River cruise enthusiasts are increasingly seeking longer voyages, marking a significant shift in travel preferences. In recent discussions, industry experts reveal that today’s travelers are favoring extended river cruises compared to the short four- to five-day itineraries that dominated pre-pandemic trends.
A recent survey by Avalon Waterways, which gathered feedback from over 10,000 passengers, indicates nearly 50% of respondents view a 10 to 12-day river cruise as ideal. In response, Avalon has introduced 16 new itineraries lasting from 10 to 15 days, catering to this growing demand.
Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon, suggests several factors contribute to this trend, including a pent-up desire for long-distance travel, rising airfare costs, and an increase in remote work opportunities. “Today’s cruisers are more motivated than ever to maximize their time away from home,” Hoffee says.
This sentiment is echoed across various cruise lines. Riviera Travel reports that longer itineraries, ranging from 10 to 29 days, are especially appealing to retirees, solo travelers, and repeat customers. The company highlights that as airfares rise, longer cruises represent a better investment for travelers looking to make the most of their experiences.
### River Cruises That Combine Land and Water
Riviera Travel has introduced “Grand Tours,” blending river cruises with land excursions for an additional week of exploration. For instance, a typical journey might start with six days spent in Provence, followed by a scenic river cruise on the Seine, concluding in Paris.
AmaWaterways is also responding with its “Grand Itineraries,” most of which span two weeks. One notable option includes a 14-night tour of the Rhine River and the Dutch canals, with opportunities to extend the trip through pre-cruise experiences in Amsterdam and Lake Lucerne, as well as post-cruise extensions in Zurich. Passengers can even create their own combination cruises, receiving a 10% discount on each consecutive sailing.
Amadeus River Cruises is capitalizing on this trend, allowing passengers to extend their journeys with pre- or post-cruise excursions. Scenic Group, which encompasses both Scenic Luxury Cruises and Emerald Cruises, has also observed a demand for these extensions and has rolled out new options in regions like Portugal and Bavaria.
### Extra-Long Cruises For Enthusiasts
For travelers craving extensive adventures, some cruise lines now offer remarkably long itineraries. Scenic recently unveiled six “Ultimate Journeys” that incorporate river, ocean, and land experiences, with durations ranging from 54 to 85 nights.
American Cruise Lines has responded to this trend with the longest river cruise available in the U.S. A 61-day cruise was introduced last year, and a 51-day voyage from Charleston, S.C., to Juneau, Ala., is set to launch in 2026. Additionally, American Cruise Lines boasts the longest Mississippi River cruise on the market, offering an impressive 23-day sailing.
As the appetite for extended river cruises continues to grow, travelers can expect a wealth of options that immerse them deeply in the regions they explore. With many cruise lines adapting their offerings to cater to these evolving preferences, the future of river cruising looks promising for those seeking adventure and meaningful experiences on the water.
