Europe Cruise Ships Market Assessment, By Type [Ocean Cruise, River Cruise], By Size [Small, Medium, Large], By Product [Contemporary, Luxury, Expedition, Others], By Country, Opportunities and Forecast, 2018-2032F

Europe cruise ships market is projected to witness a CAGR of 6.89% during the forecast period 2025-2032, growing from USD 1.98 billion in 2024 to USD 3.37 billion in 2032F. Demand for unique tourism experiences drives the Europe cruise ships market, especially themed, culinary, and wellness cruises. Advancement in technology and expansion of European port infrastructures boost customer satisfaction and business growth. Creating a larger customer base is also influenced by improved middle-class affluence in emerging economies. The cruise industry is also changing by a higher awareness of sustainable tourism having net-zero sources of carbon emission by the year 2050. Numerous travel experiences, technological innovations, improved infrastructure, income growth, and sustainability create a market for more future expansion.

Report Attributes	Details
Base Year	2024
Forecast Period	2025-2032F
Historical Period	2018-2023
Projected Growth Rate	CAGR of 6.89% between 2025 and 2032
Revenue Forecast in 2032	USD 3.37 billion

For instance, in 2025, Celebrity Cruises Inc., a part of the Royal Caribbean Group, is now entering the river cruise market by launching Celebrity River Cruises. The company will bring 10 river vessels starting in 2027 and will focus on iconic rivers in Europe like the Danube and Rhine. This expansion plans to replicate the Celebrity experience in river cruising, offering culturally immersive itineraries and luxurious amenities.

Rise in Tourism and Hospitality Industry Drives the Europe Cruise Ships Market Growth

The growing tourism and hospitality industry is playing a significant role in establishing the Europe cruise ships market. The growing influx of tourists to Europe, drawn by its scenic coastlines and rich cultural landmarks, has significantly increased the demand for cruise services. Furthermore, more upscale hospitality products, including onboard premium room accommodations and culinary diversity, entice a broader audience. The increasingly popular river cruises can touch small towns and breathtaking scenic landscapes, thereby making the guest experience unique. The relationship between tourism growth and cruise industry creates a strong market environment for cruise travel as Europe demonstrates its prowess as a prominent tourist destination.

For instance, in March 2025, Viking River Cruises AG, announced the launch of new river ships and new travel program changes for its European river cruising in 2025. These include seven new ships, and three new itineraries: Rhine & Main Explorer, Christmas on the Rhine and Main, and Christmastime in Paris & Normandy.

Technological Advancements Propel the Market Growth

Technological advances are the utmost key factors that drive growth in the Europe cruise ships market. With all these modern technological advancements to make fuel systems more efficient, cruises are ever more comfortable for varied travel types, with modern cruise ships adorned with entertainment facilities and personalized services attuned to newer customer demands. This entire aspect made the concept of sustainable cruise ships more attractive, with companies now working towards producing greener versions from minimal energy use to waste disposal by guests or crew traveling in the ship. Connectivity onboard is made seamless with mobile applications and high-speed internet, which allow passengers to personalize their experiences in conjunction with booking excursions and managing activities onboard. More investments in these technological innovations from cruise companies are expected to invoke interest in the service amongst many, hence spurring growth and competition in the Europe cruise ships market.

For instance, in September 2024, a UK company at the forefront of zero-emission technologies, Hypermotive Limited, officially launched its X-M1 Hydrogen Fuel Cell System. The system is developed for marine applications and provides modular future-proof power solutions having modern safety and performance features. It aims to support the transition of the maritime industry into sustainable energy in line with the major global initiatives on emissions.

Ocean Ships Dominates the Europe Cruise Ships Market Share

The ocean ships segment is leading in the Europe cruise ships market, as they account for a major market share. The ships create a wide range of diverse experiences for the travelers. These ships are designed to carry huge numbers of passengers while having the most amenities and entertaining sources. The ocean-cruise appeal is greatly enhanced by the longtime-held brands that have excellent reputations for delivering quality services and unforgettable experiences. Additionally, the ships are equipped with premium accommodation, exceptional dining, and innovative recreational facilities, enhancing their appeal. With multi-country itineraries and scenic views, they cater to a broad demographic, strengthening their market position. Their adaptation to evolving demands, including sustainability and personalized services, further reinforces their leadership in the market.

For instance, in December 2024, Viking River Cruises Inc. has announced that, in 2026 and 2027, it is going to offer a collection of 10 new European ocean itineraries. These range from eight to twenty-two days, including 12 new recurring ports such as Bordeaux, Riga, and Palma de Mallorca, and lead to destinations in the Mediterranean, United Kingdom, Ireland, and Northern Europe, designed so that travelers hop from one iconic city to the other lesser-known jewels.

