Nicole Edenedo
River cruise lines from Amadeus River Cruises to AmaWaterways and Tauck have a strong 2023 as more travelers return to Europe and other international destinations following COVID-19 this year.
There have been many new river cruise developments throughout the year. Continued expansion into Egypt and further afield destinations; Lines Investing More in Sustainability Initiatives Eastern European river cruises have rebounded since the start of the war in Ukraine, to name a few.
But as 2023 comes to a close, there's a lot to look forward to from suppliers in 2024 as more suppliers expand their destination offerings, launch schedules, and debut ships. Here's what we're most excited about:
AmaWaterways introduces river cruises in Colombia.
AmaWaterways plans to launch South America's first river cruise itineraries on Colombia's Magdalena River in 2024.
The line will feature two ships, AmaMagdalena and AmaMelodia, and two seven-night itineraries: Magic of Colombia and Wonders of Colombia. Schedules are available for both ships sailing between Barranquilla and Cartagena.
Both itineraries offer a variety of pre- and post-cruise extension packages that visit destinations such as Medellin and Panama City.
AmaMagdalena is scheduled to debut in November, with AmaMelodia joining in June 2025. Rates start at $3,599 per person for double occupancy.
Avalon Waterways sets sail for Portugal
Avalon Waterways is entering Portugal's popular river cruise market with a new ship and itineraries set to debut on the Douro River from April 2024.
The new Avalon Alegria, a 102-passenger suite ship, gives guests an up-close view of the hillside vineyards and historic villages scattered throughout Portugal's Douro Valley.
Alegria operates round trips from Porto on the eight-day Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages on the Douro itinerary, offering Avalon's Classic, Discovery and Active excursion options in each port. Rates start at $3,299 per person.
Egypt expands with more river cruise options
Despite the ongoing geopolitical conflict in the region, development has not slowed down in Egypt, with Nile cruises in high demand throughout 2023.
Viking is expanding its fleet of vessels on the Nile with the addition of the Viking Hathor next year, along with the Viking Sobek, which will debut in 2025.
The 82-passenger Hathor will be the sister ship to the existing Viking Osiris and Viking Aton and the upcoming Viking Sobek, and will feature the line's signature indoor/outdoor Aquavit Terrace. Numerous libraries in common areas and private rooms; And there is a swimming pool on the sun deck.
Viking Hathor will kick off the company's 12-day Pharaohs and Pyramids itinerary, sailing round-trip from Cairo and spending three nights in the capital before embarking on an eight-day round-trip cruise in Luxor.
AmaWaterways will also deploy a new vessel on the Nile next year, the 41-cabin AmaLilia, which will be a sister ship to the existing AmaDahlia.
AmaLilia features 13 suites, regionally inspired décor and a specialty restaurant. Both ships sail the company's 12-night Secret of Egypt and Nile itineraries, starting with three nights in Cairo and continuing with a seven-night river cruise up the Nile from Luxor and back.
Rates for Egypt sailings from AmaWaterways and Viking start at $5,999 per person.
Europe's new canal barge cruise
If you or your guests have yet to try a canal barge cruise in Europe, 2024 may be the year for you.
European Waterways will introduce a new luxury canal barge to France's Champagne region in May.
The eight-passenger Kir Royale will join the company's Ultra Deluxe barge class, which features cabin suites similar in size to hotel rooms.
Kir Royale sails comprehensive six-night itineraries on the Marne River and canal-side a la Marne from May to October, offering trips to renowned Champagne houses including Moet & Chandon.
CORRECTED: This report was corrected on December 29 to say AmaMelodia will join the AmaWaterways fleet in June 2025. The original report incorrectly gave the date as January 2025.
