Travel agents have more work to do to attract the growing number of Muslim travellers opting for a cruise holiday.
An estimated one million Muslim travellers took a cruise holiday in 2023. This figure is projected to reach 2.8 million by 2027.
Key insights from Mastercard and CrescentRating’s inaugural Muslim- Friendly Cruise Report 2024 reveal that in the ASEAN markets of Singapore, Indonesia and Malaysia, overall cruise passengers grew 56% between 2019 and 2023.
The number of Muslim passengers grew by 8% during the same period, suggesting a rising interest in cruise holidays among the region’s Muslim community.
Yet only 33% opted to book through travel agents or tour operators. For those prospective passengers considering a cruise in the future, the split was even more pronounced with 79% saying they would prefer to book directly through cruise operators’ websites, compared to 28% who would opt for travel agents.
Other key points from Mastercard and CrescentRating’s inaugural Muslim-Friendly Cruise Report 2024
Passengers prefer to book via digital platforms. Among experienced cruise passengers, 48% of respondents booked directly through the cruise line’s website, while 14% used online travel agencies.
Cruise operators need to cater to a diverse range of budgets and durations. For experienced cruisers, 32% reported spending less than $500 per person, while 34% said they allocated between $500 and $1,000 per person, covering a range of cruise options from budget to moderate luxury.
Shorter cruise durations are gaining momentum, with 45% of passengers opting for shorter cruises lasting 1-3 nights, which suggests a growing interest in enjoying the full cruise experience without the commitment of an extended vacation.
Flexible payment methods play a crucial role in cruise passenger’s overall experience. While 85% of respondents expressed a preference for debit or credit cards, the popularity of cash (26%), E-Wallets (19%), QR Code Payments (19%) and Mobile Payments (17%) underscores the need for cruise operators to offer a variety of secure and convenient payment methods.