Sea & Coastal Passenger Water Transport in the UK - Industry Market Research Report

Hit a wall: Inflationary pressures and lacklustre confidence are constraining growth in 2023-24

Over the five years through 2023-24, sea and coastal passenger water transport revenue is anticipated to drop at a compound annual rate of 6.6% to £2.3 billion. The industry is heavily reliant on domestic and international tourism. Cruise ships have performed robustly over most of the period and have expanded by marketing value, including all-inclusive holidays. However, demand for international ferry services has wavered as a result of intense competition from air and rail transport. Travel restrictions in response to the COVID-19 outbreak caused passenger numbers to plummet during 2020-21.

This industry includes all operators that transport passengers on sea and coastal waters. This includes the operation of excursion, cruise or sightseeing boats, the operation of ferries and water taxis and the renting of pleasure boats with crew for sea or coastal transport. The renting of boats without crew and restaurant and bar activities on board ships, when provided by separate businesses, are both excluded from the industry.

This report covers the scope, size, disposition and growth of the industry including the key sensitivities and success factors. Also included are five year industry forecasts, growth rates and an analysis of the industry key players and their market shares.