Nipath Piyaarayanan / Shutterstock.comIn a recent announcement, Sunsail, a global yacht charter and sailing holiday provider, unveiled six key trends expected to influence travel behaviour by 2027. As artificial intelligence (AI) becomes more integral to travel planning, the importance of human expertise and local knowledge is set to rise, especially in discovering unique destinations that algorithms might overlook.
Sunsail's insights, drawn from customer data and input from skippers and tourism partners, highlight a shift towards experience-led travel. Travellers are increasingly prioritising experiences over destinations, with a notable move away from traditional "tick-box" holidays. Instead, slower itineraries, privacy, and meaningful time with family and friends are becoming more desirable.
The trends include the "AI vs Sailor" conflict, where destinations with a strong digital presence may overshadow lesser-known places. Luxury is being redefined as peace and privacy, with travellers seeking empty anchorages and nature over traditional luxury. The "What Before Where" effect sees travellers choosing experiences first, then destinations. Additionally, multigenerational sailing holidays are on the rise, offering families and friends a chance to reconnect.
Andy Crang, Vice President Marketing at Sunsail & The Moorings UK, noted, "In 2027, there will be a move from holidays being about how much you can see to how much you can experience." This shift underscores the growing demand for cultural immersion and exclusive experiences.
As AI continues to shape travel planning, Sunsail emphasises the irreplaceable value of local knowledge, particularly in sailing, where conditions can change rapidly. The future of travel lies in balancing technology with real-world expertise to create unforgettable experiences.
This story was selected and published by a human editor, with content adapted from original press material using AI tools. Spot an error? Report it here.
