Are There Any Cruise Lines Running in 2024 Find Out Now

Yes, numerous cruise lines are operating in 2024, offering a wide range of itineraries and experiences worldwide. From luxury giants like Regent Seven Seas to family-friendly options like Royal Caribbean, the industry has fully rebounded with enhanced health protocols and exciting new ships. Whether you’re seeking a tropical escape or an Alaskan adventure, there’s a cruise line running in 2024 to match your travel dreams.

Key Takeaways

• Most major cruise lines are fully operational in 2024 with enhanced safety protocols.
• Book early for 2024 to secure the best cabins and itineraries before they sell out.
• Smaller luxury lines offer exclusive experiences with limited capacity—reserve months ahead.
• Check vaccination rules—some lines still require COVID-19 vaccines for select destinations.
• Flexible cancellation policies remain common; confirm terms before booking your cruise.
• New ships debuting in 2024 feature eco-friendly tech and expanded onboard activities.

Are There Any Cruise Lines Running in 2024? The Complete Guide

The cruise industry, once brought to a near standstill by global events in the early 2020s, has made a remarkable comeback. As travelers around the world seek new adventures, relaxation, and cultural experiences, the question on everyone’s mind is: Are there any cruise lines running in 2024? The short answer is a resounding yes—and in fact, the cruise industry is not only operational but thriving, with more ships, destinations, and itineraries than ever before. From luxury liners to budget-friendly ocean voyages and river cruises, the seas are once again alive with the hum of engines and the call of distant ports.

2024 marks a pivotal year for the cruise sector, with major players reporting record bookings, new vessel launches, and expanded global routes. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-timer, the options are vast and varied. With enhanced health protocols, flexible booking policies, and a renewed focus on sustainability, cruise lines are working hard to rebuild trust and deliver unforgettable experiences. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the current state of the cruise industry, highlight which major cruise lines are operating, examine popular itineraries, discuss safety and health measures, and provide practical tips for planning your 2024 cruise adventure. So, if you’re wondering if now is the right time to set sail, read on—your next voyage may be closer than you think.

Which Major Cruise Lines Are Operating in 2024?

The cruise industry in 2024 is more diverse and robust than ever, with a wide range of cruise lines offering everything from luxury expeditions to family-friendly mega-ships. After a period of uncertainty, most major cruise companies have fully resumed operations and are expanding their fleets to meet growing demand. Below, we break down the key players currently running cruises in 2024.

1. Royal Caribbean International

One of the largest and most innovative cruise lines in the world, Royal Caribbean is operating a full fleet of over 25 ships in 2024. The line continues to push boundaries with its Icon-class vessels, including the highly anticipated Icon of the Seas, which launched in January 2024. This 20-deck, 5,600-passenger mega-ship features the largest water park at sea, a Central Park neighborhood, and multiple neighborhoods designed for different vacation experiences. Royal Caribbean offers itineraries across the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, and Asia, with a strong emphasis on immersive shore excursions and onboard entertainment.

Popular 2024 itineraries include 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Miami and Fort Lauderdale, as well as 10- to 14-night transatlantic voyages during the summer months. The line also operates several ships in the Mediterranean, including stops in Barcelona, Rome, and Santorini.

2. Carnival Cruise Line

Carnival Cruise Line, known for its fun, casual, and value-driven approach, is operating all 23 of its ships in 2024. With a focus on affordability and family-friendly activities, Carnival remains a top choice for first-time cruisers and budget-conscious travelers. The line’s newest ship, Carnival Jubilee, launched in December 2023 and features the first roller coaster at sea—Bolt: Ultimate Sea Coaster—along with expanded dining options and enhanced water parks.

Carnival’s 2024 offerings include short 3- to 5-night getaways to the Bahamas and Mexico, as well as longer 7- to 10-night Caribbean and Alaska cruises. The line has also introduced new itineraries from Galveston, Texas, and Baltimore, Maryland, making it easier for U.S. travelers in the South and Northeast to embark without flying.

3. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

Norwegian Cruise Line is operating its full fleet of 18 ships in 2024, including the brand-new Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, which debuted in 2022 and 2023, respectively. These ships feature a modern design, expanded outdoor spaces, and the first free-spinning observation lounge at sea. NCL continues to champion its “Freestyle Cruising” concept, allowing guests to dine when and where they want, with no fixed seating times or dress codes.

