NEW Cruise Guru data has revealed Australians are booking bigger staterooms, planning further ahead, and prioritising value for next year. The online cruise booking platform experienced record demand for balconies in the third quarter of 2025, and also saw customers plan further ahead. Cruise Guru booking data shows more than...
NEW Cruise Guru data has revealed Australians are booking bigger staterooms, planning further ahead, and prioritising value for next year.
The online cruise booking platform experienced record demand for balconies in the third quarter of 2025, and also saw customers plan further ahead.
Cruise Guru booking data shows more than half of travellers booked at least a balcony stateroom this year, while 11% booked a suites.
Inside stateroom bookings were down across some cruise lines too, Cruise Guru observed.
CCO Michael Betteridge (pictured) said this reflects a “quality over quantity” mindset, as the Australian cruiser grows more sophisticated.
“Aussies tend to love the fun and excitement of cruising but also want their own private sanctuary, views and the comfort that upgraded cabins offer.
“They see cruising as the best of both worlds and they’re willing to invest in that experience.
Forward planning is also accelerating at record pace, with average lead time landing at about nine months or 275 days across all categories.
Betteridge said this is evidence of Australian cruisers planning more strategically.
“The desire to secure the right ship, the right itinerary, and the right cabin is pushing bookings further out,” he said.
“Customers have learned that waiting may mean missing out.
“While we have seen last-minute cruising demand, many itineraries are filled already,”
Passengers are also expressing a renewed appetite for value-adds and fly-cruise, painting the picture of a more considered, experience-driven Aussie cruiser.
Asia tops the list for international destinations, recording a 45% increase in the third quarter versus the same period last year.
“Local cruising offers convenience, certainty and a stress-free solution that continues to resonate with Australian families,” Bettridge said.
“We’re also seeing steady momentum for international itineraries as customers start planning bigger, more adventurous trips.
“This could be driven by more guests seeking unique and diverse cultural experiences with the value and convenience of cruising as they explore new destinations, particularly in Asia,” he added. MS
