises saw a 22% growth in passengers from 2023 to 2024. - Fleet expansion:
11 new cruise ships launching in 2025. 56 new ocean ships on order through 2036, totaling $56.8 billion in investment. - Top cruise destinations:
The Caribbean remains the #1 global destination (43% market share), followed by the Mediterranean and European routes.