Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has released their top cruise travel trend predictions for 2019. An estimated 30 million people are expected to take a cruise in 2019, up from 28.2 million this year.
With 18 new cruise ships from CLIA cruise lines and a total of 272 in operation, here are the top 11 cruise trends for 2019.
Instagram – Instagram will continue to drive interest in travel around the world. With onboard connectivity, cruise passengers Instagram feeds with diverse travel experiences both onboard and on land from several cruise destinations.
Wellness – Cruise lines are offering total wellness in the form of restorative spa experiences, onboard oxygen bars, healthy menu choices for a wide variety of diets, and the latest in fitness innovations.
Achievement over Experience – Experiential travel has evolved into achievement travel as vacationers are looking for immersive, cultural experiences beyond sightseeing. Bucket lists have become more goal-oriented and cruise lines are meeting these demands. Passengers can conquer Machu Picchu or complete culinary workshops hosted by Le Cordon Bleu chefs.
Technology – Cruise lines are adding new technology on board their cruise ships in the form of wearables. This improves the cruise experience by offering a more personalized travel experience.
Conscious Travel – Travelers want to see the world in a conscious, mindful way. The cruise industry is more conscientious than ever, working with local communities to preserve their heritage and implementing innovations that decrease the environmental footprint of cruise travel.
Access is the New Luxury – Travelers are setting their sights on destinations that were previously out of reach, some only accessible now by cruise ship such as the Galapagos Islands and Antarctica.
Generation Z – In two years, Generation Z is set to become the largest consumer generation. They prefer authentic experiences over material items. The appeal of multiple destinations and unique experiences, such as music festivals at sea, is helping attract this new generation of cruisers.
Off-Peak Adventures– The off-peak season is rising in popularity, whether travelers are looking to escape the cold in a tropical place or embrace the chill in a new destination. Cruising offers some once-in-a-lifetime experiences during the colder months that include: excursions to see the Northern Lights, visiting a penguin colony, and touring European Christmas Markets.
Working Nomads – Many modern travelers or “digital nomads” are opting for trips where they can work remotely which cuts down on time off and lost wages. With WiFi, desks and work-friendly cafes, travelers can keep up with work while enjoying a cruise vacation.
Female-Centered Cruising – With the number of female travelers growing, many tourism and travel companies are creating female-centered itineraries based on interests and connecting women with other women. Female-centered cruises can create a female empowerment community at sea while allowing travelers to experience the world around them, as well as visit famous feminist landmarks.
Solo Travel – With more Google searches for “solo travel” and “traveling alone” than ever before, traveling alone is rising in popularity. Cruising allows for solo travel without the worry of arranging a ton of details while visiting even the most far-reaching destinations and connecting with other travelers, forming community bonds and experiencing once-in-a-lifetime things.
