Cruisebound Unveils 2025 Cruise Passenger Trends and Demographics

Cruisebound, the fastest-growing online cruise agency in the U.S., has released new insights into cruise passenger demographics and booking behaviors, highlighting significant shifts in how and where travelers are booking their voyages.

As economic uncertainty persists, cruising remains one of the best-value travel options. While many assume travel's digital transformation peaked in the 2000s, online bookings continue to grow—rising to 69% of all travel bookings in 2024, up from 65% in 2020. Notably, travelers aged 45+ are showing the fastest adoption of online booking, marking a promising trend for the digitalization of the cruise industry.

Traditionally popular among older travelers, cruising is now attracting younger demographics. Cruisebound's data shows that 25-44-year-olds now make up 45% of cruise bookers, followed by 45-54-year-olds at 19% and 55+ travelers at 26%. To appeal to Millennials and Gen Z, cruise lines are introducing shorter, immersive itineraries, high-energy entertainment, and thrill-seeking attractions alongside family-friendly amenities.

While Florida, Texas, and California remain leading markets for cruise bookings, there is notable growth in states like New York and Georgia. This shift reflects a broader appeal of cruise vacations, fueled by expanded marketing efforts and the convenience of online booking platforms.

Commenting on these trends, Pierre-Olivier Lepage, CEO of Cruisebound, stated: "The geographic growth and demographic diversification of cruise travelers stem from two key factors: product innovation and consumers’ desire for the best value for their money. With ongoing inflation and economic uncertainty, travelers are being more strategic in their spending, and cruising continues to deliver exceptional value per dollar spent."