Travel Counsellors has reported that “cruise bookings are on the up”, with a 35 per cent rise compared to the same period in 2019.

The company said there was growing demand across all cruise segments.

In September 2022, there was a rise in total gross sales compared to 2019, with “mainstream cruises up by 31 per cent, premium cruises up by 39 per cent and luxury cruises up by 137 per cent”, according to a statement.

Average cruise booking values in September also increased by 17 per cent compared to September 2019.

In addition, there has been growth in clients booking cruises closer to the time of travel, with 32 per cent of bookings made through Travel Counsellors in the last 28 days for winter 2022 and 48 per cent for the 2023 summer season.

This year, Travel Counsellors said it had amassed £700 million in new bookings, an increase of more than 20 per cent on full year figures for 2019, with September sales up to £75m alone.

A ‘brilliant resurgence’ for cruise

Travel Counsellors head of cruise Janet Whittingham said: “It’s fantastic to see such a brilliant resurgence from an industry that was one hardest hit by the pandemic.

“I think travellers appreciate the range and variety that cruising offers, and with many looking to try something new it’s a great option with some very competitive pricing.

“We are seeing both new to cruise and repeat customers taking to the seas, and more so wanting the advice and experience of an expert who can advise on the cruise product that will suit them and be there to look after them throughout their voyage.

“With more cruise ‘masters’ than any other company, booking a cruise with the support and expertise of a Travel Counsellor really gives customers that reassurance, and with the breadth of cruises on offer there is something for everyone. It’s fair to say cruising is certainly back on the agenda moving forward.”

Research released by CLIA earlier this month (October) also revealed that demand for cruise has now surpassed 2019 levels.