Cruise is Sailing to a Better Future
Cruise lines are leading the way toward a more sustainable future, investing in innovative technologies building the future of sustainable cruise travel in their ships today - with new engines that offer fuel flexibility and the ability to run on new, more sustainable energy sources as they become available at scale.
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) unites the global cruise community, including prestigious ocean, river, and specialty lines, maritime leaders, ports, destinations, shipyards, and the largest network of cruise travel professionals.
Fleet
310 Cruise Ships
The total number of ships in the 2025 CLIA cruise lines member global fleets.
Environmental
16% Emissions Reduction
On average there was a reduction in CO2 emissions per cruise ship since 2018 by ships in Europe.
Sustainability
267 Freshwater Producing Ships
State-of-the-art systems enable cruise lines to produce up to 90% of water on board rather than draw from areas where resources are limited
Economics
$168.6 Billion Economic Impact
In 2023, the cruise industry generated $168.6 billion in total economic impact globally, a 9% increase over 2019
Global Markets
With 34.6 million passengers cruising to all 7 continents, the global cruise industry is supported by diverse source markets, growing regional demand, and expanding infrastructure, contributing to its resilience and long-term growth potential.
61%
Percentage of global capacity are fitted to operate on Onshore Power Supply (OPS)
100%
Percentage of waste some ships can repurpose by transferring surplus heat from machinery to heat water for showers and pools and significantly reduce food waste by using bio-digesters
60%
Percentage of ships able to produce water equivalent to their total water consumption needs
15%
Percentage of cruise ships entering service in the next five years will be equipped with battery storage to allow for hybrid power generation once available
Membership
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) provides a unified voice for the global cruise community, which includes the world’s most prestigious ocean, river, and specialty cruise lines; an expansive group of maritime leaders who provide technical expertise, products and services to the cruise sector; leading ports, destinations, shipyards; and the largest network of travel professionals who specialize in cruise travel.
CLIA unites the global cruise industry by providing a strong collective voice for cruise lines, valuable connections and insights for Executive Partners, and training, resources, and support for the travel trade community.
59
Cruise Lines
CLIA provides a unified voice for the world’s most prestigious ocean, river, and specialty cruise lines that operate around the world.
350+
Executive Partners
CLIA provides organizations industry exposure, market insights, community affiliation, education, and networking to unite the cruise industry
70,000+
Travel Trade
CLIA provides the official industry training and certification, unique resources, and inspiring events to support the travel agent community.
Destination Spotlight: South America
The South America/Panama Canal region plays a crucial role in making several cruise itineraries possible. Cruise guests may explore the continent on South America-focused cruises that visit such key port cities as Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires or destinations such as the Chilean Fjords. They may explore the continent on world cruises, some sailing around Cape Horn at the southernmost tip of the continent. Or they may experience the continent on Caribbean and South America itineraries visiting, for instance, Colombia and Central American countries.Adventurous travelers might opt for a bucket list expedition cruise to the Galapagos Islands or visit Argentina or Chile as gateways to Antarctica. Others might hop on a river ship, sailing along the Peruvian Amazon or Colombia’s Magdalena River.Panama Canal itineraries embarking from ports in Florida or California, offering cruisers a first-hand look at an engineering marvel as they sail through the legendary waterway. Cruise lines traverse the canal seasonally as they reposition vessels from Florida to the Pacific Coast and Alaska, while providing guests access to, for instance, Colombia, Panama, Costa Rica, Belize, Guatemala, and Mexico.According to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), in 2025, 1.20 million* cruisers sailed in the South America/Panama Canal region, making the region the 8th largest cruise destination in the world (*The number does not include the Galapagos Islands).In addition to international appeal, South America has strong regional appeal. According to CLIA, in 2025, 1.12 South Americans took an ocean-going cruise, many staying close to home in South America or the Caribbean.A Perfect Winter DestinationMost South American countries are in the southern hemisphere and remain warm all year due to their tropical climate. Even the region’s coldest temperature locations are at their warmest between November and March – which is winter in the northern hemisphere. South America during this time provides the opportunity for those from northern regions to escape the chill.Brazil’s Rio de Janeiro, Santos and Salvador; Lima, Peru; Argentina’s Buenos Aires; Chile’s Valparaiso and Santiago; and Uruguay’s Montevideo and Punta del Este, are featured cruise ports on world cruises and other South America itineraries. The Falkland Islands offer a bit of British flavor in the region, and the mighty Amazon as it runs through Peru provides opportunity to explore inland on a fascinating river cruise. River cruise line AmaWaterways recently inaugurated the Magdalena River in