cruise industry value chain

Value Chain

The full range of activities that add value to a product or service from its creation to its delivery and beyond

Ship design and construction

• Done by specialized shipbuilders (mostly in europe)

• Involves innovative design, engineering and complex construction

• Creates modern cruiselines that serves as floating resorts

Distribution and ticket sales

• Direct sales through cruiseline websites or call centers

• Third party travel agents remain key distribution channels especially for first time cruisers

Onboard operations

• marine operations

• Accommodation

• Food and beverage

• Entertainment

• Retail

• Crew management

Port destination services

• port operations (docking, refueling, waste handling)

• Coordination with local authorities and suppliers

• Ensures smooth turnaround and guest safety

Shore excursions & local tourism

• guided tours and activities at ports of call

• Dining, shopping, cultural and adventure experiencr

Stakeholders in the cruise value chain

• ship builders & designers

• Suppliers

• Travel agents and tour operators

• Local communities and businesses

• Passengers

• Government and regulatory bodies

• Ports and terminal operators

• Cruiseliners

Flow of money and services

1. Suppliers

2. Cruiselines

3. Travel agents and distributors

4. Guests

Supply chain operators and turnaround operators

Cruiselines must coordinate tightly with suppliers to load provisions and fuel in a short window between passenger turnaround

Mega ships as floating resorts

Royal Caribbean’s 228,000 ton Symphony of the seas is one of the worls largest cruise vessels carrying over 6,600 passengers

Economic contributions to designations

• Increased local spending

• Job creation

• Supporting local business

• Long term tourism development