Booking.com, a leading player in the digital travel industry, has announced a significant expansion of its service offerings with the introduction of a new travel vertical: Cruises.
This launch caters specifically to the United States market, which represents a substantial 58% of the global cruise industry. Through a strategic partnership with World Travel Holdings (WTH), Booking.com is set to redefine cruise vacation planning for American travelers.
The introduction of Booking.com Cruises marks a pivotal moment for the company, as it aims to satisfy the growing demand for cruise vacations among US customers. With this launch, travelers can access an extensive selection of over 10,000 sailings from more than 30 of the world’s most prominent cruise lines, departing from over 55 global ports. This diverse range of options includes everything from budget-friendly 3-night Bahamas cruises to luxurious 2-week expeditions in Antarctica, ensuring a suitable choice for every type of traveler.
To enhance the customer experience, Booking.com is offering always-on deals, including substantial on-board credits of up to $1,000 depending on the total spent. In light of the upcoming Black Friday event, these rewards will be doubled, and exclusive deals will be available on select cruise lines, such as Carnival Cruise Line, Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean International.
Booking.com Cruises not only offers a breadth of choice but also simplifies the entire travel planning process. Customers can manage every aspect of their trip on a single platform, from arranging transportation to and from departure ports to booking accommodations and experiences at cruise destinations. For additional convenience, bookings can be made online or by phone with the assistance of US-based cruise experts available 24/7. The company also provides a 110% Best Price Guarantee, ensuring the best value for customers.
Ben Harrell, Managing Director of US at Booking.com, expressed enthusiasm about the launch, stating, “We are excited to roll out Booking.com Cruises, in partnership with World Travel Holdings, and further expand our offerings for travelers in the United States.”
The introduction of Cruises on Booking.com is timely, considering the robust interest in cruise vacations. Industry reports indicate that 85% of individuals who have cruised are likely to do so again, a 6% increase from pre-pandemic levels. Booking.com’s own Traveler Predictions 2024 report reveals that 75% of US travelers find being near water relaxing, with a significant portion showing interest in water-centric vacations for 2024.
Starting November 9, Cruises will be progressively available to US users on Booking.com, accessible via dedicated pages on both desktop and mobile platforms.
