A new survey from cruise specialist cruise.co.uk has revealed a growing interest in river cruising, with 41% of customers yet to try a river cruise likely to book one within the next two years.
The research, which polled over 650 cruise.co.uk customers, also found that of those who had already sailed on a river cruise, 49% were expecting to take about the same number or more river cruises over the next two years.
Special offers were by far the most influential booking factor, selected by 78% of respondents. Personal recommendations ranked second at 16%, while far fewer travellers said they would be persuaded by social media content (2%) or traditional media coverage (2%).
When it comes to the appeal of river cruising itself, respondents cited the intimate nature of the ships and the destinations visited as key attractions. The most popular reason given was smaller ships and fewer crowds, chosen by 22% of respondents, followed closely by the ability to dock in city centres (20%) and the opportunity for 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.”
For more information, visit www.cruise.co.uk or call 0870 990 8824.
