Research reveals a rise in young, solo cruisers

Independent research conducted by cruise agency Cruise 118 has found that cruising is a popular choice for solo travellers across all age groups.

The research found that cruisers in their 30s are more likely to travel to exotic destinations, with the Middle East seeing a 293 per cent increase year on year for solo travellers. The Far East (with bookings up 138 per cent year-on-year), Polar Regions (up 127 per cent) and Middle East (up 87 per cent) have been identified as up-and-coming destinations.

Cruise 118 marketing director Alan Williamson said: “Travelling alone is becoming much more culturally and socially acceptable, and cruising is often a great way for young, solo travellers to explore the world with the safety and reliability of a cruise.”

He continued: “This shift towards experience-led holidays is hugely prevalent across the entire travel industry right now and for a very good reason. It’s great to see so many people looking to broaden their cultural awareness through experiencing as much of the world as possible. People are seeking to get back in to nature, be adventurous and explore the world, and cruising is an excellent way to facilitate those desires.

“Adventure excursions can facilitate once-in-a-lifetime opportunities such as dolphin-watching in Muscat, cycling tours through rustic villages and scenic landscapes in Kochi as well as visiting the Taj Mahal, sailing through the Suez Canal, touring the ancient city of Petra, walking the Great Wall of China or experiencing the Cherry Blossoms of Japan.”