Asia, river cruising and small
ships are the hottest trends
predicted by cruise experts.
AUSTRALIA’S leading cruise consultants have
shared their tips with Cruise Weekly, agreeing
that international destinations are set to boom
this year.
“As the popularity of cruising increases and
more people become seasoned cruisers, an
increasing number of Australians are cruising
for longer, with the extended voyages around
South America to and from the United States
appealing to many of our customers,” said
Cruise Express managing director Meg Hill.
“And as many Australians have now sailed
Europe’s rivers, they are seeking new horizons,
with Asia now the hot new destination for
river cruises.
“The Mekong has proved very popular with
the increase in deluxe river vessels there, but
Burma is the newest country to offer luxury
river cruising, with great new packages
released to help Australians explore this exotic
and unspoiled destination,” she said.
Peter Marshall, director, Cruise Abroad, also
observed a “very clear trend” in 2012 river
cruises.
“I think we are now seeing a lot of returning
passengers, who have initially cruised the wellknown
Amsterdam to Budapest route, become
hooked on river cruising and are now looking
at different European river destinations,” he
said.
“We have noticed a huge growth within
Spain, Portugal and France, especially the
Bordeaux region.”
TravelManagers chairman Barry Mayo said:
“Indications are that river cruising, both in
Europe and Asia, will continue to grow
strongly.
“Also, the benefits of small ships, with their
more frequent ports of call and all-inclusive
products, will be increasingly appreciated by
experienced cruisers and those travellers
seeking more than just a cruise.”
Robert Watson, of Cruiseabout Turramurra
was another agent to tip Asia but predicted
Australians would book a higher class of local
cruise.
“With so much inventory in the local market,
I think four-star product ex Australia will be
very popular.”
Robyn Sinfield, of Excell Travel & Cruise,
Brighton (Victoria), picked Hurtigruten as the
cruise line to watch.
“The genuine part of Norway and the
Norwegian coastline are rich in maritime
history and 34 port experiences – some of the
world’s most beautiful and untouched scenery
awaits,” she said.
