19 Million Americans Expected to Cruise in 2025, Caribbean Dominates Destinations

The American Automobile Association (AAA) projects that 19 million Americans will take ocean cruises in 2025, marking a 4.5% increase from 2024 and a significant rise of 34% from pre-pandemic levels in 2019. This marks the third consecutive year of record cruise passenger numbers, demonstrating a robust recovery in the cruise industry post-pandemic. The Caribbean remains the most popular destination, attracting 72% of cruise travelers, while Alaska and the Mediterranean account for 6% and 5%, respectively. Notably, there has been a shift towards shorter cruise itineraries, with 18% of Caribbean cruises now lasting between two to five days, up from just 2% in 2023. Florida continues to dominate cruise departures, with Miami, Port Canaveral, and Fort Lauderdale being the top three ports globally. AAA emphasizes the importance of careful planning for future cruisers to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.