The number of first-time cruisers is more than double last year, according to latest figures from major cruise retailer Cruise.co.uk.

Of the nearly 1,200 people polled by the Redditch-based OTA, 4% were new-to-cruise in 2022, while over 9% plan to take their first holiday at sea this year.

In 2019, 4% of respondents to a similar Cruise.co.uk survey said they were taking their first cruise.  

In the latest poll, the Mediterranean was the most popular destination for new-to-cruise passengers, with the Caribbean in second and the Norwegian Fjords and north Scandinavia tied in third place.

Cruise.co.uk’s study also revealed that over 50% of respondents, who are existing cruisers already, have a future cruise booked.

Deputy Managing Director Tony Andrews said: “We’re encouraged to see such a significant increase in the number of new-to-cruise customers looking to sail this year.

“A holiday at sea offers unbeatable choice, to suit every taste and budget, so we’d urge anyone who hasn’t tried it yet to dip their toe in the water.”

Pictured: P&O Cruises ship Britannia