The global cruise industry generates $117 billion in total economic contributions, supporting 891,009 full-time jobs with total wages of $38.47 billion, according to new data.
This comes as demand for cruising across the globe has increased 77 percent, from 12 million to 21.3 million passengers in the last decade, the research by the Cruise Lines International Association shows.
The report found that 55% of global passengers are sourced from North America (11.82 million), including 10.92 million from the US.
Almost a third (30%) of passengers come from Europe (6.4 million), including 1.73 million from the UK and Ireland, and 1.69 million from Germany.
Developing source market are Australia (833,000 passengers), Brazil (732,000) and China (727,000).
The average length of a cruise is seven days, with three to four port calls.
The cruise industry generates nearly 115 million passenger and crew visit days at ports around the globe, with passengers and crew spending an average of $126.93 each port day.
Clia Europe chairman Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC Cruises) said: “The figures published today show that nearly 45% of the industry’s 2013 global output was generated in Europe.
“Unquestionably, the cruise industry today is a key contributor to Europe’s economic recovery, creating real jobs and growth at a time when both are hard to come by.
“With more Europeans choosing to cruise, more tourists cruising in European waters and more cruise ships being built in European ship yards, the weight of our industry in Europe can only continue to increase in years to come.”
Clia president and CEO Christine Duffy said: “The cruise industry is truly global, bringing together a diverse mix of international passengers and crew to experience exciting itineraries, multiple destinations, and exceptional holiday vacation value on every continent.
“With so many fun options and a high return on vacation experience, it’s not surprising that the popularity of cruise holidays continues to grow.
“This study shows that the cruise industry’s growth is also generating increased jobs, income, and revenue in all regions of the world.”