Amid a sharp rise in international airfares, the appeal of taking a cruise has zoomed into focus for holidaymakers, according to industry research.

A poll commissioned by insurance provider InsureandGo to gauge how pricing trends have impacted traveller appetite reveals three in four have developed an interest in a cruise holiday.

Almost two in five of the more than 1000 people surveyed said they found the idea of cruising more appealing, while 52 per cent indicated they were considering cruise travel this year.

The results follow June figures from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission showing a 51 per cent increase in average return economy international airfares from Australia on pre-pandemic levels.

 In contrast, cruise prices are up 10-15 per cent.

Under-50s are likely to drive the new cruising trend, with 57 per cent of both the 18-30-year-olds and 31-50-year-olds surveyed saying they would consider the option this year, compared with 44 per cent of over-50s.

InsureandGo chief commercial officer Jonathan Etkind puts the findings down in part to the all-inclusive costs of cruises. 

“Our research results speak volumes not only about the sky-high cost of international Australian flights post COVID but also the expanding cruise line options for all demographics,” he said.

“Cruise lines such as the new Virgin Voyages arriving this month in Australia, offering ships with tattoo parlours and HIIT workout classes, and the recently introduced Disney Cruise Line in Australia are now catering to younger demographics.

“They are also proving more affordable for Aussies on a budget.”

The poll revealed younger travellers to be more budget conscious, with 60 per cent of 18-50s compared with 51 per cent of over-50s influenced by free, accessible facilities like pools, gyms, clubs and restaurants.

“For families, return airfares hit the hip pocket even harder on international trips due to the ‘per seat’ pricing model, whereas cruises offer a ‘per cabin’ pricing model,” Mr Etkind added.

Meanwhile, luxury British cruise line Cunard is adopting a novel approach to mark the arrival of the QE2 in Sydney on Monday.

Multiple Archibald Prize finalist David Bromley will embark on a 72-hour challenge aboard the liner as it sails up the coast from Melbourne, to produce a one-of-a-kind art installation.

The respected Melbourne painter will create several large canvases, within dedicated studios on the ship’s three-storey Grand Lobby, the Queens Room, aft deck and even the bridge.

The pieces will be assembled into a final work more than 3x7m, reflecting Bromley’s distinctive pop sensibility, and auctioned for Cunard’s charity partner the Prince’s Trust Australia in support of young people, veterans and their families.