The number of people who took a cruise last year surpassed the previous highest total set in 2024, according to new data from CLIA

The organisation found that holidaymakers from the UK and Ireland took 2.54 million ocean cruises in 2025, surpassing 2.4 million passengers the year before.

More than a third (34.5 per cent) of Brits sailed in the Mediterranean, 27.2 per cent in Northern Europe and 13.7 per cent in the Caribbean. The Caribbean saw year-on-year passenger growth of 12 per cent.

The three destinations, CLIA found, were similarly the most popular among UK and Ireland cruisers in 2024. The Caribbean remains the most popular overall global cruise destination.

The data also discovered that the average age of cruisers was 54.6, consistent year-on-year, with a 7 per cent increase in children under 12, and the average cruise length was 9.6 days, in line with 9.7 days in 2024. Seven-night departures remain the most popular, accounting for 44 per cent of sailings.

The findings come as the CLIA member cruise line fleet prepares to welcome eight new ships this year, bringing the organisation’s total to 320 ocean-going vessels.

Andy Harmer, CLIA UK and Ireland managing director, said: “Cruise continues to appeal to a wide range of holidaymakers, with the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and the Caribbean all offering a great range of experiences and itineraries. They represent a shift towards deeper cultural engagement and more time spent in destinations, supporting local economies through onshore activities and extended stays.

“This diversity of destinations, combined with the flexibility and value that cruising offers, means it remains a very attractive choice for families, couples and multi-generational groups alike. It’s encouraging to see more children than ever travelling, reflecting cruise’s appeal as an easy and convenient holiday option.”