In this article, we will discuss 10 Best Cruise Stocks to Buy Right Now.
Cruise stocks are regaining investor attention as the industry enters 2026 with record-breaking demand, firm pricing, and rising onboard spending. North American passenger volumes are projected to reach 21.7 million, reflecting a decisive shift from pandemic-era survival to sustained expansion. Prominent cruise operators are reporting occupancy levels above 100%, meaning cabins frequently accommodate more than two guests. This high load factor enhances operating leverage, supports strong yields, and drives margin expansion.
Beyond ticket revenue, cruise lines benefit from high-margin onboard spending, including beverages, specialty dining, and shore excursions. Combined with disciplined pricing, this has accelerated profitability and enabled companies to aggressively reduce the debt accumulated between 2020 and 2022. At the same time, the industry is investing in new ships and private destinations to modernize fleets and stimulate long-term demand. Shareholders also enjoy tangible perks: investors holding at least 100 shares in major operators often receive onboard credits ranging from $50 to $250 per voyage, effectively creating a “vacation dividend.”
Structurally, 2026 is shaping up as a transformative year. Sustainability is a central theme, with a majority of new vessels using alternative fuels such as LNG and an increasing portion of fleets capable of shore power connectivity. The market is also seeing growth in smaller, experiential ships, ultra-luxury and expedition offerings, AI-driven personalization, and multi-generational travel packages.
While the sector is not immune to broader economic slowdowns, elevated leverage from the pandemic era, or fluctuations in fuel costs, the current operating backdrop remains highly supportive. Record bookings, firm pricing, rising onboard spending, and steady balance sheet repair suggest the industry is operating from a position of strength. With demand trends holding up and profitability improving, cruise stocks continue to offer attractive upside potential for investors seeking cyclical growth supported by tangible financial progress.
With this context in mind, here is a list of the 10 best cruise stocks to buy right now.
Our Methodology
We sifted through ETFs, screeners, and online rankings to identify the best cruise stocks to buy right now. From the resultant dataset, we limited our final selection to 10 cruise companies that have recently reported noteworthy developments likely to impact investor sentiment. As these stocks are popular among analysts and elite hedge funds, we ranked those stocks in ascending order based on the number of hedge funds holding stakes in each stock as of Q3 2025. We assessed hedge fund ownership of each stock using Insider Monkey’s hedge fund database.
Why are we interested in the stocks that hedge funds pile into? The reason is simple: our research has shown that we can outperform the market by imitating the top stock picks of the best hedge funds. Our quarterly newsletter’s strategy selects 14 small-cap and large-cap stocks every quarter and has returned 427.7% since May 2014, beating its benchmark by 264 percentage points (see more details here).
10 Best Cruise Stocks to Buy Right Now
10. Pursuit Attractions and Hospitality, Inc. (NYSE:PRSU)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 16
On January 21, Pursuit Attractions and Hospitality, Inc. (NYSE:PRSU) entered into a definitive agreement to sell its Flyover flying theater attractions business to Brogent Technologies Inc. for approximately $78.4 million, subject to customary adjustments. The transaction values Flyover at roughly 15 times its estimated 2025 adjusted EBITDA contribution and is expected to close in the spring pending regulatory approvals. Flyover will continue operating under Pursuit’s management until closing, ensuring operational continuity and a structured transition.
Concurrently, Pursuit Attractions and Hospitality, Inc. (NYSE:PRSU) announced additional strategic actions to sharpen its focus on iconic attractions and hospitality assets and enhance long-term shareholder value. In addition to the Flyover divestiture, the company received $25 million in deferred proceeds from the prior sale of its GES business and repurchased $14.5 million of common stock. The portfolio rationalization reflects a disciplined capital allocation approach, monetizing non-core assets at attractive multiples while redeploying capital toward higher-return initiatives and shareholder returns. These steps strengthen balance sheet flexibility and align the company more closely with its core experiential hospitality strategy.
Headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, and founded in 1926, Pursuit Attractions and Hospitality, Inc. (NYSE:PRSU) operates a portfolio of attractions and hospitality assets across Canada, the United States, Iceland, and Costa Rica. Its focus on high-quality, destination-driven experiences provides a platform for durable cash flow generation and targeted growth, making it one of the best cruise stocks to buy right now.
9. Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LIND)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 22
On January 12, Stifel analyst Steven Wieczynski increased the firm’s price target on Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LIND) to $23 from $20 and maintained a Buy rating following a series of investor meetings with CEO Natalya Leahy and CFO Rick Goldberg. The analyst indicated that management is expected to articulate long-term financial targets in 2026 that could demonstrate the company’s existing fleet is capable of generating EBITDA comfortably above $150 million. Such forward guidance would represent a meaningful shift from prior leadership’s limited transparency and could materially enhance investor confidence by providing clearer visibility into sustainable earnings power and operating leverage.
During Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LIND)’s third-quarter earnings call, management delivered a constructive outlook, raising full-year guidance for net yields, revenue, and EBITDA. Consolidated revenue advanced 16.6%, driven by 13.4% growth in the Lindblad segment and a 21.1% increase in the Land segment. Occupancy in the core expedition cruise business reached 88%, up six percentage points year over year, alongside a 5% expansion in capacity. Net yields climbed 9% to $1,314, marking the strongest third-quarter performance in the company’s history. Incremental charter activity, including a successful inaugural European river cruising program with additional voyages planned for 2027, further supports revenue diversification and pricing strength. Together, accelerating yields, improving occupancy, and prospective long-term EBITDA targets reinforce the case for multiple expansion as operational momentum continues.
Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc. (NASDAQ:LIND) is a New York–based expedition travel operator offering immersive cruise experiences across all seven continents aboard a fleet of 15 vessels. Founded in 1979, the company specializes in mission-driven, experience-focused travel, positioning it to capitalize on sustained demand for premium adventure tourism.
8. Travel + Leisure Co. (NYSE:TNL)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 32
On January 16, Morgan Stanley raised its price target on Travel + Leisure Co. (NYSE:TNL) to $80 from $68 while maintaining an Overweight rating. In its 2026 sector outlook, the firm noted that gaming, lodging, and leisure fundamentals were relatively muted in 2025, with pockets of resilience concentrated among companies catering to older and higher-income consumers. Looking ahead, Morgan Stanley expects similar underlying trends in 2026, albeit with incremental macro influences such as interest rate dynamics potentially favoring goods over services. Within this context, Travel + Leisure’s customer demographic and recurring revenue model position it favorably relative to broader discretionary peers.
In the third quarter of 2025, Travel + Leisure Co. (NYSE:TNL) generated net income of $111 million, or $1.67 per diluted share, on net revenue of $1.04 billion. Adjusted EBITDA reached $266 million, with adjusted diluted EPS of $1.80, reflecting continued operational discipline. The Vacation Ownership segment delivered 6% year-over-year revenue growth to $876 million, supported by a 10% increase in volume per guest, underscoring sustained consumer demand within its core membership base. The company returned $106 million to shareholders through dividends and share repurchases and advanced its multi-brand strategy with the launch of the Eddie Bauer Adventure Club and the announcement of a Sports Illustrated Resort in Chicago. These initiatives broaden brand reach and diversify revenue streams, reinforcing the company’s ability to drive earnings growth and shareholder returns despite a tempered industry backdrop.
Founded in 2006 and headquartered in Orlando, Florida, Travel + Leisure Co. (NYSE:TNL) develops, markets, and manages vacation ownership properties under brands including Club Wyndham, WorldMark by Wyndham, Margaritaville Vacation Club, and Accor Vacation Club. Its asset-light, membership-driven model provides recurring cash flow visibility and leverage to resilient leisure demand trends.
7. MakeMyTrip Limited (NASDAQ:MMYT)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 36
On January 21, Citi lowered its price target on MakeMyTrip Limited (NASDAQ:MMYT) to $96 from $108 while maintaining a Buy rating following the company’s third-quarter results. Although estimates were revised to reflect more conservative margin assumptions, the firm characterized underlying growth as solid, given a challenging operating environment, and views the current valuation as attractive.
In the same quarter, MakeMyTrip Limited (NASDAQ:MMYT) reported strong leisure demand, with accommodation volume increasing 20.3% year-over-year and standard hotel bookings rising 20.6%. Room nights in the non-premium segment expanded more than 23% year-over-year. The company expanded its tours and activities offering to over 200,000 bookable experiences across 1,100 cities in 130 countries and now lists more than 97,000 accommodation options across 2,050 cities.
Capital returns remain a priority, with approximately $46.1 million deployed under its buyback program during the quarter, and total authorization increased to $200 million. The company ended the period with over $100 million in cash equivalents, providing financial flexibility to support continued platform expansion. This combination of robust demand growth, product diversification, and disciplined capital allocation underpins a constructive long-term outlook.
Founded in 2000 and headquartered in Gurgaon, India, MakeMyTrip Limited (NASDAQ:MMYT) operates a leading online travel platform offering airline tickets, hotel reservations, holiday packages, and rail and bus bookings. Its scale, expanding inventory, and strong brand recognition position it to benefit from sustained growth in India’s travel and tourism sector.
6. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:RCL)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 47
On February 6, Tigress Financial raised its price target on Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:RCL) to $425 from $415 while reiterating a Buy rating. The firm highlighted that Royal Caribbean’s 2025 performance reflects a multi-year growth trajectory characterized by record revenue, earnings, and cash flow generation. Margin expansion has been supported by destination-focused assets and the implementation of AI-driven pricing and operational efficiencies. Entering 2026 with strong forward bookings, new high-return ships and destinations, expanding river cruise exposure, and increasing high-margin onboard revenue, Tigress sees continued momentum in earnings and capital returns.
For 2026, management guided double-digit revenue growth, with net yield growth of 1.5%–3.5% and capacity expansion of 6.7%. Adjusted EPS is projected between $17.70 and $18.10, representing approximately 14% year-over-year growth at the midpoint, while adjusted EBITDA is expected to approach $8.0 billion with margins just above 40%. Operating cash flow is forecast to exceed $7.0 billion. In 2025, total revenue neared $18 billion, rising 8.8% year-over-year, while adjusted EPS increased 33% to $15.64.
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:RCL) returned $2.0 billion to shareholders through dividends and repurchases and ended the quarter with $7.2 billion in liquidity and leverage below 3x, achieving investment-grade metrics. This combination of earnings acceleration, balance sheet strength, and disciplined capital returns supports a compelling long-term investment case.
Founded in 1985 and headquartered in Miami, Florida, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. (NYSE:RCL) is among the best cruise stocks to buy right now. Through its portfolio of global cruise brands, the company offers diversified itineraries and innovative vessels.
5. Viking Holdings Ltd (NYSE:VIK)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 51
In January 2026, Viking Holdings Ltd (NYSE:VIK) entered into a multi-year marketing partnership with the PGA TOUR running through 2030, naming Viking the Official Cruise Line of the PGA TOUR and PGA TOUR Champions. The agreement provides substantial brand exposure across the TOUR’s media and digital platforms, aligning Viking with a global audience of affluent golf enthusiasts. This strategic partnership enhances brand visibility among high-spending leisure travelers and supports premium positioning within the cruise sector.
During its third-quarter 2025 earnings call, Viking Holdings Ltd (NYSE:VIK) reported record net yields of $617, up 7.1% year over year, and quarterly adjusted EBITDA of $704 million, representing a 26.9% increase with an adjusted EBITDA margin of 52.8%. Capacity expanded by 11%, contributing to a 21.4% rise in adjusted gross margin. The company has sold 96% of its 2025 capacity and already booked 70% of 2026 capacity, with advanced bookings for 2026 running 14% ahead of the prior year at 5.5% higher rates.
Viking ended the quarter with $3 billion in cash and cash equivalents, net debt of $2.8 billion, and a net leverage ratio of 1.6x. Robust forward bookings, pricing power, strong margins, and a conservative balance sheet collectively underscore earnings visibility and cash flow strength, reinforcing the investment appeal.
On January 16, Morgan Stanley analyst Stephen Grambling raised the price target on Viking Holdings Ltd (NYSE:VIK) to $75 from $70 and maintained an Overweight rating. While broader gaming, lodging, and leisure fundamentals were described as muted in 2025, areas of relative strength were concentrated among companies catering to older, wealthier consumers—a demographic that aligns closely with Viking’s core customer base. Expectations for continued resilience in 2026 further support confidence in the company’s demand durability and premium positioning.
Viking Holdings Ltd (NYSE:VIK), founded in 1997 and headquartered in Pembroke, Bermuda, operates passenger shipping services across North America, the United Kingdom, and international markets through its River and Ocean segments, focusing on destination-centric itineraries tailored to culturally engaged travelers.
4. Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NCLH)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 58
On February 13, JPMorgan downgraded Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NCLH) to Neutral from Overweight and reduced its price target to $20 from $28 following the announcement that CEO Harry Sommer departed as part of a leadership transition. While the firm expressed confidence in incoming CEO John Chidsey’s ability to enhance execution, improve financial performance, and reduce leverage, it opted to adopt a more cautious stance during the transition period.
During the third quarter of 2025, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NCLH) reported record results, meeting or exceeding guidance across key metrics. Adjusted EPS totaled $1.20, surpassing guidance by $0.06, and the company reaffirmed its full-year adjusted EBITDA outlook while raising adjusted EPS guidance. The company also announced an agreement with Spain’s Repsol to supply renewable marine fuels at the Port of Barcelona, reinforcing its sustainability commitments. Despite near-term uncertainty tied to leadership changes, the company’s operational momentum, earnings growth, and strategic initiatives provide a foundation for longer-term value creation once execution visibility improves.
