The Next of the Cruise Holiday

Huge luxury cruise liners, lavish yachts and speed boats that will blow your socks off, the boating industry is becoming hip and cool again. Now anyone who's anyone can be snapped taking a luxury holiday on a huge yacht somewhere. The cruise industry is also a holiday option which more and more people are deciding to take. It's an alternative to the run of the mill beach resort or city break.

Traditionally cruises have been associated with retirees wanting to take a luxury voyage and enjoy the serene beauty of the open sea. Now the industry is trying to change that image and attract a broader clientele. P & O Ferries and Crystal Cruises are pushing the boat out and introducing new technology, new entertainment and a new approach which is attracting a younger crowd to the luxury cruise market.

Today few working couples or families have time to take long cruises so many companies are offering shorter trips of 4 to 7 nights, particularly around the Mediterranean. With a younger demographic comes the demand for new destinations. New York has become very popular with 18-34 year olds. The lights of the 'Big Apple' and ample shopping and fine dining make it an attractive port for cruises.

As time progresses so does technology and the cruise industry is not being left behind. Some new cruise liners have artificial surf pools and even iLounges so people can use iPads and Macs in comfort. Not only this, leading companies in the industry are also installing glass bottom walkways, huge water slides and special sea viewing platforms to provide some exhilarating views of the ocean.

For most people the quarters of a cruise are cramped and less than satisfying but this is changing with large cruise ships becoming much better at utilising space without sacrificing comfort. You can expect similar comfort to a luxury hotel with a choice of various size cabins and suites. Some of the suites even have a personal concierge and butler service.

Today's economy is not exactly all plain sailing there is a lot of uncertainty. But that is not stopping holiday makers taking cruises, some are opting for shorter breaks particularly the younger crowd. The weekend cruise for city slickers is a popular choice. It's a good way for people to sample a cruise and see if they like it. In the UK a few short cruises depart from Southampton and take a trip to Guernsey for a delightful meander to St. Peter Port. The appeal is the avoidance of increasingly annoying airports as your holiday effectively starts as soon as you board the ship. Life on a ship is set to a different pace. Although you can enjoy exciting entertainment, for those that just want to unwind and enjoy a relaxing break taking in the clean sea air there is no better option.

The luxury cruise industry is changing its image for the better and with new destinations and attractions that rival even the best resorts the cruise holiday is certainly here to stay.