Cruise Travel Contributes USD 98.5 Billion to Global Economy, Says WTTC.
In its most recent report, Cruising for Impact, the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) highlights the benefits that cruise tourism brings to communities and destinations worldwide and builds long-term value in coastal and port areas.
In addition to these beneficial effects, the industry supported 1.8 million jobs, produced USD 199 billion in total economic activity, contributed USD 98.5 billion to the global GDP, and paid USD 60.1 billion in wages in 2024, demonstrating its scope and worldwide reach.
Over 60% of cruise passengers return to locations they first learned about through cruises, according to data from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). This shows how the industry not only introduces tourists to new locations but also supports long-term tourism demand and continuous benefits for local communities.
With nearly 1.4 million employment supported onshore, the research also emphasises how deeply cruise tourism is integrated with local economies. Additionally, it demonstrates that one full-time employment is supported globally for every 20 cruise passengers, thus connecting visitor demand to livelihoods across places.
According to WTTC’s research, direct cruise-related expenditure amounts to USD 93 billion, a large portion of which supports small companies, entrepreneurs, and tourism micro-economies in port and coastal locations across the globe.
The report describes how cruise tourism promotes positive social outcomes through seven key pillars: infrastructure development, environmental innovation, job creation and skill development, diversity and inclusion, community enrichment, cultural preservation, and health and crisis response.
In order to ensure that growth is inclusive, sustainable, and provides long-term value for the areas it touches, the research also emphasises how cruise tourism is producing positive outcomes through strong collaboration between destinations, communities, and industry partners.
With a projected 19% increase in cruise passenger capacity between 2022 and 2028, the industry is anticipated to assist communities and destinations globally even more.
“This report highlights the powerful positive impact of cruise tourism, showing how it connects people, supports livelihoods, and creates shared value for destinations around the world,” stated Gloria Guevara, President & CEO of WTTC.
With an emphasis on local sourcing, talent development, and community partnership, WTTC assists governments, destinations, and business leaders in making sure cruise tourism is completely incorporated into national development strategies.
