Growth in Asia/Pacific Cruise Capacity Expected in 2024

an MCS cruise ship
Oceania Cruise Industry Asia
By
Updated Published

An industry report indicates a substantial increase in cruise capacity in the Asia/Pacific region this year.

Following several years of reduced capacity due to the pandemic, the region is projected to see an increase of up to 89 percent in 2024. This growth is being fueled by companies such as Adora Cruises and Resorts World Cruises, along with several international brands.

MSC Cruises, which made a comeback to the region in 2023, is poised to be a major player in the Asia/Pacific market in 2024. The company relaunched its China-based cruise program earlier this year with the MSC Bellissima and will further expand its presence with a year-round program aboard the 4,500-guest ship. 

Additionally, MSC Cruises is introducing a second vessel to the Asia lineup later this year. The MSC Splendida, repositioning from Europe, will start offering itineraries from China in November.

Adora Cruises, now a leader in the region, will experience its first full year of service with the new Adora Magic City. Delivered in late 2023, the ship began its operations in January with a series of cruises departing from Shanghai. The company also operates the 2003-built Mediterranea, a 2,100-guest ship originally built for Costa Cruises, which now sails year-round from China.

Independent research by Cruise Industry News estimates that nearly 90 cruise ships will operate in the Asia/Pacific region in 2024, marking a 40 percent increase from 2023. Prominent international brands sailing in the region include Royal Caribbean International, Costa Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, and Princess Cruises.

The region also hosts several regional players such as Tianjin Orient, Blue Dream Cruises, Viking Cruises China Merchants, Asuka Cruises, and Mitsui Ocean Cruises. The diverse lineup features expedition brands like Captain Cook Cruises Fiji, Heritage Expeditions, and Coral Expeditions.

Overall, the Asia/Pacific region is poised for a dynamic year in cruising, with significant capacity growth driven by a mix of international and regional operators expanding their presence and offerings.