Cruise Tourism Market by Cruise Type (River Cruise, Ocean Cruise, Expedition Cruise, Theme Cruise, Adventure Cruise, and Others), Duration (1-3 days, 4-6 days, 7 days, 8 to 13 days, 14 days, 15-20 days, and more than 21 days), Passenger Age (Less than 12 Years, 13-19 Years, 20-29 Years, 30-39 years, 40-49 years, 50-59 years, and Above 60 years) and Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2022-2031

Global Cruise Tourism Market Analysis

The Global Cruise Tourism Market Size was $5,288.8 million in 2021 and is predicted to grow with a CAGR of 10.4%, by generating a revenue of $13,641.4 million by 2031.

Global Cruise Tourism Market Synopsis

The disposable income is a crucial driver of the cruise tourism market. When people have more money to spend, they are more likely to allocate a portion of their income to travel and leisure activities, including cruise vacations. As the global economy improves, individuals and families tend to have more disposable income available, and they are more inclined to take vacations and experience new destinations. Additionally, as disposable income increases, people are more likely to consider more extravagant and luxurious forms of travel, such as cruises. Cruise vacations can offer a wide range of activities, entertainment, dining options, and excursions, all in one convenient package. Therefore, as people have more money to spend, they are more likely to choose a cruise vacation as a way to maximize their travel experience. These factors are anticipated to boost the cruise tourism industry growth in the upcoming years.           

However, the high cost of cruise tourism can certainly be a factor in limiting the growth of the market. In times of economic uncertainty, many consumers may be more cautious with their spending and may be less willing to invest in an expensive vacation option like a cruise. To address this restraint, cruise companies may need to consider pricing strategies that make cruises more accessible to a wider range of consumers. This could include offering lower-cost options or special deals and promotions, as well as creating packages that bundle in additional amenities and services at a discounted price.

The cruise tourism industry presents significant opportunities for luxury tourism. Luxury cruise ships offer a range of amenities and services that cater to the demands for affluent travelers, including gourmet dining, spa treatments, and personalized attention from highly trained staff. Many luxury cruise lines also offer unique and exclusive experiences, such as private islands, high-end shopping, and VIP access to cultural attractions. This appeals to travelers who value exclusivity, comfort, and a high level of service. The demand for luxury cruise travel has been steadily increasing in recent years, with many travelers seeking unique and memorable experiences. As a result, the luxury cruise market has become a significant opportunity of the overall cruise industry.

According to regional analysis, the North America cruise tourism market accounted for the highest market share in 2021. The North American region has a strong and stable economy, which has helped to support the growth of the cruise tourism market. Consumers are willing to spend money on vacations, and the cruise industry has been able to provide them with a range of affordable options.

Cruise Tourism Overview

Cruise tourism refers to the industry and activity of taking a vacation or trip on a cruise ship, which is a large passenger vessel that travels on the open sea or on inland waterways. Cruise tourism typically involves passengers embarking on a multi-day or multi-week trip that includes various ports of call and activities onboard the ship, such as dining, entertainment, and relaxation. Cruise tourism is a significant sector of the global tourism industry, with millions of people taking cruises each year to explore different destinations and enjoy the amenities and activities offered by the cruise ships.

COVID-19 Impact on Global Cruise Tourism Market

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the cruise tourism market. With travel restrictions, lockdowns, and health concerns, the demand for cruise travel has decreased significantly. As a result, the cruise industry has suffered substantial losses and had to make significant changes to its operations to adapt to the new circumstances. Moreover, the most significant impacts of COVID-19 on the cruise industry is the suspension of cruise operations.

Many cruise lines have had to cancel their voyages or suspend their operations for an extended period. This has resulted in a massive loss of revenue for the industry and has also affected the businesses that depend on the cruise tourism market, such as port operators, travel agents, and tour operators. The health and safety protocols that have been put in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 have also affected the cruise industry.

