Cruise holidays in the UK are witnessing a shift towards shorter itineraries.
- Recent data reveals a significant rise in demand for cruises lasting two to six nights.
- Short voyages are especially attractive to new-to-cruise guests.
- Such itineraries are priced comparably to those in 2019, appealing amidst cost-of-living pressures.
- Brits and Irish holidaymakers took a record number of cruises in 2023.
Recent trends indicate a growing interest among UK holidaymakers in shorter cruise itineraries, ranging from two to six nights. Companies like P&O Cruises, Celebrity Cruises, and MSC Cruises are capitalising on this demand by offering a variety of such voyages both within the UK and overseas.
According to online cruise agency, cruise.co.uk, there has been a 42% increase in sales of shorter cruises year on year. This trend emerges as CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) reports that UK and Irish customers took a record 2.3 million cruises in 2023, suggesting a robust recovery in cruise holiday popularity post-pandemic.
Surveys indicate that a significant 71% of individuals who have never embarked on a cruise now consider doing so, reflecting the growing attraction of these short-duration itineraries. These cruises are especially marketed as an ‘accessible choice’ for the uninitiated, offering a convenient option to explore the diverse entertainment and dining experiences available on cruise ships.
Price stability in these shorter voyages from 2019 prices further boosts their appeal. For example, a four-night P&O cruise to Amsterdam departing in December 2024 is available for approximately £416 per person, closely matching prices from 2019, which is appealing given the current economic climate.
Tony Andrews, Managing Director of cruise.co.uk, emphasised that short cruises provide an excellent introduction to cruise life, allowing guests to enjoy onboard amenities such as family entertainment, gourmet dining, and stage shows. His commentary underscores the potential for these itineraries to draw new customers into cruise holidays.
Shorter cruises in the UK demonstrate resilience and appeal in the evolving travel landscape.