Colombia as a new cruising destination in South America.Ecuador’s lush and largely untouched Galapagos Islands archipelago is a prime expedition cruise region, featuring animals like giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions, Galapagos penguins and Darwin’s finches, which you won’t find anywhere else in the world. Most islands are uninhabited and cruise lines such as Celebrity Cruises, HX Expeditions, and Silversea Cruises ferry passengers ashore in inflatable boats for wet landings that take them straight onto the sands of pristine beaches. Many passengers begin their cruises with a visit to Guayaquil or Quito, Ecuador. A popular add-on is an inland visit Peru’s Machu Picchu.With sailings starting in South America, Antarctica, a key bucket-list destination for intrepid cruisers – with its icy landscapes, penguins and whales, is most easily reached by ship. Passengers have several options for embarkation. The most common include boarding the ship in Ushuaia, Argentina, for a sailing across the Drake Passage. A newer option is flying from Chile to King George Island, in the South Shetland Islands, to board a vessel. Silversea is opening a hotel in Puerto Williams, Chile, to accommodate its guests. Quark Expeditions offers a fly-cruise program originating in Punta Arenes, Chile.A Partnership Made in ParadiseWith their presence, cruise lines contribute significantly to local economies in the region. Cruise lines pay port fees, employ local personnel, and partner with shore excursion providers in the locations the vessels frequent. The direct, indirect, and induced impacts from cruise activity on the Brazil economy alone is more than $1 billion.More than a dozen CLIA member lines – including MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, Holland America Line, Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, Ponant Explorations, Azamara Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, and Seabourn – regularly visit South America.A spokesperson for MSC Cruises, which has the largest market share in South America, notes the variety of itineraries, intuitive hospitality and culture are important draws in the market, and contribute to South America being a standout destination.© 2026 Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). All rights reserved.This content may be shared or republished with clear attribution to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Content must remain intact and may not be altered, edited, or excerpted in any way that changes its meaning or context. For additional permissions, media inquiries, or additional information, please [email protected]. 02 June, 2026
Why Has Expedition Cruising Become Travel’s Hottest Ticket?
Why Has Expedition Cruising Become Travel’s Hottest Ticket?You’re hovering at the waterline in an inflatable Zodiac off your expedition cruise, exploring one of the most remote corners of the world. You could be in arctic waters as a humpback whale breaches, close enough that you can count its barnacles. Or you’re snorkeling in the Galapagos, encountering a playful pack of sea lions. Expedition cruises bring you close to unspoiled wonders of the world with unmatched convenience and ease.These small ship cruises aren’t just a trend; they’re redefining modern travel by bringing the furthest corners of the world within reach. The sector is experiencing significant growth. Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reports a 150% increase in global capacity for expedition and exploration ships from 2019 to 2029 (including ships on order), with more than 40 small ships sailing today that are specifically built for this type of cruising. Among the many staggering statistics that point to the meteoric rise in popularity of expedition and exploration cruising, there was a 22% rise in passengers from 2023 to 2024, alone.This booming new cruise sector has become the go-to for ultimate, bragworthy adventures worldwide.Experiencing the OceanDriven by a traveler fascination with exploration and first-hand encounters, expedition cruises have never been more popular. The industry has seen a rapid increase in customer demand not just to see the world, but to adventure through its outermost frontiers. New, boutique-sized ships are equipped with advanced technology and reinforced hulls, enabling them to navigate waters that were once unavailable for consumer travel. Expedition cruises are often the only way to reach remote places such as South Georgia Island, the North Pole, or the Northwest Passage, easily and safely.For passengers who have explored the world's most popular ship routes and newbies alike, expedition cruises offer unique, off-grid itineraries. Immersive, adventure-focused excursions, always bespoke given the unpredictability of nature, are the highlights of these sailings. Whether you’re kayaking alongside penguin colonies in Antarctica from a luxurious Seabourn expedition ship or snorkeling alongside sea turtles and stingrays in the Galápagos on the upscale Celebrity Flora expedition ship, these immersive nature encounters leave you with memories of a lifetime.Appealing to New GenerationsExpedition voyages have contributed to interest in cruising from younger travelers, particularly Gen Z and Millennials. These guests are often first-time cruisers, seeking extraordinary experiences – with pent up wanderlust and opportunity to brag on social media driving demand for remarkable journeys. Younger travelers seek authentic travel adventures where they can travel with purpose, and are eager to learn about ecosystems, cultures, and climate through expert-led excursions.Keeping Up with the DemandThe exponential growth in expedition fleets has encompassed a remarkable roll out of