Cruise Industry Hits Record 37.2 Million Passengers in 2025

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reported that 37.2 million people traveled on ocean‑cruise ships in 2025, a 7.5 % increase over the previous year and the highest figure ever recorded. The report projects 38.3 million passengers in 2026 and 42.1 million by 2029, with the fleet expanding from 310 to 327 ocean vessels and a rise in river‑cruise activity across Europe.

In Germany, the German Travel Association (DRV) expects a modest 3 % revenue rise for the 2025/26 tourism year, driven largely by cruise growth, long‑haul travel and Mediterranean beach destinations. French market data show 583,600 French cruise passengers in 2025, with world‑tour itineraries spanning 25‑35 countries and costing between €18,400 and over €150,000 depending on luxury level. The Maldives are highlighted as an increasingly popular exotic cruise destination.