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4 Interesting Cruise Travel Trends Shaping 2024

In-Depth Look at the Evolving Cruise Industry

DETROIT (Jan. 22, 2024) - As the cruise industry charts its course into 2024, it is evident that several compelling trends are poised to shape the cruise experience for travelers worldwide. These trends reflect the industry's commitment to innovation, sustainability, and catering to diverse traveler preferences.

CruiseCompete is seeing the following trends from the wealth of data we collect:

1. Solo Cruising on the Rise: Solo travel is gaining momentum and cruise lines are swiftly adapting to meet this growing demand - for those who prefer traveling alone or want their own cabin while traveling with friends. By introducing more solo cabins, organizing solo-friendly events, and waiving single supplements, cruise lines are enhancing the accessibility and enjoyment of solo cruising.

Here are some cruise lines that have guaranteed solo cabins or have recently added more solo cabins:

Riviera River Cruises: Riviera's Solo Traveler options bring your perfect European vacation within reach. Riviera has exclusively reserved a selection of European river cruise departures for solo travelers, with no single supplements across the entire ship, so you can book that Diamond Deck Suite you've always imagined, without the roommate and the single supplement. (Ask about their Happiness Guarantee, too.)

Crystal Cruises: Crystal debuted their new ship, Crystal Esprit, in summer 2023, and it features a number of solo cabins without single supplements. They also added solo cabins to the renovated Crystal Serenity and Crystal Symphony.

Oceania Cruises: Oceania Vista, which launched in May 2023, introduced a solo cabin category with balconies.

Norwegian Cruise Line: NCL made a big splash in November 2023 by announcing they were adding nearly 1,000 solo cabins to their fleet. This expansion means that every one of their 19 ships will now have solo accommodations, available in three categories: Solo Inside, Solo Oceanview, and Solo Balcony.

Virgin Voyages: Virgin Voyages, which launched in 2020, built their first cruise ships with solo accommodations in mind. Their "Solo Traveler" cabins are designed for one person and offer all the same amenities as their other cabins.

Holland America Line, Celebrity Cruises, Royal Caribbean, and MSC Cruises have added more solo cabins to their ships.

Editor's note

• Availability: Solo cabins can be popular, so it's important to book early, especially if you're traveling during peak season.

• Price: Solo cabins can sometimes be more expensive than double occupancy cabins, but some lines offer discounts for solo travelers.

• Location: Solo cabins are sometimes located in different parts of the ship than double occupancy cabins. It is important to ask about the location of the cabin before you book to be sure you are aware if it is in a busy or noisy area.

2. Luxury Cultural, Epicurean & Adventure Expedition Cruises: For those seeking exhilarating adventures beyond the traditional cruise experience, expedition cruises are the answer. These cruises offer access to remote and exotic destinations, including the Arctic, Antarctica, and the Galapagos Islands. Adventurous activities such as hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing are integral to these expeditions, making them the preferred choice for thrill-seeking travelers.

In the face of geographical inaccessibility to certain corners of the world, these vessels emerge as bastions of opulence, inviting individuals to embark on cultural and epicurean expeditions, or to engage in a unique class of experiential voyage.

When it comes to luxury expedition ships, several cruise lines stand out for their offerings:

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours: Offering all-inclusive luxury on their Scenic Eclipse yacht, Scenic delivers an ultra-luxe expedition experience. The Eclipse features a private balcony for every guest, a helicopter for scenic tours, and a team of expert naturalists and historians. They cater to adventurous travelers with Zodiac landings, scuba diving, and kayaking opportunities, while also providing opulent comfort and personalized service.

Atlas Ocean Voyages: This new luxury line launched in 2021 caters to a specific market with their small, upscale ships like World Navigator and World Traveller. They prioritize adventure with on-board kayaks, Jet Skis, and paddleboards, and explore both popular and remote destinations like the Mediterranean, Antarctica, and the Arctic.

Seabourn: Seabourn Expedition offers intimate and luxurious experiences on smaller ships like Seabourn Venture and Seabourn Quest. These vessels carry fewer passengers, allowing for personalized service and access to remote destinations. They prioritize outdoor adventures, offering Zodiac landings, kayaking, and hiking options. Their itineraries cover the Arctic, Antarctica, the Amazon, and other fascinating regions.