new, boutique ships, new routes, and uncharted itineraries. New ships are slated to debut in the coming years, including the Scenic Ikon from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours in 2028.Luxury brands are also expanding the expedition experience beyond the ship. Silversea will launch its first-ever hotel, The Cormorant at 55 South, for the 2026/2027 Antarctica Season. The new luxury lodge is in Puerto Williams, Chile – the world’s southernmost town. The cruise line’s entrant into land-based accommodations will offer a stylish launch pad for its Antarctica sailings.The Cutting Edge of SustainabilitySustainability is a core mission of all CLIA member cruise lines, with a commitment to pursuing net-zero emissions by 2050. Passengers are eager to see expedition fleets doing their part to help protect the environment, and the cruise industry is meeting the challenge.Technological breakthroughs in sustainability include the LNG‑battery hybrid propulsion on Ponant’s LeCommandantCharcot (with net‑zero operations when on battery); Silversea’s first-ever Galapagos waste solution, diverting all non-organic waste away from island landfills; Quark Expeditions’ micro‑turbine energy, which delivers one of the cleanest, lowest-footprint polar expedition ships; and HX Expeditions’ award-winning sustainability leadership efforts to reduce their environmental footprint with hybrid ships, shore power, and biofuels. Ponant is also developing the Swap2Zero, a next generation sailing ship, to debut around 2030.Future Horizons A world of new exploration awaits from the North and South Poles to remote destinations in between. CLIA member cruise lines continue to meet the demand for expedition sailings, pioneering voyages that take guests on the most thrilling adventures – complemented with special interest programs targeting, for instance, birders, citizen scientists, and photographers.Expedition cruising’s popularity, blending exploration with premium onboard amenities, shows no sign of slowing as small-ship fleets (and their mighty sustainability efforts) journey to the far reaches of the earth.© 2026 Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). All rights reserved.This content may be shared or republished with clear attribution to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Content must remain intact and may not be altered, edited, or excerpted in any way that changes its meaning or context. For additional permissions, media inquiries, or additional information, please email [email protected] 18 May, 2026
Winter Cruises in Europe Benefit Travelers, Cruise Lines and Ports
Winter cruises in Europe benefit travelers, cruise lines and portsEurope used to be a three-season cruise market. Ocean ships would reposition from Europe in late October or November and return in early spring. River ships would sail through December’s Christmas market season then take a break until spring. But change is afoot.More cruise lines have discovered the multifaceted benefits of keeping ships in Europe year-round, both for their businesses and for their port partners. The move aligns with traveler trends around avoiding summer crowds and seeking out more authentic travel experiences.Here’s how Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) member lines are expanding shoulder-season offerings in Europe.Winter cruises in Europe are on the rise due to guest demandA few European cruise lines, such as Costa Cruises and MSC Cruises, have long offered winter cruises in the Mediterranean. Other cruise lines have recently added itineraries too – inspired by inquiries from their guests.“Over the past few years, we’ve seen growing interest in quieter, more immersive travel experiences, especially in destinations that are traditionally busy during peak seasons,” says Janet Bava, Windstar Cruises’ Chief Commercial Officer. To that end, the line trialed its first Mediterranean winter cruises in 2023.On the inaugural sailing, "every single travel advisor and guest on board told me, ‘This is genius’,” said Bava. Windstar continues winter-in-Europe cruises with itineraries exploring Southern Spain, the French and Italian Riveiras, and the Dalmatian Coast. All are on the new Star Explorer.Celebrity Cruises also dipped its toes into cooler cruise waters beginning in 2023, positioning Celebrity Infinity in Europe year-round. The ship continues to offer cruises in winter, with Canary Islands, Spain and Morocco sailings from Barcelona, before heading to Italy and Greece in March.Holland America Line is introducing late fall/winter cruising in Europe in the 2027-2028 season - including a dozen sailings on the Nieuw Startendam in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean.River cruise lines, such as AmaWaterways, are extending their cruise seasons as well. AmaWaterways has February 2027 departures on the Danube aboard the AmaLea and AmaMora", says Catherine Powell, AmaWaterways' CEP. The AmaMora cruise is a themed Celebratio nof Wine sailing, hosted by a winemaker and including tastings and vineyard visits.Winter cruises appeal to travelers seeking authentic experiencesTravelers today want cultural authenticity and a respite from summer crowds in popular Europe cities. Winter cruises offer just that.“More guests are realizing that cruising outside the traditional popular months comes with wonderful advantages: Cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and a more authentic, relaxed atmosphere,” says Powell. “Our February and early March sailings have been well received.”She adds, “It’s a chance to connect with local people, enjoy seasonal traditions, and see destinations before spring really blooms.”For cost-conscious travelers, off-season sailings can be lighter on guests’ wallets. Pre- and post-cruise flights and accommodations may cost less than during summer’s peak travel times.The value isn’t just financial. Cruisers who have sailed Mediterranean cruises before can return in winter to experience the destination in a new way.