AAA: 21.7 Million Americans Projected to Cruise Next Year, Setting New Record
2026 is expected to mark the fourth consecutive year of record cruise passenger volume
WALNUT CREEK, Calif. (October 20, 2025) - The booming cruise industry is expected to kick off another record year in 2026, following a better-than-expected 2025. AAA projects 21.7 million Americans will go on ocean cruises in 2026. The number of Americans taking a cruise in 2025 is 20.7 million, which is higher than AAA originally projected. AAA is forecasting an 8.4% increase year-over-year from 2024 to 2025 and a 4.5% bounce from 2025 to 2026.
“These numbers highlight the enduring popularity of ocean cruises among U.S. travelers,” said Cyndi Zesk, Senior Vice President of AAA Mountain West Group Travel. “Our travel advisors witness this enthusiasm firsthand on a daily basis, as they help AAA members plan unforgettable vacations. Whether it’s a romantic Caribbean escape or a family adventure through Alaska, ocean cruises deliver variety, ease, and lifelong memories.”
Who, What, When, Where, Why, and How?
Who is cruising?
Cruises offer something for all age groups, but among U.S. passengers, 65% 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.
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 the 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 to 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 enjoy because they’re convenient and cruise lines like because they can schedule more itineraries and sell more cabins.
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. To get inspired visit /travel/cruises. You can browse cruise lines, destinations, and take advantage of exclusive AAA member benefits.
Cruise Forecast Methodology
In cooperation with AAA, Tourism Economics prepared the 2026 cruise forecast based on scheduled cruise itineraries covering virtually all major cruise vessels, the economic outlook, and travel sector trends. This 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.
In this analysis, U.S. cruise passenger volume refers to ocean cruises taken by U.S. residents. It includes cruises that depart from U.S. and international ports.
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About AAA Mountain West Group
AAA Mountain West Group is a membership and full-service leisure travel organization, proudly serving over 6.8 million Members across Alaska, Arizona, Nevada, Northern California, Montana, and Utah. AAA delivers unmatched expertise and value through roadside assistance and electric vehicle (EV) resources, along with comprehensive auto repair, travel, insurance, financial, and home security services. Powered by 5,300 dedicated Team Members, AAA is on a mission to revolutionize solutions that help our Members.