TRENDS IN THE GROWTH OF DEMAND FOR MARINE TOURISM IN GEORGIA

Abstract

Nino Abesadze 
 Email:nino.abesadze@tsu.ge
 Associate Professor, Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University 
 Tbilisi, Georgia
 https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6564-2771
 Ketevan Chitaladze
 Email:ketevan.chitaladze@tsu.ge
 Assistant Professor, Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University 
 Tbilisi, Georgia
 https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3403-6218
 Natalia Robitashvili
 Email:nato.robitashvili@bsu.edu.ge
 Associate professor, Batumi Shota Rustaveli State University 
 Batumi, Georgia
 https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7645-6491
 
 Abstract. Nowadays, tourism is a principal factor in the successful development of the country's national economy and business.
 Indeed, marine tourism is not yet a priority among the types of tourism, and its percentage share is still low in the structure of tourism, however, its growing demand allows for optimal forecasting. Therefore, identifying opportunities for the development of marine tourism, characterizing the mood of the population, analyzing the factors affecting the development of marine tourism, etc. is relevant, and its research is objectively necessary.
 The main goal of the study was to determine expectations for the development of cruise tourism in Georgia. Statistical observation, grouping and analysis methods were used in the research process. 
 It should be noted that cruise tourism is quite a big business. So big that according to a report by the International Association of Cruise Lines, the fastest growth rates in demand for cruise tours have been recorded since 2010. The secret of the attractiveness of cruise tours is the fact that tourists are satisfied with the structure of the services received during the tours, with a wide opportunity for self-realization for recreation, offering the best and most comprehensive environment for travel lover 
 In the research process, general, as well as specific statistical methods were used.
 It should be noted that before the pandemic, the number of international visitors arriving in Georgia by sea transport was characterized by an increasing trend since 2015; In 2022, a 50% reduction compared to 2015 was recorded; The statistical characteristics of marine tourism were the highest in the year of the beginning of the pandemic, which significantly decreased in 2021-2022. 60% of the 350 respondents participating in the study were in the age group of 25-44 years. 71% of the respondents are employed. 68% of respondents prefer internal closed cabins; For example, the Genoa-Laspezia-Civitavecchia (Rome) - Palma de Mallorca-Barcelona-Cannes-Genoa, cruise proved to be in demand among the residents of Georgia. In the structure of tourist expenses, the expenditure on non-alcoholic drinks prevails. etc.