Inland Water Passenger Transport Market
Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Forecasts to 2032 - Global Analysis By Vessel (Water Taxis, Cruise Ships, Cargo-Passenger Ship and Ferries), Propulsion (Conventional, Electric, Hydrogen and Hybrid), Transportation Mode, Passenger Capacity, End User and By Geography
According to Stratistics MRC, the Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market is accounted for $1.87 billion in 2025 and is expected to reach $3.12 billion by 2032 growing at a CAGR of 7.6% during the forecast period. The movement of people by ferries, boats, and other vessels through waterways like rivers, canals, lakes, and estuaries is referred to as inland water passenger transport. This form of transportation is essential in areas with vast water systems because it offers a practical and environmentally responsible substitute for rail and road transportation. Particularly in nations with extensive river systems like China, India, and the Netherlands, it is extensively utilized for cross-border travel, tourism, and daily commuting. Moreover, inland water transportation is becoming an increasingly attractive option for urban mobility and regional connectivity as a result of improvements in its efficiency and sustainability brought about by advancements in vessel technology, such as electric and hybrid boats.
According to the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways, India's inland waterways indeed have the potential to support approximately 15,500 kilometers for passenger and cargo movement.
Market Dynamics:
Driver:
Growing urbanization and congestion in traffic
Longer commutes and increased pollution are the results of congested urban transportation systems brought on by cities continued growth and population expansion. A practical substitute is inland water passenger transportation, which uses natural waterways to lessen traffic on highways and railroads. Ferry services are being incorporated into public transportation systems in many cities, including Bangkok, Venice, and London, in an effort to improve connectivity and reduce traffic. Additionally, to facilitate last-mile connectivity, the availability of water-based transit makes it simpler for people to get to residential areas, business districts, and tourist destinations without depending entirely on road transportation.
Restraint:
Expensive initial infrastructure costs
Infrastructure development and upkeep for inland water transportation demand large financial outlays. Inland water passenger transportation requires the building of docks, terminals, navigation channels, and safety infrastructure to ensure seamless operations, in contrast to road and rail transportation, which depend on established networks. The cost of dredging rivers and canals to keep them navigable is constant, especially in regions where sedimentation is a problem. Furthermore, governments and private operators may find it prohibitively costly to invest in modern vessel technology, such as electric ferries and intelligent navigation systems.
Opportunity:
Developments in sustainable and eco-friendly vessel technologies
The market for inland water passenger transport has a big chance as environmental sustainability and emissions reduction gain more attention. Electric, hybrid, and hydrogen-powered ferries are replacing conventional diesel-powered ones, lowering carbon emissions and enhancing air quality. Research and development for fuel-cell technology, solar-assisted ferries, and battery-powered boats is being funded by governments and private investors, making water transportation a more environmentally friendly choice. Moreover, the transition to environmentally friendly transportation options creates new opportunities for industry participants to launch low-emission, energy-efficient ships that adhere to international environmental standards.
Threat:
Competition from air, rail, and road transportation
Inland water passenger transportation has its benefits, but it also faces fierce competition from other modes of transportation like short-haul flights, high-speed rail, and road networks. Inland ferry systems have limited growth potential because governments and private investors frequently give funding for road and rail infrastructure a higher priority than the development of water transportation. In cities, people can use electric buses, ride-sharing services, and metro systems to get around more quickly and conveniently, which lessens the need for ferries. Additionally, the efficiency of travel is also being enhanced by developments in electric aircraft and high-speed rail, especially for regional and international routes.
Covid-19 Impact:
Due to lockdowns, travel restrictions, and social distancing measures, the COVID-19 pandemic had a severe effect on the inland water passenger transport market, resulting in a sharp decline in passenger traffic. Operators of commuter boats, river cruises, and ferry services suffered large financial losses as a result of the suspension or reduced capacity of many of these services. Financial difficulties were made worse by the fall in tourism, particularly in areas that depended on river cruises and sightseeing ferries. Furthermore, operating costs also increased as a result of operators being forced to adopt expensive sanitization procedures, capacity restrictions, and contactless ticketing due to health and safety regulations.
