Cruise sales rise to almost two million
A total of 1,959,000 were taken by British holidaymakers in 2017, 0.5% more than in 2016, according to CLIA.
The Mediterranean remains the most popular cruise destination for British travellers, representing 37% of all sailings booked last year, despite a slight year-on-year decline overall.~
Cruises in Northern Europe rose 8%, making it the second most popular region for British cruisers, beating the Caribbean.~
Northern Europe and the Caribbean attracted the youngest cruisers, with an average age of 52 compared to 56 for British cruise customers overall.
The Caribbean saw a 3% rise in bookings last year.
Unusual cruise itineraries and adventure-style ‘exploration’ cruises to the Antarctic, Arctic and Galapagos were up 3%.
Andy Harmer, senior vice-president and director of CLIA UK & Ireland, said: "In a step away from the traditional image of sunshine-soaked decks, we are seeing an increase in popularity of colder-climate destinations including Canada, Alaska, and Antarctica. Thanks to the array of unique excursion options in these regions, from penguin-watching to ice fishing, these destinations are drawing in both new and repeat cruise travellers."
Africa and the Middle East cruise bookings were up almost 25% while Asia andChina, were up almost 22%. South America and the Panama Canal saw an increase of nearly 25%. The fastest growth was seen by Canada and New England itineraries which were up by a third.
Latest figures from CruiseBritain reveal that the number of passengers embarking at UK ports in 2017 increased 6% to 1.1 million.
Harmer added: "We are delighted that the number of British travellers choosing to cruise continues to rise. There has never been a broader choice of ships boasting incredible onboard amenities, itinerary, or type of cruise, and with more than 27 new ships being delivered globally in 2018 alone, this is set to continue this year, into 2019, and beyond."
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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