The number of Brits cruising post-pandemic hit new heights in 2023, rising by 600,000 in the year to 2.3 million.
Data published yesterday (17 April) by the Cruise Lines International Association also revealed
- The Mediterranean, pictured, remains the number one destination on 35% followed by Northern Europe (29%) and the Caribbean (12%)
- A 53% rise in exploration cruising
- The average age of UK and Ireland cruisers decreased to 55.1 from 56.1 in 2022.
- The average cruise length increased to 10.1 days from 9.8.
- 28% of cruisers were part of a wider multigenerational party, comprising three or more age groups
- 65% of passengers enjoyed a pre-cruise stay
Looking to the future, the data revealed
- 82% of cruise passengers intend to take a holiday at sea again, up by 3% on 2019.
- 71% of those who have never cruised before would consider doing so.
Andy Harmer, managing director for CLIA UK & Ireland, said: “Cruise continues to lead the way in travel and we can clearly see that from these encouraging latest figures.
“With so many holidaymakers returning to the water, and many more eager to dip their toe for the first time, these figures reflect all the advantages a sea escape has to offer.”
Image courtesy of Wikimedia Commons