TIME TO CRUISE?

Dear WoC
We keep reading about the "credit crunch" and the financial crisis affecting most of us these days and I am left wondering if the holiday/travel business is likely to be the biggest loser in all of this as people cut back on their spending. Or will holidays be the one thing that people keep sacrosanct and just save up longer for? I would welcome your view on the ideal time to book a cruise and if you think there are long-term problems for the industry?

Mr T Buss, Southampton, UK

The Editor says: the travel industry in general is experiencing many of the same economic pangs that High Street businesses are and the financial implications of the credit crunch will almost certainly be felt for many months to come, if not several years. However, much of the cruise industry has been on a highly sound economic footing for years and I would expect it to remain a solid and worthwhile business. There are obviously no guarantees these days but I would expect cruising to be just as popular and enjoyable as ever, with the possibility of some very good deals throughout the year, and not just at off-peak times either. I would keep very close tabs on your travel agent in the coming months!