The WTTC reported that nearly 80% of those jobs were created on land, highlighting the industry's broad economic impact. Cruise tourism accounts for just 2% of the global holiday market but serves over 35 million travelers annually. More than 60% of cruise passengers return to destinations they first visited on a cruise, boosting repeat tourism.
Passenger capacity is expected to increase by 19% between 2022 and 2028, indicating future growth potential. According to the WTTC, cruise tourism generates one full-time job worldwide for every 20 cruise passengers, demonstrating its job efficiency. The industry also contributes to social development through job creation, talent development, inclusion, cultural preservation, infrastructure improvement, environmental innovation, and resilience to crises.
Specific environmental innovations implemented by the cruise industry have not been detailed. It is unclear which coastal and port destinations saw the highest job creation from cruise tourism. 5 billion in direct spending among local businesses, such as small shops versus tourism suppliers, remains unspecified.