Avalon Waterways has kicked off 2025 with a record-breaking January, as Australian travellers continue to embrace river cruising in greater numbers.
The operator, part of the Globus family of brands, has reported a 32 per cent increase in passenger bookings and a 21 per cent rise in spending compared to the same period last year.
Demand for longer holidays and new destinations
Globally, bookings for 2025 are outpacing 2024 by more than 50 per cent, with France emerging as the top destination. To meet demand, Avalon Waterways is expanding its offering with two new rivers, six new cruises, and a 33 per cent increase in capacity across France for 2025.
Chris Fundell, head of marketing Asia Pacific at Globus family of brands, said Australian travellers are increasingly opting for extended river cruise experiences.
“The 11 to 14-day cruises are proving particularly popular for Australian travellers. They allow them to really settle into the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure that is river cruise life, from the exclusive shore excursions to savouring the world-class wining and dining experience as they glide past picturesque villages,” Fundell said.
Growth extends beyond river cruising
The strong appetite for travel is not limited to river cruising. Cosmos and Globus have also reported significant growth, with booking value up 42 per cent and 27 per cent respectively compared to the same time last year.
Train travel remains a growing trend, while independent travel is also gaining popularity. Independence by Globus, the company’s independent travel package offering, has seen January 2025 sales already surpass the total sales for the first six months of 2024.
“This trend reflects the ‘best of both worlds’ traveller mentality, offering them the flexibility to ‘choose their own adventure’ while still benefiting from expert guidance and real-time support throughout their journey. It also allows advisors to package up the overall offering for their travel clients,” Fundell said.
Limited-time savings for early bookings
Travellers looking to secure their 2025 adventure can take advantage of special savings available until 28 February 2025:
- save up to $6,000 per couple with Avalon Waterways
- save up to $1,000 per couple with Globus
- save up to $250 per person with Cosmos
Terms and conditions apply.
