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Uniworld research shows strong desire to switch to river cruise

Uniworld research shows strong desire to switch to river cruise

Research by Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has shown that a third of guests who took an ocean cruise prior to the pandemic have since chosen to do their first river cruise in 2022/2023.

The survey of 500 customers revealed that 41 per cent of clients preferred smaller ships and fewer passengers, while 30 per cent said river cruises offer more varied scenery and views.

In addition, 17 per cent highlighted the slower pace of itinerary that a river cruise offers.

Uniworld’s findings also demonstrate a desire to travel for longer, with 72 per cent intending to take more holidays from 2023 onwards, and just under half taking two or three extra holidays a year.

A total of 79 per cent also confirmed they wanted to take more holidays while they can.

Uniworld offering longer itineraries

UK MD Chris Townson said: “The data from our recent survey amongst past guests and those with an interest in cruising has been really interesting and supported many of the trends we are seeing ourselves post-pandemic.

“It was promising to see such a surge in those who had previously ocean cruised then opting for river cruise, as well as their motivations for travel in 2023 and the lust to do more.

“We are also seeing from our own data a rise in back-to-back cruise bookings across our French itineraries, a tripling of on-board bookings and 2022 bookings for solo travellers up 43 per cent on pre-pandemic years.”

Townson continued: “Seeing the strong desire for land exploration amongst our active guests only reaffirms our efforts in elevating our experiences further.

“We are pleased to be offering even longer itineraries and extensions, such as our 46-day Rivers of the World itinerary and adding to our popular Nights Out excursions in 2023, including exclusive after-hours visits to must-see locations, such as Bassins des Lumières in Bordeaux.”

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