6 Biggest Cruise Trends, And How They May Change Your Cruising!

Editorial Summary

Gary Bainbridge outlines six major trends predicted to shape the cruising industry in 2020. He first notes the continued growth of the sector, driven by an increase in new ship launches and a surge in interest regarding expedition cruising to exotic locations like the Arctic and Antarctica. A shift toward adult-oriented cruising is also expected as lines attempt to attract Millennials and younger couples. The second trend involves the bundling of services, where cruise lines include costs like Wi-Fi, gratuities, and specialty dining into the initial fare to appeal to modern travelers. Consequently, the third trend involves cruise lines seeking new revenue streams through paid access programs, such as priority embarkation and luggage handling. To combat overtourism, the fourth trend focuses on changing port calls through longer overnight stays, nature-based excursions, and the use of alternative ports to reduce congestion in major cities. The fifth trend highlights a significant industry push toward environmental sustainability, including the use of liquefied natural gas, the reduction of single-use plastics, and the implementation of shoreside power. Finally, Bainbridge identifies an increasing obsession with brand partnerships, where cruise lines collaborate with well-known names in food, wellness, and entertainment to enhance the onboard experience.

Written by TripBacon from this video's transcript.