2026 Wave Season Sales Rise for TRAVELSAVERS and NEST Agencies

Closer-to-Home Cruise Itineraries Drive Triple-Digit Growth

 

OYSTER BAY, NY (March 10, 2026): As the 2026 wave season nears its end, TRAVELSAVERS and NEST report notable double‑digit increases in cruise sales across virtually all major categories compared with the same period last year.

 

The strongest gains during the first two months of the year came from expedition and river cruising, which posted year‑over‑year increases of 44 percent and 23 percent respectively. Luxury cruise sales increased 15 percent, premium cruise lines saw a seven‑percent uptick and contemporary cruise bookings rose four percent.

 

“With cruise lines investing heavily in new product, experiences and destinations, people are excited to experience this ever-growing world of cruising,” said Chief Marketing Officer Nicole Mazza. “More and more travelers are discovering the benefits of cruise vacations, with their wonderful value and convenience. They’re also discovering that booking during wave season is especially rewarding, with so many outstanding offers available.”

 

Demand for itineraries closer to home has surged at an even faster pace. Sailings in the Americas are experiencing triple‑digit growth, led by Panama Canal voyages (up 144 percent), Alaska itineraries (up 109 percent), and Canada/New England routes (up 108 percent). World cruises have also gained traction, increasing 69 percent, while European sailings climbed 54 percent.

 

“We’ve seen an influx of new ships over the past couple of years with exciting features that are generating a lot of buzz,” said Lori Kostecki, Vice President, Supplier Relations. “Cruise lines have strategically positioned these vessels in high‑demand regions such as Alaska and Europe, and travelers are responding with strong bookings.”

 

Early booking patterns suggest continued growth into 2027. TRAVELSAVERS and NEST report that reservations for next year’s sailings are already up 7.6 percent, with additional increases anticipated as the year progresses.

 

Affiliated agencies benefit from year-round cruise advantages through the networks’ Value Incentive Program (VIP). The program spans more than fifteen preferred cruise lines and over 5,000 sailings, offering exclusive client perks only available through a TRAVELSAVERS or NEST advisor. The VIP program provides clients with complimentary credits or services valued at up to $600 per sailing.

 

About TRAVELSAVERS

Founded in 1970, TRAVELSAVERS is an international marketing leader of more than 3,000 independently owned agencies in over 35 countries. Thanks to the buying power of $20 billion in annual sales, its more than 25,000 advisors are able to offer their clients inspirational travel experiences at the best value. With a global reputation for excellence, TRAVELSAVERS leisure and corporate agencies maximize sales and profits with cutting-edge products and services that cater to all needs. Through an exclusive protected territory system, strong supplier relationships, comprehensive marketing suite, innovative booking technology, specialized training and networking, and personalized business coaching, TRAVELSAVERS advisors are empowered to find, retain and delight clients. For more information, visit www.travelsavers.com.

 

About NEST

The Network of Entrepreneurs Selling Travel is the industry’s first and only marketing group exclusively for independent home-based travel agencies. The company empowers home-based advisors to achieve greater success financially, professionally and personally by championing best practices, solutions and opportunities. NEST helps home-based travel entrepreneurs build their business, keep their identity and maintain control. The network delivers what home-based advisors need to increase their competitive edge and profitability, including a high level of personalized support, award-winning marketing, preferred partner portfolio, education, exclusive networking and events, and innovative technology. NEST also helps suppliers reach the rapidly growing home-based distribution channel with training, motivation, offers and compensation. For more information, visit www.jointhenest.com.