If it’s been a while since you’ve set sail on a cruise, you might be in for a surprise. A lot has changed in the cruising world, and 2024 promises to be a year full of updates. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first-ever voyage, staying informed on the latest cruise trends will help you prepare for a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here’s everything you need to know about the major changes happening in the cruising industry in 2024.
1. Rising Cruise Prices
Cruising is still one of the best values in travel, but prices have been rising steadily. Compared to 2019, pre-pandemic, cruise fares in 2024 are up by about 20%, and prices for 2025 are projected to be 50% higher than they were just five years ago. The days of last-minute deals are fading fast, as most cruise lines are now booking to full capacity well in advance. If you want to secure the best price for your trip, it’s wise to book as soon as new cruises are released.
While cruise vacations still offer great value compared to land-based trips, the gap is closing. The takeaway? Plan ahead, book early, and be prepared for higher prices on popular routes.
2. Budget Cruise Lines Are Changing
If you’ve always counted on certain cruise lines, like Carnival, for budget-friendly fares, it’s time to rethink your approach. While Carnival was historically known for affordable pricing, the rise in demand has increased their prices. In contrast, some premium lines like Princess and Holland America are offering much more competitive prices. For instance, a 7-day cruise with Carnival might run you $426, while Princess and Holland America offer comparable trips for $357 and $349, respectively.
With MSC Cruises offering fares as low as $249, the budget-friendly cruise landscape is evolving. Be sure to shop around and compare prices across cruise lines, even those you wouldn’t normally consider.
3. Wi-Fi Is Finally Reliable
For years, cruise Wi-Fi had a reputation for being slow, spotty, and frustrating. But with major cruise lines adopting Starlink internet by SpaceX, Wi-Fi speeds have significantly improved. Starlink uses low-Earth orbit satellites to deliver faster and more reliable connectivity, ensuring that even at sea, you can stream, upload, and browse without too much hassle.
If you’ve been avoiding Wi-Fi on past cruises, it’s worth considering again. Starlink is already available on major cruise lines, with more rolling it out as the year progresses.
4. Airlines: Higher Baggage Fees and Increased Delays
Many cruisers fly to their embarkation ports, so knowing what’s happening with airlines is essential. Several airlines, including Alaska Airlines, JetBlue, American, United, and Delta, have all increased their baggage fees by about $5 per checked bag. While this may not seem like much, the extra charges can quickly add up, especially if you’re flying with family.
Additionally, flight delays and cancellations are becoming more common. It’s recommended to plan to arrive at least one or two days early to avoid missing your cruise due to unforeseen airline issues.
5. Increased Global Volatility
Travel safety has always been a consideration for cruisers, but in 2024, certain popular destinations are seeing increased volatility. Terrorist attacks in Israel, the Red Sea, and the Gulf of Aden have caused cruise lines to reroute their itineraries, while rising crime rates in the Bahamas and Mexico have led to increased travel advisories.
Nassau, Freeport, and Cozumel—typically considered safe—have seen a rise in criminal activity, though private islands operated by cruise lines remain unaffected. Always check travel advisories for your destination before booking a cruise and stay informed on potential risks as your travel date approaches.
6. New Ships, New Experiences
If you love exploring the latest in cruising, 2024 will be an exciting year for you. A total of 14 new cruise ships are being launched, including some record-breakers. Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas will be the largest cruise ship in the world, debuting in 2024. Utopia of the Seas will follow closely behind, continuing Royal Caribbean’s trend of innovative, colossal ships.
Other notable new ships include Cunard’s Queen Anne, the first new ship for the brand in a decade, and Princess Cruises’ Sun Princess, which introduces an all-new ship class. New ships tend to command higher prices, but they also offer state-of-the-art amenities and experiences.
7. A Revolution in Solo Travel
For years, solo cruisers had to pay steep “single supplements” to make up for the revenue lost by not having a second person in the cabin. But with the rising demand for solo travel, cruise lines are adapting. In 2024, 11 different cruise lines will offer cabins specifically designed for solo travelers, eliminating the need for costly supplements.
This shift is great news for solo adventurers. Be sure to check if your preferred cruise line offers solo cabins before booking.
8. Travel Documentation: Passport Processing Times Are Back to Normal
During the pandemic, processing times for passports became notoriously long. Thankfully, 2024 has seen a return to more normal waiting periods. Regular processing times are now down to 6-8 weeks, with expedited service taking just 2-3 weeks. Whether you’re renewing an old passport or applying for a new one, the process is now much more manageable.
It’s still a good idea to apply early, especially during peak travel seasons, but the frustrating delays of the past few years are behind us.
9. Gratuities and Additional Expenses Are on the Rise
Gratuities and extra charges are a normal part of cruising, but in 2024, expect to see these costs increase. Gratuities for onboard staff have gone up across nearly all major cruise lines, along with other expenses like specialty dining, drink packages, and Wi-Fi. Even port fees and parking at embarkation ports have seen slight increases.
These costs may not seem substantial on their own, but they can add up quickly. Be sure to factor these additional expenses into your travel budget when planning your next cruise.
10. Short Cruises Are Gaining Popularity
Short cruises, lasting three or four days, have historically been limited to a small number of older ships. But in 2024, cruise lines are embracing short itineraries in a big way. Carnival now offers short cruises on seven different ships, and premium brands like Celebrity are getting in on the action as well.
The biggest change comes from Royal Caribbean, which will dedicate 10 ships, including the brand-new Utopia of the Seas, to short cruises. These shorter trips offer a perfect way to enjoy a quick getaway without committing to a longer itinerary.
Conclusion
The cruising world is rapidly evolving in 2024, with price hikes, new ships, improved Wi-Fi, and even solo travel revolutions. Whether you’re an experienced cruiser or planning your first voyage, staying informed about these changes will help you get the most out of your trip. Be sure to check out new deals, plan ahead, and explore all the new possibilities cruising has to offer this year.
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