CLIA has unveiled where holidaymakers from the UK and Ireland cruise to the most
CLIA has stated that holidaymakers from the UK and Ireland took 2.54 million ocean cruises last year, surpassing the previous highest total of 2.4 million in 2024.
The Mediterranean topped the charts, with 34.5% of passengers sailing around the islands and coasts. Northern Europe followed behind with 27.2% of passengers, and the Caribbean fell into third place with 13.7% of passengers. The Caribbean saw a year-on-year passenger growth of 12%.
Other statistics CLIA shared include the average age of cruisers is 54.6 years old: there is a 7% increase in children under 12 hitting the high seas; the average cruise length sits at around 9.6 days; and seven-night departures accounted for 44% of sailings.
The CLIA member cruise line fleet will see eight new ships begin service this year, which brings the total to 320 ocean-cruising vessels.
Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland managing director, said, “Cruise continues to appeal to a wide range of holidaymakers, with the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and the Caribbean all offering a great range of experiences and itineraries. They represent a shift towards deeper cultural engagement and more time spent in destinations, supporting local economies through onshore activities and extended stays."
