Iglu Cruise’s 12 Predictions for 2026

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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