Cruises-Direct launch generates huge uptake in cruise holiday bookings

The new website features 30 major cruise operators and is backed up by a customer service line operated by accredited cruise holiday consultants.

Cruises-Direct has seen a year-on-year growth of 94% in cruise holidays.

Cruise operators featured on www.cruises-direct.co.uk include Celebrity Cruises<, Oceania, P&O and Royal Caribbean.

There are plans to develop the website and online features for customers further by including the option to book cruise holidays online and add more booking options allowing holidaymakers more customisation to build tailor-made holidays.

Neil Smillie, head of Holidays-Direct, said: “Our vision for the new website is to offer holidaymakers the most comprehensive range of cruises at competitive prices.“

“Even though we have only recently launched, we are already working on a number of initiatives which will give our site increased competitive edge when it comes to booking cruise trips.”

Holidays-Direct says Cruises-direct.co.uk is major part of its focus for 2009, predicting the further growth of the sector.

In recent years the image of cruise holidays as the choice of retired people has changed. Increasingly, cruise holidays have become the choice of families and younger couples who enjoy the luxurious on-board facilities and opportunities to visit a number of countries during one holiday – all at a relatively low price.

Itineraries for 2010 cruises have already been published on www.cruises-direct.co.uk for the Queen Elizabeth and Princess Cruises, amongst others.

The most popular destinations for cruise holidays are the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and the Norwegian Fjords.

About Holidays-Direct

Online travel agency www.holidays-direct.co.uk is part of the Midlands Co-operative Society Group and is a member of ABTA. They specialise in providing affordable flights and accommodation in the top holiday destinations around the world.

Midlands Co-op Travel, incorporating Ilkeston Co-op Travel, is the No 1 independent travel agent in the Midlands.

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