Understanding different generations’ cruise experiences and well-being from a future time perspective

The notion of travel experience has been widely studied; however, little effort has been invested in understanding generational preferences for cruise experiences and cruisers’ happiness in relation to future time. This study thus examined generational effects on travel experiences and happiness derived from cruise travel based on a future time perspective (FTP). This lens offers a theoretical framework with which to appraise these relationships. Mixed methods and the difference measure were adopted to develop measurement scales and test hypotheses for Chinese senior cruisers. Quantitative results uncovered four dimensions containing 10 items tied to the ordinary–extraordinary cruise experience. Findings indicated that seniors with limited travel FTP were more likely to choose ordinary cruise experiences, whereas non-seniors with extensive travel FTP preferred extraordinary cruise experiences. Furthermore, senior cruisers were equally as happy as non-senior cruisers. Theoretical, methodological, and practical implications were also discussed.