American Cruise Lines Sees Brighter Future with Domestic Travel Boost

American Cruise Lines is seeing a significant increase in demand across its domestic network for river and coastal cruise travel, signaling early indications for the company of a robust return to travel by next year.

American Cruise Lines , which  reports that its advance bookings for the 2021 season are currently at more than 25% higher than the same time last year. The line has also recently released its schedules for the 2022 and 2023 seasons.

“People want to travel, and they are beginning to plan experiences for later this year and in the year ahead,” said David Luxeder, Director of Marketing for American Cruise Lines. “American’s modern fleet, unique itineraries, and low passenger counts, allow us to offer amazing domestic options, as folks begin to cruise again. The desire to travel and the American spirit for exploration is alive and well.”

The company attributes this increased demand to heightened awareness of the options offered by U.S. cruise lines, and guests’ desire to support American businesses.

This recent upturn in advance bookings for American Cruise Lines, coupled with the growing interest in domestic cruising and domestic vacations in general, is good news for travel. 

American Cruise Lines predictions likewise support MMGY’s recent findings, that people are becoming more optimistic about travel, and are more eager to start traveling again, even if they have to stay close to home initially. According to MMGY’s Travel Intentions Pulse Survey (TIPS), nearly 60% of consumers revealed that they are eager to return to leisure travel in the next six months.

The survey also revealed that river cruises have become just as popular as ocean cruises (both at 12%) for travelers over the next six months, with river cruises generally trending upwards (though only by 1%) as ocean cruises trending downward (again, only by 1%).

The positive outlook on 2021 sales also led the company to renew its pledge to continue its building program. American Cruise Lines has made significant investments in development, doubling the size of its fleet to 12 small cruise ships in three years. The cruise line says it will continue this trend, intending to build new ships every year.

“American has truly lead the way in opening up the possibilities for adventure in the U.S.,” said Susan Shultz-Gelino, V.P. of Trade Relations for American Cruise Lines.  

“We have been building new small ship styles to suit every taste and we continue to expand our huge collection of curated itineraries, the options are endless with American. And the best part is you don’t have to travel abroad, or fly, to enjoy it all.”