Club Cruise™ has reported a 27% increase in December booking inquiries compared to the same period last year, according to preliminary data released by the company. The surge, which began with post-Black Friday "Travel Tuesday" momentum, reflects a broader shift in consumer spending from physical gifts to travel experiences, as families and couples plan bucket-list vacations for 2026 and 2027.
"As more consumers trade physical gifts for memories, we're seeing a clear spike in interest — not just window-shopping," said Amanda Huber, CEO of Club Cruise. "Those 27% more calls and quote-requests represent real people seriously planning their next journey."
The Travel Tuesday resurgence, following Black Friday and Cyber Monday, has reignited interest in experience-based travel. Club Cruise reports that many inquirers are explicitly referencing holiday gifting: parents and grandparents seeking summer 2026 multi-generational cruises, couples looking for romantic Mediterranean sailings, friends planning group river-cruises, and solo travelers wanting cultural itineraries. According to Club Cruise advisors, the top five destinations and trip types fueling the current surge are European river cruises (Danube, Rhine, Douro), luxury small-ship cruises in the South Pacific and Tahiti, Alaska cruisetours for multi-generational family groups, Mediterranean cultural voyages and guided land tours (Italy, Greece, Ireland), and all-inclusive curated vacations combining cruise, hotel, transfers, and expert planning.
"Many callers say they want to give loved ones memories, not more stuff," Huber added. "And for savvy travelers, early planning is essential — prime cabins and best itineraries are already booking up fast."
Founded in 1991, Club Cruise has maintained a unique brand identity for more than 30 years, evolving from a national cruise-only agency to a full-service, concierge-level luxury travel planner. The company differentiates itself from online discount platforms by offering expert planning, insider knowledge, and deep relationships with major cruise lines and tour operators. "This 27% uptick isn't just about post-holiday promotions," Huber noted. "It reflects decades of brand value — people who trust the name Club Cruise to deliver when it matters."
In light of the strong Travel Tuesday response, Club Cruise is offering free, no-obligation 20-minute travel consultations this week to help clients plan 2026–2027 vacations. Travelers can call 1-800-CLUB-SEA or visit www.ClubCruise.com to explore cruise options, compare promotions, and secure early reservations before cabins and air availability tighten. With a proven brand, decades of experience, and a 27% increase in inquiries already, Club Cruise is well-positioned to help travelers turn holiday inspiration into real journeys.
