A survey from The Cruise Line International Association which represents the world’s cruise lines has identified some of the seaborne trends expected to dominate 2011.

The CLIA said that it believes that more people will cruise this year than in 2010, and will be taking to previously unexplored routes.

Members of the group said that river cruising — which requires smaller ships than ocean cruising — was expected to grow in popularity, particularly on European rivers where cruises in general were expected to become shorter.

They also predicted more personalization of cruise experiences, with travelers likely to see more private or exclusive shore excursions which are specifically tailored to them, such as sports, special interest programs or family-friendly activities.

Even on board, cruisers will see more specialization of their cruises, said CLIA, with a strong interest in theme cruises such as food and wine, music, culture and art.

The new themes will have to be designed to meet the needs of the changing cruise passenger — it is predicted that there will be a rise in passengers from the baby boomer generation, as well as from families or multigenerational groups.

This year is expected to see 14 new cruise ships take to the sea, with the Carnival Magic, Costa Favalosa, Celebrity Silhouette and Disney Dream among the largest.

In news that is likely to please gastronomy lovers, the CLIA said that the year would see an increased choice in dining experiences for passengers, with more speciality restaurants, guest chefs and local sourcing of food.