Our expertise
Why Gen Z shouldn’t wait to try cruising
By Katie Spooner, Cruise Specialist at Travelwise
When you picture a cruise, what comes to mind? Deck chairs and shuffleboard? Tea at 4pm and early bedtimes?
For a lot of people, especially younger travellers, cruising still feels like something to “do later.” I was chatting to a friend recently who said she’d love to see more of the world but thought cruising was more for older travellers. She figured she’d try it eventually, just not yet.
But the reality? Cruising has changed. And depending on the cruise line, it’s one of the most fun, sociable, experience-packed ways to travel – especially for Gen Z.
Katie Spooner
The newest member of our team (yet she’s still been with Travelwise since 2017), Katie’s always one step ahead with the latest must-see Disney and cruise experiences. She’s renowned for adding personalised extras and thoughtful details that make each journey feel truly one-of-a-kind.
So, are cruises actually fun for younger travellers?
Short answer: yes. Long answer: it depends on the cruise line and the type of trip you choose.
Take Royal Caribbean, for example. These ships are a far cry from quiet lounges and polite after-dinner talks. They’ve got climbing walls, surf simulators, ice rinks, escape rooms, water parks and sports courts. Evenings bring silent discos, live music, themed parties, karaoke, comedy nights and clubs that stay open into the early hours.
And during the day there’s always something happening: quizzes, dance classes, fitness sessions, food tastings. You could be as chilled or as busy as you like.
Multiple destinations, one easy trip
Another thing people often forget about cruising is how many places you get to see in one go. A week-long trip might take you to Italy, France and Spain, all without repacking your bag or figuring out local trains.
If you tried to book flights, hotels, transfers and meals for all those stops individually, the cost (and hassle) would add up fast. A cruise simplifies everything – especially if you’re not a super confident traveller yet. Accommodation, entertainment, food, transfers and even excursions are all sorted for you.
So if you’re someone who loves the idea of seeing the world but doesn’t want to plan every detail, it’s ideal. You can spend your days exploring and your evenings dancing, no logistics, no stress.
A travel style that grows with you
Cruising is also surprisingly flexible. You can go with friends, join a group sailing or travel solo and meet people onboard. And with more cruise lines investing in stylish interiors, eco-focused experiences and specific itineraries for younger adults, it’s far from outdated.
If you’re someone who’s always wanted to travel but doesn’t know where to start – or if you just want something fun, social and different – it might be time to look at cruising through a new lens.
Curious about trying your first cruise?
Whether you’re planning a post-uni adventure, a trip with friends or something more spontaneous, we’d love to help you find the right fit. Cruises aren’t one-size-fits-all, and with the right itinerary, they’re anything but boring.
