Everything’s ship-shape as cruising bounces back

Before the pandemic, cruising was the fastest growing segment of global tourism. 

When COVID-19 arrived, the industry was especially hard hit. The Ruby Princess made international headlines after it docked in Sydney in March 2020 with hundreds of COVID-positive people on board. 

Very quickly, cruising came to a complete halt and the big operators suffered billions of dollars in losses while their ships lay at anchor away from unwelcoming ports for more than a year. 

But, with almost all COVID restrictions lifted worldwide, cruising has bounced back big time. 

In Australia and around the world, itineraries are regularly sold out and cruising is once again a hot ticket with holidaymakers – especially seniors keen to visit bucket-list destinations in style and comfort. 

Average occupancy on the big cruise lines exceeds 100% – something that is possible when cabins designated for two people also carry children or other additional guests. 

Even taking that into consideration, Royal Caribbean has managed to overbook the massive Wonder of the Seas – the world’s largest cruise ship, with a capacity of 2,300 crew and 7,084 guests – three times in the past six months. 

If you haven’t thought about this holiday option, here are some reasons to consider taking a cruise:

• It’s an all-in-one travel experience. Cruises provide a hassle-free way to explore many destinations without the need for separate accommodation, transport, and meal planning. Onboard you will find many dining options, entertainment venues, and recreational activities.

• You unpack once and the destinations come to you. No need for extensive travel planning or dealing with logistics.

• Cruises cater to a wide range of interests and preferences, with hundreds of itineraries available across the globe. Whether it’s tropical beaches, historical landmarks, cultural experiences, or natural wonders, there’s an itinerary to suit your interests.

• These floating resorts provide a range of activities to keep you engaged and entertained. From swimming pools to Broadway-style musicals, piano bars, game shows, standup comedy, and casinos, there’s something for everyone. Many ships also offer spa facilities, fitness centres, and organised activities such as cooking classes, history lectures, and craft workshops.

• From silver-service restaurants to casual buffets and specialty eateries, there is something to satisfy every palate onboard a cruise. Many ships also offer themed dining experiences, allowing passengers to explore different culinary traditions and flavours.

• Whether you choose to relax by the pool, indulge in spa treatments, or enjoy serene views from your cabin balcony, the onboard ambiance encourages relaxation and rejuvenation. Many cruise ships have gyms and offer wellness activities such as yoga classes and meditation sessions.

• Because you are in a shared space with a sense of community, cruises offer a unique environment for socialising. You have the chance to connect with people from all backgrounds and nationalities, and form friendships that will continue when the cruise is over.

• Wherever you cruise, you can enjoy breathtaking natural vistas. Whether it’s gazing at the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean, marvelling at the majestic fjords of Norway, or enjoying the sunset over the Greek Islands, the natural beauty observed from the deck of a ship is often awe-inspiring.

• Value for money. Cruises offer a cost-effective way to experience multiple destinations and enjoy numerous amenities. Many cruise packages include all accommodation, meals, and entertainment, and allow you to bundle in extras such as alcoholic drinks packages, excursions and internet access.

Having said all that, not all cruises are the same, and not all ships are for everybody.