Winners and losers in 2023 cruise capacity distribution

BA said 2023 global passenger volumes will reach and very likely exceed 2019 levels despite a number of ship withdrawals. Of course, new ships have also entered service.  

Caribbean 41% capacity share, Mediterranean 17%

According to BA's analysis, the Caribbean is expected to lead with 41% of global capacity (up from 39% in 2019), followed by the Mediterranean at 17% (15% in 2019), Northern/Western Europe at 9% (unchanged) and Alaska at 6% (up from 4%).

Asia/Pacific 5%

Following these regions are Asia/Pacific (5%, down from 12%), the US West Coast (5%, up from 4%), Australia (4%, unchanged), South America (2%, unchanged) and Bermuda (2%, unchanged).

Some additional capacity has been redeployed to North America, where cruise resumption has been strongest, since China, a key source market, still has not reopened for cruising. 

One of the leading waterfront and cruise facility planners, Miami-based Bermello Ajamil & Partners created this analysis using its deployment database of more than 10,000 sailings, 40 brands and 300 ships worldwide.

Top 10 cruise lines by lower berths

BA also listed the biggest cruise brands, by lower berths, in 2023.

In order, they are: Royal Caribbean International, Carnival Cruise Line, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Princess Cruises, Costa Cruises, AIDA Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Resorts World Cruises.

As ships reach or exceed 100% occupancy, the size tally may vary.