In 2024, NCL offers a wide range of itineraries, including 7-night Alaska cruises from Seattle, 10-night Mediterranean voyages from Rome, and 14-night transatlantic repositioning cruises. The line has also expanded its offerings in Asia, with cruises departing from Tokyo and Singapore.

4. Princess Cruises

Princess Cruises, a leader in destination-focused cruising, is operating 15 ships in 2024, including the new Discovery Princess and Enchanted Princess. The line is known for its immersive shore excursions, such as its “Discovery at SEA” program, which includes partnerships with Discovery Channel and Animal Planet. Princess also offers unique experiences like MedallionClass technology, which enables contactless boarding, keyless stateroom entry, and personalized service via a wearable device.

Popular 2024 itineraries include 7-night Alaska cruises with glacier viewing, 10-night Panama Canal transits, and 12-night European voyages that visit the Greek Islands and the French Riviera. The line has also launched new cruises to the South Pacific and Australia, with departures from Sydney and Auckland.

5. Luxury and Premium Lines: Celebrity, Holland America, and Oceania

For travelers seeking a more refined experience, Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line, and Oceania Cruises are all operating full fleets in 2024. Celebrity Cruises, part of the Royal Caribbean Group, offers sleek, modern ships like the Celebrity Edge series, with open-air spaces and gourmet dining. Holland America continues its tradition of elegance and service, with 11 ships offering extended itineraries to Alaska, Europe, and the South Pacific.

Oceania Cruises, known for its “finest cuisine at sea”, operates six intimate ships, including the new Vista, which features expanded dining venues and a redesigned spa. The line specializes in longer voyages (10 to 20+ nights) with a focus on cultural immersion, such as 18-night cruises through the Mediterranean or 14-night journeys along the coast of South America.

Popular Cruise Destinations and Itineraries in 2024

With cruise lines back in full swing, the variety of destinations and itineraries available in 2024 is impressive. Whether you’re looking for tropical beaches, icy fjords, or historic cities, there’s a cruise to match your dream vacation. Below are some of the most popular destinations and itinerary types currently in demand.

Caribbean: The Ever-Popular Escape

The Caribbean remains the most popular cruise region, with over 60% of U.S.-based cruises departing for the islands in 2024. Major ports like Port Canaveral (Orlando), Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Galveston serve as gateways to destinations such as the Bahamas, Jamaica, the Cayman Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian all offer 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, which typically include stops in Cozumel, Nassau, and Grand Turk.

For a more exclusive experience, consider a private island day. Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay, Carnival’s Half Moon Cay, and Norwegian’s Great Stirrup Cay offer pristine beaches, water sports, and private cabanas—perfect for a day of relaxation or adventure.

Alaska: Nature’s Grand Stage

Alaska continues to draw cruisers with its breathtaking scenery, wildlife, and unique ports. From May to September, major lines like Princess, Holland America, and Norwegian operate weekly 7-night cruises from Seattle, Vancouver, and Seward. These itineraries typically include stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and a scenic cruise through Glacier Bay or Hubbard Glacier.

One of the highlights of an Alaska cruise is the opportunity to see whales, bears, and bald eagles in their natural habitat. Many lines partner with local experts for guided excursions, such as dog sledding on a glacier or visiting a Native Alaskan cultural center. For a more immersive experience, consider a 10- to 14-night cruise that includes a land tour of Denali National Park.

Europe: From the Mediterranean to the Baltic

European cruises are in high demand in 2024, with a resurgence of interest in both the Mediterranean and Baltic regions. Mediterranean itineraries typically depart from Barcelona, Rome, or Civitavecchia and visit ports like Santorini, Mykonos, Dubrovnik, and Cannes. These cruises often include overnight stays in major cities, allowing for deeper exploration.

The Baltic Sea, on the other hand, offers a mix of history, architecture, and culture. Cruises from Copenhagen or Amsterdam often stop in Stockholm, Helsinki, St. Petersburg (when available), and Tallinn. Many lines offer 10- to 14-night itineraries that include a day in St. Petersburg, where passengers can visit the Hermitage Museum or take a canal boat tour.