Germany Holds the Largest Market Share

The robust growth and increasing appetite for ocean and river cruising are expected to make Germany account the largest market for in Europe cruise ships market. The growing fascination of Germans with luxurious travel has dramatically improved the allure of holidaying aboard cruises within the country. A soundly developed appealing infrastructure combined with strategic locations also gives cruise operators a chance for an advantageous destination. Above all, the investment by the country in enhancing passenger experience and various cruise options complementing this further strengthen its market position. Moreover, its investments in the modernization of the cruise fleet and commitment to sustainable tourism practices also bear heavily on Germany's significance in the European countries.

For instance, in September 2024, Meyer Werft GmbH & Co. KG, a cruise ship builder received a financial rescue package from the federal government of Germany and the state government of Lower Saxony, along with private banks, which was to be worth of USD 434 million, giving the government an 80% stake while granting the Meyer family 20%. This investment is meant to provide stability for the company's functioning and maintain its legacy with regards to cruise ship building.

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Future Market Scenario (2025 – 2032F)

• Increased investments and expanding maritime industries, coupled with a significant rise in disposable incomes, driving the Europe cruise ships market demand.
• The rising awareness concerning sustainable environment and considerable technological advancements are projected to foster the Europe cruise ships market growth in the forecast period.
• Companies in the market are investing in developing new products and advancing their performance, propelling the demand for cruise ships in Europe.

Report Scope

“Europe Cruise Ships Market Assessment, Opportunities and Forecast, 2018-2032F” is a comprehensive report by Markets and Data. It provides an in-depth analysis and qualitative and quantitative assessment of the current state of the Europe cruise ships market, industry dynamics, and challenges. The report includes market size, segmental shares, growth trends, opportunities, and a forecast between 2025 and 2032. Additionally, the report profiles the leading players in the industry, mentioning their respective market share, business models, competitive intelligence, etc.

Report Attribute	Details
Segments Covered	Type, Size, Product
Regions Covered	Germany, France, Italy, United Kingdom, Russia, Netherlands, Spain, Turkey
Key Companies Profiled	Viking River Cruises UK Limited, MSC Cruises S.A., TUI AG (Marella Cruises Limited and TUI Cruises), Carnival Corporation & plc (P&O Cruises Limited and AIDA S.r.l), Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines, Hurtigruten Group, Silversea Cruises Ltd. (RLC Ltd.), Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., AmaWaterways Ltd., Celestyal Cruises
Customization Scope	15% free report customization with purchase
Pricing and Purchase Options	Avail the customized purchase options to fulfill your precise research needs.
Delivery Format	PDF and Excel through email (subject to the license purchased)

In the report, the Europe cruise ships market has been segmented into the following categories:

• By Type
  • Ocean Cruise
  • River Cruise
• By Size
  • Small
  • Medium
  • Large
• By Product
  • Contemporary
  • Luxury
  • Expedition
  • Others
• By Region
  • Germany
  • France
  • Italy
  • United Kingdom
  • Russia
  • Netherlands
  • Spain
  • Turkey
  • Rest of Europe

Key Players Landscape and Outlook

Dominance of large players comes from large fleets and premium offerings, whereas a number of smaller regional and specialty cruise lines occupy unique segments, such as luxury expedition or river cruises, to differentiate among themselves in a crowded field. Business models include strategic partnerships with travel agencies, hospitality brands and port authorities at time to increase market reach, but most important of all connect with guest’s experience. Investments in sustainability boost momentum, as operators prioritize deployed technologies such as LNG-powered vessels, shore-side electrification, and innovative waste management to comply with key EU environmental directives. With the industry witnessing a shift to experiential travel, curated itineraries are increasingly becoming culture-immersive, wellness-focused, and themed voyages. The demand for flexible and short-duration cruises and all-inclusive package deals are rising, especially among young generations. Long-term growth will depend on balancing the regulatory framework and innovation with being ecologically aware to satisfy the emerging consumer requirement for hyper-personalized, sustainable travel experiences.

For instance, in April 2025, Fincantieri S.p.A. has secured a USD 2.26 billion deal with AIDA S.r.l to build two LNG-powered ships, set for delivery in 2030 and 2031. Each ship will feature 2,100 cabins and support future sustainable fuels, aligning with decarbonization goals. This marks a significant milestone for Fincantieri and strengthens its partnership with Carnival Corporation & plc.

Key Players Operating in the Europe Cruise Ships Market are:

• Viking River Cruises UK Limited
• MSC Cruises S.A.
• TUI AG (Marella Cruises Limited and TUI Cruises)
• Carnival Corporation & plc (P&O Cruises Limited and AIDA S.r.l)
• Olsen Cruise Lines
• Hurtigruten Group
• Silversea Cruises Ltd. (Royal Caribbean Group)
• Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.
• AmaWaterways Ltd.
• Celestyal Cruises

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