The booming cruise industry is on track to launch another record-breaking year in 2026, according to new projections from AAA, which expects 21.7 million Americans to take ocean cruises next year.
That’s up from 20.7 million projected to cruise in 2025 — already higher than AAA originally forecast — marking an 8.4% increase from 2024 to 2025 and another 4.5% gain into 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 Is Cruising?
AAA data show that cruising attracts travelers of all ages, but 65% of adult U.S. passengers are 55 or older. Twenty-seven percent are between 35 and 54, while 7% are 18 to 34. Nearly half of American cruise passengers travel as a couple, 20% go with children, and 7% sail solo. The rest cruise with friends or larger groups.
What Ships Are They Booking?
As demand rises, so do ship sizes. Mega-vessels — especially popular in the Caribbean — dominate three of the four top cruise regions: the Caribbean, Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Smaller vessels, meanwhile, remain prevalent in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean, where expedition and luxury cruises are strong.
When Are They Going?
Peak season depends on the destination. Caribbean cruises are most popular from November through March, after hurricane season and during the colder months at home. Alaska’s shorter cruise season runs from April through October, with many passengers taking advantage of summer departures before heading south to the Caribbean in winter.
Where Are They Visiting?
The Caribbean remains the top destination, drawing 72% of U.S. cruise passengers. Miami, Port Canaveral and Fort Lauderdale — all in Florida — are the busiest cruise ports in the world. Seven percent of Americans are expected to cruise to Alaska next year, and 5% will sail in the Mediterranean. The popularity of shorter itineraries continues to rise, offering convenience for travelers and more scheduling flexibility for cruise lines.
Why Do They Love It?
AAA reports that 90% of U.S. cruise passengers rate their experiences as good or very good, and 91% have taken multiple cruises. Many say they enjoy the all-inclusive atmosphere, onboard entertainment, and opportunities to explore multiple destinations without multiple hotel stays. Cruises are also appealing to couples and multigenerational families seeking shared activities and value. To attract younger and more adventurous travelers, cruise lines are expanding expedition voyages from the Arctic to Antarctica.
The 2026 forecast was developed by Tourism Economics in cooperation with AAA, using data from Cruise IP, economic trends from Oxford Economics, and projections based on scheduled cruise itineraries across major global cruise lines.