Asia and the Pacific: Emerging Hotspots

While traditionally less traveled by Western cruisers, Asia and the South Pacific are gaining popularity in 2024. Norwegian and Princess offer cruises from Singapore, Tokyo, and Sydney, with stops in Bali, Phuket, Ho Chi Minh City, and Auckland. These itineraries often include cultural experiences like temple visits, cooking classes, and traditional dance performances.

The South Pacific, with its turquoise waters and remote islands, is ideal for luxury and expedition-style cruising. Oceania and Regent Seven Seas offer 14- to 21-night voyages that visit Fiji, Vanuatu, and French Polynesia, with opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and beachside relaxation.

Expedition Cruises: The Rise of Adventure Travel

For travelers seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, expedition cruises are booming in 2024. Lines like Hurtigruten, Lindblad Expeditions, and Silversea Expeditions operate small ships (under 200 passengers) to remote destinations like Antarctica, the Arctic, and the Galápagos Islands.

These cruises emphasize education and sustainability, with onboard naturalists, scientists, and Zodiac boat excursions. A 10-night Galápagos cruise, for example, might include snorkeling with sea lions, hiking to see giant tortoises, and lectures on Darwin’s theory of evolution. While more expensive than traditional cruises, expedition voyages offer once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

Health, Safety, and Sustainability: What to Expect in 2024

One of the biggest concerns for cruisers post-pandemic has been health and safety. In 2024, cruise lines have implemented comprehensive protocols to ensure passenger well-being, while also addressing growing demands for environmental sustainability.

Health and Sanitation Protocols

All major cruise lines now follow strict health guidelines, including:

• Enhanced cleaning procedures: High-touch surfaces are disinfected multiple times daily, and ships use advanced air filtration systems (e.g., MERV-13 or HEPA filters).
• Medical facilities: Every ship has a fully equipped medical center with trained staff and isolation rooms.
• Vaccination and testing policies: Most lines require passengers to be fully vaccinated, with some offering on-site testing for unvaccinated travelers.
• Contactless services: Mobile check-in, digital menus, and keyless entry reduce physical contact.

For example, Royal Caribbean’s “Cruise with Confidence” program allows free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, while Carnival offers a “Vacation Protection Plan” that covers medical emergencies and trip interruptions.

Environmental Initiatives

Sustainability is a top priority in 2024. Cruise lines are investing in cleaner fuels, waste reduction, and marine conservation. Key initiatives include:

• Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) ships: Carnival and Royal Caribbean have launched LNG-powered vessels, which reduce carbon emissions by up to 25%.
• Advanced wastewater treatment: Ships now treat 100% of gray and black water before discharge.
• Plastic reduction: Single-use plastics (straws, cups, bottles) have been largely eliminated.
• Shore power connections: Many ports now allow ships to plug into land-based electricity while docked, reducing engine use.

Norwegian Cruise Line, for instance, has committed to reducing its carbon footprint by 30% by 2030, while Hurtigruten operates the world’s first hybrid-powered expedition ship, the MS Roald Amundsen.

Onboard Medical Support and Emergency Response

Modern cruise ships are better equipped than ever to handle medical emergencies. Most have:

• 24/7 medical staff (doctors and nurses)
• Telemedicine services for remote consultations
• Onboard pharmacies and oxygen therapy
• Emergency evacuation plans via helicopter or air ambulance

Passengers are encouraged to purchase travel insurance that covers medical evacuation, especially for cruises to remote areas like Alaska or Antarctica.

How to Book a Cruise in 2024: Tips and Best Practices

Booking a cruise in 2024 is easier and more flexible than ever, but it pays to be strategic. With high demand and limited capacity, early planning is key. Here are some practical tips to help you secure the best deal and experience.

1. Book Early for the Best Prices and Cabins

While last-minute deals still exist, the best prices and cabin selections are often available 12 to 18 months in advance. For popular itineraries—like Alaska in July or Mediterranean in August—booking early ensures access to prime cabins (e.g., balcony rooms with ocean views) and avoids price surges.

Use price-tracking tools like Cruise Critic or Vacations To Go to monitor fare trends and set alerts for price drops.

2. Consider Travel Insurance and Cancellation Policies

Given the uncertainty of global travel, travel insurance is highly recommended. Look for policies that cover:

• Trip cancellation and interruption
• Medical expenses and evacuation
• Missed connections
• Pre-existing conditions (if applicable)

Many cruise lines now offer flexible cancellation policies. For example, Celebrity Cruises allows free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, while Carnival offers a “Book with Confidence” program with no change fees.

