Cruising is making a strong comeback after the pandemic temporarily put a hold on sailings, AAA said.
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AAA reports that cruise bookings during the past four weeks are twice as strong as this time last year.
The agency expects the positive momentum will continue through the travel season.
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“We are seeing a resurgence in travelers who are eager to vacation again and that includes cruising,” said Debbie Haas, vice president of travel for AAA. “Cruising is more available now than it ever was during the pandemic. Destinations are loosening travel restrictions and cruise lines hope to reach full capacity in the second half of the year. As a result, our travel agency is seeing a wide mix of bookings that include everything from short weekend excursions to worldwide voyages.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention lowered its cruise travel warning to a level two. That’s the lowest level since the CDC began tracking coronavirus statistics.
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According to AAA research:
- 58.3 million (23%) Americans are considering a cruise in the next two years.
- Millennials are even more eager, as over half (52%) say they are ready to return to the open seas.
- Of those Americans who say they are likely to cruise again, 41% cite a better understanding of the risks presented by COVID-19 as influencing their decision.
“Not only are travelers more eager to cruise, but they’re extremely happy with the experience,” Haas said. “Unlike some other service industries, cruise ships are 100% staffed. So, the service level is very good. As a result, cruise satisfaction levels are even higher than before the pandemic.”
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Alaska, the Caribbean, and Europe are among the most popular cruise destinations, AAA reported.
“If you plan to travel anytime soon, now is the time to book,” Haas said. “With strong demand and volatile oil prices, booking early will ensure you get the vacation you want at the optimal price. That’s especially true for cruise lines. They open up reservations as early as two years ahead of sailing and sometimes offer better rates for booking early.”
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