Americans planning to take a cruise vacation are expected to reach a record high in 2027, according to AAA. The organization projects that a record of 22.4 million people in the U.S. will go on domestic and international cruises, marking a 3.6% increase from 2026.

This year is also expected to end with higher-than-projected numbers. Continued growth in 2027 would mark the fifth consecutive year of record-breaking cruise passenger volumes.

According to AAA, cruise demand has continued to grow since surpassing pre-pandemic levels, with a 57% increase compared to 2019, when 14.2 million Americans took ocean cruises.

“Many travelers are prioritizing shared experiences with family and friends, and they like knowing how much they’re spending on a vacation before the trip even starts,” according to a AAA press release. “Over 90% of U.S. cruise passengers rate their experience as good or very good, and that’s why the industry has strong repeat business, with 93% of travelers booking again.” 

As for the Port of Galveston, the fourth largest cruise port in the country, it is on a similar trajectory. After welcoming approximately 3.6 million passengers and more than 400 sailings in 2025, the port is forecasting nearly 4 million passenger movements and almost 450 sailings in 2026, highlighting the continued growth of the cruise industry.

Looking forward, the Galveston Wharves is discussing a fifth cruise terminal with Royal Caribbean that would bring Icon of the Seas to Pier 14 and could generate 1,500 jobs and $278 million in direct revenue. 

Written by Norma Salcedo