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From themed itineraries to brand new routes, there’s plenty to welcome passengers back on board. BY LIZ FLEMING
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eady to start exploring the world again? A luxury river cruise could be the ideal choice. Set sail and find fabulous dining, elegant accommodations and unique guided shore excursions in a small group setting. Relax and inhale a big breath of the freedom we’ve all been missing. River cruise lines are confidently sailing the waters of Europe, the U.S. and South America with some companies even expanding their fleets to meet demand. Viking River Cruises not only resumed sailing in France in August 2021 but also launched four Longships – each specifically designed to sail the Seine River. Tauck River Cruises also launched a new ship, the elegant ms Andorinha, now sailing Portugal’s Douro River. “We’re witnessing a new wave of cruisers for 2022,” says Pam Hoffee, chief operating officer for the Globus family of brands and managing director for Avalon Waterways. “Travellers recognize that river cruising offers them a cruise without question marks. No crowds, sailing with just 150 or fewer fellow cruisers, no lines, no concerns about fellow traveller vaccinations, stringent health and safety protocols and an unparalleled opportunity to experience a wide range of shore excursions while also enjoying limitless access to incredible ports of call.” Avalon guests are currently enjoying its popular Storyteller Series that welcomes world-renowned artists to sail with their most ardent fans. Some of the stars include the band Sister Hazel as well as musicians Edwin McCain and authors such as Gillian Flynn, Cheryl Strayed and Candace Bushnell. Guests are treated to musical performances, readings, Q&A sessions and book signings with their idols as they sail the Rhine, Danube and Seine rivers.
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