The ferries segment is expected to be the largest during the forecast period
The ferries segment is expected to account for the largest market share during the forecast period. Ferries are an economical and effective substitute for road and rail transportation, and they are an essential part of regional and urban transit systems, particularly in cities with vast waterways. The market is boosted by the high demand for passengers in crowded areas, where ferries offer a more environmentally friendly and emission-free form of transportation than conventional land-based alternatives. Moreover, the market is expanding due to the rise of environmentally friendly electric and hybrid ferries, which is in line with international sustainability objectives.
The electric segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period
Over the forecast period, the electric segment is predicted to witness the highest growth rate. Stricter emission regulations are being enforced by governments and regulatory agencies, which are pushing operators to switch from traditional fuel-powered boats to environmentally friendly electric ferries, water taxis, and passenger boats. Commercial use of electric vessels is becoming more feasible due to developments in battery technology, improved energy efficiency, and reduced operating costs. Furthermore, accelerating market adoption are investments in renewable energy integration and charging infrastructure. In order to fight urban pollution and traffic, cities with large inland waterways are giving electrification top priority in their fleets of public transportation.
Region with largest share:
During the forecast period, the Europe region is expected to hold the largest market share. In nations with vast river and canal systems, like Germany, the Netherlands, France, and the United Kingdom, ferries, water taxis, and cruise ships are essential for both urban transportation and tourism. The market has been further strengthened by the region's substantial investments in electric and hybrid passenger vessels as a result of its commitment to lowering carbon emissions. Moreover, a major factor in the high passenger volumes is Europe's well-established tourism sector, especially in areas like the Danube, Rhine, and Seine rivers.
Region with highest CAGR:
Over the forecast period, the Asia Pacific region is anticipated to exhibit the highest CAGR. In order to reduce traffic and offer affordable, environmentally friendly transportation options, nations like China, India, Indonesia, and Vietnam are making significant investments in inland waterway infrastructure. Particularly in densely populated urban areas, the region's vast river networks—including the Ganges, Yangtze, and Mekong—support a high volume of passenger transportation. Additionally, the adoption of contemporary inland water transport solutions is being accelerated by the growing emphasis on smart transportation systems as well as increased investments from the public and private sectors.
Key players in the market
Some of the key players in Inland Water Passenger Transport Market include ABB, Siemens, Holland Shipyards Group, Saga River Cruises, Hebridean Island Cruises, Emerald Cruises, Avalon Waterways, SES-X Marine Technologies, Damen Shipyards Group, American Cruise Lines, Viking River Cruises, Crystal River Cruises, Kooiman Marine Group, Riviera Travel and A-ROSA River Cruises.
Key Developments:
In March 2025, ABB has entered into a Leveraged Procurement Agreement (LPA) to become the automation partner for Dow’s Path2Zero project at Fort Saskatchewan in Alberta, Canada. The project, currently under construction, aims to establish the world’s first net-zero Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas emissions ethylene and derivatives complex, which will produce vital components for numerous everyday products and materials.
In March 2025, Siemens Energy announced that it has obtained a $1.6 billion contract to equip the Rumah 2 and Nairyah 2 gas power plants in Saudi Arabia. These infrastructures, located in the western and central regions of the country, will inject 3.6 gigawatts of electricity into the national grid, equivalent to the consumption of 1.5 million households.
In January 2024, American Cruise Lines which operates a fleet of U.S.-flagged coastal and inland passenger cruise ships has reached an agreement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office that calls for improving accessibility on its ships and shore operations. The settlement will address accessibility on all 17 of the company’s vessels and implement accessibility standards and policies to provide greater access during cruises.
