The number of British people opting for cruise holidays is expected to increase by 6.5 per cent to 1.65 million next year thanks to the introduction of new ships.
Figures from the Passenger Shipping Association (PSA) show that despite the recession, the first nine months of this year have resulted in a five per cent increase in the number of Brits taking a cruise over 2008 levels.
The data, which were released by the organisation at the Travel Convention in Barcelona, show that 1.55 million Brits will take a cruise holiday this year compared to 1.48 million in 2008.
"The all-inclusive nature of cruising and the very high standards of quality, innovation and customer service have made cruising a compelling and mainstream holiday choice," commented PSA director Bill Gibbons.
He added that "there's now a sustained interest and excitement in cruising which will be reinforced next month with the introduction of the largest ever cruise ship
Oasis of the Seas".
The ship, which belongs to
Royal Caribbean Cruises, is the world's largest passenger vessel.
Written by Chris Smith.