Ram's top 3 reasons to cruise in 2026
- Ram Glick
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Updated: 8 hours ago
If you're considering cruising in 2026, here are my top three compelling reasons that make it a standout year to embark:
1. Amazing Value, Variety & Strong Demand
Unbeatable all-inclusive value: Cruises fuse lodging, meals, entertainment, and transport between destinations, all in one package, often for under $120 per person, per night.
A wealth of choices: Whether you're into luxury voyages, family-friendly trips, boutique expedition journeys, or immersive cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone. The industry continues to innovate, welcoming new ships, itineraries, and experiences.
Strong momentum and strategic growth: Demand remains robust, with 37.7 million cruise passengers projected in 2025 and a rising influx of new cruisers (31% in the past two years). This growth drives more options and better value for travelers.
2. Exciting New Ships & Expanding Itineraries
Next-gen vessels arriving in 2026:
Legend of the Seas — Royal Caribbean’s third Icon-class ship (LNG-powered, eco-forward, massive scale), will debut in mid-2026, offering Mediterranean cruises before repositioning to the Caribbean.
Norwegian Cruise Line will launch its fourth Prima-class ship in 2026, bigger and greener than previous Prima vessels.
Luxury cruise players, including Ritz-Carlton and Four Seasons, will inaugurate new yacht-style voyages in destinations like Alaska, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean.
More capacity in hot regions:
Luxury cruise capacity will rise by about 12.6% in 2026, including nearly 11% more berths and 9.2% more ships Cruise Industry News | Cruise News.
The Mediterranean market alone expects a whopping 32.1% capacity boost, adding nine new ships to a region already dominated by luxury lines Cruise Industry News | Cruise News.
3. Bucket-List Itineraries & Unique Experiences
Extraordinary world cruises:
Oceania Cruises' 2026 Vista world voyage spans up to 197 days across 43 countries and six continents. It offers immersive experiences including UNESCO sites, cultural programs, gourmet dining, and enriching on-board offerings, all wrapped in luxury.
Small-ship and specialty journeys in high demand:
Desire for remote, immersive itineraries, like expeditions to Antarctica, the Arctic, or the South Pacific, is surging. Specialty routes and extended journeys (multi-week, world cruises) often sell out early, especially in premium cabin categories.
Extraordinary events at sea:
On August 12, 2026, a total solar eclipse will cross parts of Greenland, Iceland, and northern Spain. Several cruise lines (Ponant, Hurtigruten, Viking) are launching expeditions directly into the path of totality, creating a rare and unforgettable celestial experience at sea.
In Summary:
Exceptional value and diverse options: Cruises deliver inclusive, richly varied travel that appeals across demographics, backed by industry-wide growth.
State-of-the-art ships and expanded itineraries: New vessels and routes mean more choice, comfort, and sustainability.
Once-in-a-lifetime experiences: Whether it's world cruises, polar expeditions, or solar eclipse voyaging, 2026 offers unique, bucket-list-worthy adventures.
Pro tip: Many of these 2026 voyages, especially extended world cruises and specialty journeys, are filling up fast, suites in particular, so early booking is key.
Comments