By
Rebecca Gibson |
Travellers have booked 138% more cruises to the Far East, 127% more polar voyages and 87% more Middle East itineraries in 2019 compared to 2018, according to new statistics from cruise agency Cruise 118.
Cruise 118’s independent research data found that there has been a shift towards travellers choosing experience-led holidays across the entire travel industry, including the cruise sector. The Far East, Middle East and Polar Regions were all identified as “up and coming” destinations, in part because cruises here offer guests the chance to experience once-in-a-lifetime excursions, such as visiting the Taj Mahal in India and sailing through the Suez Canal.
“Adventure cruise packages have been designed for people interested in exploring a variety of destinations and immersing themselves in the local culture and hidden charms of multiple places,” said Alan Williamson, marketing director of Cruise 118. “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.”
Cruise 118’s data also shows that cruising is becoming increasingly popular for solo travellers across all age groups. Those aged between 30 and 39 are largely booking cruises to destinations like the Middle East, which has recorded a 293% year-on-year rise for solo travellers.
“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,” said Williamson. “Not all those who embark on a cruise single, depart solo. Cruises are a fantastic way to meet new, interesting people.”