Founded in 1966 and headquartered in Miami, Florida, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NCLH) operates a global fleet offering diversified cruise itineraries. Its established brand portfolio and continued focus on operational efficiency and sustainability position it to participate in sustained cruise industry demand growth, making it THIS MUCH in the list of best cruise stocks to buy right now.
3. Expedia Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:EXPE)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 63
On February 13, Baird raised its price target on Expedia Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:EXPE) to $282 from $280 and reiterated an Outperform rating following fourth-quarter results that exceeded expectations. The firm updated its financial model to reflect stronger-than-anticipated operating trends, underscoring improving booking volumes and profitability metrics that point to continued execution across the company’s platform portfolio.
Expedia Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:EXPE) reported fourth-quarter and full-year 2025 results on February 12, 2026, highlighting double-digit year-over-year growth in both gross bookings and revenue, 9% growth in room nights, and a 32% increase in adjusted EBITDA accompanied by margin expansion. Performance was supported by 24% growth in B2B bookings and resilient demand across both international and U.S. markets.
Although GAAP net income declined 31% for the quarter, the company ended 2025 with $5.7 billion in unrestricted cash, repurchased approximately 9 million shares for $1.7 billion, and increased its quarterly dividend by 20% to $0.48 per share, with a dividend payable on March 26, 2026. The combination of accelerating EBITDA growth, disciplined capital allocation, and enhanced shareholder returns signals confidence in sustained free cash flow generation, strengthening the investment thesis.
Expedia Group, Inc. (NASDAQ:EXPE) founded in 1996 and headquartered in Seattle, Washington, is a leading travel technology platform operating a broad portfolio of brands, including Expedia, Hotels.com, Vrbo, Travelocity, Orbitz, and Trivago. Through its global marketplace of travel services, the company connects consumers and partners across lodging, air, car rental, cruises, and vacation packages.
2. Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 69
On January 22, Truist raised its price target on Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) to $34 from $31 and maintained a Hold rating as part of a broader cruise sector update. Based on extensive discussions with senior travel industry executives and analysis of forward booking and pricing data, the firm noted that supply in the contemporary and mass-market segments remains modestly above demand, suggesting tempered expectations for first-half net yield growth. While near-term yield expansion may face constraints, the commentary reflects a stabilizing demand environment supported by resilient booking patterns.
During its fourth-quarter 2025 earnings call, Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL) reported record fourth-quarter and full-year revenues, yields, operating income, and EBITDA. Net income exceeded $3 billion for the year, representing a 60% increase compared to 2024. The company reinstated its quarterly dividend at $0.15 per share, signaling renewed confidence in cash flow durability and balance sheet repair. Carnival has reduced total debt by more than $10 billion from peak levels and achieved a net debt-to-adjusted EBITDA ratio of 3.4x, consistent with investment-grade metrics. Strengthening profitability, disciplined deleveraging, and the return of capital to shareholders collectively enhance financial flexibility and position the company for continued equity appreciation as industry fundamentals normalize.
Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE:CCL), founded in 1972 and headquartered in Doral, Florida, operates as part of Carnival Corporation. Through multiple global brands serving North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, the company provides leisure travel experiences across a diversified fleet and broad geographic footprint.
1. Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG)
Number of Hedge Fund Holders: 95
On February 10, Gordon Haskett analyst Robert Mollins upgraded Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) to Buy from Hold with a $5,440 price target, citing what he views as an overreaction by investors to concerns surrounding artificial intelligence–driven competitive pressures. The analyst emphasized Booking’s durable competitive advantages, global scale, and defensive characteristics, identifying the stock as the firm’s highest-conviction idea and suggesting the risk-reward profile has become increasingly favorable.
For Q4 2025, Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) is expected to report revenue of approximately $6.11 billion, representing 11.73% year-over-year growth, while consensus earnings per share of $48.23 imply 16.08% growth compared to the prior year. The earnings estimate has risen modestly over the past 30 days, and the company has exceeded consensus expectations in each of the last four quarters, delivering an average earnings surprise of 18.21%. Consistent outperformance, upward estimate revisions, and double-digit projected growth reinforce confidence in Booking’s execution and support further multiple re-rating as competitive concerns ease.
Booking Holdings Inc. (NASDAQ:BKNG) founded in 1997 and headquartered in Norwalk, Connecticut, operates leading online travel reservation platforms, including Booking.com, Priceline, and Rentalcars.com, offering global accommodation, transportation, and related travel services.
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