Swan Hellenic: For those looking to experience the remote Polar regions or explore truly off-the-beaten path destinations and cultures of our spectacular planet, Swan Hellenic provides its guests with authentic, intimate and unforgettable moments in extraordinary locations and remote landmarks. All the while enjoying a sophisticated elegant atmosphere onboard in a yacht-like environment with excellent accommodations and cuisine.

Silversea: Renowned for ultra-luxury accommodations and small expedition ships, Silversea boasts a dedicated Expeditions division. Their fleet includes Silver Cloud, Silver Wind, and Silver Explorer, known for their intimate atmosphere, gourmet dining, and expert-led onboard lectures. They explore a wide range of destinations, from Antarctica and the Arctic to the Galapagos Islands and the Kimberley Coast.

Viking Expeditions: Viking brings its award-winning Scandinavian design and focus on cultural immersion to the expedition market. Their new ships, Viking Polaris and Viking Octantis, boast innovative features like an indoor marina for Zodiac boarding and floor-to-ceiling glass cabins. They explore destinations like Antarctica, the Great Lakes, and the Canadian Arctic, with strong emphasis on historical and cultural insights.

3. The Emergence of Mega-Ships: While smaller ships are gaining traction, 2024 heralds the debut of massive new vessels. These mega-ships can accommodate thousands of passengers and offer an expansive array of amenities, from water parks and casinos to theme parks and world-class dining establishments.

The year 2024 boasts several new contenders for the title of "biggest ship" sailing the seas, but two stand out in particular:

Icon of the Seas - Royal Caribbean International:

Launching in January 2024, Icon of the Seas takes the crown as the world's largest cruise ship currently. This mega-vessel clocks in at 250,800 gross tons and can accommodate up to 10,000 passengers and crew. Icon features eight distinct neighborhoods, including five brand-new concepts, and boasts the largest family-centric accommodations in the Royal Caribbean fleet. Get ready for the largest water park on any cruise ship, a state-of-the-art indoor venue for acrobatic and diving performances, and plenty of other exciting amenities.

Utopia of the Seas - Royal Caribbean International:

Following in July 2024, Utopia of the Seas, the sixth Oasis-class vessel, brings its own impressive presence to the scene. While slightly smaller than Icon, Utopia packs a punch with its 236,857 gross tons and capacity for up to 5,400 passengers. This ship promises innovative entertainment, thrilling activities, and stunning ocean views for a memorable seafaring journey.

Editor's note or Bonus contender:

Sphere Class - Princess Cruises: Princess Cruises plans to launch their first Sphere-class ship, Sun Princess, in late 2024. While not vying for the "biggest" title, it will be a noteworthy addition with its advanced technology and sleek design.

4. Travel Advisors are Invaluable When Booking a Cruise Because of Their Resources

Broad knowledge of cruise lines. Cruise lines have different personalities. Some cater to families. Others target adults. Some might be ideal for people who enjoy dressing for dinner. Others are more comfortable with country club casual. Travel advisor can learn about you and suggest cruise lines aligned with your idea of having a great cruise.

Latest information about new lines and new ships. There are well into the hundreds of cruise lines and well over a thousand cruise ships. Travel advisors know most of them, the age and condition of their fleet, and what they are best known for in cruise vacations.

Passenger feedback. Firsthand experience has value. Travel advisors seek long-term relationships with clients. They often talk with clients (or survey them online) about their vacation experience. They have firsthand feedback about the pros and cons of different cruise lines and ships.

No matter your preference for cruising solo or with company, expedition, mega-ship or more intimate experiences, 2024 offers an exciting variety of cruise ships to explore the world. Bon voyage!

Keep in mind that the cruise industry is dynamic and launch dates and itineraries can change. Always check with the cruise line for the latest updates.

These trends represent the dynamic evolution of the cruise industry in 2024, promising an abundance of choices and experiences tailored to the diverse preferences of travelers. The future of cruising is indeed exciting and promising, and passengers can look forward to an unforgettable journey on the high seas.

CruiseCompete and its member travel advisors provide many curated cruise deals, offers and amenities on over 50 cruise lines with over 500 cruise ships sailing all around the world. Browse Cruise Ships and Cruise Lines.

CruiseCompete member-advisors are the most well-educated, forward-thinking and trusted cruise specialists in the industry. CruiseCompete is simple to use: Find the desired cruise. Request quotes. Compare personalized offers, prices, upgrades, cabin credits and more. Contact member travel advisors with questions and to book. CruiseCompete offers higher quality cruise shore excursions at substantially lower prices.