AAA projects record 22.4 million U.S. cruise passengers for 2027

AAA predicts that 22.4 million Americans will take ocean cruises in 2027, marking the fifth consecutive year of record-breaking passenger volumes. This represents a 3.6% increase from the 21.6 million passengers projected for 2026 and a 57% increase compared to 2019 levels.

Caribbean itineraries remain the most popular choice, accounting for approximately 71% of American cruise travel. While seven-night cruises are the most common, shorter getaways are gaining popularity, with about 45% of ocean cruise passengers booking sailings of six nights or less.

Florida continues to be a central hub for the industry. PortMiami is projected to lead worldwide passenger movements in 2027 with an estimated 11.2% share, closely followed by Port Canaveral at 10.4%. Port Canaveral anticipates approximately 10.9 million passenger movements in 2027, an increase from 9 million in 2026.