Trade bodies collaborate with government on UK cruise growth plan

A UK cruise growth plan designed to strengthen the UK’s maritime and tourism sectors has been outlined by government and industry bodies.

The government, Clia and the UK Chamber of Shipping are jointly behind the “landmark” initiative.

The plan focuses on key areas including workforce development, safety, security, accessibility and sustainable growth in a bid to position the UK as a premier destination for cruise tourism and maritime innovation.

The cruise industry is estimated to contribute £5.8 billion a year to the UK economy and supports 60,000 jobs across the country. 

The cruise growth plan recognises this vital role and sets out a roadmap for long-term growth, enhanced infrastructure, and global leadership in sustainable and digital maritime practices, according to backers of the scheme.

New maritime minister Keir Mather said: “The cruise industry is vital to the UK economy, bringing in £5.8 billion and supporting thousands of jobs across the country. 

“That’s why we’ve launched our cruise growth plan to continue driving private investment into the sector, creating jobs and opening up new opportunities for coastal communities.”

Clia UK & Ireland managing director Andy Harmer said: “The forward-looking plan provides a clear roadmap for the future of cruising in the UK. Its shared commitments will enhance safety, security and accessibility in the industry, while its focus on investment and future skills will allow the UK to remain a leader in the international cruise market in the years to come.

“By reinforcing the sector’s vital role in the nation’s maritime and tourism ecosystems, the plan firmly embeds cruise within the Government’s growth agenda. 

“With Clia member cruise lines pursuing net zero by 2050, the plan will help foster further collaboration between industry and government to achieve our shared decarbonisation aims.

“This agreement reflects years of partnership between industry and government, with a joint ambition: a thriving UK cruise sector that drives economic growth and benefits coastal communities in all four nations.”

UK Chamber of Shipping chief executive Rhett Hatcher described the plan as a “timely and collaborative blueprint” for the future of the cruise sector. 

“The plan reflects the shared commitment, in partnership with government, to unlocking the sector’s full potential for responsible growth and skills development,” he added. 

“The joint commitments focus on the strategic priorities of positioning the UK as a world-leading hub for cruise tourism and maritime investment and growing a diverse and skilled workforce while maintaining globally recognised safety standards.

“We remain committed to shared goals on decarbonisation and call for continued collaboration to ensure environmental sustainability is embedded in future cruise sector planning. The Chamber stands ready to work with all partners to ensure that growth and green transition go hand in hand.”