A recent survey has highlighted a significant trend among British cruise enthusiasts for 2024, with over half opting for ex-UK departures.
This data emerges amidst an expansive report forecasting another year of burgeoning interest in sea-bound holidays. The survey, which questioned more than 8,000 past passengers, underscores a notable shift towards domestic itineraries.
According to the survey conducted by cruise.co.uk, an impressive 53% of British travellers have expressed a strong inclination towards booking cruises departing from the UK in 2024. This marks a significant increase of 5% in comparison to the previous year, 2023. Such statistics indicate a more pronounced interest in ex-UK cruises, reflecting a growing trend among cruise enthusiasts to explore destinations closer to home.
Remarkably, this reflects a consistent trend, matching the figures reported for 2023. The steady demand for fly-cruises underscores the dual appeal of both domestic and international cruise options.
As more ships are set to launch throughout the coming year, the variety of destinations, products, and pricing is expected to cater to a diverse range of tastes and budgets.
Royal Caribbean and Princess Cruises were jointly named Best Mainstream Line, while Azamara and Seabourn took home accolades for Best Luxury Line and Best Ultra-Luxury Line, respectively.
He praised the collaboration across the industry, stating that it allows for the display of diverse cruise offerings, thus enhancing customer choice.
With a considerable portion of the market gravitating towards ex-UK itineraries, the cruising industry is poised to adapt and respond to these changing dynamics.
Cruise lines are expected to continue innovating, providing travellers with experiences that align with evolving expectations and travel trends.
In conclusion, the survey reveals a growing preference for ex-UK departures among British cruisers as the industry adapts to meet these evolving demands. This trend, coupled with sustained interest in fly-cruises, positions the cruising sector for a promising year ahead.