The latest consumer sentiment data released by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reveals the demand and perception of cruise vacations are now greater than in 2019. The survey of 4,000 domestic and international travelers from across eight countries also highlights the economic benefits cruise brings to the areas that ships visit.
Overall, 69 percent of international cruise travelers stayed at least one night in their local destination prior to embarkation, with 43 percent extending the stay by two or more nights. And 67 percent stayed at least one night after disembarkation, with 34 percent extending by two or more nights. The survey also showed that 60 percent of travelers said they later returned to a destination they had first visited by cruise.
Additionally, as cruise lines continue to advance their sustainability initiatives in pursuit of net-zero carbon cruising by 2050, the percentage of international travelers who said the cruise industry is a leader in responsible travel reached 51 percent, a 9 percent increase over the past year.
Andy Harmer, CLIA U.K. & Ireland managing director, said: “This year has been enormously encouraging for cruise, and it’s heartening to see demand for a holiday at sea is set to continue. The sheer number of repeat passengers we’re anticipating, combined with interest from those yet to sail, means the appeal of going on a cruise remains as strong as ever.
“The economic advantages passengers bring to the destinations they visit is also clear, meaning local businesses—from taxis, to restaurants to hotels—benefit accordingly. And we’re delighted to see the raft of sustainability initiatives we have in place, including our 2050 net-zero carbon goal, were recognized.”
The sentiment data is based on an independent, international survey of 4,000 travelers in eight countries: the U.K., France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the U.S., Canada and Australia.
For more details, visit cruising.org.
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