232nd MONTHLY EDITION APRIL 2025 “Welcome to the Cruise Revolution - Here's What It Means for You“

Good morning, Fellow members, 

The cruise boom is more than just travel... It’s a powerful investment opportunity. Much like your property portfolio that we've proudly managed over the past 30 years, this venture offers strong returns. The key difference? You can wake up each morning to a new destination while your investment works for you.

Cruising Into a New Golden Age

From the United States to the United Kingdom, Canada to Greece, and Australia to France—the world’s cruise powerhouses are preparing for a sea change. A new golden era of cruise tourism is here, and it’s more than just a trend—it’s a global transformation.

A Wave of Growth

Between 2025 and 2026, cruise passenger capacity will grow by 6.5% and 6%, adding nearly 2 million new guests each year. Even with a slight dip to 4% in 2027, long-term growth will average 3% annually through 2033, reaching a projected 44 million passengers per year—over 120,000 travellers sailing daily.

This surge will ripple across the entire travel sector: ports, airlines, hotels, tour operators, and tourism boards must all scale up to meet the demand.

Innovation at Sea

More than 70 new ships will launch by 2033, redefining the onboard experience. Think greener LNG-powered vessels, AI-driven personalisation, floating wellness resorts, and immersive, destination-focused itineraries.

Cruising is no longer just about getting from A to B—it’s about the journey itself.

Ports Under Pressure

Major cruise hubs like Miami, Barcelona, Singapore, and Dubai face mounting pressure to expand capacity. Smaller scenic destinations—from the Norwegian fjords to the Greek Isles—must also adapt, balancing growth with sustainability to prevent overtourism.

Infrastructure upgrades, smarter customs systems, and improved crowd and transport management will be essential.

Beyond the Sea

This boom extends beyond cruise lines. Airlines are expanding routes to cruise ports. Hotels are creating bespoke stay-and-sail packages. Tourism boards are investing in campaigns to turn port calls into extended stays.

Destinations like South Florida, Singapore, Greece, and Australia are already enhancing services to ride the cruise wave.

Challenges on the Horizon

While the future looks strong, the industry must navigate fuel prices, environmental regulations, global instability, and climate risks. Labour shortages and crew training will also be key to maintaining service standards.

Still, momentum is on cruise tourism’s side. Record bookings, early ship launches, and rising interest from Millennials and Gen Z show cruising’s appeal is expanding far beyond its traditional base.

What This Means for Travellers

Travellers will benefit from more options, better value, and new experiences—from niche wellness cruises to remote expeditions. But with popularity comes competition—early planning and flexible travel strategies will be essential.

What Does This Mean for Our Members (Investors)

The cruise boom is more than travel... It’s a major investment opportunity, just like your property portfolio, which we have managed over the past 30 years. The difference is that you have the opportunity to enjoy waking up every morning to a new destination 

• Consistent Returns: Cabin ownership offers recurring income as demand surges globally.
• Rising Asset Value: As fleets expand and passenger numbers grow, asset values are expected to climb.
• Global Diversification: Investors gain exposure to high-growth tourism markets worldwide.
• Sustainability Edge: New green ships and smart tech align with future-focused, ESG-friendly investing.
• First-Mover Advantage: Early investors secure better terms before the market becomes saturated.

This is your chance to ride the wave of a fast-growing, future-proof industry.

This is not just about cruising—it’s about being part of a movement redefining travel, tourism, and lifestyle investments on a global scale.

The voyage has already begun. Our members are on board... Are you?

The Decade Ahead

By 2033, the cruise industry will surpass 500 ships in service and 44 million annual passengers. This is more than industry growth—it’s a global shift in how we explore the world.

Cruising is no longer just a holiday—it’s the future of travel. The golden age is here. Are you on board?

Chat soon!

John & Annette

Good morning, Fellow Members,

Have you ever wondered what your bank balance looks like compared to a colleague’s? What about whether you have more debt than your neighbours? It’s natural to be curious about how your finances stack up. Now, thanks to recent data from Canstar and global wealth reports, you don’t have to wonder any longer.

We’ve compiled insights on how the average Australian earns, saves, and owes - including how much super they hold and their overall net worth. You’ll be able to assess how your finances compare and, more importantly, whether you’re on track for a financially secure retirement.

While "keeping up with the Joneses" is never the goal, achieving or surpassing average wealth benchmarks can provide confidence that you’re on the right path. And if you find yourself falling behind, we’ll offer smart tips to help you catch up.

As global uncertainty and inflation put pressure on traditional retirement portfolios, many savvy Australian retirees, including The FIRM retired members, are asking: Where can I place my wealth for stable, long-term returns with lifestyle benefits?

That’s where The FIRM International Cruise Lines offers a unique opportunity.

1. Asset-Backed Stability 
   Your investment is tied directly to tangible, income-generating assets — cruise ship cabins — not just paper markets. These floating resorts continue to perform even in turbulent markets.

2. Strong Yield Potential
   Cabins on luxury cruise ships generate reliable, recurring revenue through charter operations, family bookings, and event voyages. Our business model projects returns above traditional rental properties, with fewer costs.

3. Hedge Against Inflation
   Cruise fares and on-board revenue naturally rise with inflation, offering built-in protection that many retirement products lack.

4. Lifestyle + Legacy
   Investors receive VIP access to the very ships they help launch — for holidays, family reunions, or wellness retreats. It’s an investment you and your family can physically enjoy, not just a line on a statement.

5. Trusted Community Roots
   The FIRM’s model has been built on 30 years of trust with over 18,500 property investors... many now retired... who understand long-term value. Our cabin ownership opportunity offers these members a chance to diversify beyond real estate while staying within a trusted network.

If you're looking for a way to preserve and grow your wealth in retirement with a blend of lifestyle and legacy, we invite you to explore cabin ownership or investment in The FIRM International Cruise Lines.

Want to know how it works or get on the priority list for first access? Reply to this newsletter or contact us directly, and we’ll send you the full investment overview.

Until next time,

Warm regards,
John & Annette Ibbitson