Cruise tourism generated billions in economic activity and supported communities around the world in 2024, according to a new report released by the World Travel & Tourism Council.

The report, titled Cruising for Impact, highlights the growing role cruise tourism plays in supporting jobs, local businesses and long-term tourism demand across coastal and port destinations.

According to the findings, the global cruise sector contributed US$98.5 billion to world GDP last year and generated a total economic impact of US$199 billion.

The industry also supported 1.8 million jobs globally and delivered US$60.1 billion in wages during 2024.

Cruise Visitors Often Return To Destinations

One of the report’s key findings shows that cruise tourism can create long-term visitor demand beyond the initial voyage experience.

Data from Cruise Lines International Association revealed that more than 60% of cruise passengers later return to destinations they first discovered during a cruise.

WTTC said this demonstrates how cruising can help sustain tourism economies over time by encouraging repeat visitation and ongoing spending within local communities.

Strong Links To Local Economies

The report also underlined the close relationship between cruise tourism and local economic activity.

WTTC estimates that more than 1.4 million jobs are supported onshore through cruise-related activity, while direct spending linked to the sector reached US$93 billion.

Much of that expenditure flows into local businesses, supporting entrepreneurs, small enterprises and tourism-related services in destinations worldwide.

The study further found that one full-time job is supported globally for every 20 cruise passengers.

Focus On Community And Sustainability

Through seven key pillars, the report explores the wider social and economic impact of cruise tourism.

These areas include employment and skills development, cultural preservation, diversity and inclusion, community investment, infrastructure development, environmental innovation and support during health or crisis situations.

WTTC said the sector’s growth increasingly depends on collaboration between cruise operators, destinations and local communities to ensure tourism development remains inclusive and sustainable.

Further Growth Expected In Coming Years

The report noted that global cruise passenger capacity is projected to grow by 19% between 2022 and 2028, suggesting the industry’s influence on local economies and tourism development will continue expanding.

WTTC President and Chief Executive Gloria Guevara said cruise tourism creates “real and lasting positive benefits” for communities around the world.

She said repeat visitation from cruise passengers helps generate ongoing opportunities for local businesses while supporting jobs and economic resilience in tourism-dependent regions.

Industry Encouraged To Align Growth With Local Value

WTTC said it continues to support governments and tourism leaders in integrating cruise tourism into broader national development strategies.

The organisation believes stronger focus on local sourcing, workforce development and community partnerships will help maximise the long-term social and economic value created by the sector.

The report concludes that cruise tourism has the potential to play an even larger role in supporting resilient and thriving communities worldwide as the industry continues to expand.