- Australians are now looking at itineraries in Egypt, Asia as well as new European rivers.
- Travelmarvel will be launching a Nile River cruise in 2026.
- Avalon Waterways has said the Mekong is increasing in popularity.
Australians, known for their intrepid sense of adventure and eagerness to explore new destinations have begun to look at new river routes.
River cruise lines like Abercrombie & Kent, APT, AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways and Tauck have begun to release new itineraries, not just in exotic locations, but also throughout Europe and Asia.
The Douro River in recent years has emerged as a fast-growing destination to sail, with AmaWaterways, Travelmarvel (APT’s sister brand) and Avalon Waterways recently launching new vessels in Portugal.
Travelmarvel and the Nile
APT told River Cruise Passenger that they have seen strong interest of Egypt, with inquiries growing for the Nile. The all-Australian brand, who has yet to launch their new itineraries, will start the voyages in 2026.
David Cox, the CEO of Travelmarvel, said while the Egypt program isn’t yet on sale, the 2026 season will be released later this year and is already generating strong interest. And despite geopolitical issues in the region, he said Australians are pragmatic.
“We’ve seen pent up demand for this iconic destination building for years, and we’re backing that demand with a serious commitment – including a dedicated Travelmarvel ship on the Nile. This is a destination our travellers have been asking for, and we’re confident it will become one of the most sought-after regions in our portfolio,” said Cox.
He also believes that by 2026, many Australians will feel like it’s the time to tick off the destination off their list. Significant steps have been taken by the Egyptian government to enhance safety and infrastructure, which is giving travellers added confidence.
“Australians aren’t naïve travellers – they do their homework,” said Cox.
“They’ve been watching Egypt with interest for years, waiting for the right time. With significant investment from the Egyptian government in tourism and security, and with the backing of a trusted operator like Travelmarvel, they now feel confident making that long-held dream a reality.
“We’re always listening to our guests and Egypt is a destination they’ve been asking us for, loudly and clearly. When we explore new regions, it must be the right destination at the right time, and it must deliver on the quality and value our guests expect. Egypt ticks every box.”
As a sneak peek of one of the highlight itineraries launching later this year, guests will enjoy a seven-night Nile River cruise aboard Travelmarvel’s river ship and three nights in Cairo with guided visits to icons such as Luxor and Karnak Temples, Great Pyramids of Giza, and the Sphinx.
Guests will then have the option to extend with seven nights of guided touring through Jordan – taking in the city of Petra, the ancient capital of Amman, the dramatic landscapes of Wadi Rum, and the tranquil waters of the Dead Sea.
The return of Asia
Avalon Waterways has been sailing in the Mekong since 2018 and in recent years, they have seen a huge increase in interest for the Asian voyage.
The cruise line said the demand has been dictated by the value for money and Asia in close proximity to Australia.
“We have seen a resurgence of interest in our Avalon Waterways itineraries along the Mekong in Asia – itineraries that cover Vietnam and Cambodia, and four cruise routes that include Thailand too,” said Chris Fundell, the Head of Marketing of Asia Pacific of the Globus Family of Brands.
“Bookings are up 83% for the 2025 season compared to 2024, and we’re already seeing a 50% increase for 2026 based on the same time as last year.
“Vietnam has emerged as one of the major growth destinations for the Australian market over the past year with easy air access, rich cultural experiences, incredible history and great food, all at a very affordable price.
“For Avalon, we also have a standout onboard experience. We have an average of just 30 guests and a maximum of 36 on our ships in Asia, so we offer a more intimate and personal way to explore.”
Europe’s big expansion
Tauck earlier this year announced new river itineraries that include the Danube, Rhine, Douro and French Waterways.
Notable itineraries include The Blue Danube, Exploring the Douro, Lisbon & Madrid, Savoring France: Paris, Lyon & Provence, and Rendezvous on the Seine.
“Whether it’s exploring the wonders of the world on a small ship cruise, embarking on an enriching land tour, or sailing through iconic waterways on a European river cruise, Tauck provides world-class experiences, said Tauck Australia Managing Director, David Clark.
“Available for a short time only, these offers are the perfect way to start planning for 2026 and enjoy extraordinary value and luxury.”
Avalon Waterways said their expansion of their European itineraries, particularly in France, was based on guest feedback.
“Understanding the experience guests are seeking is key to shaping our product offering. We regularly issue global and local surveys to explore the kind of excursions and activities our guests are interested in and we also ask where they want to be cruising next,” said Fundell.
“A great example of that is France. In our last survey, the country came out as the most desired destination for our guests, so for 2025, we expanded our French offering by 33 per cent and launched our first itinerary in the Bordeaux region; Bonjour Bordeaux: Chateaux, Wineries & Charming Villages.
“With our Bonjour Bordeaux cruise, as expected when cruising through a region known for its vineyards and wines, we have many food and wine experiences that really resonate with guests.
“Tasting Merlot in Médoc wine country or sampling oysters fresh from the bay in Arcachon have quickly become guest favourites. We’ve also found that our active excursions, particularly cycling through Bordeaux or the local vineyards (combined with a wine tasting), is very popular.”
Expedition destinations
AmaWaterways has successfully launched its first river cruise ship, AmaMagdalena, on Colombia’s Magdalena River. It is the first-ever luxury river cruise ship to navigate these waters, and the launch marks a historic moment for the region which is expected to benefit from the introduction of river cruise tourism.
In addition, AmaWaterways is celebrating the expansion of the company’s portfolio outside its current regions of operation, Asia, Europe and Africa.
AmaWaterways Managing Director in Australia and New Zealand Steve Richards says,
“Everyone was incredibly excited to see the first departure of our long-awaited river cruising on Colombia’s Magdalena River.”
He says there had been strong bookings for Colombia from the “well-travelled” cruiser looking for something new.
AmaMagdelana is designed for just 60 guests, but what is notable about AmaWaterways’ launch in Colombia is the consultation and involvement with the local community.
The ship was built in collaboration with local craftspeople and woodwork specialists, and excursions allow guests to interact with local communities.
Meanwhile Abercrombie & Kent’s Pure Amazon ship is due to launch soon.
“Australians are consistently travelling to places like Egypt, Sub-Saharan Africa and India. With destinations such as Japan, Sri Lanka and Peru are seeing an increase,” said Michelle Micken, the VP of Marketing for Abercrombie & Kent.
“Guests are looking for new experiences and the next destination. Japan has increased in popularity in popular culture. Drawn by its unique blend of tradition and modernity, guests have continued to flock to the country thanks to its efficiency and hospitality.
“Guests are looking to Sri Lanka as a destination closer to home, and as an alternative to India.
“And Peru’s opportunity to have meaningful wildlife experiences is a large draw card. With the new Pure Amazon River boat to launch this July, guests will be able to enjoy a river cruise experience on the Amazon River.”
