A customer survey by cruise specialist cruise.co.uk has revealed that 71% of travellers are open to taking a holiday at sea during the festive period. One in five respondents (20%) say they are 'definite' they will embark on a Christmas cruise within the next two years.   83% would opt for an ocean voyage, compared to 17% who would choose a river cruise.   For ocean itineraries, the Caribbean emerged as the most popular festive destination, with 24% favouring its warmer climate and beach getaways. The Mediterranean followed closely behind at 22%, with the Canary Islands third on 19%.   On the river, the Danube proved the standout choice, as selected by 39% of respondents. The Rhine was next at 29%, followed by the Seine on 23%.   The most appealing aspect of a Christmas cruise is 'a hassle-free holiday with no planning', with over one-third (35%) selecting this as their primary reason for sailing. 'A warm-weather Christmas' came in next at 17%. Meanwhile, 16% went for 'escaping the usual Christmas routine', and the same number 'exploring different destinations at Christmas'.   Tony Andrews, managing director of cruise.co.uk, said: “Our results clearly show that Christmas cruising is becoming an increasingly attractive option for a broad range of travellers. For many, the appeal lies in removing the stress that can come with the festive season, while still enjoying a memorable holiday - particularly as cruise ships embrace the festive season onboard with seasonal dining, themed entertainment and special celebrations.   “The strong demand for the warm weather of the Caribbean, alongside continued interest in classic European itineraries, reinforces the wide range of choice for holidaymakers - whether that’s sunshine, sightseeing or simply switching off.”   The survey was completed by almost 500 customers.

  A survey from online cruise specialist cruise.co.uk has revealed that value for money is the key factor when it comes to booking a world cruise.   The research found that for almost 50% of respondents, the overall cost of a world cruise is the most influential consideration in their booking intentions, followed by the destinations visited during the itinerary (22%).   The findings come after P&O Cruises' recent winter 2027 and spring 2028 launch, which includes the line's longest world cruise to date.   In addition, 58% of those asked chose ‘all-inclusive pricing and packages’ when asked what would increase the appeal of a world cruise, with 13% looking for exclusive excursions and cultural experiences, and 12% preferring smaller, more intimate ships.   A majority (47%) stated their ideal duration of cruise was one to two months, with 22% preferring three to four months at sea.   Overall, 43% of those asked are either ‘very or quite’ interested in taking a world cruise in the future, with 26% undecided.   Tony Andrews, managing director of cruise.co.uk, said: “Travellers are seeking unforgettable experiences at sea without compromising on financial peace of mind. It’s clear that today’s guests want both adventure and assurance that every pound spent delivers outstanding value. This is what world cruises - with exceptional destinations, extended itineraries and so much included upfront - provide in ways that land-based alternatives cannot compete with.”

  Cruise.co.uk has launched a new scheduled payment option, allowing customers to spread the cost of their cruise on a monthly basis.   The option, available on an interest free basis, applies to all cruise and package holidays offered by the online travel specialist, including its new collection of no-fly cruise and stay breaks to the US and Canada.   Payments can be set up over the phone using a debit or credit card, with instalments taken automatically, until the final balance is due four months before departure.   Tony Andrews, cruise.co.uk managing director, said: “This new option makes our customers’ cruise payments even easier, and is ideal for anyone looking to spread the cost of their holiday at sea. A cruise getaway already offers tremendous value for money, with so much included in the price, and this interest-free choice makes everything even more accessible.”

  Online travel specialist cruise.co.uk has launched a collection of no-fly cruise and stay packages, departing in 2026 and 2027.   The itineraries, ranging from 25 to 29 nights, sail from Southampton, taking in destinations including New York, Washington, Boston and Nashville in the US; Montreal and Toronto, Canada; Niagara Falls; Iceland; and the Norwegian Fjords.   The itineraries comprise:  

