A recent survey of nearly 10,000 past Avalon Waterways cruisers has identified key trends in river cruising preferences for 2025.
According to the company's Wish List Survey, European rivers remain top destinations, with 51% of respondents expressing interest in Rhine River cruises through Switzerland and Germany. French waterways including the Seine, Rhone, Saone, Garonne and Dordogne Rivers attracted 39% of respondents, while 33% indicated interest in Portugal's Douro River.
The survey also revealed shifting demographics among river cruise travelers. While 60% plan to travel with partners, 27% intend to cruise with friend groups, and 12% plan to travel solo. To accommodate these trends, Avalon offers special pricing for groups of eight or more and waives single supplements on select staterooms for nearly all European and Southeast Asian departures.
Today's cruisers have a stronger interest — and broader abilities — to make the most of their time away.
Off-season travel is gaining popularity, with 75% of respondents preferring fall and winter sailings. The company has responded with 18 holiday itineraries during the Festive Season, representing a 118% capacity increase since 2019. Wine cruises during harvest season in France, Germany and Portugal are also available.
Nearly 50% of respondents indicated a preference for longer cruises of 10-12 days. To meet this demand, Avalon has introduced 16 new extended itineraries, including combinations of multiple rivers.
"The pent-up desire for long-haul travel, combined with an increased interest in garnering more mileage out of air costs, as well as the rise in remote work are contributing factors to this post-pandemic travel trend," said Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways. "Today's cruisers have a stronger interest — and broader abilities — to make the most of their time away. We're helping with big, new, 'Bucket List' cruises."
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Avalon Waterways. It has been fact-checked and reviewed by a TravelAge West editor.
