As cruise lines roll out their deployment strategies for 2027, several emerging trends point toward increased interest in Alaska, Japan, and the Caribbean as key destinations for travelers.
Expanding Alaska Cruise Offerings
Both National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions and Celebrity Cruises are significantly boosting their Alaska sailings for 2027. Celebrity, in particular, aims to extend the Celebrity Edge’s Alaska season by adjusting both the start and end dates of sailings. Meanwhile, National Geographic is enhancing its presence in Alaska with additional sailings on its expedition vessels, the Quest and the Venture.
Newcomer Explora Journeys is making waves by announcing 2027 as its inaugural summer season in Alaska, along with land-based tours designed to enrich guests’ experiences before and after their cruises. Explora’s president, Anna Nash, emphasized the importance of immersive experiences, saying, "Whether it’s journeying through the vast wilderness of Alaska or uncovering the cultural richness of the Canadian Rockies, these experiences are designed to complement and elevate the overall Explora Journeys experience."
Arctic and Antarctic Adventures
Cruisers seeking extreme climate experiences will find new offerings in the Arctic and Antarctica. Viking will unveil a fresh itinerary dubbed "Into the Antarctic Circle," a 15-day voyage that will cross the Antarctic Circle, while Ponant introduces shorter 12-day North Pole sailings aboard the Le Commandant Charcot. Samuel Chamberlain, CEO of Ponant for the Americas, shared that this itinerary has been meticulously crafted over a year.
Japan’s Growing Popularity
Japan continues to emerge as a favored destination for U.S. travelers, with Princess Cruises planning to deploy two ships to the region in 2027. This marks Princess’s most extensive offering in Japan, with 78 sailings and 50 different itineraries, ranging from week-long trips to extended 28-day voyages. Gus Antorcha, president of Princess Cruises, noted, "Our story in Japan has deepened over time and experience."
Other major cruise lines, including Celebrity, are also returning to Japan, with the Celebrity Millennium scheduled for a second season in Tokyo. National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions is set to expand its departure offerings in this burgeoning market.
The Allure of the Caribbean
Closer to home, the Caribbean remains a standout option for vacationers. Windstar Cruises anticipates its most extensive winter season in 2026-27, bolstered by its newest addition, the Star Seeker. Another newcomer, the Orient Express Corinthian, is set to make its Caribbean debut in October 2026, marking a significant milestone for this luxury brand.
Travel industry experts, like Pam Young from Travel Leaders Network, highlight the advantages of early bookings. She notes, "We see that our bookings perform nicely for further out. We’re excited to see that they continue to do that."
With these developments, 2027 is shaping up to be a promising year for cruise enthusiasts eager to explore stunning destinations like Alaska, Japan, and the Caribbean. As lines expand their offerings, travelers have more opportunities than ever to embark on unforgettable journeys.
