Norwegian Cruise Line Survey Reveals ‘Joy of Missing Out’ as the New Way to Vacation

Image: Norwegian Aqua in Tortola (Photo Credit: Norwegian Cruise Line)
Image: Norwegian Aqua in Tortola (Photo Credit: Norwegian Cruise Line)
Noreen Kompanik
by Noreen Kompanik
Last updated: 1:30 PM ET, Wed October 15, 2025

According to a survey conducted by YouGov for Norwegian Cruise Line, the ‘Joy of Missing Out’ (JOMO) has become the new way to vacation.

Over 70 percent of travelers are moving away from fast-paced sightseeing toward more restorative, meaningful escapes that prioritize personal well-being, flexibility and choice. While the Fear of Missing Out (FOMO), fuels a culture of ‘doing it all’ and often leaves travelers needing a vacation from their vacation, JOMO celebrates the art of doing less with more meaning.

Now, 77 percent of survey respondents reported planning upcoming vacation to be relaxing and slow-paced, choosing presence over pressure and simplicity over schedules.

More than half of travelers say that cruises offer the ideal environment for a JOMO-style vacation, with the Caribbean emerging as the leading region for JOMO travel.

“We’re seeing a meaningful shift in how people want to travel moving away from rigid travel agendas and toward more intentional and restorative experiences,” said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. “The Joy of Missing Out travel is about choosing what matters most, and at NCL, we make that easy. From thoughtfully designed onboard offerings that invite guests to slow down and savor each moment to our year-round Caribbean voyages that offer the perfect setting to unplug and recharge, we’re proud to offer the freedom and flexibility travelers are nowadays longing for.” 

How NCL Delivers the JOMO Travel Experience

With the new mindset taking hold, NCL is empowering travelers to slow down and reclaim their vacation by doing less of what’s expected and more of what feels meaningful to them offering: 

  • More Freedom, Flexibility and Ways to Unwind- giving guests the freedom and flexibility to design their personalized vacation without fixed schedules and expectations.
  • Unmatched Caribbean Offering Year-Round- as the Caribbean’s easy-going rhythm, sun-drenched beaches, and tranquil waters make it the ultimate JOMO destination. NCL sails to the region with 18 ships, including the soon-to-debut Norwegian LunaTM and the new Norwegian AquaTM. Itineraries run throughout 2027, departing from Miami, Port Canaveral (Orlando), New York City, Punta Cana, Dominican Republic and San Juan, Puerto Rico.    
  • Private Island Bliss on Great Stirrup Cay and Harvest Caye- as NCL’s private islands, Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas and Harvest Caye in Belize, are featured on almost every Caribbean voyage. Both allow guests to relax on world-class beaches, snorkel in crystal-clear waters or indulge in missing out on the stress of everyday life.  
  • Onboard Sanctuaries to Unplug and Refresh- with NCL’s fleet offering thoughtfully designed spaces. The Mandara Spa features a full menu of treatments and floor-to-ceiling windows for restorative ocean views. Vibe Beach Club and Spice H2O are adults-only retreats with panoramic views and lesser crowds and Observation Lounge provide serene environments to read, relax, or simply be. Waterfront or Ocean Boulevard encourage mindful strolls close to the sea.
  • Cruising Made Easy: All-Inclusive Packages- where guests enjoy the best value at sea featuring unlimited open bar, specialty dining, high-speed WiFi, and shore excursion credits, removing the stress of budgeting and planning, allowing guests to recharge, reconnect, and enjoy the journey. 


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