- Australia is now one of the fastest-growing markets for river cruising, worth $579 million annually.
- A new study shows we are travelling further, spending more and choosing luxury.
- The news comes as Cruise Passenger starts the third year of the River Cruise Collective, our own campaign to increase understanding of what river cruising has to offer.
A new international river cruise study has revealed that Aussies are not only travelling further, but staying longer, spending more and overwhelmingly choosing premium and luxury experiences.
It’s a remarkable shift, and one that confirms what many in the industry have already been seeing: Australians have well and truly embraced river cruising and are helping drive its global growth.
Here at The River Cruise Collective, we’re proud to be right at the heart of that story as we launch our third year of bringing the very best of river cruising news and inspiration to Australian travellers.
Europe is, of course, a particular favourite. According to the latest IG River Cruise research, the European river cruise market continues to go from strength to strength, with 1.49 million cruising Europe’s waterways and revenues reaching $6.2 billion.
But it’s the behaviour of overseas guests – including Australians – that is re-shaping the future of the industry.
The study shows:
- Long-haul travellers like Australians are choosing longer itineraries, averaging around eight nights
- They are spending significantly more, with average cruise prices more than double those of European guests
- And they are far more likely to opt for luxury and ultra-luxury experiences
In fact, Australia and New Zealand — despite representing a relatively small number of passengers — already generate $579 million in river cruise revenue, placing them among the most valuable markets globally.
In simple terms: Australians are no longer just participating in river cruising — they are helping define it.
A booming industry, built for today’s traveller
The new demand is being met with an exciting wave of innovation.
Across Europe alone, nearly 400 river cruise vessels are now in operation, with dozens more new ships on the way over the coming years. Well known brands like APT, Travelmarvel, AmaWaterways, Scenic and Emerald are launching new ships.
Today’s river vessels are designed with the modern traveller in mind, offering:
- Spacious, beautifully appointed cabins with panoramic views
- Elevated dining experiences inspired by the regions you travel through
- Expanded onboard facilities, from wellness spaces to open-air lounges
- New technologies focused on sustainability and efficiency
The River Cruise Collective: connecting Australia to the rivers
Against this backdrop of growth, The River Cruise Collective is entering its third year. And the momentum has never been stronger.
Over the past two years, we’ve built Australia’s largest dedicated river cruise community, connecting travellers with inspiration, information and unforgettable experiences.
Our campaign has already delivered:
- A dedicated river cruise content hub and storytelling platform
- A fortnightly newsletter reaching thousands of engaged readers
- Video content, including CruiseTV episodes attracting thousands of views.
- A landmark live event that brought river cruising to life in a whole new way
That flagship event, held at the Hyatt Regency, welcomed around 160 guests and delivered standout results:
- 95% said they would attend again
- 25% booked or seriously considered booking on the night
- A further 50% expressed strong interest in taking a cruise
It was a clear signal: when Australians experience river cruising firsthand, the response is overwhelmingly positive.
What’s coming this year
In 2026, The River Cruise Collective will partner with four of the world’s leading river cruise brands:
- AmaWaterways
- APT
- Travelmarvel
- Avalon Waterways
Together, we’ll be bringing you:
- Fortnightly newsletters packed with inspiration, offers and insider insights
- Competitions with incredible travel opportunities
- Reader events where you can meet the experts and explore your options in Sydney and Melbourne.
- And a steady stream of stories designed to help you discover the world’s great rivers
Why river cruising — and why now
For many Australians, travel has always been about going further, staying longer and experiencing more. River cruising delivers exactly that.
It’s waking up in a new destination each day, stepping straight into the heart of historic cities and villages. It’s unpacking once and letting the journey come to you. It’s enjoying exceptional food, thoughtful service and a pace that allows you to truly connect with the places you visit.
And right now, with new ships, new itineraries and a global industry responding to the demands of travellers like you, there has never been a better time to consider it.
Your invitation to explore
As we begin this new chapter, we invite you to be part of it. Keep an eye out for our fortnightly newsletters, they’ll be your guide to everything happening in the world of river cruising, from the latest ships and destinations to exclusive offers and events.
Your next great journey might be just around the bend.