“Sailing Europe in the winter and shoulder seasons gives our guests a completely different perspective. Cities like Venice or Dubrovnik feel more intimate, more local, and more accessible,” says Windstar’s Bava. “These sailings often attract seasoned travelers who’ve seen the ‘greatest hits’ and are now looking to dig deeper.”Winter cruises support sustainability goalsVacationers are not the only parties who benefit from increased off-season sailings. Winter cruises are beneficial for cruise lines and their port partners as well.For the cruise lines, deploying a ship to Europe year-round is a smart investment. “Sailing in the off-season maximizes asset utilization,” says Bava. “By avoiding long transits like ocean crossings, we’re able to increase the number of port calls and spend more time in destination-rich regions.” It also allows the lines to reduce fuel consumption.Extending the Mediterranean cruise season also supports local port economies during tourism’s slow season.“Our port partners have been very supportive,” says Powell. “They like the idea of taking the pressure off the busy summer and fall months while continuing to bring meaningful benefits to local communities throughout the year.”“Restaurants, museums, and markets in the Mediterranean are still very much alive in the off-season,” says Bava. “Our presence helps sustain that activity.”© 2026 Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). All rights reserved.This content may be shared or republished with clear attribution to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Content must remain intact and may not be altered, edited, or excerpted in any way that changes its meaning or context. For additional permissions, media inquiries, or additional information, please email [email protected] 18 May, 2026
Following the Path of Totality: How Cruise Is Benefiting from the 2026 Solar Eclipse
Following the Path of Totality: How Cruise Is Benefiting from the 2026 Solar EclipseIn 2026, cruise ships will carry passengers into the path of a rare astronomical event. The total solar eclipse on August 12, 2026, will be one of the longest of the century, lasting 6 minutes and 14 seconds at its peak. Its path of totality will stretch from the Arctic and Iceland’s west coast down the Atlantic and through Spain, which hasn’t seen a total eclipse in more than 120 years.With cruises being one of the best ways to see the phenonium, several Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) member lines have ships focused on the 2026 eclipse with specialty sailings that feature captivating lectures, lively deck parties, and inspired culinary delights. And demand for these sailings is surging.Travelers are also setting their sights on 2027 eclipse sailings with strong numbers of bookings, says Robert de Bruin, Director of Itinerary Planning & Development for Holland America Line. That event, with the path of totality crossing southern Spain, North Africa, and Egypt, will happen August 2, 2027.Why eclipse cruises?Cruises provide an ideal vantage point for a solar eclipse. At sea, ships have the flexibility to align directly beneath the path of totality. When paired with the Perseid meteor shower, which peaks on the same night as the total solar eclipse in 2026, the timing is perfect for a night of astronomical wonder.“At sea, there are no city lights, no obstructions, and the horizon is endless, which makes the spectacle that much more phenomenal,” says Brennan Quesnele, Senior Vice President of Sales and Trade Marketing for North America for Oceania Cruises. “Beyond the vantage point itself, there’s also the energy onboard: Hundreds of guests together in anticipation, celebrating with deck parties, live music, and celestial-inspired cuisine. It’s a shared experience of wonder and awe that is simply unparalleled.”Who’s sailing?CLIA member cruise lines planning specialty eclipse sailings include Azamara Cruises, Carnival Cruise Line, Cunard, Holland America Line, HX Expeditions, Oceania Cruises, Princess Cruises, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Royal Caribbean and Virgin Voyages. Many of the first round of eclipse-specific cruises now have limited availability or are waitlist-only, and some sold out more than a year in advance. Cruise lines are finding ways to meet demand by adding more sailings.In response to the way the celestial alignment has energized travelers, Oceania has five 2026 eclipse sailings, while Princess has three eclipse sailings in 2026, and Azamara has dedicated three of its four ships to the cosmic spectacle.Immersive experiencesIn addition to the magical experience of seeing an eclipse while at sea, cruise lines are enhancing the educational aspect of the events with immersive and educational programming.Azamara has partnered with the Lowell Observatory and its astronomers for lectures, star-gazing sessions, and live eclipse narration. Holland America will have dedicated astronomy experts on board delivering live commentary and running Q&A sessions. Oceania is featuring NASA ambassadors – along with deck parties, and solar-themed treats (from star-shaped finger foods to “cosmic” macarons).Eyes towards the skiesHolland America’s de Bruin says stay tuned for more spaced-focused cruises, affording a front row seat to the wonders of the universe. “Astrotourism is gaining serious momentum, with more travelers planning their vacations around celestial events like eclipses, the Northern Lights, and stargazing,” he says.CLIA member William Kingston, ECC, of Finest Travel Agency, who has sold specialty sailings for years, says travel advisors should also focus attention skyward. “Travel advisors should anticipate special events such as eclipses to secure the best options and experiences for their clients,” he says.With skyrocketing demand for the upcoming cruises, the 2026 solar eclipse event previews a bright future for astrotourism at sea.