Every time you hear about cruising, it’s most likely mentioned how popular it is in comparison to years past. Case in point, AAA projected that 19 million Americans are expected to go on ocean cruises in 2025. That’s a 4.5% increase over 2024 (18.2 million). And if you go back to 2016, that number was only 11.4 million people.

So yeah…cruising remains hot.

You would think that, with so many cruise lines out there, their popularity would be roughly the same, depending on what niche they cover. I mean, there are the:

• “party” cruise lines (like Carnival)
• cruise lines that are specifically family friendly (like Disney)
• “senior friendly” cruise lines (like Holland America)
• cruise brands that cater to the wealthy (like Four Seasons)
• lines that tend to appeal more to social conservatives (Margaritaville) or liberals (Virgin Voyages)

And, of course, there are also the lines like Royal Caribbean, Princess, etc., that overlap one or more of those categories or some other categories that we didn’t even mention.

And yet, it turns out that each state tends to have a favorite line.

BetMGM, a sports betting and gaming entertainment company, decided to analyze Google Trends’ search data between August 2023 and August 2024 to see what the most popular cruise line was in each state. They analyzed regional interest in the 7 most popular cruise lines and then compared them to determine favorites, state-by-state, for the coming year.

“As you plan your next voyage, find out which cruise line is the favorite where you live – and maybe even discover a new destination to dream about along the way,” BetMGM said in the report.

Here are the brands that took the top spots:

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Line was, by far, the most popular cruise line – it was the favorite of 29 states, representing states from coast to coast.

“Its combination of family-friendly entertainment, top-tier service, and the allure of beloved Disney characters makes it a go-to choice for many..” said BetMGM.

Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line was the second most popular; it was #1 in 11 states, mostly in the southeast. The line is well known for its cheaper prices and “party” atmosphere. It also has departure ports in Mobile, New Orleans and Charleston, which BetMGM suggested may be another reason why it has that particular regional appeal.

Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises was the most popular line in 5 states.

“With its elegant atmosphere and immersive Alaskan itineraries, it’s the preferred choice for those looking to explore the natural beauty of the Last Frontier in style,” said BetMGM.

Virgin Voyages

 

Despite only having sailed in the U.S. since 2021, Virgin Voyages was the most popular cruise line in 2 states, plus Washington D.C.

Says BetMGM: “Its adult-only policy and modern, trendsetting approach to cruising appeal to a younger, more urban crowd. The brand’s focus on sustainability and unique onboard experiences has clearly struck a chord with travelers in these bustling, metropolitan states.”

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises is a more upscale brand, which is apparently most appreciated by those in 2 states: Florida and Rhode Island.

MSC Cruises

MSC Cruises was #1 in New York. Known for its European flair and modern, stylish ships, it may connect with New Yorkers who are looking for a more cosmopolitan or international style of cruise.

What about Royal Caribbean?

Royal Caribbean was one of the 7 most popular cruise lines BetMGM analyzed, but it wasn’t the #1 cruise line in any state. Womp womp.

Here’s a map, courtesy of BetMGM, of which lines are the most popular in which states:

What’s your favorite cruise line?

Our favorite is Virgin Voyages. As residents of Central FL, I guess we’re out of sync with our Floridian brethren. What’s your favorite cruise line?

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