- The most popular itineraries for Avalon Waterways are the Danube, Rhine and French itineraries.
- There has been a huge increase in interest for the Mekong.
- The river line known for their a active shore excursions has reported a 17 per cent increase in sales ahead of 2024.
Avalon Waterways has reported is record breaking bookings, surging demand and a growing portfolio of experiences for 2026.
With sales 17 per cent ahead of 2024 and already seven per cent higher than 2025 (at the same time last year), the line has attributed sales to new itineraries and destinations as well as trending themed cruises.
The Rhine River continues to captivate with castles, cobblestones and endless charm from Amsterdam to Basel. Avalon’s Romantic Rhine itinerary is its most popular.
On the Danube River, guests are embracing two distinct stories and itineraries: Danube Dreams for the classic upper stretch and Balkan Discovery for a deeper dive into the less-travelled Lower Danube.
In France, Avalon’s strongest growth market, Paris to Normandy remains a bestseller, followed closely by the company’s newest cruise – the wine-rich Bonjour Bordeaux itinerary.
And, as always, Avalon’s Christmas Cruise itineraries are extremely popular, led by Christmastime on the Danube which glows with festive spirit and European tradition.
Beyond Europe: On the Mekong River, bookings are up 76 per cent over 2025, where the company’s Suite Ship caters to just 36 guests and winds through the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia.
The line has also found that its Active & Discovery cruises are extremely popular with younger river cruises, with up to 28 included Active, Discovery and Choice excursions included on its itineraries.
“We didn’t just elevate river cruise ships – we reimagined the entire river cruise experience,” said Chris Hall, managing director Asia Pacific, Globus family of brands.
“The record demand we’re seeing is more than cruising’s popularity. It’s about Avalon’s difference: Suite Ships with a view, passion-filled excursions and the freedom to cruise your way.”