Cruise ships are required to follow strict health and safety guidelines, such as regular cleaning and disinfecting, mandatory mask-wearing, social distancing, and temperature checks. These protocols have increased the cost of operation for the cruise lines and have also affected the passenger experience. The COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on the cruise tourism market, resulting in significant losses and changes to the industry's operations. However, the cruise industry is gradually recovering as the vaccination rates increase and travel restrictions ease.

Growing Demand for Luxury Experiences of Cruise Tourism to Drive the Market Growth  

The increasing demand for luxury experiences is indeed one of the drivers of the cruise tourism market. Many consumers today are looking for unique and memorable experiences, and are willing to pay a premium for them. This has led to a rise in the popularity of high-end cruise ships, which offer a range of luxurious amenities and activities. These luxury cruise ships often feature spacious cabins, gourmet dining options, high-end entertainment, spa treatments, and other amenities designed to provide guests with a truly luxurious experience. In addition, many luxury cruise lines offer exclusive shore excursions and access to private islands or beaches, further enhancing the overall experience. The growing popularity of luxury tourism facilitated by high-end cruise ships and luxury cruise lines is anticipated to boost the cruise tourism market share in the coming years. This trend is likely to continue in the coming years, as more and more consumers seek out unique and memorable travel experiences.

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Safety and Security Concerns Over Cruise Tourism to Restrain the Market Growth

Safety and security concerns are always a major issue for the cruise tourism industry. Accidents and incidents such as ship collisions, fires, and other disasters can lead to loss of life, injuries, and property damage. These incidents can severely impact the reputation of cruise lines and discourage passengers from booking cruises. Disease outbreaks such as COVID-19 can spread quickly on a cruise ship, affecting hundreds or even thousands of passengers and crew members. Such outbreaks can lead to significant financial losses for cruise lines and create negative publicity. The threat of terrorism is another safety and security concern for the cruise tourism industry. Cruise ships are considered high-value targets, and an attack can have catastrophic consequences for the industry, which is anticipated to hamper the cruise tourism market growth.

Growing Consumer Demand For Cruise Tourism to Generate Excellent Opportunities   

The cruise tourism market is experiencing an increasing demand due to various factors such as rising disposable incomes, changing consumer preferences, and the desire for unique travel experiences. In recent years, cruising has become a popular vacation option for people all over the world, with the industry experiencing steady growth. As more people have more disposable income, they are looking for new and exciting ways to spend their vacations. Cruising provides an all-inclusive vacation experience with a wide range of activities and entertainment options. This has made cruising an attractive option for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Furthermore, consumers are increasingly interested in unique travel experiences that allow them to explore new cultures and destinations. Cruising offers the opportunity to visit multiple destinations in one trip, making it an attractive option for travelers who want to experience different cultures and cuisines. The cruise tourism market is expected to continue to grow as more people seek out unique and exciting travel experiences. This presents significant opportunities for cruise companies, travel agents, and other businesses that cater to the cruise industry.

To know more about global cruise tourism market opportunities, get in touch with our analysts here.

Global Cruise Tourism Market, by Type 

Based on type, the market has been divided into river cruise, ocean cruise, expedition cruise, theme cruise, adventure cruise, and others. Among these, the ocean cruise sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2021 as well as this sub-segment is estimated to show the fastest growth during the forecast period.

Global Cruise Tourism Market Share, by Type, 2021

Source: Research Dive Analysis

The ocean cruise sub-type accounted for the highest market share in 2021 as well as this sub-segment is estimated to show the fastest growth during the forecast period. The ocean cruise segment includes the development of new destinations and ports of call, the increasing popularity of themed cruises (such as adventure cruises, music cruises, or culinary cruises), and the introduction of new ships with innovative features and amenities. In recent years, cruise lines have been investing heavily in technology and onboard experiences to attract and retain passengers, such as virtual reality experiences, robot bartenders, and immersive entertainment options. The cruise tourism market has seen a significant increase in demand over the years, with more people opting for cruise vacations. This can be attributed to the increasing disposable income, rising middle-class population, and a growing preference for experiential travel.