Vessels Covered:
• Water Taxis
• Cruise Ships
• Cargo-Passenger Ship
• Ferries
Propulsions Covered:
• Conventional
• Electric
• Hydrogen
• Hybrid
Transportation Modes Covered:
• Canal Passenger Transportation
• Intercostal Transportation Of Passengers
• Lake Passenger Transportation
• Water Shuttle Services
• River Passenger Transportation
• Ship Chartering With Crew
• Water Taxi Services
Passenger Capacities Covered:
• Up to 50 Passengers
• 51 to 200 Passengers
• 201 to 500 Passengers
• More than 500 Passengers
End Users Covered:
• Tourism
• Commuting
• Leisure
Regions Covered:
• North America
o US
o Canada
o Mexico
• Europe
o Germany
o UK
o Italy
o France
o Spain
o Rest of Europe
• Asia Pacific
o Japan
o China
o India
o Australia
o New Zealand
o South Korea
o Rest of Asia Pacific
• South America
o Argentina
o Brazil
o Chile
o Rest of South America
• Middle East & Africa
o Saudi Arabia
o UAE
o Qatar
o South Africa
o Rest of Middle East & Africa
What our report offers:
- Market share assessments for the regional and country-level segments
- Strategic recommendations for the new entrants
- Covers Market data for the years 2024, 2025, 2026, 2028, and 2032
- Market Trends (Drivers, Constraints, Opportunities, Threats, Challenges, Investment Opportunities, and recommendations)
- Strategic recommendations in key business segments based on the market estimations
- Competitive landscaping mapping the key common trends
- Company profiling with detailed strategies, financials, and recent developments
- Supply chain trends mapping the latest technological advancements
Free Customization Offerings:
All the customers of this report will be entitled to receive one of the following free customization options:
• Company Profiling
o Comprehensive profiling of additional market players (up to 3)
o SWOT Analysis of key players (up to 3)
• Regional Segmentation
o Market estimations, Forecasts and CAGR of any prominent country as per the client's interest (Note: Depends on feasibility check)
• Competitive Benchmarking
o Benchmarking of key players based on product portfolio, geographical presence, and strategic alliances
Table of Contents
1 Executive Summary
2 Preface
2.1 Abstract
2.2 Stake Holders
2.3 Research Scope
2.4 Research Methodology
2.4.1 Data Mining
2.4.2 Data Analysis
2.4.3 Data Validation
2.4.4 Research Approach
2.5 Research Sources
2.5.1 Primary Research Sources
2.5.2 Secondary Research Sources
2.5.3 Assumptions
3 Market Trend Analysis
3.1 Introduction
3.2 Drivers
3.3 Restraints
3.4 Opportunities
3.5 Threats
3.6 End User Analysis
3.7 Emerging Markets
3.8 Impact of Covid-19
4 Porters Five Force Analysis
4.1 Bargaining power of suppliers
4.2 Bargaining power of buyers
4.3 Threat of substitutes
4.4 Threat of new entrants
4.5 Competitive rivalry
5 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market, By Vessel
5.1 Introduction
5.2 Water Taxis
5.3 Cruise Ships
5.4 Cargo-Passenger Ship
5.5 Ferries
6 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market, By Propulsion
6.1 Introduction
6.2 Conventional
6.3 Electric
6.4 Hydrogen
6.5 Hybrid
7 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market, By Transportation Mode
7.1 Introduction
7.2 Canal Passenger Transportation
7.3 Intercostal Transportation Of Passengers
7.4 Lake Passenger Transportation
7.5 Water Shuttle Services
7.6 River Passenger Transportation
7.7 Ship Chartering With Crew
7.8 Water Taxi Services
8 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market, By Passenger Capacity
8.1 Introduction
8.2 Up to 50 Passengers
8.3 51 to 200 Passengers
8.4 201 to 500 Passengers
8.5 More than 500 Passengers
9 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market, By End User
9.1 Introduction
9.2 Tourism
9.3 Commuting
9.4 Leisure
10 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market, By Geography
10.1 Introduction
10.2 North America
10.2.1 US
10.2.2 Canada
10.2.3 Mexico
10.3 Europe
10.3.1 Germany
10.3.2 UK
10.3.3 Italy
10.3.4 France
10.3.5 Spain
10.3.6 Rest of Europe
10.4 Asia Pacific
10.4.1 Japan
10.4.2 China
10.4.3 India
10.4.4 Australia
10.4.5 New Zealand
10.4.6 South Korea
10.4.7 Rest of Asia Pacific
10.5 South America
10.5.1 Argentina
10.5.2 Brazil
10.5.3 Chile
10.5.4 Rest of South America
10.6 Middle East & Africa
10.6.1 Saudi Arabia
10.6.2 UAE
10.6.3 Qatar
10.6.4 South Africa
10.6.5 Rest of Middle East & Africa
11 Key Developments
11.1 Agreements, Partnerships, Collaborations and Joint Ventures
11.2 Acquisitions & Mergers
11.3 New Product Launch
11.4 Expansions
11.5 Other Key Strategies
12 Company Profiling
12.1 ABB
12.2 Siemens
