Who are we?
The PSA is the UK’s trusty trade body for the cruise and ferry sectors, founded in the 1950s to promote passenger travel by sea. We bring together 39 cruise line members, 19 ferry line members and 167 accredited cruise agents to represent passenger shipping interests in the UK.
What do we do?
We’re delighted to bring you Discover Cruises, helping you pick the right cruise to suit your interests, timescale and budget. From cruising the Caribbean to sailing Amazonian backwaters, you can compare and contrast cruise styles and tour operators with our insider guides and member profiles, then find the latest holiday deals with our cruise newsletters.
How do we protect?
You can rest assured that your holiday at sea will be plain sailing. Cruise line members belonging to the PSA are bonded to protect your interests afloat –compensating you in the unlikely event of a company’s financial failure and carrying out regulations on safety, environmental protection, health, hygiene and security. We take your comments seriously, so please call us on 020 7436 2449.
Who do we work with?
We work together with official bodies such as the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA), the Chamber of Shipping (COS) and the European Community Shipowners Association (ECSA) to promote best practice at sea.
What’s the secret of the cruise market’s growth?
From mega-ships to themed river cruises, cruising offers more choice than ever before. Around 12 ships are introduced each year, bound for exciting new destinations.
Is cruising better value than it used to be?
Cruising has always offered value for money, but has become even more accessible and affordable lately, with tour-operator ships offering great deals for those on a budget.
Who does cruising appeal to?
Ever younger, today’s cruisers choose holidays at sea to suit their interests, from round-the-clock kids' clubs to oriental spas and Antarctic expeditions.
Does cruising deserve its formal image?
The traditional black tie and ball gown cruises still have their place, but many lines now offer relaxed and informal holidays at sea, where there’s no need to dress for dinner.
What’s the news on cruises from the UK?
Cruises from the UK increased 12% in 2006. This growing trend is set to continue in 2007, with British ports expanding to welcome bigger ships and offer more itineraries.
Any favourite itineraries and destinations?
Current favourites are the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Scandinavia, Atlantic Isles and West Coast USA/Hawaii. Demand for offbeat destinations, South America and Antarctica almost doubled last year.