High demand for Japan is driving a wave of new Asia cruise offerings over the next two years.
In recent years, there has been a significant uptick in interest in Japan as a cruise destination, prompting U.S.-based cruise lines to expand their offerings in the region. These cruise lines are not only extending their operating seasons but also introducing new ports and itineraries, with a strong focus on Japan. According to Jess Peterson, director of destination experience and itinerary planning at Windstar Cruises, “There’s sort of an unquenchable demand for Japan right now.” The need for additional departures arose sooner than anticipated as the availability of bookings rapidly diminished.
The trend for increased visitation to Japan began before the pandemic and has continued to grow. The Japan National Tourism Organization reported a remarkable forecast of 36.9 million international visitors in 2024, reflecting a 15% increase from the previous record set in 2019. Current data suggests that this year is already on track to exceed those 2024 projections.
Many cruise lines find themselves racing to meet the burgeoning demand for Japan-centric voyages. For instance, Azamara is set to launch its inaugural fall Japan sailings in 2026 to complement its traditional spring offerings. CEO Dondra Ritzenthaler highlighted the need to extend their presence in the region, stating, “We were selling out, and we knew that if we were there longer, we would be successful.”
Taking a cue from this growing trend, Oceania Cruises has added Japan sailings to its roster for the fourth quarter of 2027. Previously, they only featured Japan during the cherry blossom season. Nathan Hickman, chief commercial officer at Oceania, noted that “Japan especially has been a hot, trending destination.”
Princess Cruises will enhance its presence in the region by adding a second ship in 2027, marking what they call the line’s “most expansive Japan season ever” with a total of 78 departures. Similarly, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions plans to increase the number of its 16-day Japan itineraries in response to rising demand.
A Japan-based cruise line, Mitsui Ocean Cruises, is also eyeing the U.S. market with offerings around Japan’s islands.
Attracting First-Time Cruisers in Japan
Travelmation advisor Amy Thomasson, who is knowledgeable about travel in Japan, stated that the destination’s popularity presents an opportunity for cruise lines to attract American travelers. However, capturing first-time cruise participants may be challenging due to the long journey involved. “They would have to fly 5,000 or 6,000 miles and then get on a cruise ship, which would be a brand-new feeling,” she added.
Despite this hurdle, some lines are optimistic. Princess Cruises’ chief commercial officer, Jim Berra, remarked, “Japan’s current popularity makes it an appealing entry point for first-time cruisers, while our seasoned travelers are excited to experience the country with Princess.”
Although Japan is a focal point for increasing cruise capacity in Asia, it is not the sole destination witnessing this trend. Disney Cruise Line is preparing to homeport its forthcoming ship, the Disney Adventure, in Singapore. Additionally, Holland America Line has highlighted South Korea, Vietnam, and the Philippines as contributing to global cruise demand.
Azamara’s demand, as noted by Ritzenthaler, spans the entire region. Explora Journeys plans to sail in Asia for the first time in 2027 with its third ship, Explora III. Justin Poulsen, the line’s head of itinerary planning and destination experiences, mentioned that while Japan is an attractive destination, the company is inspired by “Asia’s tapestry of cultures, traditions, and landscapes.”
