Music, food and culture: Passengers reveal top picks for themed cruises

Wednesday, May 21, 2025 0

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.”