The Rising Popularity of Christian Cruises

Each year a growing number of people take their first cruise. The popularity of cruising has ignited an exciting niche for the cruising industry - affinity cruises. Affinity cruises (also known as specialty cruises) are growing in popularity at a rate even faster than cruising in general. Generally, these cruises focus on a theme or a particular demographic. Singles cruises, retiree cruises, financial investment cruises, weight loss cruises, the list goes on and on.

Christian cruises are one of these incredibly popular niches. Generally, Christian cruises are offered in two basic formats — a charter cruise where the group takes over the entire ship or a group sailing with a smaller number of people cruising with regular passengers on an open sailing. With a group cruise, members book through the travel agent organizing the cruise. In return they receive special amenities on board. In most cases, they pay a premium for these amenities with the profits going back to the religious organization or being set aside for a particular fund raising project. In most cases, the group or travel agent arranges for special entertainers and speakers, offering special activities on board such as worship services, Bible studies, and special seminars specifically for the group.

Full ship charters are handled in a much different way. Since the group essentially owns the ship for that particular sailing, they have much more flexibility to customize the cruise. They may choose different, unique port stops to allow for mission work or make a special stop to visit well-known sites. Generally, the charter cruise will feature Christian musicians and entertainers in all of the entertainment venues, replacing the regular entertainment offered by the cruise line. In addition to the special onboard activities centered on a Christian theme, the ship may transform a particular portion of the ship into a Christian bookstore – offering music, books, and memorabilia directly related to the speakers, entertainment, and theme of the cruise.

Christian cruises can be unforgettable, life-changing experiences. If you feel led to put together a Christian cruise, or just participate in one, please contact Rhonda Sand at TMI Tours. Rhonda has years of experience organizing and creating unique Christian cruise programs.