More Cruise Berths, Even More Passengers

The cruise industry has been raising eyebrows--and in some cases, lowering fares--as it builds ships at a frenzied pace. But passenger volume is increasing even faster, a trade association said. Ironically, the report came just five days before a longtime budget cruise line announced it filed for bankruptcy protection.

Last year the industry added 11% more berths and, as of the third quarter, had drawn nearly 16% more passengers, according to James G. Godsman, president of Cruise Lines International Assn. This year the group’s 23 member lines plan to debut 11 ships; one line, Royal Caribbean International, will debut two ships, officials said.

Despite the optimistic numbers, there are plenty of cruise discounts available. And in late December, Florida-based Commodore Holdings Inc., which operated the Enchanted Capri, Enchanted Isle and Crown Dynasty in cruises from New Orleans and Aruba, abruptly ceased sailing and filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. The company last year briefly operated gambling cruises from San Diego to Mexico. Information on refunds was available in a recorded message last week at (800) 237-5361.