October is Plan a Cruise Month – a worldwide movement to learn more about cruising and how to plan and take a cruise holiday – and GLT will be providing plenty of inspiration for GTOs throughout the coming weeks.
This year, Plan a Cruise Month is shining a spotlight on the many worldwide cruise destinations including those in Europe; the Americas and the Caribbean; Australasia and Asia. Each week will focus on a different region.
The campaign has been launched by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), the ‘unified voice and leading authority of the global cruise community’. CLIA offers insight into some of top cruise destinations, special cruise line deals and promotions.
Increase in popularity
The Florida Caribbean Cruise Association (FCCA) reported 24.2 million passengers cruising globally in 2016 a 4% increase on 2015’s previous high of 23.2 million. This year is poised to break more records, with a forecast of 25.3 million sailing the oceans on FCCA and/or CLIA Member Lines – figures to be revealed in 2018.
“Plan a Cruise Month is such an amazing opportunity for anyone who loves to travel to learn more about the variety of today’s cruise holiday options,” said Cindy D’Aoust, president and CEO of CLIA.
“Today there are cruises to take you around the world from rivers in Asia and Africa to ocean cruises to the Galapagos Islands. A cruise can take you to some of the best global destinations aboard some of the most advanced cruise ships.”
Group cruising
Group travel organisers planning a cruise, especially if it’s for the first time, will have plenty to consider, from the style of dining desired to the size of the ship you’re sailing on. Mega ships such as Royal Caribbean International’s Harmony of the Seas, for example, can sleep over 5,000 passengers, while a ship like the Aegean Odyssey, sailed by Voyages to Antiquity, sleeps 350 people.
The age group that cruise lines cater for is also something to take into consideration. Companies like Saga, Cunard, P&O Cruises and Fred. Olsen are still hugely popular with mature travellers, while the likes of Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival now have massive appeal for younger people and especially families with children.
To help you with planning a cruise, throughout the month, Group Leisure & Travel will be sharing top tips and expert advice from some of our writers, who have years of experience working in the cruise industry.
Keep an eye on our news pages throughout the coming weeks for cruise news, columns and top tips when it comes to planning a cruise for your group.
Tell us about your experiences
Have you had an amazing cruise holiday with your group, or have some advice or recommendations that you'd like to share?
We'd love to hear from you! E-mail editorial@groupleisureandtravel.com with your stroies, tips and images.
For more information on Plan a Cruise Month, visit www.cruising.org.
