Spending time at sea looks different for every cruiser, and this year’s trends prove travelers are tailoring their cruising experiences to meet their unique wants and needs. AAA Travel says smaller ships, solo trips, and splurge-worthy suites are some of the biggest trends for 2024.
“Cookie-cutter trips are a thing of the past. Nowadays, travelers are looking for one-of-a-kind experiences, and the cruising industry offers that in spades!” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of AAA Travel. “We’re seeing a boom in expedition cruises, a rise in solo cruise passengers, and an increase in sold-out balcony cabins and suites. All of that tells us travelers are willing to be adventurous and spend more to have an unforgettable cruise vacation.”
AAA Travel has also noticed another trend: more travelers are booking cruises earlier and earlier, in some cases more than a year in advance. “Savvy travelers are wasting no time getting their cruise vacations on the books to ensure they get the itineraries, cabins, and shore excursions they want,” Twidale added. She says because inventory is more limited, working with a trusted travel agent becomes more important. “Travel advisors help you navigate the waters and get more bang for your buck. For example, AAA members get exclusive benefits in addition to discounts that may already be offered by cruise companies. Travel agents can find you deals and ensure you’re booking the right cruise for you.”
SMALLER SHIPS
Expedition cruises are growing in popularity with more travelers looking to get up-close and personal with nature. Top destinations include the Arctic Circle, Antarctica, the Galápagos, and the Northwest Passage.
• First-Timer? Try Hurtigruten Expeditions to the Galápagos Islands. The MS Santa Cruz II offers some of the best island coverage and wildlife viewing opportunities in the Galápagos. With multiple naturalist guides aboard the Santa Cruz II, you can choose from a wide range of activities including hiking, kayaking, snorkeling, and touring on a glass-bottom boat.
• Regular Cruiser? Try Seabourn to the Northwest Passage. Join the Seabourn Venture for a 23-day journey sailing from Greenland to Nome, Alaska through the Canadian Arctic. Along the way, the 24-person expedition team will deliver immersive experiences by land and sea. When you’ve had your fill of adventure, indulge in the luxurious amenities of the all-inclusive ship with complimentary spirits, wine, and caviar.
SOLO TRIPS
More travelers are booking cruise vacations just for themselves! According to CLIA’s State of the Cruise Industry Report 2023, cruise lines are taking notice and increasing the number of single cabins in new ships and retrofitting some of their existing ships to better accommodate solo passengers.
• First-Timer? Try Celebrity Cruises to the Caribbean. On the Celebrity Ascent, you can find the Edge Single Infinite Veranda stateroom designed exclusively for singles. These cabins take your room right to the water’s edge, giving you open air access to the sea with the touch of a button.
• Regular Cruiser? Try AmaWaterways to Europe. European river cruises are growing in popularity, and for solo travelers, they offer an intimate atmosphere conducive to meeting other passengers. Pro tip: AmaWaterways often has sales that waive the single supplement fee.
SPLURGE-WORTHY SUITES
Higher-priced cabins are selling out fast! AAA Travel has seen a spike in early bookings of balcony cabins and luxury suites. These prime categories are selling out faster than before, so travelers looking to splurge on their next cruise vacation should book well in advance.
• First-Timer? Try Royal Caribbean to the Bahamas. On Utopia of the Seas, families can book the Ultimate Family Suite. A two-story, three-bedroom suite that sleeps up to 10 guests. The suite has a cinema, karaoke station, private whirlpool on the balcony, and a slide to go from the second floor to the first!
• Regular Cruiser? Try Regent Seven Seas Cruises in the Mediterranean. The Regent Suite on the new Seven Seas Grandeur is the largest suite at sea at almost 4,500 square feet. This two-bedroom, two-bath suite has its own spa with sauna, steam room, and jacuzzi, plus two wrap-around balconies, a six-seat dining room, and a baby grand piano!
Browse more cruises and find travel inspiration on Trip Canvas, AAA’s free travel-planning tool.
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Cruises have long been associated with luxury, relaxation, and exploration. What better way to combine these elements than by embarking on a romantic cruise with your significant other? Read on to explore some of the most enchanting and romantic cruise destinations that promise to create unforgettable moments for you and your loved one.
The Mediterranean Magic
The Mediterranean, with its azure waters, charming coastal towns, and rich history, is a dream destination for couples seeking romance. A cruise through this region can take you to iconic cities like Barcelona, Venice, and Santorini, where you can stroll through narrow cobblestone streets, savor delectable cuisine, and marvel at historic landmarks. Imagine sipping wine on the deck as you cruise past the Amalfi Coast, sharing intimate moments against the backdrop of picturesque sunsets.