3. Use a Travel Agent or Cruise Specialist

While booking online is convenient, working with a cruise travel agent can save you time and money. Agents have access to exclusive promotions, onboard credits, and group rates. They can also help with complex itineraries, such as multi-country European cruises or fly-cruise packages.

Look for agents certified by ASTA (American Society of Travel Advisors) or CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association).

4. Take Advantage of Onboard Credit and Promotions

Many cruise lines offer onboard credit (OBC) as part of promotions. This credit can be used for spa treatments, specialty dining, shore excursions, or souvenirs. For example, Royal Caribbean often offers $100–$500 OBC for bookings made through certain channels.

Other promotions include:

• “Kids Sail Free” (Carnival, Norwegian)
• “Third and Fourth Guest Free” (Princess, Holland America)
• Free drink packages (Celebrity, Norwegian)

5. Prepare for Ports of Call

Research your destinations in advance. Download port maps, learn basic local phrases, and check visa requirements. Consider booking shore excursions through the cruise line for convenience and safety, or use third-party platforms like ShoreTrips or GetYourGuide for unique experiences (e.g., private tours, cooking classes).

Data Snapshot: Cruise Industry Trends in 2024

To better understand the state of the cruise industry, here’s a data-driven overview of key trends and statistics for 2024.

Metric	2023	2024 (Projected)	Change
Total Cruise Passengers (Global)	28.5 million	32.1 million	+12.6%
U.S. Market Share	58%	60%	+2%
New Ships Launched	12	15	+25%
Expedition Cruise Demand	+40%	+55%	+15%
Average Cruise Duration (Days)	7.2	7.8	+0.6
Onboard Spend per Passenger	$280	$310	+10.7%
Satisfaction Rate (CLIA Survey)	92%	94%	+2%

Source: CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) 2024 Industry Outlook, Statista, Cruise Market Watch

The data shows strong growth in demand, with longer itineraries, higher onboard spending, and increased interest in expedition and luxury cruising. The industry is also seeing a shift toward more diverse and experiential travel, with passengers seeking deeper cultural and environmental connections.

Conclusion: The Seas Are Calling—Answer Them in 2024

So, are there any cruise lines running in 2024? Absolutely—and they’re not just running, they’re thriving. The cruise industry has rebounded with vigor, offering a vast array of ships, destinations, and experiences to suit every traveler’s taste and budget. From the sun-drenched beaches of the Caribbean to the icy wonders of Alaska, from the ancient ruins of the Mediterranean to the remote islands of the South Pacific, the world is your oyster.

With enhanced safety protocols, flexible booking options, and a renewed commitment to sustainability, 2024 is the perfect time to book your next cruise. Whether you’re drawn to the thrill of a mega-ship with a roller coaster at sea or the intimacy of a luxury expedition vessel, there’s never been a better time to set sail. The ships are ready, the ports are open, and the adventures await. So pack your bags, grab your passport, and get ready to explore the world one wave at a time. The seas are calling—will you answer them?

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any cruise lines running in 2024 after the pandemic?

Yes, most major cruise lines are fully operational in 2024, with enhanced health protocols and flexible booking policies. Nearly all global operators, including Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian, have resumed regular sailings.

Which cruise lines are running in 2024 with the best itineraries?

Top cruise lines running in 2024 include Princess Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Celebrity Cruises, offering diverse routes across the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and Alaska. Many now feature longer port stays and themed voyages to meet traveler demand.

Are there any cruise lines running from my local port?

Most U.S. and European departure ports, like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Barcelona, are active in 2024. Check your preferred cruise line’s website for updated schedules and homeport options near you.

Do any cruise lines still have restrictions in 2024?

While most health mandates have lifted, some cruise lines may require vaccination records or testing for high-risk regions. Always verify requirements directly with your cruise line before booking.

Are there any new cruise lines running in 2024?

Yes, emerging brands like Virgin Voyages and Atlas Ocean Voyages have expanded their fleets in 2024, offering fresh experiences with adults-only and luxury-focused sailings. These lines cater to modern travelers seeking unique onboard activities.

What’s the best way to find cruise lines running in 2024?

Browse cruise comparison sites or work with a travel agent to filter 2024 sailings by destination, price, and amenities. Many cruise lines also offer last-minute deals for spontaneous travelers.