Cruising 'has been resilient' during downturn

The cruise industry has been resilient during the economic downturn, it has been noted.

Figures published last week by P&O Cruises and Cunard show that the group saw a 47 per cent increase in first day sales for their 2011 world cruise.

PR director at the Passenger Shipping Association (PSA) Penny Guy said that cruising has "held its own" during the recession and has fared better than many other travel sectors.

"It continues to remain popular and I think that's driven by the value for money that cruising offers," she commented.

PSA findings show that there has been 11 per cent yearly growth in custom in the cruise sector, for the second year in a row.

The group suggests that trade will flatten this year, but will continue to rise come 2010.

Ms Guy said that the figures show that while people are still keen to take holidays during the downturn, it is important to them that they get the best value for money.