Once the preserve of wealthy retirees, cruises are set for a face lift, as younger Brits see the appeal of sailing the high seas. Indeed, latest exclusive consumer research from MINTEL shows that well over half (55%) of 19 – 24 year olds would like to go on a cruise in the future, compared to just one in four (26%) over 65s. What is more, the research shows that the cruise industry has successfully managed to shed its image of being just for older travellers, with less than one in ten (9%) adults believing that ‘cruises are just for old people’. Britain’s love affair with cruises is really hotting up, with ever more Brits walking the gangplank. This year alone we are set to take no less than 1.5 million cruises at sea and on rivers – one and a half times the number of 2002. Incredibly, this means that the world’s largest cruise liner, the Royal Caribbean’s Independence of the Sea (which can carry 3,634 passengers) could set sail every day of the year and still not accommodate all the British cruisers.

MintelAdmin
More from Mintel
  • Mintel Store Reports
    Discover your next big breakthrough
    Get smart fast with our exclusive market research reports, delivering the latest data, innovation, trends and strategic recommendations....
    View Reports
  • Mintel 2026 Global Predictions
    2026 Global Predictions
    Our Predictions go beyond traditional trend analysis. Download to get the predictive intelligence and strategic framework to shape the future of your industry in 2026 and beyond. ...
    Download now
  • Mintel Consulting
    Are you after more tailored solutions to help drive Consumer Demand, Market Expansion or Innovation Strategy?
    Ask for a customised strategic solution from Mintel Consulting today....
    Find out more
Subscribe to Press Releases
Contact Press Office
Related articles
October 9, 2025
Mintel, the global leader in market intelligence, today revealed three key predictions set to impact the global beauty and personal care (BPC) industry in 2026 and beyond.     By 2030, beauty…
June 17, 2025
Current fragrance trends are heavily influenced by social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. Mintel’s The Future of Fragrance 2025 highlights how viral micro-trends and growing interest in discovery…
March 12, 2025
Indonesia is emerging as a major force in the global beauty industry, fueled by a youthful population, digital engagement, and evolving consumer preferences. With over 270 million people—more than half…

Free market intelligence downloads