The cruise industry continues to make waves. AAA is projecting that a record 21.7 million Americans will go on a cruise in 2026, marking a 4.5% increase from 2025.

According to AAA, the cruise industry is booming and is expected to break the passenger volume record for the fourth consecutive year.

“These numbers highlight the growing popularity of ocean cruises among U.S. travelers,” said Doug Shupe, Corporate Communications Manager for AAA Texas in a news release. “Our travel advisors see this trend every day as they help members plan unforgettable vacations. Whether it’s a relaxing Caribbean getaway or an adventurous family reunion in Alaska, ocean cruises offer convenience, variety, and experiences that create lifelong memories.”

The Port of Galveston, which is the fourth-largest cruise port in the country, is on a similar trajectory and is forecasting more than 440 sailings in 2026 with around 3.9 million passengers expected to move through one of its cruise terminals, according to AAA.

Year to date through September, the port has seen more than 2.58 million passenger turns, marking a 2.3% increase compared to the same time period in 2024, according to the latest data.

In addition to growing cruise sailings, Galveston continues to invest in new infrastructure to increase capacity, opening its fourth cruise terminal last week, which serves as a homeport to MSC Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Lines.

“This is a tremendous milestone in the port’s history as a major U.S. cruise port. We welcome MSC Cruises as a new cruise partner, as well as a Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, which has committed to more sailings from Gaveston,” said Rodger Rees, Galveston Wharves port director and CEO, during the terminal ribbon-cutting and welcoming ceremony for MSC Seascape.

The cruise industry is a major economic engine for the island city and according to AAA it supports over 4,500 jobs and generates $733 million for Galveston's business revenues.

The hospitality industry of the broader region also benefits from cruises out of Galveston, particularly when those coming from outside the metro area stay in area hotels on the front or back side of their voyages.

Written by Norma Salcedo