Demand for cruise holidays surpasses 2019 levels

New CLIA survey of 4,000 travellers shows the demand for and perception of cruise holidays is now greater than in it was in 2019

By Cruise Adviser On Sep 27, 2022

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has released new consumer sentiment data showing the demand for and perception of cruise holidays is now greater than it was in 2019.

According to the survey, of 4,000 domestic and international travellers, the intent to book a holiday at sea among UK passengers now exceeds levels from three years ago.

Of the respondents, 85 per cent who have cruised previously said they intend to take a holiday at sea again, an increase of six per cent from 2019. This increases to 90 per cent among travellers who have taken a cruise in the last six months. Of those who have never cruised, 66 per cent are open to cruising.

The survey also revealed the economic benefits cruise brings to the areas that ships visit, with 69 per cent of international cruise holidaymakers staying at least one night in their local destination prior to embarkation and 67 per cent staying at least one night after disembarkation. Interestingly, 60 per cent also said they later returned to a destination they had first visited on a cruise.

In addition, as cruise lines continue to advance their sustainability initiatives in pursuit of net-zero carbon cruising by 2050, the percentage of international travellers who say the cruise industry is a leader in responsible travel reached 51 per cent, an increase of nine per cent over the last year.

Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland managing director, said: “This year has been enormously encouraging for cruise, and it’s heartening to see demand for a holiday at sea is set to continue. The sheer number of repeat passengers we’re anticipating, combined with interest from those yet to sail, means the appeal of going on a cruise remains as strong as ever.

“The economic advantages passengers bring to the destinations they visit is also clear, meaning local businesses – from taxis, to restaurants to hotels – benefit accordingly. And we’re delighted to see the raft of sustainability initiatives we have in place, including our 2050 net-zero carbon goal, were recognised.”