Fred Olsen introduces Apple cruise app

A cruise application for iPhone and iPad has been introduced by Fred Olsen Cruise Lines as its older passenger base embraces mobile technology.

Statistics from the cruise line show that in April 2011, just 1,484 passengers accessed its website using an iPad and 1,322 an iPhone.

The iPad number soared by 900% to almost 15,000 visitors in the same month this year, while the iPhone growth – at 5,628 users – was over 325%.

Sales and marketing director Nathan Philpot said: “There is an increasing demand amongst our ‘young-at-heart’ cruisers to embrace the latest technology when researching and booking a cruise holiday, and the use of mobile devices such as iPhones and iPads amongst the over 55s – our core demographic – is on the rise.”

Mintel research in April found that the use of mobile phones among a more mature demographic is more prevalent than surfing the web. Out of those interviewed between the ages of 55 and 74, 88.5% reported using a mobile phone, 68.5% were frequent internet visitors, and 66% used broadband.

Features of the app include the ability to:

• search for cruise departures throughout 2012, 2013 and into early 2014.
• view full cruise details, including itinerary, cruise duration, departure port and departure date.
• trip planning by referencing real-time cabin pricing and availability.
• view destination highlights.
• view ship videos on YouTube and access detailed deck plans.
• access travel extra services, such as travel insurance, foreign currency or getting to and from your departure port.
• share Fred Olsen’s worldwide cruises on Facebook or Twitter.
• call the line, request a call-back or e-mail the reservations team.

The app is available at the Apple App Store.

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