The majority of UK cruise passengers want the assurance of proof of Covid-19 vaccination, new research reveals.
More than 88% of 6,500 cruise.co.uk customers put this among their three top three answers when questioned about what health and safety measures they want to see when sailings resume next week from the UK.
The survey results were announced ahead of a season of sailings in UK waters featuring the likes of Viking Cruises, P&O Cruises, MSC, Royal Caribbean International, Virgin Voyages, Fred Olsen, Saga and Cunard.
The study, claimed to be one of the largest of its kind this year, revealed the must-haves consumers are looking for to help them feel safe and secure onboard.
The three most popular responses were:
- Proof of Covid-19 vaccination (88.44%)
- Health screening at embarkation (87.58%)
- Modern air conditioning to filter out viruses (86.28%)
The ship buffet remains popular, with fewer than half of the cruisers questioned (45.39%) wanting to see table service only.
A similar number (46.03%) called for compulsory face masks.
Overall, almost 90% said they have booked or are likely to book a cruise again.
Cruise.co.uk deputy managing director Tony Andrews said: “Cruisers have spoken and, understandably, tangible health and wellbeing measures are the priority as they anticipate stepping back onboard again.
“The good news is, we know cruise lines are actively putting these in place, so the additional levels of reassurance passengers want to see are being prepared for.
“Interestingly, some of the more traditional features of a cruise, such as the restaurant buffet, remain comparatively popular and will be missed by many loyal passengers if they are removed.”