12.3 Holland Shipyards Group
12.4 Saga River Cruises
12.5 Hebridean Island Cruises
12.6 Emerald Cruises
12.7 Avalon Waterways
12.8 SES-X Marine Technologies
12.9 Damen Shipyards Group
12.10 American Cruise Lines
12.11 Viking River Cruises
12.12 Crystal River Cruises
12.13 Kooiman Marine Group
12.14 Riviera Travel
12.15 A-ROSA River Cruises
List of Tables
1 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Region (2024-2032) ($MN)
2 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Vessel (2024-2032) ($MN)
3 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Water Taxis (2024-2032) ($MN)
4 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Cruise Ships (2024-2032) ($MN)
5 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Cargo-Passenger Ship (2024-2032) ($MN)
6 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Ferries (2024-2032) ($MN)
7 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Propulsion (2024-2032) ($MN)
8 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Conventional (2024-2032) ($MN)
9 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Electric (2024-2032) ($MN)
10 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Hydrogen (2024-2032) ($MN)
11 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Hybrid (2024-2032) ($MN)
12 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Transportation Mode (2024-2032) ($MN)
13 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Canal Passenger Transportation (2024-2032) ($MN)
14 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Intercostal Transportation Of Passengers (2024-2032) ($MN)
15 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Lake Passenger Transportation (2024-2032) ($MN)
16 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Water Shuttle Services (2024-2032) ($MN)
17 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By River Passenger Transportation (2024-2032) ($MN)
18 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Ship Chartering With Crew (2024-2032) ($MN)
19 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Water Taxi Services (2024-2032) ($MN)
20 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Passenger Capacity (2024-2032) ($MN)
21 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Up to 50 Passengers (2024-2032) ($MN)
22 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By 51 to 200 Passengers (2024-2032) ($MN)
23 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By 201 to 500 Passengers (2024-2032) ($MN)
24 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By More than 500 Passengers (2024-2032) ($MN)
25 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By End User (2024-2032) ($MN)
26 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Tourism (2024-2032) ($MN)
27 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Commuting (2024-2032) ($MN)
28 Global Inland Water Passenger Transport Market Outlook, By Leisure (2024-2032) ($MN)
Note: Tables for North America, Europe, APAC, South America, and Middle East & Africa Regions are also represented in the same manner as above.
List of Figures
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
We at ‘Stratistics’ opt for an extensive research approach which involves data mining, data validation, and data analysis. The various research sources include in-house repository, secondary research, competitor’s sources, social media research, client internal data, and primary research.
Our team of analysts prefers the most reliable and authenticated data sources in order to perform the comprehensive literature search. With access to most of the authenticated data bases our team highly considers the best mix of information through various sources to obtain extensive and accurate analysis.
Each report takes an average time of a month and a team of 4 industry analysts. The time may vary depending on the scope and data availability of the desired market report. The various parameters used in the market assessment are standardized in order to enhance the data accuracy.
Data Mining
The data is collected from several authenticated, reliable, paid and unpaid sources and is filtered depending on the scope & objective of the research. Our reports repository acts as an added advantage in this procedure. Data gathering from the raw material suppliers, distributors and the manufacturers is performed on a regular basis, this helps in the comprehensive understanding of the products value chain. Apart from the above mentioned sources the data is also collected from the industry consultants to ensure the objective of the study is in the right direction.
