With the summer holidays fast approaching, families across the UK are once again facing tough decisions about where to go – and how much they can afford to spend.
New research suggests that cruising is becoming an increasingly attractive option, especially when compared to soaring prices for traditional all-inclusive land holidays.
According to recent analysis from TravelSupermarket, prices for week-long all-inclusive family breaks to some of Europe’s most popular destinations have risen sharply compared to 2024.
Cyprus, for example, has seen a 23% increase, with the average cost for a seven-night stay in August rising from £950 to £1,166 per person.
Spain, Greece, Turkey, the UAE and Portugal – all top destinations for UK travellers – have also recorded noticeable price hikes, with the UAE experiencing the steepest rise at 26%.
These surging costs are having a clear impact. Travel agents report that more people are shortening their holidays or opting for mid-week departures in an attempt to save money.
Others are booking more expensive trips but for fewer nights, while some are leaving it until the last minute to grab a bargain.
Still, the overall message is clear: land-based all-inclusives are becoming less affordable for many.
By contrast, the cruise industry is offering a compelling alternative – one that continues to deliver strong value for money even as interest grows.
Figures from Cruise Trade News show that while the average price of a cruise in the UK has gone up by around 8% since 2024, this is notably less than the double-digit increases seen for many land-based options.
What Makes Cruising Stand Out in 2025?
Cruising offers a level of convenience and value that’s hard to match. Your fare typically covers accommodation, meals, entertainment, and travel between multiple destinations – all bundled into one package.
For families looking to stretch their holiday budget, this can mean considerable savings when compared to booking flights, hotels, and food separately.
Another major advantage is the variety of destinations. Instead of staying in one resort, cruise travellers can wake up in a new country almost every day.
Popular regions this year include the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Canary Islands and the Caribbean, all known for their stunning scenery and reliable weather.
And while not all cruise lines include drinks as standard, there are exceptions. Lines such as Marella Cruises offer inclusive drinks, while others provide flexible drinks packages, allowing guests to tailor their holiday to suit their preferences and budget.
Cruise Trends: Longer Voyages, Smarter Bookings
There’s also a growing trend towards longer cruises.
Seven-night sailings remain the most popular, now accounting for over half of bookings – up from 39% in 2023 – and there’s been increased interest in 10- to 16-night voyages.
This reflects a shift in traveller behaviour, with many choosing to maximise their time away and explore more far-flung destinations.
With demand rising, cruisers are also getting more strategic. Bookings are now being made further in advance, sometimes years ahead, to secure the best cabins and itineraries. Some cruise lines are now taking bookings as far ahead as 2028.
In a year where the cost of many traditional package holidays is climbing rapidly, cruises are proving to be a smart and cost-effective alternative.
With so much already included, and the added benefit of visiting multiple destinations in one trip, it’s no surprise that more British holidaymakers are turning to the seas for their 2025 getaway.
While prices have edged up slightly, cruising still offers excellent value – particularly when you factor in everything that’s covered. Whether you’re after a family adventure, a romantic escape, or an immersive cultural experience, there’s never been a better time to set sail.
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