The figures were contained in the 2026 State of the Cruise Industry report released by Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), highlighting the resilience of the industry.
The report also features significant investments by cruise lines in new ships, innovative technologies and destination partnerships.
In 2026, there will be 325 CLIA-member ocean-going ships, representing around 690,000 lower berths globally.
“Cruising is sailing toward the future with exceptional momentum and strength,” said Bud Darr, President and CEO of CLIA.
“Record demand, growing interest from new cruisers and sustained confidence in the cruise experience are being matched by innovation, technological advancements and destination partnerships.
“At the same time, we’re seeing a meaningful shift in recognition that cruise is a leader in sustainable operations.”
Record Demand and High Intent to Cruise
Nearly 90% of cruisers say they intend to sail again, the highest level recorded by CLIA. This strong intent reflects high satisfaction among experienced cruisers and growing interest from new-to cruise travellers.
Global demand is supported by a broadening source market and a wide range of cruise experiences across regions and ship types.
Younger and More Diverse Cruise Travellers
Cruising continues to attract a younger and varied audience, according to the report. About one third are under age 40, and approximately one-third of cruise trips are multigenerational, underscoring the appeal of cruise vacations for families and groups.
Growing Experience Segments
Trends show growth in luxury cruising, expedition and exploration travel. The report also reflects increased demand for more immersive experiences, including curated shore excursions, cultural engagement and more time in destinations. Cruise lines’ private islands destinations continue to be a driver of demand.
Innovation and Continuous Progress
New ships entering service are increasingly more energy efficient than previous generations and nearly all new ships are designed with fuel-flexible engines as cruise lines continue to increase the uptake of lower-emissions fuels, onshore power connectivity, energy efficiency technologies and other environmental technologies.
The cruise industry remains committed to pursuing net zero emissions by 2050, recognising that achieving this goal will require ongoing collaboration across sectors, infrastructure development and the availability of competitively priced alternative fuels at scale.
“Ongoing progress and sustained economic impact from the cruise industry requires collaboration across sectors, continued infrastructure investment, advancement of alternative fuels and pragmatic regulation,” Mr Darr said.
“The cruise industry is charting a course toward a future defined by opportunity, impact and responsible growth.”
The full 2026 State of the Cruise Industry report is available here
