Intentional Travel Is In! And Norwegian Cruise Line® Delivers the Freedom Travelers Are Looking For

As the new year unfolds, travelers are rethinking how they vacation. A new YouGov survey conducted on behalf of Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) reveals that more than half of travelers plan to embrace more mindful and intentional travel in 2026.

Travel Trends
- A YouGov survey shows more than half of travelers plan to embrace mindful, intentional travel in 2026.
- 80% want stress-free vacations, while 86% prioritize quality time away from distractions.
- Over 60% would trade sightseeing for rest, and 4 in 5 want flexibility to shape each day spontaneously.

Who People Are Traveling With
- 40% plan trips with a partner/spouse for deeper connection.
- 30% are organizing multigenerational family trips.
- 10% are planning friend getaways focused on shared relaxation.

NCL’s Response
- Promoting its “Second Guest Sails Free” deal, combinable with the Free at Sea™ package (beverage package, Wi-Fi, dining, shore excursion credits, and free airfare for the second guest).
- Emphasizing its brand promise: “It’s Different Out Here” — effortless escapes, flexibility, and presence.
- Offering Caribbean itineraries with extended port calls and private island experiences (Great Stirrup Cay, Harvest Caye).
- Expanding Europe 2026 deployment with immersive itineraries, overnight stays in cities like Reykjavik, Copenhagen, and Istanbul.
- Highlighting Alaska voyages with no sea days for deeper exploration, plus unique ship features like racetracks at sea.

Big Picture
NCL is tapping into the growing desire for slower, more intentional travel — vacations that prioritize presence, connection, and freedom over packed itineraries. Their fleet and promotions are designed to align with this shift, making them stand out in the cruise industry.