While many Americans opt for destinations by air, a new report reveals a record-breaking number of people will be seeking trips on the high seas this year.

AAA has released its first-ever "Cruise Travel Forecast."

It projects that 19 million Americans plan to take cruises this year.

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Last year, 18.2 million travelers went on cruises, according to the report. 

"What we’re witnessing in the cruise industry is nothing short of amazing, but it’s no surprise. There’s a reason most first-time cruise passengers become repeat cruisers," said Stacey Barber, vice president of AAA Travel, in a press release.

Barber added, "Cruise vacations offer something for everyone, no matter their age." 

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"And because most of the vacation is already paid for," he said, "travelers can focus on enjoying themselves and making lifelong memories with loved ones."

The cruise forecast report found that 72% of passengers are heading to Caribbean destinations in search of sunny vacation times.

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Six percent plan on heading to Alaska, while 5% of people will be cruising in the Mediterranean, according to the report. 

The report also found a rising interest among travelers in taking shorter cruises that last two to five days. 

While most cruises run six to eight days, 18% of Caribbean cruise itineraries this year are shorter cruises — compared to just 2% in 2023.

The frantic search for a Norwegian Cruise Line passenger who went overboard has been called off.

A spokesperson for the cruise line confirmed to Fox News Digital that the 51-year-old went overboard from Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Epic late Thursday afternoon. 

The incident was first noted at approximately 3 p.m. as Norwegian Epic was sailing from Ocho Rios, Jamaica en route to Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas. 

The passenger was on the cruise with his family, the spokesperson said. The cruise left from Port Canaveral, Florida on Saturday, Dec. 21 and was a seven-night Western Caribbean voyage.

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The cruise line said that authorities were quickly notified and search and rescue efforts were immediately implemented. 

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"After an extensive search that was unfortunately unsuccessful, the ship was released by the authorities to continue its voyage," the spokesperson said. 

Norwegian Cruise Line said the passenger’s loved ones on board were "being attended to and supported during this very challenging situation."

"Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones during this difficult time," the spokesperson added. 

The Norwegian Epic, which was built in 2010 and refurbished in 2020, has 19 decks. It can accommodate 4,070 passengers with double occupancy of its cabins and has 1,724 crew members. 

It was not immediately clear what caused the man to go overboard. The man has not been identified.