Online agent, Cruise.co.uk is positive that cruises in 2023 will continue to “buck the trend” when it comes to ongoing increases in holiday costs.
It said in a statement that the cruise industry will remain at the same price as an equivalent sailing a decade ago, a leading cruise specialist has predicted.
Cruise.co.uk found the majority of voyages next year remain cost consistent for those from 7 to 14 nights – across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and the Caribbean – when looking back over the last decade.
The online agent took a series of sample sailings, comparing similar experiences, from multiple cruise lines. Most were, as a minimum, in line with inflation, if not cheaper overall.
For example, an inside cabin on a 14-night P&O Caribbean cruise, sailing from Barbados, came in at £1,659 including flights in 2012.
In 2019 the cost came down to £1,503 per person, while a matched 2023 sailing only set guests back £1,139.
Overall, the company’s bookings are up 35% in 2019, as holidays at sea continue to bounce back.
It also stated its best-selling destinations in 2022 were the Mediterranean and the Caribbean respectively.
With the popularity of these traditional cruise hotspots remaining as high as ever, both are anticipated to be the itinerary of choice for customers next year.
The company revealed its ‘cruise and stay’ holidays, whereby customers choose to start or complete their getaway with a break on land, have had a record-breaking year in 2022.
Demand was highest for North America, with customers opting to make the most of sailings to the Caribbean, Alaska, west coast and east coast with extended stays in the likes of Florida, Seattle, California and New York.
Tony Andrews, Deputy Managing Director of cruise.co.uk, said:
“2023 is shaping up to be another year where cruise holidaymakers can take advantage of the incredible value for money an escape at sea offers.
“With meals, top-class entertainment, kids’ clubs and onboard leisure facilities all included in the price, a cruise is hard to beat for price, choice and convenience.
“Furthermore, it’s clear the popularity of cruise remains as strong as ever, which is reflected in the sheer number of customers who have booked with us in 2022.
“We’re eagerly anticipating this trend continuing into the new year.
“What’s more, our option to stay on before or after sailing has proved a real hit this year. With travel now opening up again, customers are taking advantage of longer holidays to really make the most of their time away.
“We have every confidence 2023 is shaping up to be the year of cruise.”
For more information, go to www.cruise.co.uk
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