A survey of more than 850 cruise customers has revealed the lifestyle purchases they would forego in exchange for a luxury holiday at sea.
Research by cruise.co.uk shows that 25% would be willing to sacrifice an upscale purchase, such as a designer handbag or watch, while 17% would go without multiple short breaks.
A further 7% said they would put a home improvement project on hold, while 6% would give up dining out for a year.
The survey also found that travellers considering a luxury cruise are most influenced by value and inclusions. All-inclusive benefits (20%), exclusive offers or upgrades (20%) and better value compared with luxury land-based holidays (19%) are the leading factors that would encourage respondents to book up.
Overall, one in four of those polled (26%) are open to setting sail on a luxury cruise in the next two years.
Tony Andrews, managing director of cruise.co.uk, said: “Luxury holidays are ultimately about priorities. Our research shows that many travellers are willing to rethink how they spend their leisure budget when they can take advantage of a genuinely memorable experience at sea.
“A high-end voyage offers something different: the opportunity to combine exceptional destinations, impeccable levels of service and a range of value-for-money inclusions. With more choice than ever before, travellers may be surprised by just how broad today’s luxury cruise market has become, with experiences to suit a wide range of tastes, destinations and budgets.”
The findings come as cruise.co.uk and parent company Hays Travel prepare to operate six exclusive Oceania Cruises luxury charter sailings during summer 2027.
The programme, which features a series of sailings from Southampton aboard Oceania Nautica, has been developed specifically for the UK market and features itineraries including the Norwegian Fjords, Morocco and Spain.
Sample sailing
Line: Oceania Cruises
Ship: Oceania Nautica
Itinerary: Norwegian Fjords and Nordic Light
Departure date: July 20, 2027
Duration: 7-nights
Price: From £1,799pp
Departure and return port: Southampton
Calls at: Vik, Måløy, Bergen, Haugesund
What’s included: All meals; complimentary champagne, wine and beer served during meals and at select times; soft drinks, speciality coffee, tea, juices, smoothies and Vero Water; laundry services; group fitness classes; gratuities; Wi-Fi
Details: Nautica from Southampton | Cruise.co.uk
