Data proves cruise passengers are...

The fastest growth in passenger demographics is in the under-20s as more families choose to cruise

Cruise passengers are getting younger as ship-based holidays become more popular with a younger demographic.

The fastest growth is in the under-20s, with 8% of all cruise passengers travelling in 2022 now either teenagers or younger, according to a study by cruise.co.uk.

This is the highest level recorded and compares to 6% in pre-pandemic 2019 as more families and multi-generational groups choose to cruise.

All other age groups under the age of 60 have also seen a rise in the proportion of cruise passengers. The most notable swing is the total number of passengers who are under 60.

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More than a third (37%) were under 60 three years ago, a figure which has risen to 44%.

The numbers – taken from cruise.co.uk’s full 2022 bookings data – were described as “striking” as cruises run year-round, meaning children and working adults can only travel during their holiday periods, whereas retirees can be more flexible.

Deputy managing director Tony Andrews said: “The amazing array of choice you get on a holiday at sea means an increasing proportion of families and younger holidaymakers are choosing to cruise. From kids’ clubs to hair-raising adrenaline activities to tattoo parlours, ships have it all, and every age is catered for.

“Cruise remains a wonderful break for retirees and older people, and it’s easy to see why they are our mainstay passengers. At the same time it’s great to see the younger generation boarding in increasing numbers. In fact, we often see grandparents treating grandchildren to a cruise, which just goes to show how well-catered for the whole family is.”

For more information on available cruises, visit www.connectingtravel.com/cruise-hub