According to AAA, a record number of Americans is anticipated to go on cruises this year.

In its inaugural cruise industry forecast, the organization estimated that 19 million Americans will embark on ocean voyages in 2025, an increase from 18.2 million last year and 16.9 million in 2023.

AAA collaborated with Tourism Economics for this prediction, focusing specifically on ocean cruises.

“The growth we are seeing in the cruise sector is impressive, yet it’s not unexpected,” said Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel, in a news release. “Many first-time cruisers quickly become repeat travelers for a reason. Cruise vacations cater to individuals of all ages and, with most expenses being prepaid, travelers can concentrate on enjoying their experiences and creating lasting memories with friends and family.”

What is the Most Popular Cruise Destination?

AAA has identified the Caribbean as the most popular cruise destination, attracting 72% of U.S. travelers. Alaska and the Mediterranean follow, with 6% and 5%, respectively.

“The Caribbean maintains its top position this year, comparable to its pre-pandemic figures from 2018 and 2019,” AAA noted in the release. “The Caribbean’s share had decreased to 68% in 2022-23 as interest grew for Alaska and the Mediterranean, but these figures have reverted to pre-pandemic levels over the past year.”

Additionally, there is an increase in short cruise options, with 18% of Caribbean cruises lasting between two to five days. Previously, itineraries of this length accounted for merely 2% of cruises in 2023. This variety may be linked to the Caribbean’s significant presence in the industry, featuring numerous cruise lines and ports.

Which Cruise Ports are the Busiest?

Miami was the most active port for embarkations and debarkations in the past year, holding a 10.3% market share. This was followed by two other Florida ports: the Port Canaveral area near Orlando at 8.3% and Fort Lauderdale at 5.2%. Galveston, Texas, and Barcelona, Spain, completed the top five with shares of 4.2% and 3.9%, respectively.

The remaining ports in the top 10 included Southampton in England, Marseille in France, and Seattle.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter based in Nashville.