Group Travel Accounts for 25% of Annual Cruisers

The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) reports that group cruising accounts for roughly about 25% of total passengers; a fact made even more amazing when considering over 3 million people cruise each year. The percentage varies according to cruise line, of course, but acts as an average across the board.

Families, events such as weddings and reunions, clubs and alumni groups, government, military, corporate meetings and theme cruises account for the majority of group cruisers. There are several good reasons for that, including:

Value is a major reason that groups gather to cruise. What other venue includes accommodations, food, entertainment and more in the fare charged? Depending on the package, some cruise fares even include shore activities and drinks.

Planning Ease is a big consideration when it comes to group travel. When the gathering is planned on land, the organizer must schedule a meeting place, plan menus, find accommodations, create itineraries of events and activities plus many other aspects. Cruise lines specialize in group cruises, taking over the chaotic organizational tasks with dedicated group planners and experts.

Choices abound in a cruise atmosphere. A plethora of exciting destinations across the world, cruises varying in length from 2 days to several weeks and highest variance in pricing exist to match the needs of the group.

Pricing is often the largest obstacle to overcome in group cruising, since groups consist of people from all walks of life and all degrees of financial ability. With the wide ranges of pricing, incentives and promotions continually being offered in the cruise industry, finding one that matches the abilities of the group is made much easier.

Remember when planning a group activity that it must be exciting enough for all to desire the trip, yet affordable and providing enough value as well to enable all to participate. A cruise can be all that and more. Talking to a travel agent and allowing their expertise in group travel planning to guide the needs of your specific group can narrow down the appropriate choices until one is found that matches your needs.