More people than ever are taking to the seas for vacations, whether for cruise ships’ relaxing onboard atmosphere, world-class entertainment and food or for exciting ports of call in destinations all over the world.

In its State of the Industry report for 2017, Cruise Lines International Association revealed the expansion of the cruise industry will continue this year, with new ships driving growth on a global scale.

An estimated 25.3 million people are expected to go on a cruise vacation in 2017, marking a 4.5 percent increase compared to last year. More ships will set sail, with a reported 26 new ocean, river and other vessels to set sail this year. From 2017 to 2026 the industry is expected to introduce 97 new cruise ships with an estimated investment of more than $53 billion.

The CLIA reported eight trends expected to have the biggest impact on the growing industry this year, including the rising number of young cruisers, increased use of travel agents to book cruises, rising demand of river cruises and more private islands on cruise itineraries.

Not only are more people choosing cruises for their vacations, but according to a J.D. Power study, 90 percent of people who take a cruise plan to set sail again.

Are you planning a cruise vacation in 2017? Do you prefer cruises to other forms of travel? Email us and let us know. Please include your full name and location with your email.