Cruises offer a hassle-free route to bucket-list adventures while simplifying holiday planning, and the outdated perception of them as overcrowded or exclusively for older generations is fading. Mike Graham, known as Mr Cruise on TikTok and an expert for Destination2, highlights the growing appeal of cruising for all ages.
“The cruise lines have done a great job over the last 20 years of introducing more new-to-cruise customers than ever before. We have definitely seen a trend of more multi-generational families on cruises, especially since Covid,” says Graham. “Adults-only cruises are also very popular, offering a more relaxed vibe which appeals to young couples.”
Many cruise packages include meals, flights and top-tier entertainment. “Cruises are offering a lot more facilities now. For example, if you’re a family they’ve got all the aqua parks and kids clubs, and if you’re an adult there’s theatre, live music, comedians and all sorts of different dining experiences,” says Graham. “In addition, the cruise lines are docking more and more in the evenings now, so passengers are able to get off and see these beautiful destinations in the evenings.”
Social media is also generating buzz, with influencers showcasing cruise content. “There’s so many influencers on social media now showcasing what is on offer onboard, sharing images of the different destinations they are going to and giving their followers top travel tips about their favourite restaurants,” adds Graham.
For budget-conscious travellers, Royal Caribbean offers a two-night weekend getaway to Paris from Southampton from £349 per person (based on two sharing). The ship docks in Paris for a full day, allowing exploration of iconic landmarks. A Barcelona and Mediterranean Medley cruise is available from £566 per person, including flights and a pre-cruise hotel stay, visiting Marseille, Genoa, Rome, Messina and Valletta. For those dreaming of Greece, a Best of Greece trip from £831 per person includes flights, a pre-cruise hotel stay and stops at Mykonos and Kusadasi.
