Last-minute bookings and heightened demand for Rhine and Douro sailings have defined this summer's trends in European river cruising.
While cruises in France, typically strong during this period, softened in July and August due to the Summer Olympics in Paris, operators report high demand for France later this year and next.
Major river cruise lines, including Avalon Waterways and Amadeus, anticipated a busy season by increasing capacity on popular rivers like the Rhine. As of July 5, Avalon had less than 1% capacity available on the Rhine. Tauck reported European river sales 13% ahead of 2023 year-to-date in late July, with strong demand across all river regions and a rise in last-minute bookings.
However, availability is limited. Avalon and Tauck have mostly sold out cruises, while Amadeus reports an unusually high number of waitlisted travelers. Amadeus EVP Marcus Leskovar noted the effectiveness of accommodating waitlisted guests.
Bookings for Christmas market cruises remain robust, with strong demand beyond Europe as well. Uniworld River Cruises CEO Ellen Bettridge highlighted increased interest in shoulder-season bookings in India and Southeast Asia for this year and into 2025.
The Rhine has been the favorite among river cruise passengers this summer, noted for its diverse countries and scenic castles. Avalon’s Romantic Rhine itinerary consistently sells out, according to President Pam Hoffee. The Danube is also a top seller, rebounding from decreased demand due to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Tauck and AmaWaterways report high demand for the Douro River, with AmaWaterways President Rudi Schreiner mentioning the construction of a third Douro-based ship, the AmaSintra, due next year.
The Olympics in Paris have driven greater demand for river cruises in France before and after the Games. Avalon plans to increase capacity by 33% on the 5 rivers it sails in France for 2025, including the addition of the Garonne and Dordogne rivers and six new cruises. Riverside Luxury Cruises CEO Jennifer Halboth noted strong early demand for the Rhone in 2025 despite a dip this year due to the Olympics.