Travelers are gearing up for the 2026 cruise season, and they’re planning earlier than ever. New data from InsureMyTrip and Cruise Critic, shows Americans are not only excited about getting back on the water, but they’re also taking steps to protect their trips.
InsureMyTrip’s latest survey found more than half of respondents (53.7 percent) plan to cruise soon. At the same time, search trends from Cruise Critic reveal that travelers are already looking ahead to the 2026 summer cruise season, with May and June emerging as the top months people are researching for future sailings.
Caribbean and Longer Cruises Continue to Lead Demand
The Caribbean continues to lead all cruise searches and bookings, according to Cruise Critic data. Europe, the Mediterranean, and Alaska followed, highlighting interest in both classic and bucket-list destinations.
Top Destinations for Cruise Bookings
- 66 percent – Caribbean cruise
- 11 percent – Europe and Mediterranean
- 5 percent – Alaska
Travelers are also opting for longer getaways. The most common cruise length booked was seven to nine nights.
Average Length of Cruise
- 43 percent – Seven to nine nights
- 32 percent – Four to six nights
- 15 percent – 13+ nights
Cruisers Are Protecting Their Plans
Even with enthusiasm rising, InsureMyTrip’s survey shows travelers remain mindful of potential disruptions. Top concerns include:
- Getting sick
- Weather
- Safety
- Travel logistics (delayed flights and missed connections)
These worries may explain why 72 percent of past cruisers said they purchased travel insurance, and most (64 percent) chose third-party coverage for stronger medical and cancelation benefits.
The Advantage of Third-Party Travel Insurance
A cruise-specific travel insurance policy from a third-party like InsureMyTrip offers robust coverage, including:
- Trip cancelation
- Travel delay and interruption
- Emergency medical and evacuation
- Baggage loss and delay
- Financial default
- Cancel for Any Reason (Optional add-on)
“Cruise travelers are excited for 2026, and they’re planning smarter. We’re seeing early planning paired with strong demand for travel insurance, especially for cruises where weather, illness, and flight delays can have a big impact,” says Suzanne Morrow, InsureMyTrip CEO.
For more information, visit www.insuremytrip.com or www.cruisecritic.com.
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