If you’ve seen all the announcements about new and bigger cruise ships month after month, you’ll probably not be surprised to hear that more Americans than ever are expected to be sailing on them this year.
AAA, which of course is no longer just interested in automobiles for its members, has issued its first-ever annual cruise projection, saying that about 19 million Americans will take a cruise in 2025, up from 18.2 million last year and 16.9 in 2023. The figures are for ocean cruises; river cruising is another but also growing market.
A news release from AAA suggests reasons: “What we’re witnessing in the cruise industry is nothing short of amazing, but it’s no surprise. There’s a reason most first-time cruise passengers become repeat cruisers. Cruise vacations offer something for everyone, no matter their age. And because most of the vacation is already paid for, travelers can focus on enjoying themselves and making lifelong memories with loved ones.”
No figures given on how many of the 19 million are among those who cruise several times a year, but the growth is impressive in any case.
Image by Toni Paul from Pixabay