As the UK gets its first taste of sunshine, new research from Scenic Cruises has revealed a surprising trend for 2025 as search data suggests travellers are increasingly seeking out colder destinations.
Most notably, searches for Antarctica cruises have seen a drastic 262% increase in searches over a three month period. Similarly, milder locations like Amsterdam and Norway have seen increases of 77% and 65% respectively, suggesting travellers may be ditching the sunbeds for colder climates.
New research by Scenic Cruises reveals the most searched for cruising locations on Google. Expert commentary from Dominic Keely, Head of Marketing – Rivers & Land UK at Scenic Cruises explains the trends they are seeing in destination bookings across the last three months.
The seven cruise destinations expected to be popular in 2025
|
Search Term |
Increase in searches over the past three months |
|
529% |
|
397% |
|
349% |
|
294% |
|
262% |
|
77% |
|
65% |
Danube river cruises are trending in 2025
Over the past 90 days, searches for ‘Danube River Cruise’ have surged by over 529%. A cruise along the Danube allows travellers to explore three of Europe’s most iconic capital cities- Budapest, Vienna and Munich.
If you’re looking to tick off some detour destinations as well as ticking off those three big cities, a Danube River cruise also offers the opportunity to visit lesser-known charming towns and villages such as Regensburg and Passau.
The Danube also offers an impressive eight national parks and so if you’re after a ‘calmcation’ that escapes the crowds and gets you out in nature – in between hitting three big cities- a cruise along the Danube could offer the perfect balance.
Romantic French cruises peak coming into February
Searches for ‘France Cruise’ have experienced an impressive 397% surge in searches over the past three months.
Often considered one of the most romantic countries in the world, a cruise along the river Seine may be perfect for a Valentines break.
From serene cruises along the Seine in northwestern France to enjoying a leisurely lunch near the Eiffel Tower in Paris, travellers can eagerly explore French escapes that promise relaxation and indulgence.
Asian River cruises are also predicted to peak in 2025
Japan emerged as a must-visit destination, enticing travellers with its unique blend of traditions, from sake to sushi. Whether it’s the vibrant energy of Tokyo and Osaka or soaking in the breath taking landscapes of North Honshu, interest in ‘Japan Cruise’ has surged by an impressive 349% over the past three months.
Nile leads the way for African cruising this year
The term ‘Nile Cruise’ received a 294% increase in Google searches. Travelers are eager to embark on unforgettable journeys along the world’s longest river, immersing themselves in ancient wonders and the awe-inspiring pyramids.
Coolcations predicted to stay trendy as searches for Antarctica cruises peak at 262%
Although cruising is often associated with warmer temperatures, interest in Antarctica cruises has surged, with a 262% increase in searches over the past 90 days. ‘Coolcations’ a trend where travellers opt for cooler temperatures over ‘where’s hot’, is expected to stay in 2025.
The Polar regions are gaining popularity as sightseers opt to look at unique adventures, from encountering once-in-a-lifetime wildlife to capturing breath taking photos of stunning glacial landscapes.
Dominic Keely at Scenic Cruises shared that “the Danube is always a popular choice for explorers and marks one of our most popular cruises when it comes to website enquiries. Guests often report that they enjoy visiting multiple countries across Europe as they are some of our most comprehensive cruises.”
He added, “The Rhine is another hotspot for travellers wanting to explore multiple locations and so we’re not surprised to see ‘France cruises’ also leading the charge for Google Searches. The Rhine boasts gorgeous waterways through the Netherlands, Germany, France and Switzerland, which allows for breath taking sites.”
Looking ahead, Dominic observes: “We also see lots of website searches for Antarctica cruises– suggesting that travellers are open to cruising to colder climates to get that once-in-a-lifetime experience. It seems that Coolcations really are here to stay in 2025.”