Cruise Industry to Set New Record in 2026

New research published by AAA and Travel Economics has revealed that the cruise industry is set to mark the fourth consecutive year of passenger growth in 2026, with U.S. passenger volumes in particular reaching 21.7 million.

This number represents a 4.5% jump from 2025 to 2026, with over 65% of passengers being 55 or older. Data also reveals that 50% of American cruise ship passengers travel as a couple, whilst 27% travel with children. 

With regard to the types of cruise vessels that passengers are travelling on, mega-vessels predominate, with these vessels deployed in three of the four top cruise regions: the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, and Northern Europe. 

In terms of destinations, the Caribbean continues to be the most popular cruise destination for Americans, capturing 72% of all passenger journeys. According to AAA’s research, 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’. 

The data suggests that cruise trips result in repeats; 91% of passengers having taken multiple cruise trips. AAA also points out that cruising appeals to couples as the ship offers ‘date night’ opportunities. Furthermore, ‘many say cruise vacations are more economical than booking flights and hotel rooms, especially if they want to visit multiple countries’. 

Commenting on the research, Stacey Barber, Vice President of AAA Travel, said: 

“These numbers reflect the growing demand for ocean cruises among U.S. travellers. 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”.

In cooperation with AAA, Travel Economics prepared the 2026 cruise forecast based on scheduled cruise itineraries covering virtually all major cruise vessels, the economic outlook, and travel sector trends. The forecast relies on cruise-related analytics from Cruise IP (Tourism Economics’ proprietary database for the cruise industry), economic forecasts prepared by Oxford Economics, and assumptions on the future path of the tourism industry. 

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