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BLOG: How Can Technology Persuade People To Take A Cruise?

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Cruising is a unique and exciting way to explore the world. With so many options available, however, it can be daunting for people to choose the right one. Enter technology, a true ‘game changer’ that is making it easier for cruise lines to grow their customer base.

Personalised experiences are key, and these can be achieved via the use of AI-powered recommendations. Virtual reality tours, mobile apps, social media marketing and sustainability efforts are also useful tools for cruise lines. Read on for an answer to the question, ‘how can technology persuade people to take a cruise?’.

Personalised Experiences

In today’s digital age, we have come to expect personalised experiences in many aspects of our holidays. The cruise industry is no exception, and cruise lines are increasingly looking to analyse traveller preferences so that they can suggest itineraries, activities, dining options and more, all tailored to individual tastes. This level of personalisation not only improves the guest experience but also increases the likelihood of a person booking a cruise and returning for future trips. By providing a unique and customised experience, cruise lines can also differentiate themselves from their competitors. This allows them to really stand out in a crowded marketplace.

AI-Powered Recommendations

Preferences can be analysed using Machine Learning (ML) algorithms. In this particular application of AI, cruise lines are able to suggest personalised experiences matching the interests and needs of their guests. For example, if somebody is interested in adventure activities, the AI can recommend itineraries that include activities such as rock climbing or zip-lining. Similarly, those seeking relaxation can look forward to recommendations including spa treatments. By using AI in this manner, cruise lines can improve the customer experience and increase customer loyalty. As AI technology continues to evolve, it will become even more sophisticated and effective at predicting preferences and needs.

Predictive Analytics

This is becoming an important aspect for cruise lines when running loyalty programmes. By tracking customer spend and overall behaviour, they can identify their most loyal customers and offer them personalised promotions and rewards. This not only helps to retain existing customers but also encourages them to spend more and to book more frequently. Post-cruise feedback also helps to generate incredibly useful data. Surveys can encourage people to share their thoughts on various aspects of the cruise experience. Some cruise lines use social media to gather feedback, too. By monitoring social media platforms, they can see what is being said about individual experiences and then make data-driven decisions. For example, if a complaint is made about the quality of the food on a particular cruise, the cruise line can make changes to their menu.

Virtual Reality Tours

VR technology is changing the way that potential cruise guests can preview a ship and its amenities before booking. By using VR tours, cruise lines can provide a realistic and immersive experience to people in 3D – it is as if they are actually on board. This technology is particularly useful for first-time cruisers as it can help them to get a better sense of the layout and overall atmosphere. VR tours can also help to build excitement and anticipation for the cruise, thus increasing their likelihood to book.

Mobile Apps

These are an essential tool for modern-day travellers, making booking and check-in processes simpler and more efficient. Many cruise apps also provide information about on board activities, dining options and more. This allows people to plan their itinerary in advance and truly make the most of their cruise experience. During the cruise itself, cruise line apps provide real-time information on itineraries, including updates on any changes or delays. This means that guests stay informed and can then plan their day accordingly, without the need to check emails or visit the customer service desk. Additionally, many cruise apps provide a digital key that eliminates the need for a physical key card. On board credit, shore excursion bookings, and restaurant reservations also feature on some apps, enhancing the overall experience even further.

Social Media Marketing

Social media platforms have become another powerful tool for cruise lines. Many use them to reach out to potential customers, showcasing their offerings and building a strong online presence. Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, YouTube and more can all be leveraged to engage with people in real-time. They can be used to promote images and videos of ships, amenities, and destinations. By doing this in an engaging and visually appealing way, cruise lines can capture the attention of potential cruisers and persuade them to book.

Another option for cruise lines is to use social media influencers to promote their brand. By partnering with these, cruise lines can tap into their large and loyal following. Influencers can create sponsored posts and share their experiences on the cruise, giving their followers a unique and authentic perspective on the cruise experience.

Cruise lines can also encourage guests to share their own experiences on social media. This can create a genuine and authentic ‘buzz’ around their brand. User-Generated Content (UGC) showcases their offerings from the perspective of real travellers. This level of trustworthiness is invaluable, effectively creating brand ambassadors who often use hashtags and social media contests to encourage others to share their content as well. This in turn can generate a sense of community and engagement around a brand.

Sustainability Efforts

Cruise lines have long recognised the importance of sustainability, taking various steps to reduce their environmental impact. From installing energy-efficient lighting to implementing advanced waste management systems, cruise lines are using technology to become more eco-friendly. This not only benefits the environment but also attracts eco-conscious travellers who are looking for responsible and sustainable travel options. Steps being taken include:

  • Clean energy technologies such as solar and wind power
  • Plastic waste reduction via reusable containers and the elimination of single-use plastics
  • Alternative energy sources such as Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) and solar power
  • Waste reduction programmes

On the latter point, many cruise lines are taking significant steps to implement these. One such programme is Carnival Corporation’s partnership with the non-profit organisation, ‘Clean the World’. The program collects discarded soap and other hygiene products from the ships and recycles them into new soap bars. These are then distributed to communities in need around the world. Another example is Royal Caribbean International’s ‘Save the Waves’ programme. This focuses on reducing waste on board ships by implementing recycling and composting processes.

How Can Technology Persuade People To Take A Cruise?

Technology makes it far easier for cruise lines to persuade people to do just that. In fact, it can be said that tech is revolutionising the cruise industry. Cruise lines are delivering truly personalised experiences, providing convenient mobile apps, enhancing social media marketing efforts, becoming more sustainable, and analysing data to improve the on board experience. Now more than ever before, cruise guests are enjoying unique and memorable experiences.

Read other articles on IT and cruise from theICEway.