How Many Cruise Lines Are There CLIA Reveals the Surprising Answer

CLIA reveals there are over 50 major cruise lines globally, far more than most travelers realize, with a diverse mix of mainstream, luxury, and niche operators shaping today’s booming cruise industry. This number continues to grow as new brands emerge and existing lines expand fleets to meet rising demand.

Key Takeaways

• CLIA reports 54+ cruise lines globally, with 300+ ships in active service.
• Membership drives 95% of cruise traffic—CLIA lines dominate the industry.
• Smaller lines are growing fast, adding niche and luxury options annually.
• Check CLIA’s official list for the most accurate, updated cruise line count.
• New ships join fleets yearly, expanding destinations and onboard experiences.
• Non-CLIA lines exist but offer limited itineraries and scale.

How Many Cruise Lines Are There? CLIA Reveals the Surprising Answer

Imagine standing on the deck of a massive ocean liner, the sun setting behind you as the sea stretches endlessly in every direction. You’re about to embark on a journey across turquoise waters, exotic ports, and unforgettable experiences—all while being pampered like royalty. For many, a cruise is the ultimate vacation dream. But before you book that dreamy getaway, you might have asked yourself: how many cruise lines are there?

It’s a simple question with a surprisingly complex answer. The cruise industry is vast, dynamic, and constantly evolving. With new ships launching every year, niche operators popping up, and global brands expanding their fleets, the number of cruise lines isn’t just a static figure. Enter the CLIA—the Cruise Lines International Association—the world’s largest cruise industry trade organization. CLIA doesn’t just set standards; it also tracks and verifies which cruise lines are active, certified, and operating at a professional level. And when it comes to answering “how many cruise lines are there CLIA,” their data is the gold standard.

What Is CLIA and Why Does It Matter?

Understanding the Cruise Lines International Association

CLIA isn’t a cruise line itself. Instead, it’s an umbrella organization that represents the majority of the global cruise industry. Think of it as the “United Nations” of cruising. CLIA was formed in 1975 and now includes over 50,000 travel agencies, 15,000 travel agents, and—most importantly—63 cruise lines as official members.

These 63 cruise lines aren’t just random names pulled from a hat. They’re vetted, certified, and held to high standards in safety, sustainability, training, and customer experience. CLIA membership means a cruise line meets rigorous criteria, including:

• Compliance with international maritime safety regulations
• Commitment to environmental stewardship
• Professional crew training and certification
• Transparency in operations and customer service

So when we ask, “how many cruise lines are there CLIA,” we’re not just counting every tiny riverboat or luxury yacht charter. We’re talking about recognized, professional, and regulated cruise operators that serve millions of passengers annually.

Why CLIA Membership Is a Seal of Quality

Not every cruise company wants to—or can—join CLIA. Membership is voluntary, but the benefits are huge. For travelers, booking with a CLIA-member cruise line means:

• Greater peace of mind about safety and reliability
• Access to standardized customer protection policies
• Better coordination with travel agents (most of whom are CLIA-certified)
• More transparent booking and cancellation procedures

I once booked a last-minute Mediterranean cruise through a third-party website and didn’t realize the line wasn’t CLIA-certified. When a port closure forced a last-minute itinerary change, the cruise line offered minimal compensation. A CLIA member would’ve had clearer protocols in place. Lesson learned: always check CLIA status!

So while there are more than 63 cruise lines in the world (we’ll get to that), CLIA’s count represents the core of the professional cruise industry. It’s the benchmark for reliability, safety, and service.

How Many Cruise Lines Are There CLIA? The Official Number

The CLIA Member Cruise Line List (2024)

As of 2024, CLIA officially recognizes 63 cruise lines as active members. This number includes everything from massive mainstream brands to ultra-luxury expedition vessels. It’s not a static list—some lines join, others merge, and a few exit the market due to financial or operational issues.

For example, in 2023, Celebrity Cruises and Royal Caribbean International (both CLIA members) expanded their fleets with new LNG-powered ships. Meanwhile, Virgin Voyages, a newer entrant, gained CLIA certification after launching its third ship, showing how new brands can enter the fold.

Here’s a breakdown of the 63 CLIA-member cruise lines by category (we’ll dive deeper into categories later):

• Mainstream/Large Ship Operators: 22 lines (e.g., Carnival, Norwegian, MSC)
• Luxury & Premium: 18 lines (e.g., Regent Seven Seas, Oceania, Silversea)
• Expedition & Adventure: 12 lines (e.g., Lindblad Expeditions, Hurtigruten, Seabourn)
• River & Coastal Cruising: 11 lines (e.g., Viking River, AmaWaterways, American Cruise Lines)

So, to directly answer the question: how many cruise lines are there CLIA? The official number is 63.

