The findings come from a poll carried out by Uniworld River Cruises, which found 41% of respondents preferred smaller ship cruising and fewer passengers post-pandemic. 

Alongside an increase in guests downsizing to a river cruise, the survey also found 30% of those polled felt river cruises offer more varied scenery and views whilst sailing, and 17% preferred the slower pace of itineraries. 
 
Meanwhile, 72% of respondents said they are keen to take more holidays from 2023 onwards, and just under half (44%) will aim to go on two to three more holidays a year.

Data from Uniworld’s past guests also showed an increase in duration of the holidays, with 84% travelling for a week or more longer than they did pre-pandemic, and more than a third (35%) travelling for two weeks or longer.

Chris Townson, UK managing director of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, said: "The data from our recent survey amongst past guests and those with an interest in cruising has been really interesting and supported many of the trends we are seeing ourselves post-pandemic.

"It was promising to see such a surge in those who had previously ocean cruised then opting for river cruise, as well as their motivations for travel in 2023 and the lust to do more."