We explore the trends and insights of the cruise sector from 2023 with Andy Harmer, Managing Director CLIA UK & Ireland following release of the latest research.

Upshot – there’s a lot of ships with cabins to fill! And cruising numbers for 2023 are up

In the latest research from The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), travelers from the UK and Ireland embarked on 2.3 million cruise vacations, exceeding the previous record:

• The total number of cruises taken rose from 1.7 million in 2022.
• The Mediterranean remained the top choice for UK and Ireland cruise-goers, with 35% traveling there, followed by 29% to Northern Europe and 12% to the Caribbean among the top three destinations in 2023.
• Exploration destinations saw a significant 53% increase in passenger numbers.
• The average age of cruisers from the UK and Ireland dropped to 55.1 years in 2023, down from 56.1 in 2022.
• The average cruise duration extended to 10.1 days, up from 9.8 days the previous year.
• 28% of cruisers were part of larger multigenerational groups, spanning three or more age categories.
• Before setting sail, 65% of passengers enjoyed a pre-cruise stay at their departure location, while 52% extended their stay after their cruise.

 

For more details on the research visit one of the following resources.

https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/cruise-lines-international-association-industry-surges-as-uk-and-ireland-hit-new-high-with-2-3-million-voyages/?utm_source=iContact&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=travel-and-tour-world&utm_content=

https://www.seatrade-cruise.com/ports-destinations/clia-mmgy-travelzoo-present-research-uk-ireland-cruising

https://cruising.org/en-gb/news-and-research/press-room/2024/april/latest-data-shows-uk-and-ireland-cruise-industry-continues-to-engage-entice-and-innovate

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