New govt-backed initiative to help fuel long-term UK cruise growth
A new public-private initiative by the UK government, CLIA, and the UK Chamber of Shipping has been launched in a bid to drive economic growth in coastal regions
The UK Cruise Growth Plan sets out shared commitments to support the continued growth of the cruise sector, benefiting the national economy, particularly UK ports, while helping coastal communities.
It encourages sustained private investment and better coordination between the central government departments, including the devolved administrations.
The UK cruise industry already contributes £5.8 billion annually to the economy and supports 60,000 jobs nationwide. The Cruise Growth Plan outlines a strategy for long-term growth, improved infrastructure, and leadership in sustainable and digital maritime practices.
Key focus areas include workforce development, safety, security, accessibility, and environmentally responsible growth. The plan aims to position the UK as a global leader in cruise tourism and maritime innovation.
Maritime minister Keir Mather said: “The cruise industry is vital to the UK economy, bringing in billions and supporting thousands of jobs across the country. That’s why we’ve launched our Cruise Growth Plan to continue driving private investment into the sector, creating jobs and opening up new opportunities for coastal communities.”
Andy Harmer OBE, managing director of CLIA UK and Ireland, added: “Cruise Lines International Association is delighted to partner with the UK government on the UK Cruise Growth Plan. This agreement reflects years of partnership between industry and government, with a joint ambition: a thriving UK cruise sector that drives economic growth and benefits coastal communities in all four nations.”
Harmer believes this is a clear roadmap for the future of cruising in the UK. He added: “By reinforcing the sector’s vital role in the nation’s maritime and tourism ecosystems, the forward-looking plan firmly embeds cruise within the Government’s growth agenda. With CLIA member cruise lines pursuing net zero by 2050, the plan will help foster further collaboration between industry and Government to achieve our shared decarbonisation aims.”
Additionally, the cruise growth plan seeks to identify new opportunities for infrastructure investment at cruise ports.
Its key objectives are to build maritime skills, with a focus on future-proofing training for seafarers in emerging fuels, technologies, and vessel types. It also promotes career pathways in shore-side maritime and hospitality roles, particularly within coastal communities.
The plan supports British ports and coastal regions by empowering communities to shape and benefit from cruise tourism. It encourages the inclusion of cruise operations in national planning reforms and calls for collaboration on digital immigration and border systems.