Italian River Cruise
While ocean cruises are well-known, Italian river cruises offer a unique and intimate way to experience the beauty of Italy's inland waterways. Sail along the Po River, passing through the heart of Northern Italy, and discover charming towns such as Verona and Mantua. These cruises offer a slower pace, allowing you to immerse yourselves in the romantic ambiance of the Italian countryside, dotted with vineyards, historic castles, and Renaissance architecture.
Caribbean Bliss
For those who prefer tropical paradises, a romantic cruise through the Caribbean is a perfect choice. With its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life, the Caribbean offers a setting straight out of a romance novel. Choose an itinerary that includes stops at destinations like St. Lucia, the Bahamas, and Turks and Caicos, where you can indulge in water adventures, candlelit dinners on the beach, and starlit strolls.
Alaskan Serenity
For couples who appreciate the beauty of nature, an Alaskan cruise provides a unique and awe-inspiring experience. Sail through icy fjords, witness majestic glaciers, and encounter wildlife in their natural habitat. Cozy up with your loved one on the deck while enjoying the sight of the Northern Lights dancing in the night sky. Alaska's untouched landscapes and serene ambiance create the perfect backdrop for a romantic escape.
Exotic Adventures in Southeast Asia
For a more exotic and culturally rich experience, consider a cruise through Southeast Asia. Explore the vibrant markets of Bangkok, the ancient temples of Cambodia, and the serene beaches of Bali. A cruise through this region offers a perfect blend of adventure and romance, with opportunities to explore diverse cultures, indulge in delicious cuisine, and relax on pristine beaches with your loved one.
Norwegian Fjords: A Nordic Love Affair
The Norwegian fjords provide a dramatic and breathtaking backdrop for a romantic cruise. Sail through narrow, towering cliffs as you take in the stunning scenery. Visit charming coastal villages, explore ancient glaciers, and witness the mesmerizing Northern Lights. A cruise through the Norwegian fjords offers a secluded and intimate atmosphere, allowing you and your partner to connect with nature and each other.
More than just a Vacation
A romantic cruise is more than just a vacation; it's an opportunity to create lasting memories with the one you love. Whether you prefer the sun-soaked beaches of the Caribbean, the historical charm of the Mediterranean, or the serene landscapes of Alaska, there's a cruise destination tailored to fulfill your romantic dreams. Speak with your AAA Travel Advisor today to start planning your next getaway.
Discover Ocean Cruising & Tour the NEW Wonder of the Seas
Discover Ocean Cruising & Tour the NEW Wonder of the Seas
Visit multiple cities without repacking your bags with a planned itinerary in a luxurious floating hotel chock-full of entertainment and buffets! That’s an Ocean Cruise.
An ocean cruise refers to cruises on larger cruise ships that stay on the oceans and visit locations (or ports-of-call) along the coastlines. Ocean Cruises makes a great family vacation as it offers the ideal vacation for everyone in the family.
Let’s look at why it’s great fun for kids and adults and take a tour of the perfect Ocean Cruise Family Vacation. And download the KeeKee Kid’s Travel Activity Guide for the kids.
FOR THE ADULTS
First, you get to visit several destinations on the cruise. While ocean cruises are typical to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Mexico, and Alaska, you can also go further to Europe, Asia, and South America.
And you only need to unpack once. No matter where you go or how many destinations you visit, you’ll be in the same room the entire trip making it super easy for a family.
Your itinerary is planned for you. There’s no need to worry about all the logistics. Everything is taken care of for you and your whole family. It’s a great vacation no matter the size of your group, from small families to family reunions.
It’s an all-inclusive resort on the water. This means low stress and many options to meet everyone’s needs and interests: from dining and entertainment options to swimming and sports to shopping and spas, and on-land activities from beach to culture.
Plus, it’s a great value. Cruise costs include accommodations, sailing between ports of call, all meals, and onboard entertainment.
FOR THE KIDS
An ocean cruise for kids is fun, fun, fun! They’ll never want to leave the ship.
The activity options are endless. There are always tons of swimming pools, a water park, and water sports. Many ships have entertainment and activity areas that rival amusement parks. And most have kids' clubs full of entertainment to keep the kids busy for hours (this is also a nice option for the adults to get some alone time).
The kids will not want to miss a meal with all the cuisines to choose from, and it’s a great opportunity to try new foods.
When you leave the ship, the kids can experience different countries, cultures, and even more activities like snorkeling in crystal blue water or ziplining through a rainforest.
