Brits are flocking towards ocean cruise holidays with the number of travellers doubling in the last decade, it was recently revealed.
Back in 1997 just over half a million Britons chose ocean cruises, a figure which last year was recorded at 1.2 million, according to the Passenger Shipping Association (PSA).
Last year's British total was 12 per cent up on the 2005 figure of 1.07 million, making it the biggest increase among all European countries.
Bill Gibbons, director at PSA, said the figure was expected to rise to 1.3 million this year and a further increase to 1.5 million is expected in 2008.
Around 450,000 Brits set out on their cruise holidays from UK ports last year.
Other figures for last year included a 22 per cent increase in the number of Britons choosing to cruise in the Mediterranean, an area which now accounts for almost 40 per cent of all British cruises, with the Caribbean being the next most-popular destination with 17 per cent.
"Last year proved strong for the UK cruise industry, but next year is poised to be even better, with fantastic growth coming from the launch of 12 new or refurbished ships." Mr Gibbons said.
He added, "The PSA has increased its membership by four additional cruise lines during the year and now has 37 cruise line members. There is a very wide range of ships and destinations available and truly a cruise for everyone."
"We're now predicting 8 per cent market growth in 2007 and 15 per cent growth in 2008. In 2008 we will see a very significant increase in growth from the UK, with new ships coming in aimed specifically at the UK market."
 |
 |
|
|
Brits Take To Cruise Holidays Thu, 15 Mar 2007      Recommended linksFind and book your next cruise through travelagents.co.ukCompare cruise deals Staying safe abroad Compare cheap travel insurance deals eBay & easyCruise Combine To Auction Holidays |
||
 |
 |
| Travel news |
|---|
| Etihad Outline Plans To Quadruple Passenger Numbers By 2020 - Fri, 03 Oct 2008 |
| Rescue Deal Agreed For Alitalia - Thu, 02 Oct 2008 |
| Virgin Atlantic Celebrates 10 Years Of Caribbean Flights - Wed, 01 Oct 2008 |
| More News |