Cruising is one of the fastest growing travel segments in the world, with 34.6 million cruise passengers (up 9.3% from the previous year) in 2024 alone. In particular, our intentions for cruises have become stronger than ever before. The Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) reports that one in three international travelers are taking part in the cruise, with 82% planning a cruise again.
Not only did South Africans bring the waves to life, but Cape Town recorded the best cruise season ever, and in 2024/25 it welcomed 83 ships, including 11 first calls.
Kevin Bolz, Vice President and Managing Director of Norway Cruise Line (NCL) Continental Europe, Middle East and Africa, is not surprised by the numbers:
“Today's cruising is very different from 10 years ago. The cruise industry is dynamic, stimulating and quick to respond to market trends with new ships and itineraries carefully designed to meet the evolving needs of today's travelers.”
For Bubolz, slow travel is one of the most exciting trends. Here's why 2025/2026 Cruises offer the most relaxed, immersive and rich experience you can imagine.
Expanded itinerary
Virtuoso from Global Travel Group reports growing demand for expanded itineraries to consider 14, 16, 21, and even 60-day itineraries. These itineraries offer more overnight harbor stays, fewer rush calls and a more relaxed pace.
“The biggest attraction of cruising is the nature of 'one airfare, multiple-retention' holidays,” explains Bubolz. “The money you save on flights and transfers can add additional days and coastal excursions to your itinerary. This is a great way for people to maximize their holiday time. Just unpack once and really relax.”
South Africa's Travel Report 2024 flight centres show that on average South Africans choose to cruise for at least 10 days. This is more than the global average of 7.1 days.
“South Africans love sailing in Europe and Asia in the NCL,” Bubolz says. “MED is popular at this time, with sailing in September and October being welcomed from South Africa's winter weather. And you can choose from quick escapes (1-8 days), extended holidays (up to 14 days), and global travel (over 15 days).”
Carefully curated excursion
Forget lying on your lounger for days. Today's cruise itinerary includes culturally rich cities such as Istanbul, Tokyo and Lisbon, as well as the quieter and lesser known ports of Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Finland. This is your chance to experience the old world in a new way with a Shore Excursion, offering everything from guided walks, gallery tours, cycling adventures and immersive cooking classes to satisfy the most serious foodies.
Onboard Cultural Immersion
The onboard experience is just as important as the coastal experience. Imagine an enrichment program that you can learn from wine lovers, historians, wildlife experts and more. Not only do you visit your destination, you understand them. You will learn the secrets of the terroir and sip Mediterranean wines, taking lectures and language classes with local experts who bring centuries of history back to life.
Cooking, music, theater
There's really something in the world of cruising. For example, in 2025, passengers don't just eat. They learn to cook local cuisine, listen to local musicians and enjoy incredible theatre productions that compete with the best of Broadway.
A slow sea day prioritizing wellness
According to Bubolz, building downtime is important. “We all carry invisible backpacks filled with stress, deadlines and family commitments. Ocean Days act as magical reset buttons. We don't allow you to read in the pool or enjoy nutritious treatments at NCL's Mandala Spa and salons.
Family fun and connection are a priority, and it's easy to let kids throw their devices away and take part in the water slides, racetracks and roller coasters we'll be talking about for years to come.
“Expand your time planning your cruise,” advises Bubolz. “And talk to our travel advisor. There are so many options for itinerary, ports and excursion combinations. This can make your journey truly personal and special. And with NCL's More at Sea™ package, you can further enhance your experience with special dining options, an open bar, unlimited Wi-Fi, onboard entertainment and shore credits.”
What's Bubolz's final advice? “If you're still messing around with the idea of booking a cruise, now is the time. It's one of the best ways to see the world.”
For more information about the NCL's award-winning fleet of 20 ships, as well as Norwegian Aqua, a itinerary around the world, contact a travel expert and call 021 200 6586 or visit www.ncl.com.