Global Cruise Tourism Market, by Duration

Based on duration, the market has been divided into 1-3 days, 4-6 days, 7 days, 8 to 13 days, 14 days, 15-20 days, and more than 21 days. Among these, the 7 days sub-segment accounted for highest revenue share in 2021.

Global Cruise Tourism Market Trends, by Duration, 2021

Source: Research Dive Analysis

The 7 days sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2021. In 7 days, segment is rising income levels across the world, people have more money to spend on leisure activities like vacations. This has led to an increase in demand for cruise tourism, particularly in the 7-day segment. Cruising has become an increasingly popular way to travel, particularly in the 7-day segment. With more people looking for all-inclusive vacations, cruises offer a convenient and cost-effective way to see multiple destinations without having to worry about transportation, accommodation, and food. Cruise lines have been investing heavily in expanding their fleet and upgrading their ships to meet the growing demand. These factors are anticipated to boost the growth of 7 days sub-segment during the analysis timeframe.

Global Cruise Tourism Market, by Passenger Age

Based on passenger age, the market has been divided into Less than 12 years, 13-19 years, 20-29 years, 30-39 years, 40-49 years, 50-59 years and Above 60 years. Among these, the 40-49 years sub-segment accounted for highest revenue share in 2021.

Global Cruise Tourism Market Growth, by Passenger Age, 2021

Source: Research Dive Analysis

The 40-49 years sub-segment accounted for the highest market share in 2021. The 40-49 years segment in the cruise tourism market is expected to be individuals in this age range who are looking for a combination of relaxation, adventure, and luxury. They may be seeking a break from their busy work schedules or family responsibilities and want to unwind in a picturesque location with plenty of amenities and activities. This age group tends to be more financially stable and can afford the higher-end cruises that offer more amenities and services. They are also more likely to be interested in unique experiences, such as eco-tourism or cultural excursions, and may be more willing to spend money on these types of activities. These factors are anticipated to boost the growth of 40-49 years sub-segment during the analysis timeframe.

Global Cruise Tourism Market, Regional Insights

The cruise tourism market was investigated across North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and LAMEA.

Global Cruise Tourism Market Size & Forecast, by region, 2021-2031 (USD Million)

Source: Research Dive Analysis

The Market for Cruise Tourism in North America to be the Most Dominant

The North America cruise tourism market accounted for the highest market share in 2021. The North America due to the growing popularity of cruising as a vacation option. Many people are attracted to the convenience, comfort, and luxury of cruising, which has contributed to the growth of the industry. North America has a large population of baby boomers, who are more likely to take cruises than younger generations. Additionally, the rising middle class in North America has increased the number of people who can afford to take cruises, further driving demand. North America offers a wide range of destinations for cruise ships to visit, from the Caribbean and Mexico to Alaska and Canada. The diversity of these destinations appeals to a broad range of travelers and has helped to fuel the growth of the cruise tourism market in the region. The cruise industry in North America has invested heavily in marketing and promoting their products to potential customers. This has helped to raise awareness of cruising as a vacation option and has contributed to the growth of the industry.

Competitive Scenario in the Global Cruise Tourism Market

Investment and agreement are common strategies followed by major market players. For instance, in January 2019, Zen Cruises, a division of the Essel Group, announced that Jalesh Cruises would set sail for the first time from Mumbai in April. The multi-destination cruise line will provide worldwide hospitality on the open sea in addition to entertainment performances, adventure activities, and exotic authentic foods.

Source: Research Dive Analysis

Some of the leading cruise tourism market players are Ambassador Cruise Holidays Limited., AmaWaterways, Carnival Corporation & plc, Ponant, Cosmos Tours Ltd., Kerala Shipping and Inland Navigation Corporation Ltd., Mediterranean Shipping Company S.A., Norwegian Cruise Line, Silversea Cruises, and Seabourn Cruise Line.