In our regular market update, we take a look at the rise in demand for cruising holidays and the emerging interest from a younger age group

In our regular market update, we take a look at the rise in demand for cruising holidays and the emerging interest from a younger age group

CRUISE specialists are predicting a boom in the market in the next few years with the introduction of new deluxe vessels.

Figures from the Passenger Shipping Association suggest that cruising is growing faster in popularity in the UK than in any other country.

The cost of a cruise is becoming cheaper which has triggered a boom in the number of younger people choosing it as their main holiday option. The 45 to 54 age group is most likely to choose a cruise and more families are booking than ever before.

Leeds-based agency All Abroad general manager Howard Foreman predicts the cruising market will grow by about 25%.

“There is room for expansion, but as more ships are built, prices will get more competitive. I’ve noticed an increase in people’s awareness about cruising. There is more media coverage and people are realising it’s not just an option for older people.”

Foreman said the most popular destination is the Mediterranean, with the Caribbean a second favourite.

Ian Buckeridge, director of marketing for The Cruise Line in Hurstpierpoint, West Sussex, agreed. “The market will get more competitive and I can’t see the cost of a cruise rising much in the next few years.”

The general consensus among agents is that people now prefer a shorter seven-night cruise around the Mediterranean.

Jane Donnely, a partner at Chichester-based Just Cruises said: “Since the introduction of shorter cruises, a younger market has opened up. The success of Royal Caribbean’s Voyager and Explorer of The Seas has made this very apparent.”