Peacock spoke at the Port of Tyne during Clia's Cruise Tourism Summit where cruise leaders, UK government representatives, ports and tourism organisations discussed the sector can expand economic opportunity, strengthen regional tourism and create lasting value for communities across the country.
In 2024, cruise generated £6.3 billion for the UK economy (including direct, indirect and induced output), while supporting 69,000 jobs.
Peacock said: “The cruise industry is an integral part of the UK’s visitor economy. Building on the success of the sector, we remain committed to supporting the UK’s visitor economy as a whole."
The Summit follows the publication of the UK Government’s Cruise Growth Plan in September last year.
"That’s why we are developing a Visitor Economy Growth Strategy which will provide a clear, long-term plan to unlock investment, support businesses and increase visitor flows across England," she added.
Andy Harmer OBE, Clia UK and Ireland Managing Director, said: “Cruise continues to be a driver of growth and opportunity for local economies across the UK.
"This success is a testament to the collaboration between cruise lines, ports, destinations, and suppliers, who work together to provide incredible experiences to all those who visit our shores."
He added: "With the right government policies that enable the UK to remain competitive, there is great potential for the contributions of cruise to grow further in the years to come.”
Samantha Stimpson, Fred Olsen Cruise Lines Chief Executive, insisted every stakeholder "has a role to play in ensuring the UK cruise sector continues to grow and evolve, and that growth doesn’t happen in silos".
She added: "It is shaped by collaboration, alignment and long-term thinking."
Craig Morton, Commercial Director, Port of Tyne, said: "More people are choosing to start their cruise holidays from the Tyne, while thousands of visitors are arriving to experience our region for the first time. That growth reflects both the strength of our offer and the appeal of the North East.
"Cruise tourism brings real value to the region, supporting jobs and local businesses while showcasing the North East’s culture, heritage and visitor attractions.”
