This past weekend I had the pleasure of attending the trade/media preview cruise for Royal Caribbean’s new ship, Star of the Seas.
We only had three days to experience the world’s largest cruise ship, which is often the case for these cruise press trips.
Still, there was ample time to enjoy the variety of activities and entertainment offerings onboard Star of the Seas. Of course, every single person there wished they had more time, but we certainly the made the most of our experience on the short cruise.
You might think three days sounds too quick, but these short cruise offerings are quickly catching on in the industry.
If three days is all you have, a quick cruise down to the award-winning Perfect Day at CocoCay is still an awesome vacation.
Royal Caribbean jumped out the gate with three- and four-night cruises for Utopia of the Seas, which debuted in summer of 2024.
Just last week, Carnival Cruise Line announced they’re dipping their toes in the short cruise game by offering four and five day sailings to the Bahamas onboard Carnival Mardi Gras. As Carnival’s expands its private island experiences, I expect to see them copy Royal Caribbean in offering even more short cruise itineraries.
These shorter sailings are such a great way to attract first time cruisers. For travelers who have never taken a cruise, the idea of seven days at sea can seem daunting. A short weekend getaway, though? That’s much more appealing, especially when you toss in the chance to experience waterparks – whether that’s on the ship itself or at their private islands.
Royal Caribbean President and CEO Michael Bayley echoed this during his press conference last week onboard Star of the Seas.
“Once people have cruised and experienced a product and brand, and they like it, it’s so much easier to then offer them multiple other products and experiences,” Bayley said. “They have no trust issues, they have no resistance because they trust the brand.”
What do you think of short cruises?
Let me know your thoughts and follow me on social media: @EricBowman_
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