The British cruise market grew by 4.3 per cent in 2017, with a record high of 1,971,000 cruise passengers taking an ocean cruise, according to new figures released by CLIA UK and Ireland.

Andy Harmer, senior vice-president membership and CLIA UK and Ireland director, welcomed the news and predicted a further increase in 2018.

He said: “We are thrilled to see the continued growth of the British cruise industry. This is a strong performance from the UK and Ireland market and indicates that it’s highly likely the total for 2018 will surpass two million for the first time.

“With an unprecedented number of ships on the global order book, there has never been a better time to take a cruise, with a wider choice of ships, itinerary and style of cruise than ever before.”

The latest figure is a new total for passenger numbers in 2017, and has been revised upwards as all data has been received and corroborated by CLIA and its research partners.

In terms of the overall holiday market, cruise had just over 4 per cent in 2017, and just under 11 per cent of overseas package holidays.

CLIA research also shows that passengers are placing more importance on the overall value of a cruise, with price, value for money, and special offers cited as a key driver of choice.

In addition, since 2013 lead times have steadily grown, with an average now of seven months, the longest seen since 2009, something that, according to Harmer, “indicates a solidifying of consumer confidence, as people are prepared to commit to a cruise in advance”.