Tuesday, August 20, 2024 The cruise tourism industry in Croatia has experienced a significant surge in passenger numbers during the first half of 2024, marking a notable impact on the country’s tourism sector. Foreign cruise ships conducted 244 cruises along the Croatian Adriatic, representing a seven percent increase compared to the same period in the previous year. This growth has resulted in approximately 350,000 passengers visiting Croatia’s coastal regions, a 24 percent increase, according to data from the Croatian Bureau of Statistics (DZS).

The increase in cruise tourism is expected to have a substantial positive effect on Croatia’s tourism sector and overall economy. The surge in passenger numbers, coupled with the higher frequency of cruises, indicates a growing interest in Croatia as a prime destination for international travelers. The fact that 350,500 passengers were brought to Croatia in the first half of 2024 alone suggests a strong rebound in tourism activity, particularly in the cruise segment.

Despite a slight decrease in the number of cruises in June 2024, compared to June 2023, the overall trend for the first six months of the year has been upward. This growth is significant for the Croatian tourism sector, as cruise passengers contribute to local economies by spending on services such as dining, shopping, and excursions. The increase in cruise activity has the potential to create more jobs in tourism-related industries, boost revenues for local busin.