The North American cruise industry generated $20.4 billion in economic activity within the United States in 2002 – nearly a ten percent increase from 2001 – according to an annual study by Business Research and Economic Advisors (BREA). Commissioned by the International Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL), the study details cruise lines’ economic contributions and examines the extensive links that cruise lines have with major U.S industries. The report cites the cruise industry’s record high for global passenger carryings in 2002 as a major factor in its increased economic activity.