Record Cruise Demand Expected in 2027

KEY TAKEAWAYS

·       Record demand: AAA projects 22.4 million Americans will take ocean cruises in 2027, up 3.6% from 2026.

·       Cruising continues to surge: Passenger volume is projected to be 57% higher than in 2019, when 14.2 million Americans cruised.

·       Travel trends are shifting: The Caribbean remains the top destination, while shorter cruises continue to gain popularity.

ATLANTA (October 20, 2026) - A record 22.4 million Americans are projected to take ocean cruises in 2027, according to AAA’s latest cruise forecast. That’s a 3.6% increase over 2026 and would mark the fifth consecutive year of record cruise passenger volume.

Cruising has grown significantly since surpassing pre-pandemic levels in 2023. The 2027 forecast represents a 57% increase from the 14.2 million Americans who cruised in 2019.

“Cruising isn’t just growing, it’s becoming a go-to vacation for more Americans,” said Debbie Haas, Vice President of Travel for AAA - The Auto Club Group. “Travelers have more ships, destinations and vacation styles to choose from than ever before. That variety is attracting everyone from first-time passengers to experienced cruisers looking for their next getaway.”

What’s Driving Record Cruise Demand

Cruising continues to appeal to travelers seeking shared experiences with family and friends, along with the ability to better anticipate many vacation costs before departure. More than 90% of U.S. cruise passengers rate their experience as good or very good, and 93% book another cruise.

AAA Travel Advice: Book early for the best selection of ships, itineraries and cabins. Travelers considering Alaska should begin planning even earlier because the cruising season is shorter and inventory is limited.

Caribbean Remains the Top Cruise Destination

The Caribbean accounts for 71% of U.S. cruise passenger volume. Cruise lines continue investing in private island destinations and deploying mega-ships to the region, providing passengers with more activities, entertainment and dining options.

Its proximity to U.S. departure ports also makes the Caribbean convenient for American travelers. The three busiest cruise ports in the world are in Florida: Miami, Port Canaveral and Fort Lauderdale.

AAA Travel Advice: If flying to your departure port, arrive the day before your cruise. The extra time provides a buffer if flight delays or cancellations disrupt your travel plans.

Shorter Cruises Gain Popularity

Seven-night cruises remain the most popular option, but more Americans are choosing shorter itineraries. In 2025, 45% of U.S. ocean cruise passengers booked trips of six nights or fewer, compared with 39% in 2019. These shorter sailings offer travelers a getaway without requiring a full week away from work, school or other commitments.

AAA Travel Advice: Reserve popular excursions, specialty dining and spa treatments in advance. Travelers can also avoid some onboard expenses by packing essentials such as sunscreen and other personal items.

Choosing the Right Cruise

With numerous cruise lines, ships, destinations and cabin categories to choose from, travelers should consider what they want from the vacation before booking. Some may prioritize beaches and shore excursions, while others care more about onboard dining, entertainment or family activities.

Travel agents can help compare itineraries, ships and cabin choices, particularly for milestone celebrations, groups and multigenerational vacations. AAA travel agents can also connect travelers with special benefits and discounts they may not find elsewhere.

AAA Travel Advice: Consider travel insurance options beyond coverage offered by the cruise line. Coverage offered by the cruise line may not extend to every part of your vacation, such as flights, hotels or other prepaid travel arrangements. A travel agent can help compare policies, explain what is and isn’t covered, and find coverage that best fits your trip and individual needs.

Cruise Forecast Methodology

In cooperation with AAA, Tourism Economics prepared the 2027 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 Intelligence Platform (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. 

About Tourism Economics

Tourism Economics, an Oxford Economics company, is a leading global economic forecaster specializing in the intersection of tourism expertise and rigorous economics. Our work answers the most important questions facing destinations and corporations worldwide, backed by best-in-class datasets for navigating economic uncertainty.

Oxford Economics is the world's leading independent economic advisory firm. Covering over 200 countries, 100 industrial sectors and 8,000 cities and regions, we provide insights and solutions that empower clients to make informed decisions faster in an increasingly complex and uncertain world. For more information, visit oxfordeconomics.com.

About AAA - The Auto Club Group

The Auto Club Group (ACG), named a 2026 Forbes Most Trusted Company in America, is the second-largest AAA club in North America, with more than 14 million members across 14 U.S. states and two U.S. territories. ACG and its affiliates provide members with roadside assistance, insurance products, financial services, travel offerings and more. ACG is part of the national AAA federation, which serves more than 66 million members across the United States and Canada. Its mission is to protect and advance freedom of mobility and improve traffic safety. Morning Consult recently ranked AAA Insurance as America's most trusted insurance brand for 2026, reflecting the confidence consumers place in the AAA brand. For more information, download the AAA Mobile app, visit AAA.com, and follow us on social media.