New record for the UK cruise market

A new record of 1.789.000 Ireland and UK passengers was set for the 2015 cruise industry, according to the latest industry research

The figures were released by the Cruise Lines International Association and translate into the highest increase over the past 7 years, due sustained investment by the cruise industry.

145.000 more Ireland and UK passengers went on a cruise in 2015, a 67 per cent growth rate over the last ten years.

European also showed a preference for ocean cruise holidays since 2008. Their number grew by 49 per cent over 7 years. These figures sum up to a six per cent annual growth rate since 2008.

Moreover, during 2004 and 2014, global cruse holidays have become very popular among holidaymakers and registered a 20 per cent increase when compared to land-based trips.

The Caribbean sea cruises remained the most popular holiday choice for UK passengers, accounting for a total number of 840.000 passengers. The Mediterranean sea placed second on British preferences list, with a total of 674.000 passengers in 2015.

Additionally, over one million local and international passengers stopped in a British port during a cruise, more than double when compared to six years ago.