Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the industry’s global ceiling organisation, has released its annual State of the Cruise Industry Report 2015. The organisation expects a record 23 million passengers are expected to sail this year, an increase of 4% on last year. It said 61% of North American CLIA-certified travel agents reporting an increase in 2015 travel bookings over this time last year.
The cruise industry this year will have major economic impact globally. In 2013, the global economic output of the cruise industry was more than $117 billion; the industry supported nearly 900,000 jobs and contributed to $38 billion in wages.
"From new ports around the globe to the investment by CLIA's member cruise lines in new, innovative ships, it's an exciting time for the cruise industry and cruise passengers," said Adam M. Goldstein, CLIA Chairman and President/COO of Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. "This year will prove to be another step forward for the entire industry as our members continue to strive to make cruising the best overall vacation experience."