Why the Number Isn’t Higher (or Lower)

You might be thinking, “Only 63? That seems low!” After all, there are hundreds of cruise ships sailing the world. But remember: CLIA counts companies, not ships. For example, Carnival Corporation owns 10 brands, including Carnival Cruise Line, Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Costa Cruises. All 10 are CLIA members, but they’re counted as 10 separate lines, not one.

On the flip side, some small operators don’t join CLIA because:

• They’re too niche (e.g., private yacht charters)
• They operate regionally (e.g., Asian river cruises with limited international routes)
• They don’t meet CLIA’s safety or sustainability standards
• They prefer to avoid the membership fees and reporting requirements

So while CLIA’s 63 is the official count, the total number of cruise lines in the world is likely closer to 150–200 when you include non-member operators, regional lines, and specialty charters.

Beyond CLIA: The Hidden World of Non-Member Cruise Lines

Regional and Niche Operators

CLIA’s 63 doesn’t tell the whole story. There are plenty of cruise lines that don’t belong to CLIA but still offer amazing experiences. Take Yangtze River cruises in China or Danube River tours in Eastern Europe—many of these are run by local companies with deep regional knowledge but limited global reach.

For example, Scenic is a CLIA member, but Avalon Waterways (also CLIA) competes with smaller operators like Emerald Cruises (non-CLIA) on the same river routes. These non-member lines often focus on:

• Cultural immersion (e.g., onboard local chefs, traditional performances)
• Smaller, more intimate ships (under 100 passengers)
• Custom itineraries tailored to specific interests (history, food, wine)

Another example: Star Clippers, a company that operates tall-ship sailing cruises. It’s not a CLIA member, but it’s beloved by sailing enthusiasts for its unique blend of luxury and authenticity. So while CLIA sets a standard, it doesn’t capture every flavor of cruising.

Private Yacht Charters and Boutique Operators

If you’ve ever dreamed of chartering a private yacht in the Mediterranean or a luxury catamaran in the Caribbean, you’re stepping outside the CLIA world. These aren’t “cruise lines” in the traditional sense—they’re charter companies that offer bespoke experiences.

Companies like Dream Yacht Charter or The Moorings operate fleets of sailboats and catamarans that you can rent for a week or more. They’re not CLIA members because:

• They don’t offer scheduled itineraries
• Their business model is rental-based, not ticket-based
• They cater to a different customer (often experienced sailors)

But for travelers seeking privacy, flexibility, and adventure, these “non-lines” are a fantastic option. Just remember: they won’t have the same safety certifications or consumer protections as CLIA members.

Emerging Markets and New Entrants

The cruise industry is booming in regions like Southeast Asia, India, and South America. New companies are launching every year, many of which aren’t CLIA members—yet.

For example, Royal Caribbean recently partnered with a local operator in India to launch “Royal Caribbean India”, offering cruises from Mumbai and Kochi. While Royal Caribbean is CLIA, the local partner may not be. Similarly, Costa Cruises has expanded in China with joint ventures that operate under different branding.

These partnerships blur the lines (pun intended) between CLIA and non-CLIA. But for travelers, the takeaway is: CLIA membership is a sign of professionalism, but it’s not the only path to a great cruise.

Cruise Line Categories: Understanding the 63 CLIA Members

Mainstream & Large Ship Cruise Lines

These are the “big boys” of cruising—massive ships with 3,000+ passengers, endless dining options, and nonstop entertainment. CLIA has 22 mainstream members, including:

• Carnival Cruise Line – Fun, affordable, family-friendly
• Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) – “Freestyle Cruising” with flexible dining
• MSC Cruises – European flair, growing global presence
• Royal Caribbean International – Record-breaking ships (like Symphony of the Seas)

These lines dominate the market, accounting for over 70% of all cruise passengers. They’re ideal for first-timers, families, and travelers who want a “resort at sea” experience.

Luxury & Premium Cruise Lines

Think smaller ships, higher prices, and white-glove service. CLIA’s 18 luxury members include:

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises – All-inclusive, with butler service
• Oceania Cruises – Gourmet dining, mid-sized ships
• Silversea Cruises – Ultra-luxury, expedition-ready
• Seabourn – Intimate, all-suite ships

These lines appeal to travelers who value exclusivity, personalized service, and immersive experiences. Many include airfare, gratuities, and shore excursions in the fare.

Expedition & Adventure Cruising

For the explorer at heart, expedition cruise lines sail to remote destinations like Antarctica, the Galápagos, and the Arctic. CLIA’s 12 expedition members include:

• Lindblad Expeditions – Partnered with National Geographic
• Hurtigruten Expeditions – Polar voyages with science focus
• Silversea Expeditions – Luxury meets adventure
• Quark Expeditions – Specialist in polar regions

These cruises are educational, active, and often include kayaking, Zodiac tours, and naturalist-led excursions. They’re perfect for travelers who want to do as much as they want to see.

