How Big Is the Cruise Ship Industry?

By Robert Palmer

The cruise ship industry is a huge part of the worldwide travel and tourism market. It has grown exponentially since its inception and continues to be a popular choice for travelers.

The industry has grown to encompass many different types of ships, destinations, activities, and amenities.

The cruise ship industry has seen a steady increase in passengers over the past decade or so. In 2018, there were over 26 million cruisers worldwide; this was an increase of 6% from 2017.

This growth is projected to continue, with an estimated 28 million cruisers in 2019.

Cruise ships come in all shapes and sizes. The largest cruise ships can accommodate more than 5,000 passengers and are often over 1,000 feet in length. Smaller cruise ships may accommodate only a few hundred passengers but still offer all of the same amenities as their larger counterparts.

Destinations

Cruise ships visit many amazing destinations around the world; these include traditional ports such as the Caribbean or Europe, but also unique stops such as Antarctica or Alaska’s Inside Passage. Cruise lines also offer themed voyages such as river cruises or educational voyages for those seeking something a bit different.

Activities

Cruise ships offer endless entertainment options for guests; these range from swimming pools and spas to on-board shows and shopping centers. For those looking to explore off-ship activities, many cruise lines offer excursions such as snorkeling trips or sightseeing tours.

Amenities

Most modern cruise ships come equipped with a variety of amenities designed to make your trip more comfortable and enjoyable. These include state-of-the-art gyms, luxurious spas, gourmet restaurants, high-end shops, casinos, bars and lounges.

The cruise ship industry is an ever evolving one; it continues to grow each year in both size and popularity. With this growth comes more options for travelers seeking a unique experience on the high seas.

Conclusion

From its humble beginnings several decades ago when only small vessels were used by travelers seeking adventure on the open seas, to today’s massive ships offering an array of activities and amenities that rival land based resorts – it is clear that the cruise ship industry has become one of the largest segments of today’s travel industry with no signs of slowing down anytime soon.