Cruise Planners: 2026 Travel Trends
Overview
Andrew and Montana discuss what's trending for travel in 2026, positioning Cruise Planners as a billion-dollar sales company and walking through booking trends, itinerary progression, luxury options, and the value of using a travel advisor.
Why Book Now (Filmed in December, Looking Ahead to 2026)
- January–March is historically a high-booking window for Caribbean cruises, especially for spring break and summer travel
- Booking early secures better cabin selection (balconies, suites) and pricing
- Many major cruise lines now offer shorter itineraries on newer ships, making cruising more accessible
The Cruise Itinerary "Progression"
Most travelers start with Caribbean cruises due to ease of access and attractive pricing, then expand outward:
- Caribbean – entry point for most first-time cruisers
- Europe – cultural immersion
- Asia
- Alaska – currently a hot booking opportunity due to increased ship tonnage/capacity in the region; advisors recommend booking before space sells out
Alaska Cruise Tours
- Many cruise lines offer "cruise tours" — packaged pre/post-cruise hotel stays, land tours, and rail travel
- Sold as one bundled package with costs included upfront
Luxury Cruising
- A "subjective" category — luxury can mean all-inclusive amenities (meals, drinks, excursions) or simply a more refined, intimate experience
- Higher price points typically reflect more inclusions and elevated service/food quality
- Often the next step after travelers outgrow large mainstream ships and want smaller, more intimate vessels that can access exotic/smaller ports
River Cruising
- A growing niche — some advisors focus exclusively on this segment
- Smaller ships dock directly in destinations (minimal need for taxis/shuttles)
- Described as "a floating hotel"
"Ship Within a Ship" Concept
For brand-loyal cruisers wanting luxury without switching cruise lines:
- Norwegian → The Haven
- Princess → The Sanctuary
- Celebrity → The Retreat
Especially popular for multi-generational travel — grandparents get a private, quiet suite area but can still join family at the pool or other ship-wide amenities.
Beyond Cruises: Other Cruise Planners Offerings
- #1 seller of Sandals & Beaches Resorts (all-inclusive, Caribbean/Mexico/Bahamas; family-friendly and adults-only options available)
- Escorted/private tours – pre-planned itineraries with set dates, fully vetted by the company (popular in Europe)
- Rail travel – e.g., Rocky Mountaineer through the Canadian Rockies
- Safaris
- Disney – strong relationship across Disney Cruise Line, Walt Disney World, Disneyland, and international parks
Two booking styles: fully escorted (done for you) or custom/piecemealed with a vetted supplier network.
Why Use a Cruise Planners Travel Advisor?
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cost | No extra fee — and often cheaper due to group rates and held inventory |
| Expertise | Advisors are trained professionals; saves travelers research time |
| Accuracy | Avoids relying on misleading online photos/reviews |
| Franchise model | Cruise Planners is the largest home-based travel franchise; advisors are small business owners with rigorous, ongoing training |
| Advocacy | Advisors act on your behalf if something goes wrong during travel |
| Safety | Advisors arrange travel insurance and know who to contact in emergencies |