Cruise demand remains strong as travellers plan further ahead

International

Annual survey highlights growing interest in longer itineraries, new destinations and a wider choice of cruise lines

Cruise holidays continue to enjoy strong demand, according to the 2026 Member Survey by Cruiseline.com and Shipmate. Based on responses from more than 5,500 travellers, the survey found that 92.8% already have at least one cruise booked for 2026 or beyond, while more than 70% are considering additional bookings.

Royal Caribbean leads future bookings

Among respondents with cruises already booked, Royal Caribbean International ranked first with 29%, followed by Carnival Cruise Line (24.2%), Princess Cruises (19.1%), Celebrity Cruises (18.8%) and Norwegian Cruise Line (17.7%).

The Caribbean and the Bahamas remain the most popular destination, accounting for 61.1% of bookings. The Mediterranean ranked second, ahead of Alaska, Mexico's Pacific Coast and Northern Europe.

Seven-night cruises remain the most common choice, although interest in longer itineraries of eight days or more continues to grow.

Travellers looking beyond traditional favourites

Looking ahead, 70.3% of respondents plan to book additional cruises. Royal Caribbean remains the most frequently considered cruise line, followed by Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Princess Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line.

The Caribbean continues to lead future travel plans, but demand for Mediterranean cruises has increased significantly, overtaking Alaska as the second most popular destination under consideration. Interest in transatlantic sailings has also grown.

Consumer preferences continue to evolve

Compared with last year's survey, travellers are showing greater willingness to explore new cruise lines and destinations. Interest in shorter cruises has increased as more cruise lines introduce two- to six-night itineraries, while demand for river cruises is also rising.

"The results of the 2026 Member Survey confirm that demand for cruise vacations remains exceptionally strong," said Jamie Cash, Chief Operating Officer of Cruiseline.com and Shipmate. "Travellers are becoming more adventurous in their choices, exploring new destinations, trying different cruise lines and planning their holidays further in advance than ever before."

The survey also found that cruise experience remains high among respondents, with nearly two-thirds reporting they have already completed ten or more cruises.