Carnival Chief Remains Optimistic For UK Cruise Market

Despite the gloom surrounding the economy, it has been suggested that the UK cruise market could still reach its target of two million passengers by 2012. A report from Carnival Cruises reaffirms last year's growth prediction even though conditions are far from perfect. Last year’s prediction was made prior to the decision to phase out Ocean Village ships from Carnival UK and before the economic downturn had taken its toll.

Carnival UK chief executive David Dingle confirmed that the cruise line had benefited enough in the past to sustain its growth predictions in the future: "Despite a degree of consolidation through the transfer of the Ocean Village ships to Australia now making it a more ambitious target, I would still not rule out the UK reaching two million passengers by 2012. After all, there may still just be time to order more ships for the UK market for delivery in 2012."

Dingles optimism comes as Carnival UK reported a 25%-35% year-on-year increase in sales. In 2008, the UK cruise market reached 1.5 million thanks to year on year growth of 12%. From this amount Carnival UK accounted for 60% of the additional 12 % growth.

Carnival group cruise brands include P&O Cruises, Cunard, Princess Cruises, Ocean Village, Seabourn Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Carnival Cruises, AIDA and Costa. In 2010, Carnival UK's capacity will be extended with the introduction of the P&O Azura and the Cunard Queen Elizabeth.