Cruise experts Serrano and Vogel assess the Spanish market

Serrano acknowledged 'Spain was among the last markets to recover' from the COVID-19 shutdown, but business is now improving. It is one of the last countries retaining COVID controls, he added.

During the shutdown, no cruise vessels were allowed to lay up in Spanish ports. Some ports took advantage of the lull in operations to invest in improving their facilities.

Half a million Spaniards cruised in 2019

In 2019 the Spanish source market provided 530,000 passengers, the fourth largest number in Europe. 'Pullmantur had a loyal market, both for cruise passengers and other travel, with 160,000 cruise passengers annually,' Serrano said.

Vogel noted the recent announcement of a new French cruise line. Might there be scope for a similar concept in Spain?

Serrano responded that a Spanish source market certainly exists but said 'The international cruise lines do an excellent job of catering to specific [nationalities].'

Serrano described the typical Spanish cruiser as 'Average age 45, seven years younger than the EU average. They are more family-focused.' Casual, friendly dining and entertainment are desired on a seagoing holiday.

As many countries as possible, please

Historically, many Spaniards have not traveled much internationally, so they are interested to see as many countries as possible during a cruise. Slow sailing can offer international destinations such as North Africa.

But no early port calls

Vogel pointed out itinerary planners should take note of the Spanish attitude 'I don't go to work at 7 in the morning, so why should I take an excursion at 7?' He also noted Spanish passengers typically want to make new friends while cruising.

Aging baby boomers an opportunity

Serrano pointed out some Spanish baby boomers have substantial money, and many in that generation will retire over the next 10 years.

He sees this as a significant opportunity for cruise lines.