The UK Tourism Minister Stephanie Peacock reaffirmed the government’s support for cruise tourism growth today as industry leaders gathered in Port of Tyne, UK, for CLIA’s Cruise Tourism Summit. The Summit brought together cruise leaders, UK Government representatives, ports and tourism organisations. The programme explored how cruise can increase economic opportunity, strengthen regional travel, and create lasting values for communities across the nation. The Summit followed the publication of the UK Government’s Cruise Growth Plan last September. In her address, the Minister highlighted that the UK is the world’s 3rd largest cruise source market. She also spoke about the opportunities the sector creates across tourism, hospitality, maritime services, supply chains and travel agencies nationwide.In 2024, cruise generated PS6.3 billion for the UK economy (including direct, indirect and induced output), while supporting 69,000 jobs.ADVERTISEMENTSpeakers at the Summit stressed the need to maintain a competitive operating environment as cruise lines make long-term deployment and investment decisions worldwide. The speakers also discussed ways in which the UK could strengthen its position on the global cruise market, and increase its economic impact in years to come. Matthew Dass, Director of Tourism Economics, presented CLIA’s latest economic impact statistics. The Port of Tyne hosted a reception to welcome guests to Newcastle. Commercial Director Craig Morton also welcomed delegates. Sessions onboard Fred. Fred gave remarks on Olsen’s Balmoral, which brought together cruise executives, destination leaders, and policymakers. Olsen Cruise Lines’ CEO Samantha Stimpson. CLIA UK & Irish Managing Director Andy Harmer. CLIA UK Chair David Dingle. Industry leaders participated in a panel discussion on the future of responsible and sustainable cruise tourism in the UK. The panel included MSC Cruises Vice President for Sustainability and ESG Linden Coppell, Carnival Maritime Senior Manager for Port Operations and Destination Engagement Richard Cook, and Portsmouth International Port Technical Director Stephen Watkyns. In the UK Cruise Growth Plan, published last year we shared our vision for how we can ensure that the sector can continue to thrive and be a powerful engine of activity. “Building on the successes of the sector, CLIA UK remains committed to supporting the UK visitor economy as a entire. We are therefore developing a Visitor Economic Growth Strategy, which will provide a long-term, clear plan to unlock investment, help businesses, and increase visitor flow across England. Andy Harmer OBE is the Managing Director of CLIA. He said: “It was a pleasure to host delegates from industry and government at our second Cruise Tourism Summit and to celebrate the benefits that our sector provides to the UK.” This success is a testimony to the collaboration among cruise lines, ports and destinations, as well as suppliers, who all work together to create incredible experiences for those who visit our shores. “With the right Government policies, which enable the UK to stay competitive, there is a great potential for cruise contributions to grow in the years to follow.” Samantha Stimpson CEO, Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines said: “It’s a privilege to have such a powerful group of leaders and stakeholder aboard Balmoral.” We all have a part to play in making sure the UK cruise industry continues to grow and develop, and that it doesn’t happen within silos. CLIA created the platform for these important discussions. Thank you. Craig Morton, Commercial director, Port of Tyne said: “As North East Gateway for Cruises, The Port of Tyne is proud to welcome the Cruise Tourism Summit and to showcase all the Port of Tyne Cruise operations has to offer.” This growth reflects the strength of the offer and the appeal to the North East.
