LONDON, October 14, 2012 /PRNewswire/ --

• Cruise holidays increasing in popularity
• Cruise trips increased by 10% in 2011
• Holidaymakers can book a cruise through Thomas Cook

As the economy bites hard at cash-strapped Brits, a number of holidaymakers are looking for alterative get-away options. Cruises in particular have become increasingly popular over the last 12 months, with new figures showing a 10% increase in the number of passengers choosing a cruise holiday.*

People across the world are enjoying more cruises deals as the global figure for passengers increased by a massive two million people; topping the 20 million ocean cruise passenger total for the first time.

The latest figures from Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) show that passenger numbers rose from 18.7 million to 20.6 million between 2010 and 2011. The most popular destination of choice for cruise passengers included North America and Europe, which attracted 11.5 million and 6.2 million holidaymakers respectively.

European cruises proved to be the most popular overall with an increase in passengers by 9% over the same period.

Cruises are becoming a more informed choice and it's estimated that 1.26 million Britons enjoyed a holiday at sea last year, with a many more expected to do so in 2012. As more and more people are venturing on-board for their holiday and enjoying last minute cruises, the range of cruises on offer is also increasing

What types of cruises are available?

Mini Cruise

Mini cruises are perfect for those who want to enjoy a short break. Many might be inclined to think that a cruise involves huge luxury cruise liners with a price tag to match. This, however, is not always the case and there is a huge range of different cruise breaks available.

A mini cruise could be a two or three-day adventure; ideal for weekend breaks. Typically you spend a night on board the ship, arrive at your destination, spend the day there and then back to for another night onboard your ship before your return.

Popular destinations include Paris (Le Havre), Bruges (Zeebrugge) and Cork.

Cruise and Stay

Cruise and Stay holidays allow you to enjoy the best of both worlds. These allow you to enjoy all the best bits of a cruise and a traditional get-away once arriving at your destination.

They can be tailored so you could choose a pre or post cruise stay at your destination. For example, you could fly out to your destination and stay for however many nights you wish and then take a cruise home, or vice versa.

* http://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/boom-time-for-global-cruise-industry/?utm_source=newsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsletter

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SOURCE Thomas Cook