Cruise holidays are becoming increasingly popular - they give travellers a way to watch the world go by, visit exotic destinations, and relax in luxury all in one convenient package.

In 2016, 24.7 million people travelled on a cruise holiday and this is estimated to rise to 25.8 million this year.

In this week’s travel blog we take a look at the most popular cruise destinations and advise on the benefits of purchasing specialist travel insurance to cover your cruise.

The most popular cruises

35% of travellers chose to explore the vast array of white sandy beaches, beside turquoise waters filled with tropical fish in the Caribbean. Caribbean cruises are a great way of experiencing the Caribbean’s multiple cultures, languages and breath-taking landscape all in one trip.

Europe was the next favourite, with 18.3% exploring the Mediterranean and 11.1% taking in the spectacular scenery of the rest of Europe. With the option of starting your cruise in the UK and short flight times Europe is a perfect choice for those who are not keen on the long flight across to the Caribbean. A cruise and stay break is also a great option for those wanting an extended trip.

Asia is becoming an increasingly popular destination with 9.2% of cruise passengers opting to visit this area in 2016. Cruising Asia gives you the unique experience of visiting the high rise buildings in China and Hong Kong, as well as the tranquillity of destinations such as Thailand and Malaysia, in Asia there really is something to please everyone.

Find out more information about cruising and discover your perfect cruise by using The Telegraph’s perfect cruise finder.

Specialist travel insurance for your cruise...

JustTravelcover can provide you with specialist cruise cover offering you benefits not normally offered on a standard travel insurance policy, these benefits include:

• Airlift to shore should you require medical treatment not available on the cruise ship.
• Missed port departure, cover for any costs should you fail to arrive prior to the ship departing; due to failure of public transport, and accident or breakdown of your vehicle or a major accident causing unexpected delays to your journey.
• Cabin confinement, compensation if you are confined to your cabin by the ships medical officer for medical reasons during a period of your tip.
• Unused excursions, cover for any missed excursions as a direct result of you being confined to your cabin due to an accident or illness.
• Itinerary change, payment in the event that a port is missed due to adverse weather or timetable restrictions.
• Cruise interruption, cover for additional travel expenses incurred to reach the next port to re-join the cruise in the event of you requiring temporary hospital treatment on dry land.

Travelling soon?

Call our UK call centre (free) on 0800 294 2969 for a quote for your travel insurance with added cruise benefits, or if you have any specialist requirements – we’d be happy to help.

Alternatively you can get a quote online, and don’t forget to mention NW17 to claim your 10% discount.

Enjoy your next trip, and please share your cruise photos with us on Facebook!