THE PERFECT OCEAN CRUISE FAMILY VACATION
Royal Caribbean’s new Wonder of the Seas cruise ship is the perfect Ocean Cruise Family Vacation. It’s the newest and biggest cruise ship in the world.
Aboard Wonder of the Seas, you and your family will experience a next-level vacation on every level - accommodations, activities, entertainment, dining, and ports of call.
Awesome Accommodations
Choose from a wide variety of staterooms as your resting spot in between adventures. All are full of comfort and deluxe amenities. If a water view is important, there are options across each category, from budget-friendly to ultra-luxurious. You get 24-hour room service in all rooms, and you’ll have a daily stateroom attendant dedicated to ensuring your stay is spectacular.
There’s also a new Suite Neighborhood on this ship with an exclusive restaurant, bar, and pool. Here you’ll find the Ultimate Family Suite — two stories tall with your own in-suite slide, an air hockey table, table tennis on your balcony, a Lego wall, a private jacuzzi, and your Royal Genie concierge.
Amazing Activities
• The Ultimate Abyss℠ - Plummet 10 stories into the mysteries of the deep on the tallest slide at sea.
• FlowRider® - The surf’s always up on the 40-foot-long surf simulator.
• Wonder Playscape℠ - The best playground with slides, climbing walls, games, and puzzles where adventurers of all ages can discover an underwater world with endless possibilities. Like the underwater-themed Wonder Dunes wild immersive mini golf journey.
• The Perfect Storm℠ waterslide trio - twin racers Typhoon℠ and Cyclone℠, the boldest waterslides at sea.
• Zipline – Race above the Boardwalk suspended 10 decks high.
• SplashawayBay℠ - Gallons of fun for the kids with colorful waterslides, water cannons, fountains, pools, and whirlpools.
• Royal Caribbean Arcade – Packed with your favorite games from the 1980s and 1990s, as well as modern favorites.
• Plus, the Ice-Skating Rink, Rock Climbing Wall, and Carousel.
Kids-Only Fun
The award-winning Adventure Ocean® lets kids choose their own immersive adventure while the parents are off on their own adventures. There are plenty of whimsical rooms to roam in and climbable creations to explore at Play Place. Enjoy interactive tinker time at Workshop, friendly competition at Arena, and spaces to call their own at Hangout. Plus, there are dedicated programs that will engage all the senses for babies and younger kids.
Social100 is the teen's exclusive space with its own secret entrance, a hang-out spot for games and movies, an outside patio with lawn games, a juice bar, and a whirlpool.
Adults-Only Adventures
Choose from 14 bars & lounges like the Bionic Bar, where two robotic bartenders create an endless combination of cocktails; Rising Tide Bar, sip your favorite cocktail while moving between Central Park and the Royal Promenade; and Vue Bar℠, your ultimate escape for vacation cocktails with a picture-perfect panorama.
Get a slice of Vegas on board in the Casino Royale℠ and laugh out loud in the Comedy Club modeled after Manhattan’s comedy clubs.
Relax in the Vitality℠ Spa or the Solarium, a relaxing indoor-outdoor retreat with fantastic views, swimming pools, whirlpools, and a lounge area.
Exclusive Entertainment
Enjoy the newest entertainment in the largest theatrical venue at sea, on the water in the deepest pool at sea, and the ice-skating rink.
Top-notch divers and aerialists teeter across tightropes and plunge off 30-foot diving platforms into 137,000 gallons of water in intense at AquaTheater.
The whole family will enjoy singing their favorite tunes at Spotlight℠ Karaoke. Or head to Music Hall for a front-row view of cover bands that rock.
Delicious Dining
From fast-casual cafes and deli-style countertops to fine-dining restaurants, there are 20 mouthwatering dining options onboard.
Whether you’re craving authentic Far East specialties, a taste of Old-World Italy, New England-style seafood, homestyle comfort foods from the Deep South, or an unforgettable dining experience in Wonderland, delicious globetrotting adventures await.
Tropical & Cultural Destinations
Get ready to launch from the Space Coast in Florida to destinations across the eastern and western shores of the Caribbean and Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at Coco Cay in the Bahamas.
Perfect Day at Coco Cay - Located in The Bahamas, Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay is filled with places for chilling and activities for thrilling. On the chill side of the island, enjoy the crystal-clear waters and powdery sand beaches for snorkeling adventures and the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean. On the thrill side, experience action-packed adventures, including Daredevil’s Tower, the tallest waterslide in North America, the largest wave pool in the Caribbean, and Up, Up & Away helium balloon adventures!
Ocean Cruise Adventure Awaits! Get started planning here.
