Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) hosted ocean and river cruise suppliers; as well as industry and media figures in Dublin’s Lennan’s Yard venue, on Dawson Street, last night; where ITTN’s Sharon Jordan was onsite to talk with Andy Harmer, CLIA UK and Ireland Managing Director and find out about all that’s happening in this incredible industry.
CLIA‘s latest annual passenger study has revealed that Irish cruisers are getting younger, with the average guest age dropping to 46.3 years in 2024 from 46.7 in 2023.
The finding comes as overall Irish cruise passenger numbers increased last year by 11.3% to 65,000, the highest total recorded.
The Mediterranean remains their destination of choice, with 61.3% of all voyages taken. The Caribbean came in second at 17.7%, while northern Europe was at 6.1%. The latter scored a 25% uplift in overall journeys taken, representing the highest growth among the main cruise itineraries.
The average length of a sailing is 7.9 days.
For the first time, the CLIA-member cruise line fleet exceeds 310 ocean-going vessels. Overall capacity increased by 3.4% across 2024.
Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland managing director, said: “Cruise is thriving among Ireland passengers, with the convenience and value-for-money a holiday at sea offers shining through. As the average age continuing to drop, and with more choice available than ever before, these are very exciting times for the local market.
“We’d like to say a huge thanks to everyone in Ireland for their support, including all the local travel agents, who we will continue to back by investing in their training, resources and events.”
