The number of UK cruise passengers is forecast to rise by 8% next year to a record 1.77 million.
The increase in people taking ocean cruises will see an increase from this year’s projected figure of 1.64 million.
The number of fly-cruise passengers is set to exceed one million for the first time with a 2011 forecast of 1,060,000, up 75,000 on this year’s figure.
Passengers taking ex-UK cruises next year are also expected to rise by 55,000 to 710,000.
The projections came from the Passenger Shipping Association at the Travel Convention in Malta.
PSA director Bill Gibbons said next year’s additional 130,000 cruise passengers reflects strong performances from major UK cruise lines coupled with additional capacity that has come on stream this year.
The luxury cruise sector is also expected to continue to thrive, with new ships now in service and signs that strong growth will be maintained.
He said: “Year after year the cruise sector reports impressive growth with 2011 being no exception.
“Cruising is again likely to outperform all other areas of the holiday market with travel agents continuing to play an integral role, accounting for 80% of cruise sales.
“The all-inclusive nature of a cruise holiday, which can be purchased in sterling and which offers exceptional standards of quality, innovation, choice and customer service, continues to make it a compelling and mainstream holiday choice.
“Cruise customers have conducted their own spending review – and have decided to carry on cruising in style.”
Gibbons added: “Despite challenging economic times affecting many areas of the travel industry, the sheer value and variety of a cruise holiday continues to appeal.
“This is reflected in both this year’s 7% increase in passenger numbers and these exciting numbers for 2011 indicating continuing consumer demand and satisfaction.
“2010 has been a unique year; we have seen many new ship launches and this increased capacity will have a full year effect in 2011.”
- More from the Travel Convention at travelweekly.co.uk/tc2010