Cruise demand from GCC surges

The cruise holiday industry in the GCC is experiencing a significant surge as travellers from the region increasingly embrace the allure of exploring the world’s most breathtaking destinations by sea. Popular as ‘Cruise Guru’ in the industry, Ashok Kumar, Founder and Managing Director, Cruise Master, shares insights on the industry trends in the GCC with TRAVTALK.

TT Bureau

Popular cruise destinations captivating GCC travellers

Cruise enthusiasts from the GCC have a wide array of options, with Mediterranean voyages, Greek Isles itineraries, and Northern Europe sailings being perennial favourites. The enchanting fjords of Norway, the majestic glaciers of Alaska, and the picturesque coastal towns of the Mediterranean provide unforgettable experiences for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. Leading cruise
lines, such as Princess Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), Royal Caribbean International, MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, and Disney Cruise Line offer diverse itineraries tailored to these iconic destinations.

Although cruise holidays are available year-round, Middle Eastern travellers show a strong preference for travelling during the summer holidays. This trend stems from the region’s family-oriented demographics, where school vacations play a significant role in planning holidays to ensure children can join the trip.These cruise lines cater to various preferences, from Disney’s family-friendly experiences to Royal Caribbean’s groundbreaking ships and MSC’s elegant Mediterranean-inspired voyages. GCC travellers, known for their appreciation of personalised luxury and curated experiences, find these cruises particularly appealing.

Cruising close to home

Closer to home, the Arabian Gulf has emerged as a vibrant hub for cruise holidays. MSC Cruises, Costa Cruises, Celestyal Cruises, and Resorts World Cruises lead the charge, offering convenient departures from regional ports like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha. These itineraries showcase the Gulf’s unique blend of modernity and tradition, visiting destinations like Muscat, Sir Bani Yas Island, and Bahrain.

Saudi Arabia’s commitment to growing its tourism sector has also led to the launch of Aroya Cruises, the country’s first homegrown cruise line. With itineraries that explore Saudi Arabia’s pristine coastline and cultural landmarks, Aroya Cruises is poised to become a key player in regional cruising.

Polar expeditions

For the more adventurous GCC traveller, polar expeditions represent the pinnacle of exploration. Albatros Expeditions, a pioneer in sustainable and Halal-certified cruising, offers once-in-a-lifetime journeys to Antarctica and the Arctic. These expeditions provide a rare opportunity to witness untouched landscapes, catering to the growing demand for experiential and eco-conscious travel.

The industry leader in the ME

At the forefront of this cruise industry boom is Cruise Master, the largest cruise agency in the Middle East. With 18 years of expertise, Cruise Master plays a pivotal role in promoting cruise holidays through its extensive network of travel trade partners across the GCC. As the GSA for Carnival Corporation brands like Princess Cruises, Cunard, and P&O Cruises, as well as other prestigious lines, such as Windstar Cruises and Celestyal Cruises, Cruise Master offers unparalleled access to world-class cruising. Cruise Master covers the entire spectrum of cruise holidays from Contemporary, Premium, Luxury to River, Expedition, and Niche segments.

A bright future for GCC cruising

The cruise holiday industry is set to grow exponentially. With a combination of local sailings, iconic international itineraries, and groundbreaking polar expeditions, the cruise industry is charting an exciting course in the region.