The number of newcomers expected to sail on a cruise in 2023 is more than double last year.

That is the headline finding from the latest survey by cruise specialist cruise.co.uk, which was completed by almost 1,200 respondents.

The survey shows that four per cent of people were newcomers in 2022, while nine per cent are planning to take their first holiday at sea this year.

The Mediterranean is the destination of choice for first-timers, with the Caribbean in second, and the Norwegian fjords and north Scandinavia in third place.

The study also revealed that more than half of respondents who are existing cruisers already have a future cruise booked.

Cruise.co.uk deputy managing director Tony Andrews said: “We’re encouraged to see such a significant increase in the number of new-to-cruise customers looking to sail this year.

“A holiday at sea offers unbeatable choice, to suit every taste and budget, so we’d urge anyone who hasn’t tried it yet to dip their toe in the water.

“Plus, with around 20 new ships launching this year, there is going to be even more reasons for holidaymakers to switch from land to sea.”

Another survey, released in February, also reported that more people than ever are looking to book a cruise, with research showing a 10 per cent increase in the number of holidaymakers in the market for a getaway at sea.