Unprecedented 19 Million Americans Predicted to Embark on Cruises in 2025, Setting a New Record for the Third Consecutive Year
The cruise industry is sailing towards an impressive post-pandemic recovery. AAA projects a record-breaking 19 million Americans will embark on ocean cruises in 2025. This represents a 4.5% increase over the 18.2 million passengers in 2024, marking the third consecutive year of record cruise passenger volume. The industry’s rebound is proving more robust than other travel segments.
The Caribbean continues to be the most popular destination, drawing in 72% of U.S. cruise passengers. Meanwhile, Alaska and Mediterranean cruises attract 6% and 5% of passengers respectively. A significant trend is the growing preference for shorter Caribbean cruises. In fact, 18% of itineraries now last between 2-5 days, a stark increase from just 2% in 2023.
The industry’s success is largely credited to the value for money and convenience offered by cruises. Most first-time cruisers are so satisfied with their experience that they become repeat passengers.
Source: AAA