Research Note: The Growth of Cruising in Australia

Cruising in Australasia is undergoing rapid growth far outstripping the increases in the United States (US) or United Kingdom (UK). In 2008 cruising grew by 5% in the US, 12% in the UK and 26% in Australia. Although this growth is off a much smaller base than that of the US or UK, nevertheless, cruising's growth ‘down under’ is making the industry sit up and take notice, and as a consequence more ships are being positioned in Australia and now New Zealand during the southern summer season. Little research has been undertaken in regard to the growth and the data that is available is largely confined to industry reports. This research note summarises the current information and highlights the growth of this niche form of tourism.