Up to 53 per cent of 18-24 year olds are interested in going on a cruise for the first time, according to ABTA’s 2019 Travel Trends Report.

The result is partly because of the wide variety of itineraries, on-board activities, as well as themed and solo cruises.

In addition, the report states that overall, two-fifths of people are considering a cruise for their holidays.

The news comes at a time when many cruise lines are considering how to attract the new-to-cruise market.

The report states: “The ‘foodie factor’ also has a major part to play in the popularity of cruise, with the quality of food and drink now the most important factor for 78 per cent of cruise travellers, overtaking the chance to see multiple destinations as the top reason to take a cruise.

“Many companies are reflecting this change in on-board preferences by offering menus curated by award winning chefs.”

When it comes to expedition cruising, ABTA expects demand to grow over the coming year “as passengers seek to explore more remote places”.

As for the travel sector as whole, ABTA has found that one of the key reasons holidaymakers book with a travel professional is because they feel more confident doing so, favouring personalised travel advice – 59 per cent of millennials would pay extra for a holiday tailor-made to their preferences.

There has also been an increase in homeworkers – up by more than 10 per cent each year over the past six years across ABTA members.

Travel Trends 2019 is based on market information and consumer insights.

Find out more on the ABTA website.