Going on a cruise next year? You’re not alone.
The membership organization AAA predictst that a record number of Americans are expected to set sail in 2026, with an expected 21.7 million U.S. travelers will sail on ocean cruises.
Its 2026 cruise forecast, compiled in cooperation with Tourism Economics, is based on scheduled cruise itineraries covering virtually all major cruise vessels, the economic outlook, and travel sector trends.
“These numbers reflect the growing demand for ocean cruises among U.S. travelers,” Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel, said in a news release. “Our travel agents see this every day when booking dream vacations for AAA members. Whether it’s an anniversary trip to relax in the Caribbean or a family reunion to explore Alaska, ocean cruises offer variety, convenience, and lifelong memories.”
This is an increase from the expected 20.7 million in 2025. Will your local port be busier next year?
The forecast featured projections for the busiest cruise ports, with three in Florida topping the list.
Miami is expected to see 10.2% of embarking and debarking passengers, followed by Port Canaveral at 8.8% and Fort Lauderdale at 5.6%.
See the predicted top 10 busiest ports in 2026:
The Caribbean topped the list of destinations in 2026, with 72% of American passengers expected to sail there.
“The Caribbean’s popularity is also bolstered by the increase in shorter-length cruises – which passengers like because they’re convenient and cruise lines like because they can schedule more itineraries and sell more cabins,” AAA said.
Alaska followed with 7% and the Mediterranean came in third at 5%. Other destinations across the globe made up the remaining 16%.
According to AAA, peak season For the Caribbean is November through March, after hurricane season and during the cold months of winter.
“Even though summer isn’t 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,” AAA writes.
AAA found that whole people of all ages go on ocean cruises, 65% of adult U.S. passengers are 55 or older. These stats were followed by 27% are aged 35-54 and 7% are 18-34. 
They also note that 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.”
Contributing: Nathan Diller, USA TODAY

source