UK and Ireland see two million cruise passenger departures for first time

Cruise Lines International Association has announced that the number of ocean cruises taken by UK and Irish passengers last year reached over two million for the first time.The UK and Ireland cruise industry hit a record 2,009,000 in 2018, surpassing the two million mark a year earlier than predicted and up two per cent from 2017.The announcement is part of the CLIA Cruise Review industry report, which outlines annual global cruise travel figures including how many cruises were taken both globally and in regional markets.Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland director, said: “Last year was an impressive year for the UK and Ireland cruise industry.“Surpassing the two million mark is a significant milestone, as it illustrates how cruise has become a major player within the UK and Irish travel sector.