2026 is expected to mark the fourth consecutive year of record cruise passenger volume
The booming cruise industry is expected to kick off another record year in 2026, following what is turning out to be a better-than-expected 2025. AAA projects 21.7 million Americans will go on ocean cruises in 2026 and 20.7 million this year, a higher number than AAA originally projected for 2025. AAA is forecasting that the year-over-year increase will be an 8.4% jump from 2024 to 2025 and a 4.5% bounce from 2025 to 2026.
“These numbers reflect the growing demand for ocean cruises among U.S. travelers,” said Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel. “Our travel agents see this every day when booking dream vacations for AAA members. Whether it’s an anniversary trip to relax in the Caribbean or a family reunion to explore Alaska, ocean cruises offer variety, convenience, and lifelong memories.”
Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How?
Who is cruising?
People of all ages go on ocean cruises, but 65% of adult U.S. passengers are 55 or older. 27% are aged 35-54 and 7% are 18-34. Regardless of age, most adults are taking a plus one on the ship! Nearly 50% of American cruise passengers are traveling as a couple, while 20% are cruising with kids. 7% are traveling solo, and the rest are going in groups.
What types of ships are they booking?
Ocean cruises come in different sizes, but as demand grows, so are the ships! Mega vessels are rising in popularity, especially in the Caribbean where most of them sail. Mega-vessels are currently deployed in three of the four top cruise regions: the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and Northern Europe. They are not operating in Alaska. In contrast, smaller vessels hold a greater share in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean, driven by the presence of expedition cruises in the former and a strong luxury segment in the latter.
When are they going?
Peak season for ocean cruises varies by region. In the Caribbean, peak season is November through March, after hurricane season and during the cold months of winter. Even though summer isn’t peak season for Caribbean cruises, fares rise because kids are off from school so demand from families goes up, but capacity is lower because there are fewer ships sailing the Caribbean during those months. Alaska cruise season is shorter, from April through October, and that tighter window translates to higher prices. Because Alaska cruises aren’t year-round, many passengers take advantage of those trips during the summer months and go on Caribbean cruises in the winter.
Where are they visiting?
The Caribbean is by far the most popular cruise destination for Americans, capturing 72% of U.S. cruise passengers. That’s why Miami, Port Canaveral, and Fort Lauderdale, all in Florida, are the busiest cruise ports in the world. 7% of U.S. passengers are expected take Alaska cruises next year, and 5% are projected to cruise in the Mediterranean. The Caribbean’s popularity is also bolstered by the increase in shorter-length cruises - which passengers like because they’re convenient and cruise lines like because they can schedule more itineraries and sell more cabins.
Why do they love it?
AAA travel agents hear from members every day who are ready to book their first, second, or tenth cruise! In fact, 90% of U.S. cruise passengers rate their experiences as very good or good, and 91% of them have taken multiple cruises. That means most people just have to try cruising once to get hooked! Cruising appeals to couples because the ship offers “date night” opportunities all day long. Multigenerational families enjoy the variety of activities and amenities, and many say cruise vacations are more economical than booking flights and hotel rooms, especially if they want to visit multiple countries. To appeal to younger people and more adventurous travelers, many cruise lines are offering expedition cruises from the Arctic to Antarctica.
How can I book?
Booking with a travel agent is the best way to know your options and get the most value. Having an advocate back home is also helpful if there are any issues during your trip. AAA Trip Canvas allows you to browse cruise lines and destinations to get inspired and then take advantage of exclusive AAA member benefits.
