Cruise passengers are getting younger, booking earlier and looking for adventure.
This is according to experts, speaking at the 2024 Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Conference, which concluded on May 25.
“The average age of cruise passengers is getting younger and younger, and we’re welcoming new people to the sector all the time,” said Carnival UK and P&O Cruises President Paul Ludlow. He explained that 88% of millennial travellers who have already cruised are planning to cruise again.
In addition to younger cruisers, CLIA also described an uptake in adventure travel and customers looking for new and exciting experiences. Phil Hullah, CEO of Riviera Travel, said that agents can take advantage of this trend by leveraging the cruise industry’s excursions.
“River cruising is a unique opportunity to combine exploration with genuine relaxation,” he said.
Cruise passengers also appear to be booking cruises far in advance. Ludlow discussed this growing trend of cruisers booking trips earlier than ever.
“People know what they want – whether that be certain suites or destinations – and are ready to book early to get them,” he said.
Most of these cruisers are not just cruising regulars but passengers trying cruising for the first time. Virgin Voyages CEO Nirmal Saverimuttu said the line has recently attracted a higher rate of new-to-cruise guests. Hullah echoed this statement, saying: “About 60% of our customers are new to cruises.”
