- Wondering when to book your next river cruise? Our experts give you some practical advice.
- While Europe is still the favourite river destination, Asia is fast increasing in popularity.
- And for those looking to beat the crowds, book your shoulder season voyage early!
Planning on booking your next river cruise, but not sure when to book? Typically, river cruise lines advise booking nine to 12 months in advance to get the best deals and offers.
For Australians, Europe remains our favourite destination for a river cruise. Still, this year, due to the conflict in the Middle East, Asia has become increasingly popular for its short distances and easy flight routes.
When is the main European river cruising season?
The main river cruising season begins in March and continues through the end of December. Usually, this starts with Tulip Time cruises in Belgium and the Netherlands and finishes with Christmas Market voyages through Hungary, Germany, Austria and France.
The summer months are fabulous for experiencing the picturesque riverside towns and cities, but it can be busy. Luxury river lines will offer exclusive shore excursions like concerts in castles, bespoke cooking classes and unique experiences to escape the crowds.
“Summer is one of our busiest periods, particularly for European sailings between June and August,” said David Cox, the CEO of APT Travel Group.
“The best cabin categories and departure dates go quickly, and our most discerning guests know that securing their place early is what allows them to travel with complete confidence. For summer 2027 departures, now is exactly the right time to have that conversation.”
When should I book my river cruise?
Avalon Waterways suggests booking as early as possible, but there are some deals to be had, especially on winter cruising itineraries.
“For many, the start of the year tends to spark the most inspiration and planning for the year ahead. Here in Australia, this often aligns with the end of summer and the return to routine, when many travellers start looking ahead to cooler months and begin planning European summer escapes for June, July and August. The start of the year also naturally brings a renewed focus on travel, with people motivated to prioritise meaningful experiences and future holidays,” said an Avalon Waterways spokesperson.
“Booking earlier in the year, or even the year before travelling, provides the best chance of securing preferred summer departure dates, suite categories and itineraries, particularly for the most popular European river cruise routes. It also gives you something to look forward to.
“If you’re particularly flexible and looking to cruise during the quieter winter season, booking just a few months in advance may still secure the best overall availability, but we always recommend booking as early as possible.”
What is the shoulder season in Europe?
Other lines like Avalon Waterways say that the shoulder season has become extremely popular among Australians due to fewer crowds and more comfortable climates.
Shoulder season is outside of the June to August period so you may experience cooler weather and heavier rainfall. In saying that, it’s also one of the most beautiful times to see Europe. In April and May, you’ll start to see spring blooms and from October onwards, pretty fall foliage.
“Shoulder season has become one of the most popular times for river cruising across many of our destinations, especially in Europe, where guests are looking to travel outside the busier summer months. In Asia and other destinations, popularity tends to align with the most comfortable climate windows, which also often fall just before or after peak tourist seasons. With a large portion of guests choosing either early or late in the season, May and September are now considered peak periods for river cruising,” said an Avalon Waterways spokesperson.
“Some travellers prefer to book early to secure early booking offers, while others are open to last-minute availability closer to departure. Generally, booking early provides the greatest access to preferred dates, suite categories and promotional fares, particularly on popular sailings. Last-minute offers can appear from time to time, but availability is often more limited.”
There are also special themed cruises focusing on wine and beer, and you can celebrate with vintners after they finish their busy harvest period.
When should I book Christmas cruises?
Christmas cruises are a wonderful way to spend the festive period and the river cruise lines go all out with decorations and celebrations.
On shore, they will take you to spectacular towns with Christmas markets dotted throughout Germany, Austria, France and Hungary.
“As early as you possibly can. Our Christmas Markets cruises on the Rhine and Danube run from mid-November through until Christmas and are among the most sought after departures in the entire program,” said David Cox, the CEO of APT Travel Group.
“The combination of festive atmosphere, iconic European towns, and the all-inclusive APT experience makes them extremely popular.
“We’d recommend booking them at least twelve months out.”
If I’m looking to do a river cruise in Asia, when should I book?
In Asia, November through to February is peak season with cooler temperatures, clear skies and great conditions that make it the most comfortable time to explore Vietnam and Cambodia on the Mekong River.
“Twelve to nine months in advance is the sweet spot for most APT and Travelmarvel itineraries. That’s typically when you’ll find the best combination of cabin availability, pricing, and itinerary choice,” said Cox.
“For popular destinations like Europe or the Vietnam and Cambodia we’d recommend stretching that to nine to twelve months, particularly if you have a specific cabin type in mind such as an Owner’s Suite or Balcony Suite so the sooner you book the better to avoid disappointment.
“The Mekong in November through February offers ideal conditions, cooler and drier weather with excellent visibility for exploring Vietnam and Cambodia. These months are peak season in Asia, so book early to secure your preferred cabin and departure.”
