According to the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), while the cruising industry used to be associated with retired travellers over the age of 65, as of 2023, the average cruising age is 47.
It’s evident the cruising traveller is getting younger – in fact, CLIA reports the world’s younger generations are the future of the industry, with 88% of Millennials and 86% of Gen-X travellers who’ve cruised before saying they plan to cruise again, and 73% who’ve never been on a cruise now open to considering their first holiday at sea.
The stats ring true for South Africans, too. In Flight Centre’s recent whitepaper, South Africa’s Year in Travel 2023: Travel trends shaping the tourism landscape, the well-known travel retailer reports the average age of their cruise customer in 2023 was 51, which is younger compared to their data in previous years.
“Cruise lines are enticing younger South Africans with unique and adventurous destinations and shore excursions, improved digital connectivity, and the flexibility to cruise how they want to,” says Antoinette Turner, GM of Flight Centre South Africa.
There are also the benefits (like more affordable, visa-free travel) that come from an increase in international cruise lines visiting local waters, such as Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) and MSC Cruises. Many of these cruise lines’ African cruises depart from Cape Town and Durban, making them easily accessible to South African travellers of all ages.
Flight Centre South Africa reported in its whitepaper that most South Africans opted for local cruises. However, they certainly didn’t shy away from international at-sea getaways. South African cruisers’ most popular global ports were Rome, Barcelona, Venice, Southampton, and Athens.
Why is cruising crossing age barriers in 2023?
What is it about cruising that’s hooked the younger generations? Here are a few factors that seem to float their boat:
- The opportunity to explore multiple destinations on one trip. South Africans are feeling the economic pinch, with most working hard to save up for their well-deserved holidays. As a result, the advantage of ticking off multiple destinations on their travel bucket list in one go is very appealing, giving them a bigger bang for their buck. Plus, they can see and do more knowing they’ll only have to unpack once.
- The diversity of entertainment on board. Think themed parties, laser tag, Broadway shows, art galleries, and bowling. Some cruise lines, like NCL and Royal Caribbean Cruises, take their offerings to extremes with onboard go-kart racetracks, ice-skating rinks, and massive waterslides.
- The immersive shore excursions. It’s a cliché, but there really is something available for everyone. For example, couples can enjoy a glass of sherry while learning to make tapas in Seville, Spain, families can spend time with friendly lemurs in Nosy Be, Madagascar, and the adventurous can snorkel and explore shipwrecks in the Seychelles.
- Affordability. Every cruiser, younger cruisers included, appreciates that most cruises are all-inclusive, which means you pay one upfront sum for your accommodation, complimentary meals, selected activities and access to most onboard facilities (speciality restaurants, shore excursions, activities, and entertainment not noted as complimentary are at an additional cost). This makes it easier to budget for a trip. Plus, it’s possible for travellers to pay off their cruise holiday over many months – just another reason to consider booking well in advance.
- Enhanced onboard connectivity. Many older generations travel with the intention to disconnect so they can reconnect with their loved ones and themselves. This idea can be daunting for members of younger generations who follow an ‘always-online’ lifestyle. They’re often pleased to discover how cruise lines are integrating technology into the cruising experience, such as through app-based services, virtual reality experiences, and enhanced connectivity.
- Meal options galore: Foodies are always impressed by the selection of cuisine and dining experiences when cruising. There are usually various complimentary dining halls to choose from, as well as many speciality restaurants serving up everything from fresh seafood and Italian favourites to spicy Mexican food, teppanyaki, sushi, and more. Some cruise lines even boast a 24/7 restaurant on their vessels – great news if you feel a craving coming on at 3 am! A good example is The Local Grill, found on NCL’s newest ship, Norwegian Viva.
Another reason for cruising’s increasing popularity amongst the youth is social media – did you know the hashtag ‘cruise’ currently has 12.4 billion views on TikTok? Unsurprisingly, various cruise lines are hopping aboard the social media bandwagon, sharing inspirational content to tempt followers into booking at-sea holidays. As of 12 December 2023, MSC Cruises has racked up 2.7 million likes on its TikTok account, and NCL has over 743,000 likes, with its own hashtag ‘CruiseNorwegian’ boasting an impressive 163.9 million views.
As we sail through the changing tides of travel, it’s clear cruising is a journey of discovery for all ages, including the young and adventurous.
Remember to book your cruise with Flight Centre South Africa for seamless, stress-free at-sea adventures. The Flight Centre team of Travel Experts is there to help you find the perfect cruise to match your wanderlust and guide you through the requirements for your cruise of interest. So, whether you’re a Millennial seeking a new thrill or a Gen-Xer looking to expand your horizons, you can rely on Flight Centre South Africa to chart your course to an unforgettable cruising experience.
Book your cruise by visiting your nearest Flight Centre store, exploring www.flightcentre.co.za, or calling 0877 40 50 20.