Americans are packing their theme-night attire, alloted bottles of wine and Dramamine and rolling their carry-ons up the gangway in record numbers as they are cruising more than ever.
A record 21.7 million US travelers are expected to set sail in 2026, up from 20.7 million this year, according to the American Automobile Association. It will mark the fourth straight year of record demand, cementing cruising’s evolution into a mainstream — and budget-friendly — travel option while shedding its image as the go-to vacation mainly for retirees.
Cruises Ride a Record Wave as Americans Seek Cheaper Vacations
