by Donald Wood
Last updated: 8:20 AM ET, Mon February 26, 2024
New data from AAA Travel highlighted some of the Spring
Break trends for 2024, including a rising number of tourists taking to the
high seas via cruise ships this year.
Florida still reigns supreme as the top Spring Break
destination this year, with beaches on the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts,
family-friendly attractions, and cruise ports making the state a logical choice
for travelers seeking fun in the sun.
The cruise industry is showing significant growth for Spring
Break 2024, with AAA Travel’s data revealing a 28 percent increase in
cruise bookings for March and April compared to last year, and a 60 percent increase
for cruises departing from South Florida.
“Orlando is the top choice for Spring Break travelers, while
Fort Lauderdale and Miami are the two most popular domestic cruise ports,” AAA
Travel Senior Vice President Paula Twidale said. “Many travelers are looking
for warm weather, pools and beaches, and outdoor adventures this time of year,
and cruise vacations check all those boxes.”
The AAA Travel study also found that more tourists are booking
cruises further in advance, as cruise lines have reported that Spring
Break voyages have been sold out for months. While last-minute bookings are
still possible, prices may be higher and cabin choices limited.
For those who miss out on spring sailings, officials with
the travel brand suggest booking summer cruises now before they sell out,
especially if they plan to sail to popular destinations like Alaska and the
Caribbean.
In addition, international Spring Break trips are also on
the rise compared to last year, as AAA Travel data indicates that international
flight bookings are up 20 percent and hotel bookings are up 37 percent for
March and April.
Several European cities top the list of most popular
destinations, including London,
Paris, Rome, Dublin, and Amsterdam.
“More AAA members are also booking tours for their
international Spring Break vacations,” Twidale continued. “They want the
convenience, expertise, and peace of mind that guided travel brings.”
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