Barrhead Travel has seen a 25 per cent increase in cruise reservations for 2024 amid record-breaking sales.

Data from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) showed that 77 per cent of millennials are mulling over a cruise for their next holiday.

The figures parallel with Barrhead Travel's bookings, demonstrating a 30 per cent growth in under-40 cruisers since 2019.

Long haul destinations like Barbados, Canada, and Dubai have seen a hike in cruising, up 81 per cent, 150 per cent, and 45 per cent respectively.

Nearer the UK, the Fjords are increasingly popular, with a 58 per cent rise while spots like Athens and Mallorca have spiked by 24 per cent and 115 per cent.

Nicki Tempest-Mitchell, sales and marketing director at Barrhead Travel, said: “Cruise holidays are now firmly one of the most popular choices for all different types of holidaymakers.

“The cruise industry has evolved at incredible pace and has appeal to every single age group, every demographic and budget, as well as catering to all tastes.

"It’s one of the reasons that it’s also proving very popular for multi-generational groups as the onboard offering can accommodate everyone."

River cruising has also seen a 171% growth year on year.

Ms Tempest-Mitchell said: “The appeal of river cruise is all about getting to the heart of multiple destinations and the accessibility that offers.

“For European itineraries in particular, it’s akin to enjoying four or more city breaks in one go – and docking in the centre of cities means you can enjoy even longer at port as many itineraries offer overnights.

“With river cruise companies adapting their product to entice younger travellers, I think river cruise is one to watch for the coming year as a key travel trend.”