Third of people book with onboard friends, research says

More than a third of people who make friends on a cruise will go on to book the same sailing with their new acquaintances, according to new research.

The findings were based on a survey by cruise.co.uk of 1,000 clients.

Of the respondents who sail together again, seven out of ten said they do so to socialise and rekindle friendships. 40% said they wanted to explore new destinations with one another. Deals or discounts for group travel play only a minor role, with just 11% saying these influence their decision to travel.

71% of those who booked a cruise reunion have at least two departures lined up with their shipmates.

The survey showed that, overall, more than half of people stay in contact with friends they make on a holiday at sea.

Tony Andrews, managing director of cruise.co.uk, said: “Holidays at sea offer a unique setting to make friends. When combined with the sense of adventure and exploration from travelling across multiple countries, and the luxuries of great food and top-class entertainment, it’s the ideal environment to form lasting relationships.

“With so many friends reuniting at sea, a cruise is not only a great holiday option, but also the perfect place to socialise and meet people on the same wave-length.”