MSC Cruises has identified five key travel trends that are revolutionizing how people plan and experience their vacations for 2025 and beyond. The insights reveal fascinating shifts in traveler preferences, from destination choices to vacation styles.
This is based on multiple industry reports including the 2025 Virtuoso® Luxe Report, Globetrender Future of Luxury Travel Forecast (2020-2025), and Expedia’s Travel Trends Report 2024. The trends analysis reflects both MSC Cruises’ internal market research and broader industry observations of evolving travel preferences and consumer behaviors.
One of the most notable trends is the rise of “coolcations,” where travelers are increasingly opting for destinations with milder climates over traditional summer hotspots. This shift reflects a growing preference for mountain walks and scenic landscapes over typical beach holidays. In response, MSC Cruises is launching its first-ever Alaska sailings in 2026, offering weekly departures from Seattle aboard MSC Poesia.
The cruise line has also noted the emergence of “radical sabbaticals,” as more professionals take advantage of flexible work policies to embark on extended travel breaks. Their World Cruise program caters to this trend, offering comprehensive voyages covering up to 50 destinations across 32 countries.
Itinerary of the next MSC World Cruise in 2025
Popular culture continues to influence travel decisions through “set-jetting,” where visitors choose destinations featured in their favorite movies and TV shows. MSC’s itineraries include iconic filming locations like Dubrovnik, famous for Game of Thrones, and Dubai, featured in Mission Impossible films.
Culinary tourism is also gaining momentum, with food experiences becoming a primary factor in destination selection. The cruise line has responded by offering various food-focused shore excursions and up to 11 different onboard restaurants, including specialty venues like the Chef’s Garden Kitchen and Eataly at sea.
Finally, the demand for elevated all-inclusive experiences has led to innovations like the MSC Yacht Club, offering premium amenities including 24-hour butler service, exclusive facilities, and unlimited premium drinks.
