Amid evolving consumer behavior and a cautious economic climate, franchises like Expedia Cruises are stepping up to offer travelers more personalized and digitally streamlined vacation experiences. Americans, increasingly focused on value, are turning toward brands that can offer tailored solutions without compromising quality. This trend highlights the critical role travel advisors play. According to the Cruise Lines International Association’s (CLIA) 2025 State of the Cruise Industry Report, 79% of cruise travelers say travel agents significantly influence their decision to book a cruise.
Despite economic caution prompting shorter or fewer vacations, cruising continues to demonstrate resilience and growth. CLIA reports a consistent increase in cruise passengers, growing from 31.7 million in 2023 to 34.6 million in 2025, underscoring its appeal as a preferred travel option.
Market Shifts Propel Franchises Forward
The tourism landscape is shifting towards more budget-conscious travel, driven by inflation and rising costs. Franchises that offer clear pricing, ease of booking, and personalized experiences through digital platforms are ideally positioned to succeed. Expedia Cruises exemplifies this model with its unique hybrid approach. This approach blends phone, online, and in-person interactions. The combination enables vacation consultants to deeply understand traveler preferences and seamlessly execute dream vacations across air, land, and sea.
Highlighting this strength, Expedia Cruises President Matthew Eichhorst was recognized with the prestigious “Legend of the West” award at the 2025 WAVE Awards on June 5th at The Ritz-Carlton in Marina del Rey, California. This accolade, sponsored by Azamara, honors individuals who significantly influence the Western U.S. travel industry.
“I’m honored to receive an award of this magnitude,” Eichhorst stated. “Expedia Cruises has always been a brand that pushes boundaries to grow and innovate within the travel industry. It’s been a true privilege to be part of a company that not only embraces growth but actively drives it.”
Eichhorst began his career in a hands-on role cleaning and installing swimming pools before he moved into the technology space. His association with CruiseShipCenters, the predecessor of Expedia Cruises, began as a consulting partnership aimed at structuring the business for growth. Over time, he developed a strong interest in the cruise sector, acquired equity in the business, and took on a leadership role that helped guide its transformation. He became integral to Expedia Cruises’ strategic direction, reinforcing the franchise’s adaptability and innovation.
Celebrating Franchise Success and Innovation
Expedia Cruises’ innovative approach and comprehensive service model continue to earn accolades. Recently, the brand secured prominent positions on lists including Franchise Business Review’s 2025 Top 200 Franchises, Top Franchises for Women, Top Franchises for Veterans, as well as Franchise Direct’s Top 100 Franchises and the 2025 Culture100 Awards.
Operating more than 260 locations in North America, Expedia Cruises offers versatile vacation planning that extends beyond cruises, encompassing resorts, guided tours, flights, and car rentals. This comprehensive approach, supported by its hybrid digital-human model, positions Expedia Cruises well to serve varied customer preferences and economic conditions.
Adapting for Future Growth
Franchises demonstrating innovation, clear value, and strong leadership are set to thrive amid ongoing economic shifts. Expedia Cruises, with its comprehensive franchising model and strategic adaptability, exemplifies the type of resilience necessary for growth in today’s cautious economy. Eichhorst’s recognition at the WAVE Awards further underscores the brand’s commitment to innovation and customer-focused excellence.
