Though one of the worst hit by the Covid-19 pandemic, cruise industry is set exceed its 2019 levels this year as a large number of travellers plan to take a cruise within two years.

A new consumer sentiment survey conducted by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the global association of the cruise industry, says that the demand for cruise holidays continues to increase. The survey was carried out with 4,500 domestic and international travellers. It reveals that 91 pc of respondents based in the United Kingdom who have cruised previously said they intend to take a holiday at sea again, a 14 pc increase from 2019, while of those who have never cruised, 72 pc are open to cruising, a 1 pc increase from 2019.

The survey says that of these two groups, 58 pc say they will book a cruise in the next two years, while 61 pc of respondents who have cruised previously said they later returned to a destination they had first visited via cruise ship. The Mediterranean and Caribbean are the most re-visited destinations, says the survey.

“With the crucial wave booking period now well under way, 2023 is shaping up to be a very positive year for the cruise industry, so we are thrilled to see this level of interest and demand from holidaymakers. The incredible array of cruise ships, destinations and onboard experiences means there really is something for everyone who is considering a sea getaway,” Andy Harmer, CLIA UK & Ireland managing director.

CLIA says that the reports were based on an independent, international survey of 4,500 holidaymakers in nine countries namely the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the USA, Canada, Australia and Brazil.