Younger British travellers are opting for cruises this summer, according to a recent study.
Cruise vacations, generally thought of as a favourite with older travellers, are now finding favour with holidaymakers in the age group of 15 to 24 years, according to new research from Mintel, a market research company.
The research suggests that around 40 percent of young British travellers between 15 and 24 years of age are contemplating a cruise vacation soon. While only around 4 percent of the same age group have actually been on a cruise, around 32 percent of older travellers, aged between 65 and 74 years, have taken a cruise holiday. Around 28 percent of the younger travellers think that cruises provide good opportunities to meet new people.
Tom Rees, the senior travel and tourism analyst for Mintel, said, ‘Young adults like the idea of an adventure at sea and the house party atmosphere of an onboard holiday can appeal to many young package holidaymakers as a change from resort-based trips.
The key is getting the product right. Given the market trend towards shorter cruises departing from UK ports, short themed breaks or even floating music festivals, promoted through social media, can be a way to attract a younger clientele.’
The ultra-luxury cruises have seen a boost in their volume growth in the UK, with around 8 percent in the summer of 2012, compared to the same season in 2011, and around a 40 percent increase since the summer of 2006.
Sale of European river cruises have increased by 7 percent in 2011, which followed a 9 percent rise in 2010, and the value of that market across the world was £179m in 2011.
