Cruise gains pace as Travel Counsellors reports record bookings
Travel Counsellors has reported another record-breaking period for cruise sales, as demand for holidays at sea continues to rise
The homeworking agency’s UK leisure travel sales for cruise hit £8.2 million in August, up 49 per cent on the same month last year, with cruises now representing 17 per cent of total UK leisure business, up from 12 per cent in 2024.
Year-to-date, Travel Counsellors’ cruise bookings have reached £65 million, a 17 per cent increase on 2024, with premium and luxury cruises seeing particularly strong growth, up 66 per cent and 88 per cent respectively.
Research commissioned by the company of 2,000 UK consumers as part of their annual Travel Tracker report further highlighted the rising popularity of cruises, with 21 per cent of respondents now favouring cruises, up from 14 per cent in 2023 and representing a 44 per cent increase over three years.
The data from the Travel Tracker report further revealed that travellers in the 25-34 age group show the strongest growth, with 27 per cent preferring cruises – a 67 per cent rise since 2023.
Janet Whittingham, head of cruise at Travel Counsellors, said: “Cruising has always been a much-loved way for our customers to explore the world, whether at sea or on river sailings. What’s exciting is that we’re now seeing strong growth across all age groups, especially among younger travellers who are embracing the unique experiences cruising can offer.”
She continued: “Our Travel Counsellors have the expertise to find the right cruise to suit each customer’s needs – whether that’s a luxury voyage, a premium experience, or a multi-generational trip. By working closely with our cruise partners, we’re also ensuring customers have access to the very best options that reflect their values and preferences.”
The update come as the company staged one of its ten cruise-focused Takeover Days and road shows this year, with more than 30 Travel Counsellors attending a dedicated day at Manchester’s Voco Hotel this week.
