Typically, spring and fall are the most favored seasons for river cruising, with May and September seeing the highest numbers. Yet, some cruise lines are looking at offerings beyond the peak season. In the winter of 2023, Viking River Cruises became the first line to operate year-round in Europe with a new itinerary for the Rhine 7 . January and February are also good months to go on a river cruise in Asia and Africa. One advisor said, “We run a large group on Facebook, just under 400,000 members, many of whom want to visit the Christmas markets. So that itinerary is our most popular one.” Another advisor shared: SEASONALITY IN RIVER CRUISE BOOKINGS 7 https://www.cruisecritic.com.au/articles/a-viking-rhine-river-cruise-in-winter?stay=1&posfrom=1 I will sell river cruises in summer but tend to let people know that Europe is overcrowded in summer and very hot. Likewise for Egypt. Stay away from Egypt in August. September is usually higher in cost… these are all things I let people know but if they want summer or those times I do sell them. 1% 1% 6% 29% 56% 34% 16% 18% 62% 35% 9% 12% January February March April May June July August September October November December TRENDS IN RIVER CRUISE 2024 18 | CHART 5