Cruising generates record $168.6b global economic impact

The cruise industry generated $168.6b in total economic impact globally in 2023, a 9% increase over pre-pandemic 2019 and an all-time high. Plus, an incremental 1.6m jobs were created.

The data spring from Cruise Lines International Association's new 2023 Global Economic Impact Study announced at the annual CLIA Cruise Forward conference in Miami.

$56.9b in wages

According to the study, the 1.6m jobs generated in 2023 paid $56.9b in wages, representing growth of 37% and 13%, respectively over 2019. Some 77% of these jobs were land-based.

SOURCE: CLIA

Cruising also contributes $85.6b to global GDP, with its growth outpacing that of the global economy.

31.7m cruisers in 2023

These latest figures reflect the rising popularity of cruise vacations, with 31.7m passengers in 2023, a 7% increase from the 29.7m in 2019.

Cruising's popularity continues to grow. Here, passengers arrive at Cozumel's Puerta Maya PHOTO: ANNE KALOSH

'The cruise industry is an important contributor to the global economy, generating billions of dollars in economic output and supporting millions of jobs,' CLIA President/CEO Kelly Craighead said. She added: 'As demand for cruising continues to grow, our member cruise lines are committed to preserving the integrity, cultural heritage and beauty of treasured destinations so they can be enjoyed by residents and visitors alike.'

Impact across many sectors

Cruising contributes to multiple sectors, including transportation, aviation, food and beverage, lodging, manufacturing, technology, agriculture, travel agencies and a robust supply chain. 

'The economic impact of the industry extends long after a cruise ends, as CLIA research shows that 60% of cruise passengers return to a destination they first visited on a cruise for a longer stay,' Craighead said.

Regional details to come

Highlights of CLIA’s 2023 Global Economic Impact Study can be viewed here. The full report, along with region-specific studies for the United States, Europe and Canada, will be posted on CLIA’s website in the coming month.