What’s Next for River Cruising?

River cruising has become more popular than ever before, and with its rise in popularity and demand come some new developments in the river cruising world.

From Botswana and Egypt to Colombia and the mighty Mississippi, river cruising is expanding rapidly across major rivers across the globe, thanks in large part to more adventurous, well-traveled travelers and well-known river cruise brands like AmaWaterways, Viking River Cruises and Avalon Waterways.

There are three new developments happening in the world of river cruising: new rivers and destinations diversifying a subset of the cruise industry that Europe generally dominates; an increased focus on themed or specialty river cruises, from classical music cruises to literary-themed cruises; and an interest in longer cruises or pre- and post-cruise stays that enhance a traveler’s overall trip.

Christen Sellier, Travel Advisor for Travel Concierge Services LLC, a Dream Vacations affiliate who books primarily river cruises with AmaWaterways and Avalon Waterways, predicts the same things: “I foresee continued rapid growth and increased interest in river cruising. I also foresee cruise brands targeting and marketing to a wider demographic.”

“We will probably see more brands launching their own versions of U by Uniworld to attract Millennials and Gen Z clients,” she continued. “I also predict more partnering with railroads and offering pre- and post-package trips. Special Interest cruise itineraries will become more abundant and in demand.”

New Rivers & Destinations
Perhaps the buzziest news surrounding river cruising lately has been the addition of new river cruise itineraries in completely new destinations — most notably, AmaWaterways’ new Rio Magdalena cruises in Colombia, debuting in 2024.