Cruise passengers made 23.8 million visits to European ports in 2009, an increase of more than 9% over 2008.
According to figures released by the European Cruise Council, 4.9 million European residents booked a cruise holiday last year, a rise of 50% in five years and representing nearly 30% of the world’s cruise passengers.
Manfredi Lefebvre d’Ovidio, chairman of the ECC and deputy chairman of Silversea Cruises, said: “2009 was an unprecedented year with all holiday sectors being affected by the economic downturn. Therefore it’s particularly rewarding that these latest figures show the resilience of the European cruise industry which is outperforming other holiday sectors.”
The ECC commissioned the 2009 economic impact report together with Euroyards.
Key results include:
• 152 cruise ships were operating in the Mediterranean and 95 in Northern Europe
• The European cruise industry generated 296,288 jobs in 2009
• The UK provides the largest number of cruise passengers within Europe
Greece and Italy continue to compete in popularity as destinations, with both holding nearly 21% of the market; Spain retained its third position with 17.3%