© 2026 Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). All rights reserved.This content may be shared or republished with clear attribution to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Content must remain intact and may not be altered, edited, or excerpted in any way that changes its meaning or context. For additional permissions, media inquiries, or additional information, please email [email protected] 18 May, 2026
Christmas Market River Cruises in Europe Brighten Up the Shoulder Season
Christmas market river cruises in Europe brighten up the shoulder seasonThe weeks between Thanksgiving and Christmas are considered a slower travel period in Europe – but not for river cruise lines and ports along the Rhine and Danube rivers. Late November and December cruises are some of the river cruise industry’s most popular itineraries.Christmas market river cruises hit the sweet spot for modern travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences and a festive holiday atmosphere. They also boost business for river cruise lines and the communities they visit during what would otherwise be a slow season.These limited-time, themed sailings sell out far in advance of the holiday season – a win-win-win for the river cruise lines, travelers and the ports they visit.Christmas market river cruises transform the shoulder seasonReinvigorating the slow travel months of November and December (with some cruises into January) brings benefits in many ways.Christmas market cruises “allow us to extend our sailing season into January, keeping our ships and crew active during what would traditionally be a quieter time on Europe’s rivers,” says Ellen Bettridge, President and CEO of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises. At a time when river cruise lines might be laying up ships for the winter off-season, they are instead delivering popular itineraries.At the same time, two trends have taken hold among travelers, slow-season travel, as they strive to avoid summer crowds, and seeking out cool-climate experiences. Festive holiday cruises deliver in this regard, “helping us meet strong demand for unique, off-peak experiences,” says Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways.Ports along the rivers also benefit from the extension of the river cruise season, as cruisers do their holiday shopping, indulge in gingerbread and other edible treats, visit attractions and enjoy holiday cheer.“It really is an economic driver for some of these small towns we visit” says Jennifer Halboth, CEO Riverside Luxury Cruises. “Plus, people really like to showcase their town during Christmas.”Holiday sailings attract new river cruisers and drive repeat bookingsFor the cruise lines, Christmas market river cruises are good for business. A longer cruise season means added revenue, and holiday sailings command premium prices. Also important, these cruises help river lines draw first-time cruisers with seasonal attractions and convenient seven-night itineraries.“Our Christmas Market cruises often serve as the perfect introduction to river cruising, attracting travelers who might not have considered a sailing before but are drawn to the idea of Europe during the holidays,” says Bettridge.Riverside’s Halboth notes the appeal of these itinerariesisnot just for couples, solo travelers and groups of friends but for multigenerational families looking to spend time together during the holiday season.Christmas market cruises also drive repeat bookings. Guests fall in love with the destinations, the ease of travel, the friendly crew and the beautiful ships and are persuaded to sign up for another river cruise in a different destination or time of year, the executives say.“The combination of shorter itineraries,iconic destinations and the built-in magic of the season makes these cruises a natural entry point for new guests,” says Hoffee.“Once guests experience Avalon’s elevated design and excursions, many (approximately 40%) become repeat cruisers.”Christmas market cruises are in demand“Demand has been so strong that our entire Rhine, Main, and Danube fleet is dedicated to Christmas Market sailings this season— a clear indicator of how this segment continues to grow,” says KenMuskat, President of Scenic Group (USA and Latin America), parent company of the Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours and Emerald Cruises and Tours brands. “We’re also seeing these voyages book further out.”As Christmas Market river cruises’ popularity skyrockets, cruise lines are taking advantage by adding festive-season sailings on other rivers, such as France’s Rhone and Portugal’s Douro, to give repeat cruisers more options featuring regional holiday traditions.“Our Christmas Market cruises have transformed what was once the quietest time on Europe’s rivers to one of the most in-demand seasons of the year,” says Hoffee.© 2026 Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). All rights reserved.This content may be shared or republished with clear attribution to Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). Content must remain intact and may not be altered, edited, or excerpted in any way that changes its meaning or context. For additional permissions, media inquiries, or additional information, please email [email protected] 18 May, 2026
