FCCA projects global cruise passengers will reach 46 million by 2031

The Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association said global cruise passenger numbers are projected to rise from about 37 million in 2025 to 46 million by 2031. The association discussed the outlook during its 32nd annual Cruise Conference & Trade Show, held in San Juan, Puerto Rico, from Monday 12 October to Friday 16 October.

According to the FCCA, nearly 700 cruise executives, government officials, port operators, tour providers and other tourism representatives attended the conference. Sessions examined destination partnerships, port operations, homeporting and local business participation as cruise lines expand fleets and itineraries.

FCCA President Adam Ceserano said destinations are central to the cruise experience and that partnerships between cruise lines and destinations can create value for visitors and local communities. A leadership panel included executives from Carnival Cruise Line, Margaritaville at Sea, MSC Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line and Virgin Voyages.

Speakers also discussed customer-service and language training, as well as participation by local artisans, restaurants and cultural performers. A session on homeporting considered opportunities for hotels, transport providers and provisioning companies when a destination is the start or end point of a voyage, the FCCA said.