By
Kasturi Datta |
Ocean cruise brands are continuing to standardise core guest-facing features and are increasingly adopting cross-platform development frameworks, finds OnDeck by Sourcetoad.
For its 2026 Cruise Mobile Apps Report, the software company examines onboard passenger-facing apps and covers key trends it sees such as framework developments, standardisation, and implementation of security measures across major cruise brands.
The report highlights the continued efforts to provide guests with essential tools such as itinerary viewing and activity booking. There is also a growing use of artificial intelligence-based tools within mobile platforms and expanded investment in analytics, crash monitoring, and operational performance tools.
“This year’s findings show that while security and accessibility issues are still concerning, the cruise apps are continuing to mature from convenience tools into operationally critical platforms,” said Greg Ross-Munro, president of OnDeck at Sourcetoad. “The technical decisions being made today around architecture, security and guest communication will have a direct impact on how cruise lines compete and innovate over the next several years.