• 29-night ‘Niagara Falls, with Norwegian Fjords, New York & Washington’: A 14-night voyage on Princess Cruises’ Majestic Princess, calling at Stavanger, Haugesund and Skjolden, Norway; Reykjavík, Iceland; Halifax, Canada; and disembarking in New York; escorted tour with two nights at Niagara Falls; three nights in Washington; three nights in New York. Followed by a seven-night return cruise to Southampton onboard Queen Mary 2. Prices start from £4399pp, departing September 19, 2026.
• 25-night ‘Iconic No Fly USA with New York, Atlantic City & Washington DC’: A 12-night voyage on Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Sun, calling at Paris (Le Havre); Dublin (Dun Laoghaire); Cork; Sydney and Halifax (both Nova Scotia); and disembarking in New York. Followed by a two-night stay in Washington and four nights in New York. Seven-night return cruise to Southampton on Cunard's Queen Mary 2. Prices start from £3299pp, departing October 12, 2026.
• 28-night* ‘Southern States of the USA with Music Cities & The Deep South’: A seven-night voyage on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, arriving in New York. Followed by an escorted tour with a one-night stay in Staunton; two nights in Nashville; two nights in Memphis; three nights in New Orleans; one night in Birmingham; one night in Charlotte; one night in Washington; and three nights in New York. Followed by a return cruise to Southampton onboard Queen Mary 2. Prices start from £5299pp, departing September 10, 2027.
• 28-night ‘Canada in the Fall with Escorted Big Apple, Niagara Falls, Montreal & Toronto’: A 14-night voyage on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, visiting New York; Boston; Sydney (Nova Scotia); Charlottetown; and disembarking in Quebec. Then a one-night stay in Montreal; two nights in Toronto; two nights at Niagara Falls; two nights in New York. Followed by a seven-night return cruise to Southampton onboard Queen Mary 2. Prices start from £4599pp, departing September 10, 2027.
• 28-night ‘Escorted Christmas Fairytale in New York with Washington, Boston & New Year in Niagara’: A seven-night voyage on Cunard’s Queen Mary 2, arriving in New York. Followed by a two-night stay in Washington; Christmas Day in New York; three nights in Boston; three nights at Niagara Falls; and back to New York for a seven-night return cruise to Southampton onboard Queen Mary 2. Prices start from £4999pp, departing December 14, 2027.

  Tony Andrews, managing director of cruise.co.uk, said: “These no-fly cruise and stay holidays make it easier than ever to visit a host of iconic destinations. They blend the ease of ocean cruising with immersive land adventures in famous cities such as New York, Nashville, Montreal and Washington, plus natural wonders including Niagara Falls and the Norwegian Fjords. Whether it’s autumn colours, festive magic or the rhythm of the Deep South, these journeys promise unforgettable memories.”   All itineraries include overseas transfers, accommodation and guided tours.

  Cruise travellers are most tempted by new ships that offer enhanced cabins, larger public areas and original entertainment options, according to findings released by cruise.co.uk.   The online cruise specialist surveyed 1,200 customers to find out what makes them want to sail on the latest ships. Top of the list was upgraded accommodation, chosen by 28% of respondents, followed by more space and expanded public areas (25%), and refreshed entertainment and shows (16%).   Flashier features such as waterparks and ‘bragging rights’ had less pull and were selected by just 10% and 2% respectively.   Nearly 40 ocean and river cruise ships are setting sail for the first time this year, including Royal Caribbean International’s Star of the Seas, Virgin Voyages’ Brilliant Lady, MSC World America, Princess Cruises' Star Princess and Disney Destiny.   When it comes to brand loyalty, only 15% said they would stick to their favourite cruise line when trying out the latest ships. Most respondents - 85% - said they’re happy to explore different cruise lines if it means experiencing something new.   The survey also revealed that most travellers aren't swayed purely by the novelty factor. Just 10% said they were more likely to book a cruise simply because a ship is new, with the majority either indifferent (75%) or preferring more established options (16%).   Tony Andrews, managing director of cruise.co.uk, said: “It’s clear that travellers are drawn to the added comfort and upgraded experiences that newer ships can bring. Extra space, enhanced cabins and improved facilities evidently make a difference when passengers are planning a holiday at sea.   “And loyalty to cruise lines doesn’t necessarily dictate where customers will book. People want the best value and experience for their money, and they’re open to shopping around to get it.”

  40% of passengers are interested in taking a themed cruise, according to a new survey from online cruise specialist cruise.co.uk.   Themed cruises are itineraries designed to focus on a specific subject or topic, including history, sports, wellness and fitness, and TV and film. Onboard activities can include appearances and talks from subject experts, and shore excursions designed to showcase the theme.   Of the 1,000 customers asked, just 10% had taken an itinerary of this kind, indicating the potential for future demand.   A music-focused voyage topped respondents’ preferred theme, taking 38% of the votes, with food and drink on 23% and history and culture 20%.   Tony Andrews, managing director of cruise.co.uk, said: “This interest in themed cruises reflects a shift toward more personalised and immersive travel experiences, where entertainment, hobbies and pastimes form a key part of the experience. From music and food to wellness and film, themed cruises are now a key part of the cruising landscape, providing yet another reason for repeat guests to book again or for new-to-cruise travellers to take their first holiday at sea.”

