Photo: RAUL ARBOLEDA / AFP / Getty Images
AAA projects a record year for cruising for the fifth consecutive year. AAA expects 22.4 million Americans will go on domestic and international ocean cruises in 2027, a 3.6% increase over 2026.
Cruise demand in the U.S. has been rising since 2023, when it surpassed pre-pandemic numbers. In 2019, 14.2 million Americans went on ocean cruises, and that number is projected to be 22.4 million in 2027, a 57% increase over 2019.
Many travelers are prioritizing shared experiences with family and friends, and they like knowing how much they’re spending on a vacation before the trip even starts.
Travelers tend to be very happy with their decision to take a cruise. More than 90% of U.S. cruise passengers rate their experience as good or very good, and that’s why the industry has strong repeat business, with 93% of travelers booking again.
“People love to cruise for convenience, value and variety. You can visit multiple destinations in a single vacation, you only unpack once, and meals and entertainment are included,” says Doreen Loofburrow, Senior Vice President of Travel for AAA Oregon/Idaho. “And there are so many ships and destinations from which to choose. A travel advisor can help you find the right cruise for your interests and lifestyle.”
Who is cruising?
People of all ages go on ocean cruises, but 63% of adult U.S. passengers are 55 or older, 28% are ages 35-54, and 8% are 18-34. Almost half (47%) of cruise passengers travel as a couple, 25% travel with kids, and 7% travel solo.
Where and when are they going?
The Caribbean is by far the most popular destination for U.S. passengers with 71% of travelers opting for some fun in the sun. Many cruise lines have made investments in private islands in the Caribbean, offering passengers exclusivity and additional amenities. They’ve also deployed mega vessels in the region which hold at least 4,500 passengers and offer a wider range of activities, entertainment, and dining options.
About 7% of U.S. passengers take a cruise to Alaska, 6% to the Mediterranean and 16% to the rest of the world.
The Caribbean’s proximity to U.S. ports is another reason why so many Americans book these trips. In fact, the three busiest cruise ports in the world are in Florida: Miami, Port Canaveral, and Fort Lauderdale.
Other busy U.S. cruise ports are Galveston, Texas and Seattle, Washington.
On the West Coast, Los Angeles and Long Beach are the major cruise departure points for Mexico and Hawaii. Seattle is the main port city for cruises to Alaska. San Francisco is also a getaway city for cruises to Alaska, Hawaii and Mexico.
Peak season for ocean cruises varies by region. In the Caribbean, peak season is November through March, after hurricane season and during the winter months as travelers seek some fun in the sun.
Cruises in Alaska operate in a much more condensed timeframe. More than 60% of Alaska cruises occur from June through August.
Pricing in both the Caribbean and Alaska are higher in the summer, which is a peak travel season. Fares in the Caribbean are lower in the winter months. Fares in Alaska peak in June and July, reflecting the short operating window for Alaskan cruises.
What types of ships are they booking?
Ocean cruises come in different sizes, from mega vessels to small ships. Large and Mega vessels dominate the Caribbean. 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.
Smaller vessels hold a greater share in Northern Europe and the Mediterranean, driven by the presence of expedition cruises in Northern Europe and a strong luxury segment in the Mediterranean.
How long are most cruises?
The most popular cruises last seven nights. But for many travelers, going on a week-long cruise isn’t feasible due to work, school or other obligations.
In 2025, 45% of U.S. passengers who traveled on ocean cruises booked itineraries of 6 nights or less, compared to 2019 when 39% did the same. Travelers looking for a quick getaway are booking shorter cruises to enjoy a few days at sea without having to take too much time away from their daily routines.
Why is working with a travel agent the best way to book a cruise?
With so many cruise lines, ships and destinations, choosing the right itinerary can feel overwhelming. A travel advisor can narrow the options based on your interests—whether you prefer beaches, adventure, relaxing onboard or exploring in port—and help you select the right cabin. Travel agents can also offer special amenities and onboard credits and can be especially helpful when planning multigenerational vacations or milestone celebrations, handling all of the details and throwing in special touches to make the trip more memorable.
Source: AAA