Cruise demand surged in 2024, with Pacific Island cruises standing out with a 135% increase compared to 2023, according to new data from Iglu Cruise.
The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has forecast cruise demand to grow by 10% annually from 2024 to 2028. More than 37 million passengers are expected to cruise in 2025, a 7% increase from 2024.
According to Iglu Cruise, several key regions experienced a rise in demand in 2024, with the Pacific Islands, Asia, and South America seeing the most significant growth. The analysis compared passenger interest from 2024 to 2023.
The Pacific Islands led the surge with a 135% increase, while Asia saw a 48% rise, and South America’s demand increased by 35%. Antarctica, Central America, and the Canary Islands also saw notable increases of 31%, 25%, and 20%, respectively.
“Cruisers have been channelling their inner Moana over the last 12 months more than ever, as more ships are sailing around Bora Bora, Tahiti, the Tuamotu Archipelago and more,”
Dave Mills, Chief Commercial Officer, Iglu Cruise
The data highlights a global resurgence in cruising, with European cruises also increasing by 8%.
What’s driving the demand?
The rise in demand is being driven by new itineraries, additional ship deployments, and unique shore excursions.
For the Pacific Islands, cruise lines such as Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Paul Gauguin Cruises, and Oceania Cruises have ramped up operations in the region.
Similarly, Asia’s growing popularity has been fuelled by demand for Japan’s cherry blossom season, iconic landmarks like Mount Fuji, and popular destinations such as Singapore, Nagasaki, and Hong Kong.
“The popularity of Asia has been boosted by a phenomenal level of demand for Japan,”
Dave Mills, Chief Commercial Officer, Iglu Cruise
South American cruises have seen renewed interest, with itineraries combining tours of iconic sites like Machu Picchu and Iguazu Falls with immersive exploration cruises departing from Buenos Aires and Ushuaia.
Antarctic cruises remain popular for adventurous travellers seeking bucket-list experiences, with voyages through Drake Passage and scenic routes past the South Shetland Islands and King George Island.
In Central America, the Panama Canal remains a major draw, especially with full transit sailings offering a chance to marvel at this iconic engineering feat.
The Canary Islands saw an influx of ships from MSC Cruises and Marella Cruises, with more itineraries catering to European travellers seeking winter sun and balmy temperatures.
Demand for Mediterranean cruises, meanwhile, increased by 13%, with larger cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line opting to base some of their newest ships in the region. Transatlantic crossings, particularly the iconic Southampton to New York voyage aboard Queen Mary 2, also saw renewed interest.
European cruises from ports like Southampton, Dover, and Liverpool remained steady, with itineraries to Norway, Sweden, and Denmark gaining traction among those seeking scenic summer sailings.
With cruise demand set to grow further in 2025, cruise lines are expected to continue expanding their itineraries and ship deployments in these high-interest regions.
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