What makes a cruise even more unforgettable? For many Spaniards, it's the company. This is revealed in the third survey of the modern traveler: preferences and their relationship with cruises, prepared by MSC Cruises, which asked Spaniards which celebrity—real or historical—they would most like to embark on a vacation at sea with. David Broncano tops the list of celebrities with whom they would most like to share a deck (16%), followed by Joaquín (14%) and Rafa Nadal (14%).
They are followed by names as diverse as Iñaki Gabilondo (8%), Rosalía (8%), Mario Casas (7%) , and Aitana (7%). Profiles like Iñaki Gabilondo and Fernando Alonso (6%) are gaining traction among older viewers, while Aitana is especially popular with younger audiences. In the case of Mario Casas, for example, he is the second most popular choice among women (13%), while Broncano is a huge hit in the 25-39 age bracket (23%).
But if we're talking about impossible dreams, there's also room for history. Among the historical figures with whom Spaniards would most like to embark on a cruise, the clear favorite is Leonardo da Vinci (19%), followed by the enigmatic Cleopatra (14%). Rounding out the top three are figures as diverse as Federico García Lorca (11%), Frida Kahlo (10%) , and Marie Curie (8%). The differences by gender are notable: Frida Kahlo is the historical figure most chosen by women (17%), while Leonardo da Vinci is the favorite among men (25%).
But who do the Spaniards travel with?
Besides imagining themselves with Broncano, Nadal, or Cleopatra on board, the third annual Survey of the Modern Traveler also explored the most common travel companions of Spaniards on their actual vacations. And although traveling as a couple remains a favorite option, this year it's declining: from 73% in 2023 to 52% in 2024. This decrease reflects a greater diversification in travel styles.
Family travel is on the rise , especially with children: 58% of Spaniards travel with their partner and children, and 16% travel with other family members such as grandparents or siblings. For these travelers, the most valued aspect is being able to enjoy sightseeing without sacrificing entertainment: 44% highlight the opportunity to enjoy themselves with their children while discovering new destinations, and 41% appreciate options adapted to different age groups that allow for stress-free experiences for adults and guaranteed fun for the little ones. MSC Cruises responds to these needs with services such as the Doremi Club, its comprehensive activity program for children aged 0 to 17, themed play areas with LEGO®, water parks, family shows, as well as connecting family cabins and children's menus in all restaurants.
Group trips with friends are also on the rise , now accounting for 24% of all trips, driven by those seeking to share unique experiences without complications. For them, MSC Cruises offers activities designed for group enjoyment, such as cooking classes, wine tastings, live shows, nightclubs, and themed bars, as well as special group packages that facilitate everything from adjoining cabins to joint bookings and discounts. For those who wish to share their trip with their group in a more premium and private setting, the MSC Yacht Club offers exclusive areas, 24-hour butler service, and personalized attention.
Solo travel is also gaining ground (9%), especially among those seeking a more introspective or personalized experience, while more hybrid formulas are appearing, such as traveling alone with children (4.4%) or in groups of friends with children (3%).
These new ways of traveling reflect an evolution in the vacation habits of Spaniards and reaffirm the potential of the cruise as a versatile option: ideal for couples, practical for families, and increasingly attractive to those traveling independently or seeking a unique experience at sea. “Cruising is a way of traveling that perfectly adapts to what today's younger generations are looking for: flexibility, a variety of destinations, and comfort. And if you can share it with your partner, friends, or your favorite idol, the experience is even more memorable,” says Fernando Pacheco, Managing Director of MSC Cruises in Spain.
