More and more people are looking to explore further afield whilst protecting the natural environment, and cruising fits perfectly into this category of sustainable travel.
We spoke with Tony at Idle Travel about the latest cruise trends, including the growth of the expedition and river cruise holiday markets and travel trends for 2026/7, which indicates a desire for adventure with tourists keen to explore lesser-trodden routes.
With more regional UK ports open to cruise vessels than ever before, holidaymakers need to travel less by road or air before they start their holiday for real. This not only saves time but also has environmental benefits too.
Bucket List Holidays
The demand for big-ticket bucket list trips has increased in popularity. Travellers are looking to spread their wings with a renewed sense of perspective and a desire for adventure by taking a world cruise, or at least a section of it. With these cruise trends, cruise lines are seeing an increase in bookings to destinations such as the US, Canada and Australia as well as previously inaccessible destinations. Holidaymakers can, and should, visit somewhere they have always wanted to go whilst they have the opportunity with so many more options available.
Expedition Holidays
A surge in interest in expedition cruises reflects a desire to travel further afield and create new experiences. There’s a trend to explore off the beaten track. Adventurists want to see some of the most remote parts of the world and walk along yet-to-be-trodden paths. Antarctic cruises are a popular choice amongst those wanting to see landscapes that have only been seen by a few. The rapidly growing expedition cruising sector has seen many new ice rated expedition vessels – equipped with submarines, helicopters and Zodiac inflatable boats to explore remote areas up close.
More of a focus on our environment
The latest cruise trends are seeing environmental issues are to the fore in the travel sector in 2026/7 with a bigger focus on sustainability and protecting the natural environment. The cruise industry is taking a lead with new greener fuels and more efficient vessels. More regional UK ports are opening up for large vessels too meaning that holidaymakers have significantly less distance to travel between home and their nearest cruise ship dock, with Southampton leading the way. Many holidaymakers won’t need to board a plane and generate further emissions as a result.
Being able to cruise further on shorter trips
Recent advances in cruise ship technology have seen the creation of vessels which can cover greater distances per day due to improved hydrodynamic hulls and more efficient engines. In 2026/7 travellers heading away on a week’s cruise on the most modern ships will be able to explore further afield due to this new technology. With sailing speeds in excess of 20 knots, travellers are now able to spend more time at each port and experience destinations within Scandinavia and the Mediterranean more easily than ever before.
River Cruises
Explore the world’s most scenic rivers with a river cruise, onboard elegant small ships with immersive experiences. From the Douro to the Danube, the Rhine to the Rhône, and the Mekong to the Nile. Where will your curiosity take you? River Cruising provides an intimate and friendly atmosphere with passenger numbers normally ranging from as low as 50 up to around 200.
This is a unique and relaxing way to explore various destinations, particularly through scenic landscapes and cultural hubs. With a focus on cultural immersion and elegant, comfortable accommodations, river cruises appeal to those seeking a sophisticated and intimate travel experience.
Hopefully we have inspired you to tick one of your bucket list destinations from your list. Speaking with Tony at Idle Travel, there is so much more to share – watch this space!
Call Idle Travel today on 01274 619141 and follow them on Facebook and Instagram to keep up with all the latest travel hot spots, news and travel trends.
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