The cruise industry's brightest star
More than two decades of spectacular growth have made the cruise industry the brightest star on the vacation travel stage.
- A 2006 study sponsored by Cruise lines International Association to discover cruise industry market facts found that almost 31 million people say they will likely take a cruise vacation within the next three years and 70 million would like to take a cruise in the next five years.
- Cruise vacations boast some of the highest satisfaction ratings among all types of vacation travel. Nine out of 10 people who cruise say they will cruise again.
Cruises depart from some of the most beautiful cities in the world including 30 North American ports. This increase in "Close to Home" access means approximately 70% of the population is now within driving distance of their cruise. This translates into flexibility, convenience and even more vacation value as airfare may not be required.- Travel agents and the cruise industry have forged a strong partnership over the years, with nearly 90% of cruise vacations booked through travel agents. This represents approximately $1 billion in commissions to travel agencies every year.
- It is estimated that cruise lines will add 75,000 new staterooms by the end of 2010 with dozens of new ships being launched.
- A number of cruise lines are exploring new regions. Australia and New Zealand are experiencing 28% annual growth as these destinations become more popular and cruise lines expand their itineraries around the world.
- From Asia to Antarctica and Greece to Galapagos, cruise lines visit more than 270 ports of call worldwide.