Market trends such as technological advancements, regulatory affairs, market dynamics (Drivers, Restraints, Opportunities and Challenges) are obtained from scientific journals, market related national & international associations and organizations.
Data Analysis
From the data that is collected depending on the scope & objective of the research the data is subjected for the analysis. The critical steps that we follow for the data analysis include:
- Product Lifecycle Analysis
- Competitor analysis
- Risk analysis
- Porters Analysis
- PESTEL Analysis
- SWOT Analysis
The data engineering is performed by the core industry experts considering both the Marketing Mix Modeling and the Demand Forecasting. The marketing mix modeling makes use of multiple-regression techniques to predict the optimal mix of marketing variables. Regression factor is based on a number of variables and how they relate to an outcome such as sales or profits.
Data Validation
The data validation is performed by the exhaustive primary research from the expert interviews. This includes telephonic interviews, focus groups, face to face interviews, and questionnaires to validate our research from all aspects. The industry experts we approach come from the leading firms, involved in the supply chain ranging from the suppliers, distributors to the manufacturers and consumers so as to ensure an unbiased analysis.
We are in touch with more than 15,000 industry experts with the right mix of consultants, CEO's, presidents, vice presidents, managers, experts from both supply side and demand side, executives and so on.
The data validation involves the primary research from the industry experts belonging to:
- Leading Companies
- Suppliers & Distributors
- Manufacturers
- Consumers
- Industry/Strategic Consultants
Apart from the data validation the primary research also helps in performing the fill gap research, i.e. providing solutions for the unmet needs of the research which helps in enhancing the reports quality.
For more details about research methodology, kindly write to us at info@strategymrc.com
Frequently Asked Questions
In case of any queries regarding this report, you can contact the customer service by filing the “Inquiry Before Buy” form available on the right hand side. You may also contact us through email: info@strategymrc.com or phone: +1-301-202-5929
Yes, the samples are available for all the published reports. You can request them by filling the “Request Sample” option available in this page.
Yes, you can request a sample with your specific requirements. All the customized samples will be provided as per the requirement with the real data masked.
All our reports are available in Digital PDF format. In case if you require them in any other formats, such as PPT, Excel etc you can submit a request through “Inquiry Before Buy” form available on the right hand side. You may also contact us through email: info@strategymrc.com or phone: +1-301-202-5929
We offer a free 15% customization with every purchase. This requirement can be fulfilled for both pre and post sale. You may send your customization requirements through email at info@strategymrc.com or call us on +1-301-202-5929.
We have 3 different licensing options available in electronic format.
- Single User Licence: Allows one person, typically the buyer, to have access to the ordered product. The ordered product cannot be distributed to anyone else.
- 2-5 User Licence: Allows the ordered product to be shared among a maximum of 5 people within your organisation.
- Corporate License: Allows the product to be shared among all employees of your organisation regardless of their geographical location.
All our reports are typically be emailed to you as an attachment.
To order any available report you need to register on our website. The payment can be made either through CCAvenue or PayPal payments gateways which accept all international cards.
We extend our support to 6 months post sale. A post sale customization is also provided to cover your unmet needs in the report.
Request Customization
We provide a free 15% customization on every purchase. This requirement can be fulfilled for both pre and post sale. You may send your customization requirements through email at info@strategymrc.com or call us on +1-301-202-5929.
Note: This customization is absolutely free until it falls under the 15% bracket. If your requirement exceeds this a feasibility check will be performed. Post that, a quote will be provided along with the timelines.
WHY CHOOSE US ?
Assured Quality
Best in class reports with high standard of research integrity
24X7 Research Support
Continuous support to ensure the best customer experience.
Free Customization
Adding more values to your product of interest.
Safe & Secure Access
Providing a secured environment for all online transactions.
Trusted by 600+ Brands
Serving the most reputed brands across the world.