  An annual survey from cruise specialist cruise.co.uk has revealed that single travellers now make up 5% of the cruise market. The findings were drawn from a survey of over 8000 cruise.co.uk and seascanner.co.uk customers, highlighting key trends in the cruise landscape.   The research also found that solo cruisers are highly likely to recommend the experience, with 70% stating they would encourage friends, family or colleagues to embark on a solo sailing.   When it comes to booking decisions, solo cruisers have similar priorities compared to those sailing with companions. Price and itinerary ranked as the most important factors for the majority of both sets of travellers, ranging between 60% and 70%. Cabin selection and onboard facilities are more of a concern to around 50% of those polled.   Results from respondents when asked: “When booking your next cruise, how important or unimportant are each of the following factors to you?”  

	Price		Itinerary		Cabin		Onboard Facilities
	Solo	Non-solo	Solo	Non-solo	Solo	Non-solo	Solo	Non-solo
Important (9-10)	69%	65%	63%	62%	49%	54%	45%	52%
Neutral (6-8)	24%	29%	29%	32%	40%	39%	43%	42%
Less Important (1-5)	7%	6%	8%	6%	11%	7%	12%	6%

  Tony Andrews, managing director of cruise.co.uk, said: “We’re seeing more solo travellers embracing the cruise experience, and it’s clear that affordability and the destinations visited are key drivers for this market. As the popularity of cruise continues to grow across the board, we expect cruise lines to further cater to this growing segment, with more tailored offerings and competitive pricing.”

Cruise specialist cruise.co.uk has rolled online booking functionality. Until now, customers were only able to complete their booking via telephone or over email. This still remains an option, alongside the new online booking function. Cruise.co.uk says it will expand customers’ choice and streamline the booking process. This will allow its cruise consultants to spend more time on tailor-made packages. Customers will continue to be introduced to a cruise consultant, who will be on hand to provide support during and after the booking. Tony Andrews, cruise.co.uk MD, said: “We’re always looking at ways to improve our customer service and the introduction of online bookings is a natural step forward.” “We know that many customers are comfortable using these systems, but for us it’s important that we do not lose the human touch.” In 2024 cruise.co.uk celebrated its 40th anniversary. It has almost 32,000 voyages available, sailing from the UK and overseas. It offers itineraries to the Mediterranean, northern Europe, Caribbean, Australasia, Alaska and Asia.

  Cruise.co.uk has honoured suppliers from across the industry at its awards evening, held as part of the agency's 20th annual conference.   This year’s event saw over 25 senior industry delegates gather to celebrate achievements across 14 cruise-specific categories.   Hosted by Chris Gardner, CEO, and Tony Andrews, managing director, the awards recognise excellence as nominated by cruise.co.uk’s internal teams, alongside categories voted for by over 8,000 of their customers.   Princess Cruises was awarded ‘Best Mainstream Cruise Line (Large)’, with Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines securing ‘Best Mainstream Cruise Line (Medium)’. In the luxury categories, Azamara took home ‘Best Luxury Cruise Line’, while Regent Seven Seas Cruises was named ‘Best Ultra-Luxury Cruise Line’.   For the second year running, cruise.co.uk’s sister brands recognised their top suppliers, with MSC Cruises winning the ‘Seascanner.co.uk Partner Award’, and Oceania Cruises taking home the ‘Above & Beyond Partner Award’.   P&O Cruises won several of the internally voted categories, earning recognition for ‘Best Reward Scheme’ and ‘Best Booking System’, while Celebrity Cruises was celebrated as ‘Most Helpful Cruise Line’.   In individual recognition, Nikki Dos Santos of Princess Cruises and Amanda Skilbeck of MSC Cruises were jointly awarded ‘Best Account Manager’.   Chris Gardner said: “The relationships we hold with our cruise line partners are fundamental to our success and it’s fantastic to celebrate their achievements together. Our awards also reflect the voice of the customer, which remains a crucial benchmark for our industry as we continue evolving to provide the best cruise experiences for our mutual guests.”   Tony Andrews added: "The support and collaboration we receive from our suppliers and their account managers are second to none. Their dedication allows us to showcase an incredible variety of sailings to our customers, and it's rewarding to see passenger numbers continue to grow, whether from returning guests or first-time cruisers.”   Hayley Moore, director – sales at Princess Cruises, said: “We’re incredibly proud to be recognised by both the cruise.co.uk team and their customers. Winning ‘Best Mainstream Cruise Line (Large)’ and ‘Best Cruise Line for First-Time Cruisers’ is a fantastic testament to the amazing experiences we create onboard. From our personalised service to innovative amenities and immersive itineraries, we just love ensuring every guest enjoys a perfect holiday at sea. Thank you to cruise.co.uk for their continued partnership and support.”   2025 winners: Best Mainstream Cruise Line (Large): Princess Cruises Best Mainstream Cruise Line (Medium): Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines Best Cruise Line for Families: Royal Caribbean International Best Cruise Line for First-Time Cruisers: Princess Cruises Best Ultra-Luxury Cruise Line: Regent Seven Seas Cruises Best Luxury Cruise Line: Azamara Best Reward Scheme: P&O Cruises Best Booking System: P&O Cruises Most Helpful Cruise Line: Celebrity Cruises Best Trading Partner: MSC Cruises Best Account Manager: Princess Cruises, Nikki Dos Santos Best Account Manager: MSC Cruises, Amanda Skilbeck Seascanner.co.uk Partner Award: MSC Cruises Above & Beyond Partner Award: Oceania Cruises

