More under 35s are choosing to cruise

The number of young holidaymakers who have been on a cruise has grown more than any other age group in the last 12 months, according to ABTA’s latest Holiday Habits report. 

More than a quarter (28%) of 18-34 year olds have taken a cruise, up 6% on last year.

By comparison, the number of those aged over 65 who have been on a cruise (38%) is up 2% on last year.  

The market overall is showing growth too, with one in 10 people going on a cruise in the past year and one in seven (14%) planning to go on a cruise in the next 12 months (both up 2% on last year). A further 60% are interested in taking one1 (up from 58% last year). 

The increasing diversity of cruise holiday types has contributed to the rise in popularity from millennials, as a greater variety of itineraries and themed trips have emerged for them to choose from.

More than a quarter (27%) of 25-34 year olds who are interested in going on a cruise would like to take an expedition trip, which offers adventurous experiences such as seeing the Northern Lights and sailing around the Antarctic. 

A fifth of 18-34 year olds are keen to try a wellness or foodie cruise. 21% cited a wellness trip, where they can unwind with activities such as yoga, massages and mental wellbeing workshops.

A further 21% said cruises with a food theme would be their favoured choice, providing passengers with everything from on-board cookery demonstrations to wine tastings, as well as extensive vegan and vegetarian menu offerings.

Among the older age groups, people aged 55-64 are most likely to seek a cruise exclusively for adults, while half (50%) of those aged 65 and over are interested in river cruises; second only in popularity to an ocean cruise (64%).

The length of cruise trips is another important consideration for holidaymakers – shorter trips are more popular with younger travellers, with 33% of 18-34 year olds interested in a 3-5 day trip (11% higher than average of 22%).

The popularity of mini cruises could reflect the flexibility they offer younger people in providing a ‘taster’ opportunity for those who haven’t been on a cruise before. Additionally, more cruise lines are catering for passengers who enjoy a condensed trip, including retro themed parties and even floating music festivals.

Older age groups prefer a longer trip, with 40% of those aged 55 and over wanting a 14-day cruise (compared to 34% on average). Seven days is the most popular cruise length across all age groups (45%).