Clia highlighted how the cruise industry supports 60,000 jobs across the country at a Westminster lobbying event attended by more than 25 MPs.
Politicians were able to learn more about how cruise benefits businesses, travel agents and local economies throughout the UK, including coastal communities.
A House of Commons reception demonstrated the growing awareness among politicians of the importance of the cruise sector to their local areas across the country, according to the trade body.
The cross-party event on Wednesday was addressed by aviation, maritime and security minister Mike Kane and former tourism minister and shadow culture media and sport secretary Stuart Andrew.
Lines represented included P&O Cruises, Cunard, Fred Olsen Cruise Line and Ambassador.
Kane (pictured, left) said: “We recognise the important contribution that the cruise industry makes to this country, bringing trade and tourism to towns and cities across the UK, particularly to our coastal communities.
“We will continue to work closely with organisations like Clia, as part of our Plan for Change, to ensure we turbocharge economic growth, decarbonise the sector and deliver opportunities for people up and down the country.”
Clia UK and Ireland managing director Andy Harmer said: “From the cruise lines that operate here, the thousands of travel agents up and down the country, the businesses that supply our industry, and the destinations that our guests visit, the cruise industry makes a substantial contribution to the UK economy.
“There are more than 60,000 people across the country who rely on a successful cruise industry, and we were delighted to introduce politicians to some of these people in parliament today.
“Clia works closely with government and politicians from across the UK to advocate for a successful cruise industry and to raise awareness of the unique role that cruise plays in the UK’s inbound, outbound and domestic tourism.
“Today’s event was an important opportunity to bring together the cruise community with political stakeholders to illustrate the many benefits that our industry brings to the UK.”
Andrew added: “The cruise industry is an essential part of the UK’s tourism ecosystem, which was why I was delighted to speak to the industry today in parliament. Over 2.3 million Brits each year chose to go on a cruise holiday every year, whilst there are over 2 million inbound visits to ports in every part of the country each year.”
Dover and Deal MP Mike Tapp, who sponsored the event said: “I was delighted to welcome so many representatives from the industry to parliament to discuss the importance of cruise tourism to the UK’s local communities and economy.
“Dover has long been one of the most popular cruise ports in the UK, and I am delighted that the cruise sector continues to bring its guests to Dover.
“With more than 100 ship calling in Dover last year, the cruise industry plays a hugely significant role in bringing tourists to Dover. This has a substantial benefit locally, supporting many regional businesses and generating employment opportunities through cruise tourism.”
The meeting came as P&O Cruises reported its strongest ever January, with record-breaking sales claimed during the month.
More new to cruise customers booked in the month than ever before, according to the line.
The two most popular destinations were the Norwegian fjords and Caribbean.
The month also saw the highest number of premium cabins booked, including more suites and those with balconies.
Carnival UK & P&O Cruises president Paul Ludlow said: “We have seen a record-breaking month for P&O Cruises holidays, with our incredible new TV campaign inspiring and encouraging viewers to book their next holiday with us.
“We have also seen a continued trend for guests booking suites and balcony cabins indicating guests are treating themselves to more luxurious cabins.”