A new dawn. As demand for sailings to far-flung destinations soars, there are ship launches and itineraries to help cruise clients delve deeper in 2024.
Can you remember a time when cruise has been in such high demand as it is now? Lines are reporting record bookings across the industry, with some high-value products more than 80% sold for 2024 and more than 70% of non-cruisers saying they’re keen to set sail on a holiday. Plus, according to Clia a further £44 billion is due to be invested in new ships between now and 2027, so the opportunity growth for you as agents is showing no sign of slowing down.
The key trends are distinct and undeniable as we look to enter 2024 (p4), leaving you with plenty of ammunition to capitalise on these in your sales strategies and marketing plans. Now is also a great time to take advice from your experienced cruise-selling peers (p10), just as everyone is thinking about New Year’s resolutions both in their work and personal lives.
You’re not the only ones with an eye on big changes next year though, with cruise lines planning new ships (p12), enhanced itineraries and better agent support over the next 12 months. We’ve asked them
to share all this information with us (from p14) plus their most enticing itinerary for 2024, so you can get the inside track and, ultimately, boost your cruise sales in the year ahead.
Madeleine Barber
Special projects editor
TTG Media