Global Cruise Industry Grows Amid Rising Protests Over Overtourism

The global cruise industry is anticipating a 10% increase in passengers by 2028, surpassing the 31.7 million cruise-goers in 2023, which already exceeded pre-pandemic levels. Despite the rising demand, the industry is wary of protests over overtourism in certain ports.

Industry Expansion and Environmental Adaptations

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) European director, Marie-Caroline Laurent, announced that the industry has ordered 57 additional cruise ships, adding to the existing fleet of approximately 300 vessels to meet future demand. Companies are also adapting ships to switch from highly-polluting marine fuel to electricity while moored, aiming to comply with EU maritime environmental regulations by 2030.

Protests and Overtourism Concerns

As travel continues to grow, cruise operators are increasingly confronted with debates about excessive tourist numbers, particularly in crowded European port cities like Barcelona. Recent protests in Barcelona saw tourists sprayed with water pistols, highlighting local frustrations. Despite cruise ship passengers constituting only 4% of Barcelona’s total tourist population, the city’s mayor, Jaume Collboni, is seeking to reduce the number of one-day cruise calls.

Potential Impact on Itineraries

CLIA’s Laurent mentioned that violent protests could lead to changes in itineraries if passenger safety and treatment are at risk. The industry might shift focus to offering more cruises in Asia, northern Europe, the Caribbean, and different Mediterranean ports to avoid conflict zones.

Economic Contributions

Spain’s tourism revenues are projected to reach nearly 100 billion euros this year, 11% above pre-pandemic levels in 2019. The cruise industry alone forecasts a 5% increase in visitors to Spain in 2024, though this is below the 13% increase in summer visitor arrivals projected by Spanish authorities.