QUESTION: Have you ever been on a cruise? Did you love it or hate it?
The cruise industry is set to launch another record-breaking year in 2026 after a stronger-than-expected 2025. AAA estimates that 21.7 million Americans will take ocean cruises in 2026, up from 20.7 million in 2025, which already surpassed earlier projections. The organization forecasts an 8.4% increase in cruise participation from 2024 to 2025, followed by an additional 4.5% jump from 2025 to 2026, underscoring the growing popularity of cruising among U.S. travelers. Cruises attract passengers across all age groups, though most are older adults. About 65% of U.S. cruise passengers are 55 or older, 27% are between 35 and 54, and 7% are 18 to 34. Nearly half of all passengers travel as couples, while 20% bring children,