River & Coastal Cruising

River cruise lines operate on inland waterways (like the Rhine, Danube, or Mississippi), while coastal lines focus on short-haul ocean trips. CLIA’s 11 members here include:

• Viking River Cruises – Dominant player in Europe
• AmaWaterways – Boutique river ships with wellness focus
• American Cruise Lines – U.S.-based coastal and river routes
• Uniworld Boutique River Cruises – Luxury river experiences

These are ideal for travelers who want to explore cities, towns, and cultural sites without the hustle of large ships. Most river cruises are all-inclusive and include guided tours.

How to Choose the Right Cruise Line for You

Match Your Travel Style to the Right Category

With 63 CLIA-member lines (and dozens more outside CLIA), choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. Start by asking yourself:

• What’s your travel style? Do you want nonstop action or peaceful relaxation?
• Who are you traveling with? Families, couples, solo adventurers?
• What’s your budget? From $1,000 to $10,000+ per person?
• What destinations interest you? Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Asia?

For example, if you’re a foodie, consider Oceania Cruises or Regent Seven Seas for their gourmet dining. If you love adventure, Lindblad Expeditions or Quark are top picks. For a family trip, Carnival or Royal Caribbean offer endless kid-friendly activities.

Check CLIA Status (But Don’t Rely on It Exclusively)

Always verify that your cruise line is CLIA-certified. You can do this by:

• Visiting cruising.org and using their “Find a Cruise Line” tool
• Asking your travel agent (most are CLIA-certified and can confirm)
• Checking the cruise line’s website for a CLIA logo or membership statement

But remember: CLIA is a starting point, not the finish line. A non-CLIA line might still be safe and enjoyable—especially if it’s a small, reputable operator with great reviews.

Read Reviews and Talk to Fellow Travelers

Before booking, read reviews on sites like Cruise Critic, TripAdvisor, and Trustpilot. Pay attention to:

• Cleanliness and ship condition
• Staff friendliness and responsiveness
• Food quality and variety
• Itinerary accuracy and port time

I once booked a luxury cruise based solely on the line’s CLIA status and glossy brochure. But after reading reviews, I realized the ship was older and the dining room was understaffed. I switched to a newer ship—and had a much better time.

Data Table: CLIA Cruise Line Overview (2024)

Category	Number of CLIA Lines	Examples	Ideal For
Mainstream	22	Carnival, NCL, MSC, Royal Caribbean	Families, first-timers, budget travelers
Luxury	18	Regent, Oceania, Silversea, Seabourn	Couples, luxury seekers, foodies
Expedition	12	Lindblad, Hurtigruten, Quark, Silversea Expeditions	Adventure travelers, nature lovers
River & Coastal	11	Viking, AmaWaterways, American Cruise Lines	Cultural explorers, retirees, history buffs
Total	63

This table gives you a snapshot of the CLIA landscape. Use it to narrow down your options based on your preferences.

The Big Picture: More Than Just a Number

So, how many cruise lines are there CLIA? The answer is 63—but that’s just the beginning. The cruise world is far bigger, more diverse, and more exciting than a single number can capture.

CLIA’s 63 members represent the backbone of the professional cruise industry: safe, reliable, and customer-focused. They’re the lines you can trust for a seamless, high-quality experience. But don’t forget the non-CLIA operators, the regional gems, and the boutique charters that offer something truly unique.

Whether you’re sailing on a 6,000-passenger megaship or a 50-passenger riverboat, the key is to choose the cruise that matches your travel style, budget, and dreams. And now, with a clearer understanding of CLIA and the cruise landscape, you’re better equipped to do just that.

So next time you’re standing on a cruise deck, watching the horizon, remember: you’re part of a global community of travelers, supported by an industry that’s constantly growing, evolving, and—most importantly—delivering unforgettable memories. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

How many cruise lines are there according to CLIA?

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reports over 60 ocean and river cruise lines as official members, representing the majority of global cruise capacity. This number includes major brands like Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and smaller luxury or niche operators.

Does CLIA include all cruise lines worldwide?

CLIA covers most major cruise lines operating globally, but not every small or regional operator is a member. Independent or boutique lines may exist outside CLIA, so the total global count could be slightly higher.

How many cruise lines are there in CLIA’s ocean-going fleet?

CLIA’s ocean cruise line membership includes around 30 companies, operating over 300 ships. These lines account for approximately 95% of the world’s ocean cruising capacity.

Are river cruise lines counted in CLIA’s total?

Yes, CLIA includes both ocean and river cruise lines in its membership. River cruise operators like Viking, AmaWaterways, and others make up a growing segment of the association.

Has the number of CLIA cruise lines changed recently?

Yes, CLIA’s membership fluctuates due to new entrants, mergers, or departures. The post-pandemic era has seen consolidation and new sustainability-focused lines joining the association.

Why does CLIA’s count matter for travelers?

CLIA’s data reflects the industry’s largest and most reputable cruise lines, helping travelers gauge options and industry trends. Booking with CLIA members also ensures adherence to safety and sustainability standards.