Continuing rapid growth in the cruise industry within the travel sector could provide a raft of opportunities for New Zealand companies.
The cruise industry is the fastest growing segment of the travel industry. Since 1970, the industry has grown 2,100 percent to 2007 when around 12.6 million passengers boarded ships.
Direct spending by cruise lines and their passengers reached US$17.6 billion in 2007 and further passenger increases are expected this year.
The cruise industry's growth is also reflected in its expanding guest capacity.
Nearly 40 cruise ships were built in the 1980s and nearly 80 more were launched in the 1990s. More than 100 new ships will have been introduced since 2000.
This strong growth has fueled the continuing evolution of the cruise vacation experience.
Over the years, cruise lines have expanded itineraries to include more diverse ports of call and convenient embarkation ports and have also introduced innovative onboard amenities and facilities including cell phone access, internet cafes and wireless fidelity (Wi-fi) zones, rock-climbing walls, bowling alleys, surfing pools, multi-room villas, multiple themed restaurants and expansive spas, health and fitness facilities that easily rival land-based options.
The cruise industry's commitment to adding new capacity is based on tremendous growth potential. Approximately 17 percent of US adults have ever taken a cruise vacation, so an enormous untapped market remains.
Cruise lines cater to a diverse demographic mix. Cruisers' average age is 49, with above-average annual household income at US$104,000.
Cruises attract travellers from every state in the nation and from every province in Canada. The states producing the most cruise passengers are Florida, California, Texas, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Illinois, Arizona and Georgia.
Significant opportunities exist for New Zealand companies to supply equipment, machinery, wool products and food and beverages to the burgeoning cruise industry. |
