Port visits are more important than days at sea, according to research from the UK’s second largest cruise line.
As a result Thomson Cruises and Island Cruises will include more fly-cruises in its 2010 programme.
Thomson will also offer weddings at sea in the Caribbean for winter 2010/11.
Both brands will be offering ‘test-drives’ to other Thomson and First Choice holidaymakers when ships dock in ports that are also used as beach resorts by the operators.
Online access is currently paid for on cruises but from 2010 Thomson Cruises will offer free internet service on board for passengers who want to blog about their experiences.
Thomson Cruises launches new ship Thomson Dream – previously Costa Europa – next year.
The line’s five ships cover 130 ports of call and carry more than 200,000 passengers a year.
by Phil Davies
