A new survey from cruise specialist cruise.co.uk has unveiled the growing interest in river cruising with almost half of customers suggesting that they will likely book one within the next two years, despite having never been aboard one.
The statistics also revealed that 49% of those who have already experienced river cruising were expecting to take about the same number or more river cruises over the next two years.
Participants considered various different factors when making a booking, with almost 80% of participants selecting the most influential factor being special offers. Personal reccomendations were ranked second place following just 16% of participants selecting.
The appeal of river cruising lies in its more relaxed and immersive experience, with travellers drawn to smaller ships and fewer crowds (22%), the ability to dock in city centres (20%), and scenic sailing routes (16%).
Tony Andrews, Managing Director of cruise.co.uk, said: “River cruising continues to grab the attention of many travellers. Our research shows that the appeal is very much rooted in the experience itself – smaller ships, scenic routes and the ability to dock right in the heart of cities.
“As with many holidays, value remains a major factor. When travellers see the right offer or promotion, it can provide the final encouragement they need to try river cruising for the first time. And once people experience the convenience and pace of a river cruise, it often becomes a style of holiday they return to again.”
