The golden age of the budget cruise is slowly sailing away.

For decades, cruising was synonymous with affordable, middle-class family vacations. In 2025, however, the industry is undergoing a dramatic shift upmarket. The newest and most celebrated ships are no longer designed for the budget-conscious traveler; they are floating luxury resorts with a price tag to match. While budget options still exist on older ships, the industry’s focus has clearly shifted.
The dream of an inexpensive week at sea is being replaced by a much more exclusive and expensive reality.



