2024 Cruise Trends: Insights from CruiseCompete’s 2023 Annual Report
The cruise industry is gearing up for an exciting 2024, drawing insights from CruiseCompete’s CruiseTrends 2023 Annual Report. This report, compiled from nearly 20 million cruise quotes, offers a comprehensive look at the consumer preferences shaping the future of cruise vacations.
The Leading Cruise Lines of 2023
Royal Caribbean International continues to dominate the premium cruise sector as we head into 2024, with the launch of the much-anticipated Icon of the Seas. Following closely in popularity are Norwegian Cruise Line and Celebrity Cruises, a subsidiary of the Royal Caribbean Group.
In the luxury segment, Oceania Cruises has emerged as a frontrunner, surpassing Cunard Line and Azamara. For river cruising, Viking remains the top choice, with American Cruise Lines and AmaWaterways also being highly favored.
The Most Popular Cruise Ships of 2024
Royal Caribbean’s dominance in the premium category is reflected in the popularity of its ships. The Wonder of the Seas leads in quote requests and transactions, followed by Oasis of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Allure of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, and Odyssey of the Seas. MSC Cruises’ MSC Meraviglia also features prominently.
In luxury cruising, Cunard Line’s Queen Mary 2 and Queen Elizabeth, along with Oceania’s Oceania Vista, are the most sought-after ships. Azamara Onward and several other Oceania ships also rank high.
For river cruises, American Cruise Lines’ American Serenade and American Eagle top the list, followed by American Queen Voyages’ American Queen.
Preferred Cruise Destinations for 2024
The Caribbean continues to be the favorite region for premium cruise guests, while Europe is the top choice for luxury and river cruise travelers. The Bahamas, Mexico, and the U.S. are the most popular countries for premium cruises. For luxury cruises, the U.S., Spain, Italy, Greece, and France are in high demand. River cruisers are drawn to Germany, France, Hungary, and Austria.
Travel Insurance and Booking Trends
River cruise passengers are most inclined to purchase travel insurance, with 28% expressing interest in 2023. Luxury travelers are not far behind, with 21% considering insurance, while 18% of premium cruise guests are also contemplating it.
In terms of booking windows, river cruise guests book the furthest in advance, averaging 288 days before departure. Luxury cruise passengers typically book 255 days ahead, and premium cruise guests book approximately 206 days in advance.
These trends from CruiseCompete’s 2023 report highlight the evolving preferences in the cruise industry, with a clear shift towards personalized experiences, luxury offerings, and advanced planning. As we look to 2024, these insights are invaluable for travel advisors and cruisers alike, indicating a year rich with potential for memorable cruise experiences.