3 in 5 Brits would choose a multi-generational cruise holiday, says Marella Cruises survey

International

Family time and flexibility top the list of reasons for cruising together across generations

A new survey by Marella Cruises has revealed that nearly three in five Brits (57%) would go on a multi-generational cruise holiday, with one in three (32%) saying the main reason is to spend quality time with family. Interestingly, Gen Z (36%) are leading the trend, ahead of Millennials (34%), Baby Boomers (32%), and Gen X (29%) – suggesting that cruising as a family appeals most strongly to younger generations.

Why Brits are cruising together

According to the survey, Britons enjoy multi-generational cruise holidays because “the more people there are, the more fun it is” (13%). Other key reasons include flexibility and freedom of choice (10%), the ability to split costs (10%), and opportunities for grandparents to spend time with grandchildren (7%).

Surprisingly, Gen Z respondents (51%) were far more likely than Gen X (20%) to say they would prefer to set sail with their parents — highlighting that younger travellers value shared experiences as much as relaxation and adventure.

Family cruising capitals of the UK

Based on Marella Cruises’ booking data, Birmingham tops the list as the UK’s leading city for family and group cruises, followed by Cardiff, Sheffield, Newcastle, and Nottingham.

To celebrate the growing appeal of family cruising, three generations of TV personalities — Jess Wright, her mother Carol Wright, and Jess’s young son Presley — recently joined Marella Voyager on a Mediterranean cruise. The family enjoyed a variety of onboard and onshore experiences, from spa sessions and sunset cocktails to exploring Barcelona and visiting Marella’s free kids’ club, The M Club.

“The perfect way to make memories together”

TV personality Jess Wright shared:

“Spending real, quality time with my husband, both my parents, and Presley has honestly been amazing. Life gets so busy, so having the chance to come together as a full family—whether we’re relaxing onboard Marella Voyager or heading out to explore—has been such a gift.”

Her mother Carol Wright added:

“There’s nothing quite like sharing these special moments abroad with Presley. Watching him have the time of his life in the kids’ club and seeing his face light up as we explore the sights of Italy together—those are memories I’ll treasure forever.”

Top 10 UK cities booking family or group cruises

· Birmingham

· Cardiff

· Sheffield

· Newcastle

· Nottingham

· Glasgow

· Belfast

· Swansea

· Bristol

· Leicester

A cruise for every generation

Chris Hackney, CEO of Marella Cruises, said:

“With multi-generational cruise holidays on the rise, Marella Cruises makes it easy for every family member to feel looked after. From grandparents enjoying a drink at Indigo Bar and parents relaxing at Ocean’s Spa, to kids having fun at the M Club—there’s something for all ages, all in one place.”

Marella Cruises offers all-inclusive holidays as standard, with tips and service charges included, allowing guests to enjoy premium service and complete peace of mind.

More information on Marella’s multi-generational cruises is available at www.tui.co.uk/cruise.