What does the future hold for the cruise industry? The latest Cruise Industry Outlook Report from CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) offers a comprehensive analysis. Their report outlines a promising future, highlighting exciting cruise trends and a commitment to sustainable cruise travel. This is excellent news for planners of meetings, events, and incentive travel!
Highlights of the Cruise Industry Outlook Report MICE Planners Will Love
Increased Demand for Cruise Travel
More and more travelers are discovering that a cruise is not just a cost-effective option but a unique experience that can be enjoyed repeatedly. This opens up a world of exciting possibilities for event and incentive travel planners.
- 27% of cruisers in the past two years are new-to-cruise, an increase of 12% compared to the prior two-year period
- 82% of those who have cruised will cruise again
- 71% of international travelers are considering taking their first cruise
Why this Cruise Trend is Good News for Planners:
The key to successful programs is selecting a desirable destination that motivates peak performance and boosts event attendance and engagement. A cruise offers a unique and memorable travel experience that fosters relationship-building among attendees.
Strong Cruise Industry Growth With New Ships on the Horizon
Global cruise capacity is forecast to grow at least 10% from 2024 to 2028. Cruising has rebounded faster than other forms of travel and tourism. The 2024 – 2028 ocean-going order book includes 56 new ships.
Why this Cruise Trend is Good News for Planners:
With a diverse range of new ships, including five newbuilds in 2025 and 16 in 2026, there’s something for every group. Whether it’s the 180-passenger luxury Four Seasons 1 megayacht or Royal Caribbean’s 5,610-passenger resort ship Star of the Seas, there’s a ship to suit your event needs.
Younger Generations are The Future of Cruising
Cruises are a top choice for multi-generational travel
- 46 The Average age of a cruise traveler is now 46, and 36% are under 40.
- Millennials are the most enthusiastic about planning a cruise.
Why this Cruise Trend is Good News for Planners:
The number of Millennials and Gen Zers in the workforce is quickly increasing. An event at sea is a terrific choice for organizations planning corporate meetings and incentive trips for multiple generations of employees.
Top Two Reasons for Choosing a Cruise: Destinations and Value
According to the report, the ability to visit multiple destinations + value for the money are the top reasons more travelers choose to cruise.
Why this Cruise Trend is Good News for Planners:
Event attendees love less out-of-pocket expenses, plus the convenience of visiting multiple ports and only unpacking once. Event organizers and sponsoring companies also appreciate the cost savings and simplified planning.
New Private Island Experiences
Cruise lines are investing in private islands and beach clubs and enhancing existing ones. Five new private islands or beach clubs are opening in the next two years.
Why this Cruise Trend is Good News for Planners:
Exclusive cruise line private islands and beach clubs are favorite group destinations and the perfect reward for a job well done. These tropical paradises offer gorgeous beaches, watersports, food and bar venues, island adventures, entertainment, and more. Cruise line private islands are also great for team-building events!
Adventure Cruise Travel is Trending
Expedition and exploration are the fastest-growing cruise itineraries being sailed. The number of passengers sailing on expedition itineraries has increased by 71% from 2019 to 2023
Why this Cruise Trend is Good News for Planners:
Meeting and incentive attendees want authentic, immersive, and engaging travel experiences. Small, upscale ships offer expedition Itineraries and excursions handcrafted to provide adventure and in-depth exploration of the world’s most desirable destinations.
Commitment to Sustainable Cruising
The cruise industry is leading the way in responsible tourism. Cruise lines are sailing to a better future and pursuing net-zero emissions by 2050:
- Reducing emissions at berth and at sea
- Making substantial and concrete investments in environmental technologies and practices
- Utilizing various technologies and innovations to advance their sustainability initiatives.
- Investing billions in new ships and engines that allow for fuel flexibility to use low to zero-GHG fuels.
Why this Cruise Trend is Good News for Planners:
Sustainability is no longer an afterthought; it’s a primary concern for organizations as they consider it essential for their meetings, incentives, and events. The cruise industry is leading the way in sustainable travel.
At Landry & Kling, we applaud the steady, increasing movement toward Net Zero Emissions and encourage the ports to continue retrofitting to accommodate ships with electric capability. Visit Sustainable Ships to learn more about cruise lines’ sustainable advances.
Ready to Explore Your Group Cruise or Ship Charter Options?
For a complimentary ship charter consultation, request a proposal, call us at +1 786-594-0732, or email inquiry@landrykling.com.
FAQs
Are younger generations really interested in cruising?
Cruises are now a top travel choice for multi-generational groups. According to one major cruise line, nearly half of its guests in recent years have been of millennial age or younger. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reported that millennials accounted for 22% of all global passengers in 2023, with Generation Z accounting for 14%. Of those millennials who have previously cruised, 81% plan to sail again.
What are the biggest cruise trends for the next five years?
According to the latest cruise industry reports, a few of the biggest trends include:
- An increasing number of smaller luxury ships and new brands on the order books
- More close-to-home cruises from homeports in the USA
- Cruise lines are introducing new private islands and beach club experiences.
- Greater focus on sustainability with greener operations and new fuel technology
- More experiences catering to younger generations, including Millennials and Gen Z
- Expedition and exploration are the fastest-growing cruise itineraries
