A survey by cruise operator NCL says that an overwhelming number of Indians are actively considering undertaking a cruise travel in the next 12 months as they believe that cruise tourism allows the entire family to enjoy their vacation together.

Family travel goals have taken on an all-new meaning, with Indian families seeking to make up for lost time with new and exciting experiences to strengthen their bond and enjoy each other’s company. The importance of close community and family bonds has emerged as vital to maintaining a sense of wellbeing among Indians, according to a recent survey conducted by Hansa Research on behalf of Norwegian Cruise Line.

According to a press statement, the top travel trends that emerged from the study conducted in August include that 8 in 10 urban Indian families who are planning to travel internationally are considering a cruise holiday in the next 12 months. It says that 79 pc of Indians want to vacation with their families and 89 pc believe it is very important to spend quality time with family for an overall sense of wellbeing.

The press statement adds that around 78 pc of respondents said that their vacation goal was to travel to create memories with their loved ones, while 65 pc said they travel to visit different places and experience something new. Families, particularly those with younger children under 15 years of age, believe that kid-friendly holiday options and dining choices are very important when considering holiday choices.

The study further added that when travelling with family, 69 pc of Indian travellers said value and inclusive pricing was a very important consideration while 61 pc feel that easy access to attractions and activities was important.

“It is no surprise that cruise holidays are top of mind for Indian families seeking to reconnect, since cruising offers the ultimate way to travel together. They can easily visit multiple destinations while unpacking just once, and cruising caters to many different types of travellers with varied entertainment, dining and accommodation options. In addition, a cruise holiday promotes a sense of peace, wellbeing and worry-free travel with everything taken care of from the moment guests step aboard,’’ says the press statement.

“It’s really exciting to see such a significant number of Indian travellers have shown a desire to take a cruise vacation so that they can spend quality time with their loved ones,” says Manoj Singh, Country Head India at NCL. “The thrill of exploring multiple destinations in one vacation with ease has led to families fulfilling their travel goals at sea. With NCL’s world class onboard offerings, port-rich itineraries to almost 400 of the world’s most sought-after destinations and inclusive pricing, families of all shapes and sizes will experience the holiday of a lifetime,” Singh adds.

The press communique goes on to add that NCL offers the ultimate way for families to reconnect and recharge, with port-rich itineraries that allow them to immerse themselves in each destination, and a fleet of innovative ships that offer an incredibly vast array of choice to suit families large and small – from an onboard racetrack to Broadway entertainment, fine dining and casual fare, as well as multiple accommodation options and unique event spaces that are ideal for milestone moments amongst larger, multi-generational families.