The cruise industry is a dynamic segment of tourism, with ships acting as floating hotels and theme parks. It involves local destinations accessible through the cruise port and the onboard amenities the cruise ship offers. The cruise industry combines maritime transport, terminal operations, travel, and hospitality services to facilitate leisure activities through carefully selected itineraries and onboard amenities. This site covers the business foundations and dynamics of the cruise industry, including cruise ships and cruise ports.
- Introduction to the cruise industry. Elements of the cruise industry. Global and regional aspects. Historical perspective.
- Cruises: Growth drivers. The pillars of cruising. Passenger characteristics.
- Cruise ships: Floating theme parks. Economies of scale. Ship classes. Amenities.
- Cruise products. Accommodation. Dining. Entertainment. Excursions.
- Cruise economics. Supply and demand mechanisms. Cost structure. Pricing. Regulations.
- Cruise lines and brands. Main lines. Ownership structure. Brand identity. Marketing.
- Cruise markets and itineraries. Main regional markets. Seasonality. Itinerary design. Deployment.
- Cruise ports and cities. Types of cruise ports. Environmental and sustainability issues. Local tourism.
- Cruise terminals. Maritime infrastructure. Terminal buildings. Embarkation / Disembarkation. Ground transportation.
- Cruise logistics. Procurement. Stores. Food. Waste disposal.