Expedia Cruises is setting ambitious expansion and recruitment goals for 2026 following a strong 2025 marked by franchise expansion, internal growth and industry recognition, according to a press release.

Last year, Expedia Cruises awarded 10 new franchises and opened seven new brick-and-mortar locations. Much of this growth was driven by existing franchisees expanding their portfolios.

“2025 validated what we have long believed: our franchise model, supported by industry-leading technology and trusted global branding, continues to resonate with both entrepreneurs and consumers,” said Matthew Eichhorst, president of Expedia Cruises.

“As we look ahead, our expanding network of franchisees is exceptionally well positioned to capture industry momentum and deliver meaningful growth across our system.”

Expedia Cruises has set a goal of opening 14 new storefronts in 2026 across both Canada and the United States.

Targeted regions include Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario and Quebec, as well as Arizona, Nevada and Virginia.

The brand aims to award 15 new franchises in 2026 and recruit 2,400 Vacation Consultants.

Expedia Cruises will continue to invest in technology enhancements, including the expanded use of artificial intelligence to streamline operations and elevate customer experiences.

Expedia Cruises’ annual Anchor Conference in April 2026 will be the largest in the brand’s history, bringing nearly 1,000 franchisees, Vacation Consultants, supply partners and corporate team members together at sea aboard the MSC World America.

Recognizing Eichhorst’s leadership and contributions to the travel industry, he was honored with the Legend of the West award at the 2025 WAVE Awards.

Expedia Cruises was recognized by Franchise Business Review as a 2026 Top 200 Franchises recipient, ranked No. 17 overall and No. 3 among Top 50 Large Franchises.

The brand was also named to Franchise Business Review’s (FBR) 2025 Hall of Fame, and earned honors as one of its Most Innovative Franchises, Top Franchises for Women, Top Franchises for Veterans and Culture100 Awards recipients.

Expedia Cruises received several supply partner awards for 2025, including Azamara Cruises’ Strategic Partner of the Year, Costa’s Top Producer in North America and multiple MSC Cruises Awards recognizing outstanding franchise locations and partnerships across Canada.

 

Expedia Cruises welcomed new franchisees in key growth markets including Florida and Texas, while existing franchisees expanded across Canada and Las Vegas.