The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) presented a report on the state of the world cruise industry and its development prospects in 2018. Thus, according to the report, the number of cruise trips is steadily growing, and, as expected, in 2018 the cruise tourist flow will amount to a total of 27.2 million passengers.
In 2017, this figure was approximately 25.8 million passengers, and in 2016, 24.7 million. Since 2011, that is, over the past five years, the tourist flow has increased by 20.5 percent.
CLIA noted that in 2018, cruise lines plan to add even more ships to their routes to meet current demand. It is expected that 27 new ocean, river and specialty ships will debut on the routes.
"There is no doubt that the cruise industry continues to move forward, winning more and more followers. This report on the state and prospects of the industry is a way to keep a finger on the pulse of the global cruise industry and its impact on the world economy," says CLIA President and CEO Cindy D'Aoust.
One of the main trends in the industry, according to CLIA, is expansion of the consumer line. Thus, according to the Cruise Travel Report, almost all 33% cruise passengers have a family income of less than 80 thousand US dollars. Thus, the information that only VIP tourists use cruise line services can be called outdated. The report says that almost all categories of tourists in terms of family income purchase river, sea or ocean cruises.
The second important trend, according to CLIA, is that Cruise travel is no longer just a pleasant sailing on a luxury ship. This type of recreation is undergoing a transformation, tourists want to get the maximum experience and impressions during the trip. Thus, some upcoming cruise routes will already include the opportunity to study local cuisine while passing the route, go on excursions to small villages, visit local residents. Those who want thrills will be offered to swim with sharks in South Africa, ride a Harley Davidson in Alaska or meet penguins in the Arctic.
The third most important trend is eco-friendliness of cruise lines and their participation in international eco-programs.
The fourth trend is Focus on young travelers, the so-called millennials who are interested in a special travel experience. With ever-expanding itineraries and a list of attractions that go far beyond the usual walks and tours, the younger generation is increasingly interested in river cruises.
Also Multi-purpose cruising is expected to increase in popularityFor example, trips of grandchildren with grandparents without parents will be very popular in 2018.
Besides, Travelers are increasingly interested in northern destinationsThe Baltics, Canada, Alaska and Antarctica are expected to see increased popularity in the coming year, with a variety of unique excursion options ranging from penguin watching to ice fishing.
Another important trend is tourists are increasingly looking for health trips, and more, than ever before. On modern cruises, travelers can take part in in-house wellness seminars led by popular health experts, choose from fitness programs, stress management programs, and spa services. There are also separate itineraries dedicated entirely to weight management and healthy living.
A significant trend has also been identified implementation of the latest Smart Travel Technology in the industry. Thus, several cruise lines are introducing convenient gadgets for cruise guests, with the help of which tourists will receive maximum useful information during the trip.
And finally, this closes the list of the main trends of the coming year activating the work of travel agents in the cruise sector.
Source: trn-news.ru
