Expedia Cruises Builds Mid-Year Momentum with Franchise Growth, Industry Recognition and Technology Innovation

August 19, 2026 // Franchising.com // VANCOUVER – Entering the second half of 2026, Expedia Cruises is building momentum through continued franchise expansion, industry recognition and strategic investments in technology that position the brand for sustained growth. The company has surpassed the halfway mark toward its annual franchise development goals while earning recognition for franchisee satisfaction, culture and innovation.

During the first six months of 2026, Expedia Cruises awarded nine franchise agreements, including expansion agreements from existing franchise owners and new entrepreneurs joining the system.

Existing franchisees expanding their footprint

• Justin Brown was awarded a franchise on Prince Edward Island, Canada
• Chuck and Laurie Magnus were awarded a franchise in Alberta, Canada
• Ron Perruzza was awarded a franchise in Ontario, Canada
• Adriana Phillips was awarded a franchise in South Carolina

New franchisees joining the Expedia Cruises network

• Jay Connors was awarded a franchise in Virginia
• Russell Parrish was awarded a franchise in Pennsylvania
• Kevin Prograr was awarded a franchise in Florida
• Julian Roig was awarded a franchise in Florida
• Michelle Grinslade was awarded a franchise in Washington

Expedia Cruises has also opened seven retail locations so far this year and remains on track to achieve its 2026 goals of opening 14 locations and awarding 15 franchise agreements.

“The first half of 2026 reflects the strength of our franchise system and the confidence our franchisees have in the Expedia Cruises brand,” said Matthew Eichhorst, President of Expedia Cruises. “As we continue expanding our network, we’re also investing in advanced technology and enhanced support that empower our consultants, elevate customer experiences and position our franchisees for long-term success.”

The company’s momentum is further reflected in its latest Franchise Business Review survey, completed by 142 of Expedia Cruises’ 173 principal franchisees. The results demonstrate high franchisee satisfaction, with 96% of respondents citing the brand’s training and ongoing support, 95% ranking Expedia Cruises favorably in local market competitiveness and 95% enjoying being part of the system. Additionally, 94% respect Expedia Cruises as their franchisor, 93% enjoy operating their business and 90% consider it to be an innovative franchise.

Further highlighting the brand’s industry leadership, Expedia Cruises’ Senior Director of Strategy, Partnerships and Sales, Ealeen Wong, was selected as the Godmother of one of Viking’s newest river ships, scheduled to debut this October. The longstanding maritime tradition recognizes individuals chosen to bring good luck and protection to a vessel while honoring their contributions to the cruise industry.

Looking ahead, Expedia Cruises continues to invest in new technology to support both travelers and Vacation Consultants. Later this year, the company is launching a new consumer website with AI-powered capabilities and personalization, enabling travelers to research and shop more effectively. For Consultants, a new business intelligence dashboard provides insights into their sales, activities and growth opportunities. The company is also investing in AI efficiencies to reduce administrative overhead, allowing Consultants to focus on relationship-ship building and growing Customers for Life.

SOURCE Expedia Group, Inc.

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