Fundamental Shifts of Cruise Shipping in the Post-COVID-19 Era

Yui-yip Lau, Tsz Leung Yip () and Maneerat Kanrak ()
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Yui-yip Lau: Division of Business and Hospitality Management, College of Professional and Continuing Education, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
Tsz Leung Yip: Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong, China
Maneerat Kanrak: Faculty of Interdisciplinary Studies, Khon Kaen University, Nong Khai 43000, Thailand

Sustainability, 2022, vol. 14, issue 22, 1-14

Abstract: The COVID-19 pandemic has seriously influenced cruise tourism and global businesses, which is a new variant that poses unpredictable issues for the cruise industry. This study investigates fundamental shifts in cruise shipping after the pandemic using the CRUISE PORT framework by conducting 18 semi-structured and in-depth interviews. The results show that port connectivity is the most significant factor in promoting ports as hubs. Regional competitiveness is important to sustain the cruise industry. Some ports face a low utilization rate due to cruise lines changing their itineraries and visiting low-risk ports. Cruise ports can rebuild competitiveness by improving their infrastructures. Security became the prime concern, while environmental management is not the main priority and the deciding factor in reviving the industry. A port of call is a significant factor in fostering the industry’s development. The pandemic does not generate any significant issues for cruise lines in terms of ocean conditions. Recreational activities can help cruise lines to attract more passengers, and cruise traffic is a driving force to improve port competitiveness. The findings are drawn implications for the cruise sector, port authorities, and stakeholders to improve their operations and services.

Keywords: coronavirus; cruise tourism; adaptation strategies; resilience actions; cruise shipping (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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