Adventure Travel Strong, Association Reports

Demand for adventure travel remained robust in 2005, according to the Adventure Collection, an independent association of 11 active leisure and adventure tour companies that includes names like Micato Safaris and OARS, or Outdoor Adventure River Specialists. The Adventure Collection (AC) reported record levels for both passengers and revenue during 2005 with revenue climbing 23.1 percent in 2005 to 270.4 million. The number of people traveling with AC companies rose 13.9 percent to 67,122. Meanwhile, Larry Mogelonsky, executive director of the Adventure Collection, says he expects the rapid growth to continue. "The adventure travel market's continued growth reflects accelerated demand by baby boomers for experiential travel...With this demographic segment moving into retirement over the next 5 to 10 years, we expect continued strengthening in demand as leisure time increases."