Kiwis still opting to Cruise in record numbers

The robust kiwi dollar and proliferation of options is helping the cruise market grow from strength to strength. The perception of cruising continues to evolve as Cruise companies introduce new ships and itineraries that cater to younger segments of the market.



"Increasingly we see cruises that cater for families, multi-generational holidays (where mum, dad and the kids go on holiday with grandparents), and even groups of young people" comments Carmen White, GM of Product at House of Travel. "Cruising is no longer just the domain of the baby boomers."



The average age of the cruise customer has dropped to 48 years, further proof that cruising has moved mainstream. Creativity of new itineraries has been paramount in opening the sector up to a wider target audience. "The younger market find the shorter cruises far more appealing," says Ms White. "And kiwis tend to book a cruise as part of a bigger trip, so shorter itineraries mean that travellers can fit more into their holiday away." specifically for toddlers and even tweens, enrichment programmes in cuisine, art or the environment, and even stage shows such as Cirque de Soleil on offer. Frequently the cruise itself is seen as the destination - though Ms White cites the many destinations on offer as a huge draw-card for travellers.



"There are options for cruising on every continent. Even close to home we will have a record number of ships departing from Australia in Spring 2012, which makes cruising even more accessible for kiwis."



Even in spite of negative publicity with the Costa Concordia, enquiries and bookings at House of Travel remain strong. "Cruise bookings continue to grow year on year. We have not seen any softening in cruise enquiries as a result of the recent Costa events. Kiwis understand that cruising remains one of the safest forms of transportation."