  An annual survey from cruise specialist cruise.co.uk has revealed a growing appetite for cruise holidays, with 54% of new-to-cruise guests looking to increase the proportion of their holidays spent at sea. The findings were revealed as part of a survey of over 8000 cruise.co.uk and seascanner.co.uk customers.   The top reasons cited for an increased interest in cruising over the next two years include retirement and more free time (23%), avoiding the hassle of flying (19%), value for money (18%), and the convenience of visiting multiple destinations in one trip (15%).   The survey also found an impressive 94% of first-time cruisers reported being either satisfied or very satisfied with their cruise experience.   Tony Andrews, managing director of cruise.co.uk, said: “These findings reinforce what we’ve been seeing in the market – not only are seasoned cruisers continuing to make cruise their first choice for holidays, but first-time cruisers are quickly becoming lifelong fans. The fact that so many new-to-cruise guests rate their experience positively is a testament to the incredible service, value and variety that a cruise holiday can offer. With more ships, destinations and experiences available than ever, the cruise industry is well-positioned for continued growth.”

  Online travel specialist cruise.co.uk has expanded its exclusive ‘Florida Thrill & Caribbean Chill' cruise and stay package.   The 15-night trip comprises a Caribbean cruise and hotel stays with complimentary access to several local Florida attractions.   The package is available across a number of ships from different cruise lines, including Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest ship; Princess Cruises’ Star Princess, Enchanted Princess and new ship Sun Princess; MSC Cruises’ MSC World America; and Carnival Cruise Line ship Carnival Celebration.   A total of 47 departure dates are on offer, from January 2025 to March 2027. Prices start from £1699pp.   The itinerary includes:   * A pre-cruise five-night stay, either on site or near Universal Orlando Resort. An in-resort cruise.co.uk representative will be on hand at all times. * Tickets to Universal Orlando Resort or Disney's Magic Kingdom. The former includes Universal Studios Florida, Universal Islands of Adventure and Universal Volcano Bay water theme park. The latter comprises a variety of attractions, such as rollercoasters and meet and greets with Disney characters. * A seven-night Caribbean cruise, departing from Miami or Fort Lauderdale and calling at ports such as Amber Cove, Grand Turk, Celebration Key and more (depending on cruise line and departure date). * A post-cruise two-night stay at Miami Beach Hotel, including a tour of the Everglades. * Departures on Carnival Celebration feature a post-cruise six night stay in Orlando and one night in Miami.   All packages include return flights from London and overseas transfers, with regional airport options available.   ‘Florida Thrill & Caribbean Chill' originally launched with 45 departures across 2024 and 2025, all via Princess Cruises.   Tony Andrews, cruise.co.uk managing director, said: “This package makes for the perfect family escape. From the convenience of a pre-cruise hotel stay in Orlando, to the wonders of a Caribbean cruise and access to Universal Orlando Resort or Disney's Magic Kingdom, this holiday has it all, and at unbeatable value. We’ve expanded our choice of ships and departure dates, giving more people the opportunity to experience this one-of-a-kind adventure.”

  Four in 10 of us would spend Christmas on a holiday at sea, a survey of 900 people has revealed. Cruise specialist cruise.co.uk found that of those, 90% would prefer their festive sailing on the ocean and 10% on a river.   For ocean enthusiasts, the most popular yuletide destination is the Caribbean, at 42%. The Canary Islands were next on 21%, followed by the Norwegian Fjords on 9%.   For river fans, the Danube came top at 53%. The Rhine scored 28% and the Seine 19%.   The main appeal of a Christmas voyage is having meals, events and activities laid on by the cruise line, according to 39% of respondents. 28% prefer the idea of escaping the usual holiday routine, while 9% were enticed by the celebratory atmosphere on a ship.   The findings come as cruise.co.uk has announced an overall 32% increase in year-on year Christmas market cruise bookings.   Tony Andrews, managing director of cruise.co.uk, said: "Our findings show just how enticing a Christmas cruise can be. Whether it’s the allure of a warm Caribbean breeze or the charm of European riverside markets, there’s a wonderful range of options for everyone looking to mark the festive period in style. In addition, the convenience and value-for-money of a cruise means that passengers really can eat, drink and be merry when they're onboard."