SINGAPORE – The mainstream ocean travel industry has been trying to outgrow a dated image. Some younger travellers associate cruises, particularly mass-market ones, with crowded buffets, bingo nights (every night) and being stuck on board.

Even as ships have upgraded their amenities over time – many now have spas, swimming pools with water slides, swanky bars and world-class entertainment – there are travellers who avoid cruising because of the sense of being herded from port to port.