By Expedia Team, on February 14, 2014

2014 Expedia Wave Report

I’m on a boat! Or rather, you should be on a boat. Why, you might ask? Well, according to Expedia’s latest study, the Expedia Wave Report, cruising (via ship, not bicycle) continues to be the vacation style of choice. The study sought to analyze current trends in the cruising marketplace and address concerns that travelers may have with traveling via cruise ship. The results in both of these areas revealed some interesting data points.

No. 1 on the list: People love to cruise. Of the 6,867 respondents (a group that comprised Expedia travelers that have taken at least one cruise in their lives), about 75 percent intend to take a cruise in 2014, while 58 percent consider cruising as superior to all other forms of travel. Of all the fast and innovative ways you can travel today, it would appear that traveling by ship still reigns supreme.

There’s no one answer to why Expedia travelers seem to prefer cruising to every other form of travel. Much of it seems to be a result of the convenience and accessibility. About 60 percent of respondents to the 2014 Expedia Wave Report cited the ability to “explore multiple destinations” as the most favorable feature of a cruise. On a cruise, travelers can hit numerous destinations, and do so at a better value than what you would expect to pay for a trip to one destination.

Another 58 percent of respondents cited “all-inclusive nature” as the most favorable feature of cruising. Cruises are unique in that once you’re finished booking your cruise, you’re basically done with the travel planning. Meals (except for alcohol), activities, excursions, and accommodations are often bundled into that up-front rate, taking the stress out of travel.

The 2014 Expedia Wave Report also looked at where travelers will be cruising this year. On the list: Hawaii, the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, Alaska, Australia and New Zealand. In particular, Expedia travelers are most interested in traveling to the Eastern Mediterranean.

We’d be remiss if we didn’t address the issue of safety. Thankfully, the 2014 Expedia Wave Report showed that most cruise travelers–87 percent, to be exact–feel safe aboard a cruise ship. Only 5 percent of respondents expressed concern over safety.

The 2014 Expedia Wave Report indicates that this year will be a banner year for cruise companies in terms of amenities, world-class dining, vibrant nightlife, and extensive children’s and family programs. That means 2014 is shaping up for a great year to take a cruise. Heading into the 2014 cruise travel season, we are excited to offer the industry’s most robust fleet of cruise options, with a cruise for every type of traveler and budget. Now go out there and get on a boat.

Download the full PDF infographic and see Expedia’s wide range of cruise offerings.