As the 2026 wave season approaches its close, new data from TRAVELSAVERS Canada shows strong momentum in the cruise market, with sales rising significantly across nearly every cruise category compared with the same period last year.

During the first two months of the year, expedition and river cruising led the growth.

Expedition cruises recorded the biggest jump, with sales increasing by 40 per cent year over year.

River cruises also performed strongly, climbing 15 percent. Luxury cruise bookings rose by 14 percent, while traditional ocean cruises saw a solid nine per cent increase.

“Cruising continues to resonate with Canadian travellers, especially as cruise lines introduce new ships immersive itineraries and enhanced onboard experiences,” said Jane Clementino, senior vice president and general manager, TRAVELSAVERS Canada, in a press release. “Many travellers are recognizing the value and ease that cruise vacations offer, and wave season provides an ideal opportunity to secure exceptional offers.”

Interest in destinations closer to home has grown even faster than the overall cruise market, the consortium says.

Sailings throughout the Americas have seen triple-digit growth, with Panama Canal itineraries increasing by 144 per cent. Alaska cruises rose 109 per cent, while Canada and New England sailings climbed 108 per cent.

Other global itineraries are also gaining momentum. World cruises posted a 69 per cent increase in bookings, while European sailings grew by 54 percent.

According to Monique Lalonde, senior director of strategic partnerships at TRAVELSAVERS Canada, much of the surge can be linked to the rapid expansion of cruise fleets.

“They have been expanding their fleets and placing ships in regions that travellers are eager to explore, including Alaska and Europe, especially along the Mediterranean. Canadian travel advisors are seeing that demand translate into strong bookings,” she said in a statement.

Early booking trends at TRAVELSAVERS suggest the growth may continue.

Reservations for sailings in 2027 are already up 7.6 per cent, and the network expects that number to rise further as the year progresses.