Almost half of luxury cruise passengers plan to send more on sailings in 2024, according to new research.

The poll by specialist agency Panache Cruises found that 86% plan to spend at least the same amount on cruises this year as they did in 2023, with 43% saying their outlay will increase.

The survey of 1,700 customers revealed that 2024 looks set to see strong demand for high-end cruising.

Almost all (90%) of respondents say they intend to take a cruise this year, and one in two saying that they are looking to take more than one sailing during 2024.

When asked when customers are likely to book, the survey showed that 55% are considering booking in January.

Nearly 12% of respondents are planning to cruise solo, around 10% with a larger group of friends, 10% with family and the majority planning to cruise with their partner.

The Mediterranean/Europe and Caribbean topped the most popular destinations to be visited, with Australia, Asia, South America, Alaska and Polar cruising seen as key destinations of interest.

Panache Cruises founder and chef executive James Cole said: “After a really strong year for cruise in 2023, it looks like 2024 is set to be even more buoyant.

“It is certainly clear from our survey that our customers want to cruise more and will not be compromising on what they spend, which gives us confidence looking ahead.”

He added: “Whilst there are sure to be political and economic challenges to deal with over the next 12 months, we remain cautiously optimistic about the year ahead.

“January has already got off to a very good start, and we are currently ahead of expectations in terms of sales, which is a positive place to be.”