Forty-nine per cent of cruisers took their first cruise before the age of 45, according to a poll by Cruisecritic.co.uk, one the world’s largest cruise websites.

Just below a third were aged between 45 and 55. Somewhat surprisingly, only 17 per cent first cruised between the ages of 55-65, and a mere three per cent were older than 65.

Many cruise lines are keen to target the ‘new to cruise’ audience

Cruise Critic conducted the poll to learn more about the average age of first-time cruisers, with the results dispelling any myths about cruising only appealing to an older generation.

Many cruise lines are keen to target the “new to cruise” audience, including families, and this survey highlights that cruising is attractive to people of all ages.

Adam Coulter, UK editor of the Cruise Critic website, said: “There is now a cruise tailored to almost every taste: from active, destination intensive holidays to slower-paced escapes for those who just want to unwind and relax.”

Cruise Critic is an online cruise guide which features cruise reviews, cruise deals, news and information on all aspects of cruising.