Cruises. Photo: shutterstock Young Cruise Enthusiasts Emerge: Once viewed as a pastime for retirees, the landscape of cruising is swiftly changing. A new report from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) summarizing 2024 shows that about 36% of cruise ship passengers are from the Y and Z generations, preferring short voyages, smart ships, and endless Instagram content.
Highlights from the "State of the Cruise Industry Report 2025":
In 2024, 34.6 million passengers sailed, marking an increase of 9.3% from 2023 and 16% compared to 2019 (before the pandemic). This includes 20.53 million passengers from North America, 8.44 million in Europe, 4.03 million in Asia, and 1.17 million in South America.
In 2025, 37.7 million passengers are expected to cruise on 310 active ships.
82% of cruise passengers say they would go again.
The average passenger age is 46.5 years, but 36% of passengers are under 40.
31% of passengers in 2024 took their first cruise.
82% of passengers plan to board the ship again soon.
12% traveled solo.
28% went on a multi-generational cruise with grandparents, parents, children, and grandchildren.
The cruise industry aims to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 through investments in advanced technologies and efficient operations.
Currently, 61% of the ships from CLIA member cruise lines are connected to shore power, with aspirations to reach 72% by 2028.
About 60% of passengers spend at least a night before or after the cruise in the port city, enhancing the local economy.
Summary of cruise trends:
Continuous Growth: Returning to large scales, with an expected 37.7 million passengers.
Diverse Audiences: More young people, solo travelers, and multi-generational travelers.
Specialization and Segmentation: The industry is expanding for luxury and adventure travelers.
Sustainability: Investment in shore power and eco-friendly fuels.
Significant Economic Impact: Creating jobs and supporting local economies.
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