New Market Predictions on Cruise Vacation Destinations

In a cruising prospective, the world is becoming a smaller place yearly. New markets are continually being explored, expanded and exploited in response to demands of passengers seeking unique and interesting places to vacation. The big winners of popular destinations predicted in the spring of 2008 were the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Australia and Asia.

Mediterranean cruises are high in popularity largely due to their exotic offerings and a bigger variety of sailing choices. While such cruises are pricier than more frequently traveled destinations, it was predicted that passengers would be willing to pay extra for the opportunity to travel in a manner that would be seen as out of the ordinary. In response, cruise lines have positioned more vessels for these ventures, and extended the season normally spent in the Mediterranean, with some sailing from April to December.

Australia and Asia are also both perceived by passengers as an interesting destination, and are included in the cruise market’s list of desired locations. Additional cruise itineraries are being planned for both of these seasonal choices, and those traveling will include individuals from all over the world, not just Americans.

As one of very few year round cruise locations, the Caribbean is predicted to continue as one of the most popular destinations. Many cruise lines already have strong itineraries to meet the public demand, and continue in striving to provide diverse cruising options for these vessels. With nearly all cruise lines adding this fun and easily accessible hot spot, prices should prove to be highly competitive, with a great deal of choices in activities.

In short, predictions for the 2008 cruising season are that it will be a busy one. Despite economic downtrends, people are still clamoring for vacations that excite, stimulate and satisfy; or in a word, a cruise.

What are your plans for sailing the seas? Where do you plan to go? Share your dreams or ask cruise related questions at our cruise vacation forum.