Luxury travel agency group Global Travel Collection has reported a surge in cruise bookings for this summer.

The Caribbean, Mediterranean and Norwegian fjords top the list of preferred destinations. 

Caribbean itineraries are increasingly being seen as a favoured option for the Christmas period, while the agency group anticipates a growing interest in cruises to the Far East and South America from November to February.

GTC, part of Internova Travel Group, includes Protravel International, Tzell Travel Group, and Colletts Travel.

Clients are increasingly turning to cruises as an alternative to all-inclusive resorts across an assortment of holiday types, from honeymoons to multi-generational family holidays, according to advisor Debbie Arnold, who has been booking cruises for more than 30 years.

She also noted that client preferences were moving towards extended cruise durations, from seven-day cruises to 12-18 days at sea.

“My clients are keen to book ahead, and I have had the busiest January for cruises, with bookings as far ahead as 2026,” Arnold said. “When my clients disembark a cruise, they are often keen to put a deposit down for the next one.”

Vice president Francesca Mendola said: “Many luxury travellers are looking for something different from the traditional all-inclusive resorts. 

“They are curious to experience something new, and ultra-luxury cruising is an experience they want to tick off their list. 

“Small ship cruising has also been popular for luxury clients desiring a more authentic experience.”

Mendola highlighted the exponential growth in cruise bookings and “remarkable success” among advisors.

She added: “Recognising the surging demand for cruising, we are dedicated to strengthening our partner relations with cruise lines and providing cruise training for our independent advisors. 

“We are poised for an exceptional year with robust growth in the luxury cruise sector. We aim to empower our advisors to diversify their sales and enhance their ability to promote and sell cruises effectively.”