Clia’s outlook survey 2016 reveals sustained growth

Seventy per cent of travel agents have seen growth in both ocean and river cruise bookings, according to the annual survey by the Cruise Lines International Association (Clia).

The results of the cruise outlook research report were announced at the Cruise Forum on December 13, 2016.

Clia noted that more than three-quarters of customers spent more on ocean cruise bookings and 72 per cent spent more on river cruises.

Travel agents believed that the reason more people are choosing to cruise is largely because of the number of destinations that guests can visit on both ocean and river cruises, according to the results.

The survey also shows how 42 per cent believe that customers are booking earlier.

Agents believe the main reason for customers choosing an ocean cruise is value for money, promotional offers, high standards of service and variety in itinerary and ports of call.

For river cruising specifically, three quarters of travel agents saw growth in bookings year on year.

Similarly to ocean, key reasons why customers are choosing to take a river cruise include value for money and standards of service as well as the quality of shore excursions available and accommodation options.

“It’s great to see that travel agents have seen such an increase in bookings for both ocean and river cruise breaks in 2016,” said Andy Harmer, VP of operations and director of Clia UK & Ireland.

“The survey has uncovered motivations behind bookings and the expectations that customers have in a cruise holiday and it is encouraging to see agents across the UK and Ireland reaping the benefits.”

For more information, visit cruiseexperts.org