Cruise association Clia has announced that more people cruised than expected in 2015, leading to an increase in projections for this year.
New figures reveal that 23.2million passengers take an ocean cruise last year, up from the projection of 23 million, and a 4% increase over 2014.
As a result of the improved figures, Clia has upped its expectations for this year and is predicting 24.2 million people will cruise in 2016.
Much of the growth was attributed to emerging cruise destinations around the world. In 2015, Asia experienced the most growth year on year with 2 million passengers taking a cruise, a 24% increase compared to 2014.
Cindy D’Aoust, president and chief executive of Clia, said: “The success in 2015 demonstrates the cruise industry’s continued strength in the overall travel sector.
“This is a direct result of the amazing work and commitment of our community of cruise lines, executive partners and travel agencies and agents.
“Plus, with the highest satisfaction rates among all leisure travel segments, it reflects that a cruise holiday is the holiday of choice for travellers around the world.”