23 Dec 2025
Tags: Cruise, predictions, End Of Year, New Year, Resolutions, Growth, trends, Research
Iglu Cruise's 12 Predictions for 2026 | Press Release
DEMAND AND TRENDS
Increase in demand for cruise and stay, and confidence and desire for more complex itineraries
In 2025, Iglu introduced new sports-themed itineraries, adding event tickets to land-based tours added to cruises. Examples include NFL games, NASCAR racing and F1 tickets. As AI tools make planning easier than ever, and travel confidence continues to rise, Iglu is well-placed to fulfil these needs.
More interest in luxury such as Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Explora Journeys and Scenic Discovery Yachts, among others
Iglu reveals a rise in demand for luxury cruises and welcomes new luxurious ships due in 2026.
An increase in crossover between ocean and river cruising
Now offering the full suite of ocean and river cruises globally, Iglu can see a rise in customers choosing both types of cruising and seamlessly transitioning between them.
K-pop Trending | BBC Race Across the World in South America
Media influence will impact trends, with Iglu calling out South Korea and South America as trending travel destinations, influenced by K-pop and Race Across the World, respectively.
Commitment to solos and families, including lines opening up to multi-gen cruises, i.e. P&O Arcadia and P&O Aurora
Lines continue to welcome young ones, with major changes for P&O, who are opening up more opportunities for families on selected sailings.
Continued increase in early booking for value
With lines opening sales for new itineraries two years in advance, with early booking offers, it's good to be in close touch with agents like Iglu who can do all the work for you in terms of forward booking of the best new cruises.
CUSTOMER BEHAVIOUR
Importance of AI search in cruise
Whilst 80% told Iglu that they do not use AI to research a cruise today, a growing number will use Gemini, ChatGPT, and other LLMs to find information on travel.
EVENTS
Impact of events: Solar Eclipse and 250th anniversary of American Independence
The first Total Solar Eclipse since 1999 will be on August 12th, 2026 and be visible (weather permitting) in Greenland, Iceland and Spain. A cruise is a good way of witnessing the eclipse, away from clouds and light pollution. Lines will enhance the experience by including themed activities and talks.
In July, lines will offer special cruises to celebrate the U.S.'s 250 birthday. Cunard, Holland America Line, Scenic, Princess Cruises and Carnival all have special plans.
Impact of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in June and July
The 2026 FIFA World Cup takes place in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico and will impact prices and availability of cruises. More than a million international visitors are expected, on top of huge domestic tourism. In particular, it will affect cruises from host cities Seattle and Vancouver, major hubs for Alaska cruises. Iglu Cruise recommends an autumn cruise to Alaska instead. For sports fans, in breaking news, Princess Cruises will show all 104 matches on in-cabin TV across all 17 ships, with some matches shown on a big screen.
Iglu Celebrates 20 years in online cruise sales - and others continue to follow Iglu's lead
In 2006, Iglu first launched online sales for cruises, following their successful launch of ski holidays in 1998. Iglu's proprietary technology means customers can research and book travel online, whilst comparing multiple options for their needs. Never complacent, Iglu continues to make researching and choosing and booking cruises simpler than ever.
SHIPS
New ships make an impact
If 2025 was full of ship launches, 2026 promises its own impact. Iglu is looking forward to supporting the launch of Royal Caribbean's Legend of the Seas; NCL's Luna; MSC World Asia and Disney Adventure, to name but four.
P&O and Cunard offer all inclusive option. Add on for a supplement at the time of booking.
New Private Island developments: Royal Beach Club Santorini (Royal & Celebrity) and expansion of NCL's Great Stirrup Cay
NCL leads the way with ongoing innovations at its incredible Great Stirrup Cay, offering new zones and features. All new is Royal Caribbean's Beach Club in Santorini for Royal Caribbean and Celebrity guests.
Tel (7 days): 02037 335 557
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About Iglu.com
Iglu.com is Europe's largest online travel agent of cruise holidays, trading as Iglu Cruise in the UK, and Planet Cruise across the UK and Europe. Independent since its launch 26 years ago, pioneering, multi-award-winning Iglu Cruise offers millions of holidays from 3,000 ports to 30 incredible destinations worldwide, and is the primary partner for all major cruise lines. Crowned Cruise Agency of the Year and Best Online/Call Centre Agent 2025, Iglu offers unique, fast and easy online search and booking, and personal, unbiased advice from the 100-strong expert team.
Iglu Cruise is an ABTA-bonded travel agent selling cruises and ATOL-bonded fly-cruise packages, and works with the industry to support sustainable travel. Awarded a customer satisfaction score 97% or higher by Feefo. Proud to be owned by Flight Centre Travel Group.
Media Communications
Louise Newton
Tel: 07710 762353
