As travellers across Asia look for more ways to make the most of their trips to Europe, Royal Caribbean’s latest research shows strong interest in multi-destination cruise holidays.
All details correct at time of publication (22 September 2026)
According to a YouGov survey* commissioned by Royal Caribbean across Singapore, Malaysia, India, Indonesia and the Philippines, 74% of respondents found exploring multiple European destinations in one holiday appealing.
The findings come as Legend of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s newest Icon Class ship, offers travellers new ways to discover the Mediterranean from Barcelona, Spain, and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy.
Sailing to highly sought-after destinations including Palma de Mallorca, Spain; Provence (Marseille), France and Naples, Italy, Legend combines Europe’s most iconic destinations with the signature experiences of Royal Caribbean’s revolutionary Icon Class.
Beyond exploring multiple destinations, the research suggests travellers are looking for getaways that help them make the most of their time abroad while enjoying experiences that are part of the holiday itself.
Among the top perceived benefits of exploring Europe by cruise are meals and entertainment included (49%), the ability to see multiple destinations with ease (42%), avoiding airport processes between destinations (38%), and reducing the need to pack and unpack between destinations (35%).
Ben Bouldin, President of Greater China and Managing Director, Asia, Royal Caribbean, said: “What stood out to us from the findings is how much travellers value making the most of their time when exploring Europe.
“Whether it is visiting iconic destinations, spending time with family, or simply enjoying the journey itself, travellers are increasingly looking for holidays that are seamless, enriching and full of adventure. We believe that is one reason multi-destination cruising continues to resonate.
“Legend of the Seas marks a pivotal moment as we bring an Icon Class ship to Europe for the first time. It gives Asian travellers a more accessible way to experience the Icon Class while exploring multiple European destinations in a single trip, expanding the ways they can explore Europe without having to compromise on the vacation experience.”
Cruise Travel Rises as an Easier Way to Experience Europe
The survey points to a growing appetite for vacations that combine destination discovery with convenience.
Across the five markets surveyed, Indonesia showed the strongest interest in multi-destination European travel at 82%, followed by the Philippines (75%), Malaysia (70%), India (67%) and Singapore (66%).
Italy ranks as the top European destination respondents would like to visit at 47%, followed by the United Kingdom (43%), France (41%) and Spain (33%). Indian travellers show the strongest interest in Italy (51%), while Filipino travellers show the highest interest in Spain (43%).
The survey also found broad appeal among travellers already familiar with European travel and among families:
- A majority of respondents (80%) who have previously travelled within Europe find multi-destination European cruise travel appealing.
- For younger families, 81% of parents with children under 18 find multi-destination European cruise travel appealing.
- Cruise ranks first among preferred modes of intra-European transportation across the five markets surveyed (26%), ahead of trains, short-haul flights, private cars and buses or coaches.
Turning Travel Time into Vacation Time
On Legend of the Seas, the journey between destinations becomes part of the vacation experience. Across the five surveyed markets, 89% of travellers are interested in onboard entertainment experiences, while 85% are interested in the ship’s thrill and leisure experiences.
Top experiences driving interest include:
- America’s Got Talent LIVE on Legend of the Seas: (39%) The first-ever America’s Got Talent stage show at sea, featuring a dynamic lineup of unique acts by performers from the Got Talent universe
- Surfside: (38%) A dedicated neighbourhood designed for families with young children, featuring Splashaway Bay kids aquapark, a playscape with a climbing wall and family-friendly dining at Pier 7 and Surfside Eatery
- Category 6 Waterpark: (33%) The largest waterpark at sea located in Thrill Island
- Shockwave: (33%) A high-energy AquaTheater production combining dance, acrobatics, stunts, synchronised swimmers and high divers
- The Hideaway: (32%) Featuring the first suspended infinity pool at sea for adults, combining a bar, DJ beats and a multi-level terrace to deliver beach club vibes
- Roald Dahl’s “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory”: (31%) The hit Broadway musical for families of all ages
Dining as Part of the Destination
Dining is another way Legend of the Seas brings travellers together, whether through immersive concepts, family-friendly venues or familiar favourites. Among dining venues, Royal Railway – Legend Station emerges as the most anticipated experience at 32%, followed by a range of culinary destinations from steakhouse classics to innovative global concepts.
The top dining experiences travellers are most excited to try include:
- Royal Railway – Legend Station: (23%) An immersive train car dining experience, taking vacationers on a five-course expedition through the ancient Silk Routes.
- Chops Grille: (19%) Royal Caribbean’s signature steakhouse serving premium cuts, fresh seafood and classic sides, along with brunch options
- Hollywoodland Supper Club: (15%) An elevated multi-course dining experience inspired by the golden age of Hollywood, featuring jazz, cocktails and elegant dishes
Making the Most of Time in Europe
The survey findings reinforce travellers’ desire to maximise their holiday while exploring Europe. Nearly nine in 10 respondents (87%) identified at least one aspect of travelling between multiple European destinations as a challenge.
This includes flight delays and cancellations (51%), long layovers (38%), managing luggage between countries (37%), and repeatedly packing and unpacking (34%). By bringing multiple iconic destinations together in a single getaway, Legend of the Seas gives guests more opportunities to focus on the experiences that matter and spend quality time together.
Go to Club Royal for full T&Cs, Combinability, and General Terms, or go to www.royalcaribbean.com/terms-and-conditions.co.uk.
