In the wake of the global lifting of COVID-era restrictions, international golf travel to the British Isles is experiencing a resurgence. As golf enthusiasts eagerly resume their search for extraordinary experiences, the demand for traditional golfing venues has steadily increased, consolidating a shift that began long before the pandemic. The implications are clear: the landscape of international golf travel has changed, and it is here to stay.

Four prestigious golf courses in the British Isles are at the forefront of this surge in demand: The Old Course at St Andrews, Muirfield, Royal County Down, and Royal Portrush. These courses have become the focal points of attention, with tee times for the summer of 2024 either nonexistent or extremely limited by mid-May 2023. Disappointed golfers have two choices: exploring alternative courses for their 2024 plans or deferring their trips to 2025. Many are only now discovering that they have missed the boat for next year!

However, if unfulfilled at the premium courses, this wave of demand finds solace in the myriad of other remarkable golf courses across different regions. Southwest Ireland boasts gems like Ballybunion and Old Head, while northern Scotland showcases Royal Dornoch and Royal Aberdeen. Currently, availability for these regions in 2024 remains favourable. Still, as the summer progresses and the spotlight on links golf intensifies with prominent tournaments like The Open, British Women’s Open, The Senior Open, and the Scottish Open securing tee times will become increasingly challenging.

What drives this relentless demand among seasoned and new travellers is the intrinsic allure of the British Isles. For affluent and passionate golfers, a trip to these shores has become an annual lifestyle pilgrimage—a chance to unwind, immerse themselves in a culture they hold dear, and share unforgettable moments with loved ones. Moreover, the overwhelmingly positive word-of-mouth promotion of the British Isles Links golf experience ensures that golfers rarely have a bad thing to say about their travels.

Over the past 25 years, adding approximately ten new golf courses throughout the British Isles has modestly expanded the selection available to golf enthusiasts. However, this increase is relatively small, given the significant shifts in demand during the same period. As a result, golf course owners and operators focus on enhancing the overall experience to attract golfers. From improving course conditioning and caddy engagement to upgrading clubhouse facilities and food and beverage service, the industry strives to provide golfers with an unforgettable journey. The rising tide lifts all boats; this sentiment has never been more relevant.

Segueing into the growing demand for golf cruising, the cruising industry has made a remarkable comeback after enduring a tumultuous period during the pandemic. The enthusiasm for future golf cruise bookings is overwhelming, dispelling any lingering concerns about cruising. Notably, the success of Azamara®, an upmarket cruise line renowned for its Destination Immersion® experiences, can be attributed, in part, to the inclusion of premium golf courses on their voyages, which continues to attract golfers. While premium suites have always been in high demand for golf voyages, the re-engagement of travellers has sparked an even greater interest in these luxurious accommodations. Azamara’s small-sized ships, accommodating fewer than 700 guests, offer forty-six suites each, with English butler-style service. PerryGolf, in collaboration with Azamara, brings 60-150 golfers on each golf cruise to the British Isles.

As the summer golf season hits full swing in the British Isles, more golfers are daydreaming about their bucket-list trips and the opportunity to embrace a vacation experience that encompasses the essence of their cherished lifestyle. It’s time to start making plans.

For pricing, current offers, and detailed itineraries, visit PerryGolf.com/BritishIsles.

Written by: Kevin Hall

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