Record year foreseen for cruise industry

With nine new ships scheduled to start service, several refurbishments and fresh ports of call, the Cruise Line International Association is calling 2007 a year of increased interest in cruising and “poised for record breaking.”

The number of newbuilds will exceed the seven that went into service in 2006, bringing the total to more than 150 among its members. The additional tonnage represents a 4.5 percent increase in capacity.

“Both new cruisers and those who are veterans are indulging on every element of their cruise vacation, opting to upgrade to balcony and suite accommodations, and purchasing itineraries that are longer and to more exotic locals,” said a release from CLIA. “Furthermore, the luxury cruise market is experiencing a renaissance, as legions of travelers seek out the pose amenities and facilities of these ships, as well as their innovative and far-flung itineraries.”

The U.S. Baby Boom generation, with its population of aging people seeking adventure is becoming the dominant demographic. CLIA says that this group is interested in new adventures, “but are unwilling to sacrifice creature comforts.”

“Fortunately, new ships debuting in 2007 continue to push the bar on innovations, expanding the evolutionary process that began decades ago by adding more bells and whistles,” said the release from CLIA.

A number of important trends are surfacing. Look for them at the CLIA website http://www.cruising.org.