Cruise industry forecasts historic record bookings in 2025

06-03-25

The cruise industry is preparing for a record-breaking year in 2025, with projections indicating a significant increase in the number of passengers and bookings worldwide. According to data from the American Automobile Association (AAA), it is estimated that 19 million Americans will opt for this type of holiday in 2025, representing an increase of 4.5% over 2024, when 18.2 million people chose cruising as their tourism option. This growth exceeds the pre-pandemic peak of 2019, when 14.2 million Americans travelled by cruise by 34%.

This boom is not limited to the United States. In Spain, ports such as Cartagena anticipate record figures for 2025, with the arrival of 199 calls and 265,000 passengers, surpassing the 250,000 people reached in 2019. Among the novelties, the arrival of the Allure of the Seas, the largest ship received so far, with a capacity for 5,400 passengers, which will dock for the first time in Cartagena on 20 February, stands out.

The growing popularity of cruise ships is attributed to several factors. Cruise lines have invested in building larger ships with more amenities, transforming cruises into destinations in their own right. These ships offer entertainment, dining and activity options for all ages, appealing to a wide range of travellers. In addition, shorter itineraries have gained popularity, allowing for more frequent departures and offering an affordable option for those looking to sample the cruise experience without committing too much time.

The most sought-after destinations reflect a preference for warm climates and paradise beaches. The Caribbean is the most popular destination, with 72% of passengers sailing its waters in 2025. Other top destinations include Alaska, with 6% of preferences, and the Mediterranean, which attracts 5% of cruisers.

Cruise lines are also experiencing remarkable growth. Virgin Voyages, Richard Branson's adults-only cruise line, has reported record revenues and bookings for 2025. Following a successful sales season, the company's ‘Wave 25’ campaign has generated the biggest growth in revenue and future bookings in its history, boosting revenue by 60% year-on-year.

With a 40% increase in new bookings, Virgin Voyages is proving that its innovative and luxury-focused approach is dominating the cruise industry.

Meanwhile, Carnival Corporation anticipates strong bookings in 2025, driven by high demand for cruise holidays despite rising ticket prices. The company reported quarterly revenue of $5.94 billion, beating analysts' expectations, and adjusted earnings of 14 cents per share, ahead of estimates of 8 cents. However, higher promotional and maintenance expenses have led Carnival to forecast annual earnings of $1.70 per share, down from an anticipated $1.74 per share.

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