UK cruise intent surges

CONSUMER research detailed by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) demonstrates demand for cruise vacations among British vacationers is now greater than in 2019.

CLIA surveyed 4,000 people in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the United States, Canada and Australia, with 85% of British respondents who had cruised previously intending to take a holiday at sea again - up 6% on figures from 2019.

Among those who had taken a cruise in the last six months, 90% said they intend to cruise again, while two-thirds of those who had never cruised said they were open to a cruise vacation, up half a percent on pre-pandemic levels.

The poll also highlighted the wider tourism benefits of cruising, with 69% of international cruisers staying at least one night indestination prior to embarking, and 43% extending their stay.

Two-thirds of international cruisers stayed at least one night after disembarkation, with 34% staying two or more nights.

60% of cruisers said they had later returned to a destination they first visited on a cruise ship.

The sentiment survey also showed a jump in international cruisers who said the industry was a “leader in responsible travel,” jumping nine percentage points to 51% of respondents.

CLIA UK & Ireland MD Andy Harmer said it was heartening to see demand for a holiday at sea was set to continue, adding: “the appeal of going on a cruise remains as strong as ever”.

CLIA Australasia has been approached for comment on the Australian results of the poll.