The UK expedition cruise market is expanding at a remarkable pace, surpassing international growth rates. This is evidenced by substantial booking increases recorded by Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) members for the first half of 2024.
- Approximately 25% of ECN members have observed the UK market growing faster than overseas markets, with over two-thirds seeing higher bookings.
- One member of the ECN reported an 88% increase in bookings year-on-year from December 2023 to June 2024, illustrating the sector’s upward trajectory.
- Interest in longer journeys with luxury and wellness features is rising, adding to the industry’s appeal.
- Antarctica remains the top destination, though other locales like Iceland, Scotland, and the Galápagos are also gaining in popularity.
The UK expedition cruise sector is currently witnessing a significant surge, with nearly a quarter of the Expedition Cruise Network (ECN) members acknowledging that the domestic market’s growth outpaces international counterparts. This trend is mirrored by over two-thirds of ECN members who have registered an increase in bookings during the first half of 2024.
An impressive 88% uplift in bookings was reported by one ECN member from December 2023 through to the start of June 2024. Another operator saw triple-digit percentage growth for Antarctica bookings in February 2024 compared to the previous year. Such statistics underscore the vigorous expansion within the UK expedition cruise domain.
Furthermore, there is burgeoning interest in prolonged trips that integrate luxury and wellness programmes. This trend highlights a shift in consumer preferences, with voyagers seeking more enriching and comprehensive travel experiences. Luxury and wellness features are now essential aspects of the modern expedition cruise offering.
Notwithstanding Antarctica’s status as the preeminent destination among ECN members, there is an observable increase in popularity for other regions such as Iceland, Scotland, and the Galápagos. The ‘Fly the Drake’ itineraries also see rising interest, pointing to a diversification in preferred travel routes.
Martin Johnson, chair and co-founder of the Expedition Cruise Network, expressed enthusiasm over the sector’s growth and the initiatives supporting it. He highlighted the network’s proactive steps, such as roadshows and training bootcamps, aimed at fostering sustainable expansion. The upcoming expedition cruise conference in October marks a pivotal development for the sector’s stakeholders.
The UK expedition cruise market’s robust growth underscores the sector’s dynamic evolution and increasing appeal.
