A growing number of Indian travellers are showing interest in cruise holidays as a convenient way to explore multiple European destinations in a single trip, with 67% finding multi-destination European cruising appealing, according to a new YouGov survey commissioned by Royal Caribbean.
The survey, conducted across India, Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines, found that convenience is a major factor driving this interest. Among Indian respondents, 45% said the ability to visit multiple destinations with ease was a key benefit of European cruising. Safety and comfort followed at 42%, while 40% valued included meals and entertainment. Another 39% cited avoiding airport check-in, security procedures, and delays.
The findings come as Royal Caribbean introduces Legend of the Seas to the Mediterranean, marking the first time its Icon Class vacation experience is available in Europe. The ship offers itineraries from Barcelona, Spain, and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy.
Italy and France Top Indian Travellers’ European Preferences
Italy emerged as the most preferred European destination among Indian respondents, with 51% selecting it, followed by France at 48%. The UK was preferred by 45%, while Spain was selected by 30%.
The survey also indicates that cruising is becoming competitive with more traditional ways of travelling between European destinations. Trains were the preferred mode for 25% of Indian respondents, while cruises and short-haul flights each received 24% of the preference.
Nearly nine in 10 respondents across the five markets surveyed identified at least one challenge associated with travelling between multiple European destinations, highlighting the demand for simpler ways to navigate a multi-country holiday.
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Legend of the Seas Brings Multiple Destinations Into One Holiday
Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas connects several popular Mediterranean destinations, including Palma de Mallorca in Spain, Provence in France, and Florence, Rome and Naples or Capri in Italy.
The cruise model allows travellers to move between destinations without repeatedly changing hotels, arranging transfers or navigating airports, while onboard entertainment and leisure facilities remain available throughout the journey.
Among Indian travellers, America’s Got Talent LIVE was the most anticipated onboard experience, attracting interest from 42% of respondents. Surfside Neighbourhood, designed for families with young children, followed at 37%.
The ship also features Category 6 Waterpark in Thrill Island, along with family-focused entertainment and dining options.
Dining and Entertainment Add to the Experience
Dining is another area attracting Indian travellers. Royal Railway – Legend Station was the most anticipated featured dining experience among Indian respondents, with 28% expressing interest, compared with 23% across the five markets.
Hollywoodland Supper Club attracted 20% interest among Indian respondents, compared with 15% across the regional markets.
The findings suggest that Indian travellers are increasingly considering the overall vacation experience when choosing how to explore Europe, with convenience, entertainment and destination coverage playing an important role.
With Legend of the Seas now sailing Mediterranean itineraries, Royal Caribbean is positioning cruising as an alternative way for Indian travellers to experience multiple European destinations without the travel complexity associated with moving between countries.
