24/07/2019 | Category: Travel Insurance
It seems we can’t get enough of cruising. According to data from Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), 30 million people are expected to set sail on a cruise ship this year. Ten years ago, that figure was 17.8 million.
Looking at the data in more detail it also revealed that more than 2 million British and Irish holiday makers enjoyed a cruise last year.
It’s an already crowded marketplace, but 2019 will see an additional 21 cruise ships taking to the seas. That means there is a cruise ship for everyone, whether you’re a lone female traveller, a couple, a family or you’re looking for a fun getaway with a group of friends.
What was the most popular cruise destination in 2018?
The CLIA research confirmed that the favourite destinations for European cruise passengers last year were the Mediterranean region, Canary Islands and Northern Europe.
Taking a more global view of where people are choosing to cruise, the world’s leading cruise reviews site and online cruise community, Cruise Critic revealed its latest Cruisers’ Choice Destination Awards.
Listing all the top destinations around the world in reverse order, some of the results may surprise you:
10 Villefranche, France
Tucked between its more well-known neighbours Nice and Monaco, this former fishing village is full of charm. It’s harbour, beach, markets and Old Town (with 13th century buildings) are must-sees.
9 Dubrovnik, Croatia
Famed as much for its mediaeval architecture as for its Game of Thrones filming locations, Dubrovnik’s terracotta-topped buildings are best seen from Mount Srd (take the cable car to the top!)
8 St Petersburg, Russia
Located on the Baltic Sea, St Petersburg is renowned for its Winter Palace, Mariinsky Theatre and Church of the Saviour on Spilled Blood. You’ll love its canals, boulevards and impressive architecture.
7 Avignon, France
Steeped in Catholic history, Avignon’s Palais des Papes is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. And let’s not forget the 14th century Pont d’Avignon – half of which still survives today.
6 Dürnstein, Austria
On the banks of the Danube river and surrounded by hills, Dürnstein is a town of fairytales. Meander its historic streets, explore its castle and pop into a wine bar to sample the local white wine.
5 Wurzburg, Germany
Celts are believed to have established the city in 1000BC and today, Wurzburg is famed for its wine scene, baroque and rococo buildings, and ancient history.
4 Budapest, Hungary
Renowned for its architecture, historical attractions, coffee houses and thermal baths, Budapest is split by the Danube. Head to the Hungarian State Opera House, Great Market Hall, and legendary Café Gerbeaud for a taste of the city.
3 Quebec City, Canada
The language may be French, but the culture is pure Canadian. Upper Town and Lower Town are filled with fascinating historical buildings, delicious dining options and pretty cobble-stoned squares.
2 Arles, France
A stroll through Arles is like walking through a 19th century French painting, probably because Vincent Van Gogh lived there for 18 months. Don’t miss the amphitheatre, Roman theatre and Roman baths.
1 Glacier Bay, Alaska
The only destination cruisers can’t leave the boat, Glacier Bay is home to ice-capped mountains, sea lions, bears and glaciers. Remember to pack the binoculars for optimal viewing.
Wherever your cruise takes you in the world, remember to get specialist cruise travel insurance before you leave so you can enjoy the sights and know you’re protected.
Most popular cruises on social media
If you’re looking for inspiration for your next cruise holiday, you might want to head to social media for a spot of inspiration. Cruise-booking company Seahub scoured Instagram to find out what cruise lines were proving to be most popular with social media savvy travellers..
The top cruise lines in 2018 were:
1. Royal Caribbean (634,369 posts)
2. Carnival Cruise (499,052 posts)
3. Disney Cruise (319,495 posts)
4. Princess Cruises (112,493 posts)
5. Celebrity Cruises (102,726 posts)
The reason Royal Caribbean tops the list probably has something to do with all its Insta-worthy activities. Travellers can enjoy everything from surf simulators and zip lines to high-octane water slides and trapeze training. Cruise travel insurance will cover you for these adrenaline-fuelled activities and more.
What is the best cruise line for 30-year-olds?
Cruises have long been associated with an older clientele, but that’s no longer the case. Today’s cruise ships also cater for those looking for more of a ‘24-hour party people’ vibe. As well as all the usual deckchairs and pools, there are also opportunities for on-board clubbing and on-shore pub crawls.
Cruise lines such as Contiki, P&O Cruises, Carnival Cruise Lines, Topdeck and Virgin Voyages all cater to cruisers in their 20s and 30s. According to data from market research firm Mintel, of those interested in going on a cruise in the next five years, 38% were aged 16-34, 28% were 35-54, and 28% were over 55.
There is also a wave of adventurous trips for those on a budget. With so much fun to be had, you’re going to want specialist cruise travel insurance. It will make sure you are covered for most activities on and off the ship.
Of course, if you’re finding it hard to decide where to go, there’s always the option of going big and embarking on a world cruise. It’s your chance to tick off your entire must-see bucket list in one trip and travel in style.
Whatever cruise you decide on, there are certain things to remember before you go. First up, you’ll want to book early. This will ensure you get the best cabin. Plus, prices won’t go down; they’ll only go up.
If you’re going for a long period of time it might be worth arranging for someone to stay in your house, or look after your pets. You’ll also want to find cruise travel insurance that covers all your requirements, from energetic activities to travelling with medical conditions.
And before planning your next cruise adventure, it’s worth noting that some cruise lines have a minimum age of 21 years.
Wherever your cruise holiday takes you, Insurance Choice can help you find a competitive price on cruise travel insurance. Cruise travel insurance is specifically tailored to a holiday at sea including cover for missed ports and cabin confinement due to illness. Get in touch with our friendly team today.