Cruise and learn: reflecting on the experiential learning of cruise field trips

This article reflects on the significance of field trips for undergraduate experiential learning. Experiential learning is critical to the development of managers as future reflective practitioners, and this case study makes a significant contribution to debate about field trips at a time when UK university spending cuts threaten their future provision. Based on a qualitative study, this article highlights the experiential learning generated by an undergraduate field trip that took place on a 7-day cruise out of Southampton, UK, during March 2009. Students reflect upon their learning experiences, both personal and professional, and their perceptions of the value of such learning experiences for their knowledge and understanding of cruise management. The article also discusses associated benefits of field trips, such as student self-development, the facilitation of group cohesion, and the marketing opportunities for educational institutions. The implications of the findings are useful for educators as well as the wider cruise community.