Year-Round European River Cruising: Is a 12-Month Season That Far Off?

27.03.2024 - 15:40 / travelweekly.com

River cruise companies are extending their European sailing season beyond high season by offering departures during the early part of the year and adding even more destinations other times of year. These itineraries offer even more products and alternatives for travel advisors to sell and they are seeing interest in off-peak bookings among their clients. Bob Bradley, owner of The Pampered Cruiser, an independent affiliate of Direct Travel (a Virtuoso agency) based in Stamford, Conn., believes the interest from clients in a 12-month European river cruise season will only grow.

“People correctly rationalize that they're not in Central Europe for a tropical vacation,” says Bradley. “They're going to see history, culture, art, music and experience food and wine. Wearing a jacket and a pair of gloves to stay warm is a small price to pay to be able to see it more easily (with far fewer people).“

Advantages to Off-Peak Travel in Europe

Good value and less crowds are two key motivators to sail along Europe’s rivers during the winter season (after the Christmas market season). “Some people are motivated by the lower cost, but it seems most of our clients that river cruise early in the year are doing so because they aren't fighting tens of thousands of others for shore attractions,” says Bradley.

Nick Moran, owner of Greenstone Travel, an affiliate of Camelback Travel (a Virtuoso agency) in Phoenix, Ariz., who recently booked his first ever February river cruise, agrees with Bradley.

“These earlier sailings are becoming more popular as guests seek shoulder/low periods for better value, and most importantly, less crowds/more access,” he says. “The key element here is consumer choice; there will always be demand for peak travel periods and ideal weather and those willing to pay a premium for it. Those willing to take on less ideal weather are rewarded in savings and a more flexible, accessible and perhaps more authentic travel experience.”

Melita Hein, CTC, a luxury travel advisor with Cadence (a Virtuoso agency) in La Jolla, Calif. notes that “AmaWaterways just started to expand their European cruises and now offer several itineraries beginning in February,” adding that “cruise prices are very attractive for those early departures, airfares to Europe are also lower during the ‘off’ or low season.”

Rudi Schreiner, president, co-founder, and co-owner of AmaWaterways, says the interest in winter cruising begins with the genuine popularity of river cruising and appeals to diverse travelers.

“The overall growth in demand for river cruising paired with the current travel trend of wanting to escape the crowds associated with some destinations is making the prospect of cruising in Europe throughout a 12-month period