More Christmas Market Now Cruises on the Horizon: Avalon Waterways Increases Capacity

Published on December 22, 2025

The growing popularity of Christmas market river cruises has led to an increase in demand for festive sailings, prompting Avalon Waterways to expand its offerings for 2026 and 2027. Due to high demand, the river cruise line is introducing seven additional Christmas market departures next year, marking a 15% increase in capacity and making it the company’s largest-ever selection of holiday-themed river cruises. This expansion will see Avalon offering more than 40 departures across the Danube, Rhine, and Main Rivers, spanning 19 different itineraries throughout Europe.

As the demand for Christmas market cruises continues to grow, Avalon Waterways is responding by offering even more opportunities for travelers to experience the charm of European holiday markets along some of the continent’s most scenic rivers. From Austria and Germany to Switzerland, Avalon’s new festive sailings provide an unforgettable way to immerse oneself in the holiday spirit while traveling through Europe’s picturesque towns and cities.

The Appeal of Christmas Market River Cruises

The magic of European Christmas markets is a major draw for tourists each year. Cities like Vienna, Budapest, Cologne, and Nuremberg are renowned for their enchanting holiday markets, where visitors can explore beautifully decorated stalls, enjoy local treats, and shop for handcrafted gifts. A river cruise offers a unique way to visit these festive destinations, combining scenic views of Europe’s rivers with the opportunity to experience multiple cities and markets in one journey.

Avalon’s expanded itineraries cater to the growing number of travelers who wish to visit these seasonal markets but prefer the comfort and ease of river cruising. The relaxed atmosphere aboard the river vessels, along with the convenience of unpacking once and traveling to multiple destinations, makes this type of holiday experience particularly appealing. Travelers can enjoy holiday shopping, seasonal food and beverages, and cultural festivities without the stress of navigating transportation or accommodation.

Expansion of Avalon Waterways’ Christmas Market Departures

Avalon Waterways has listened to the demand from holiday travelers and responded with an increase in its Christmas market cruise offerings for the 2026 and 2027 seasons. This year’s addition of seven more departures increases the company’s overall capacity by 15%, providing more chances for tourists to experience these beloved European traditions. The expanded schedule means Avalon will offer nearly 40 sailings for the holiday season, with a variety of itineraries that span some of the most iconic rivers in Europe.

Avalon’s Danube River cruises are particularly popular, as this river flows through many cities known for their beautiful Christmas markets, including Vienna, Budapest, and Passau. These markets feature unique crafts, festive lights, and an array of holiday-themed entertainment, making them perfect stops for guests seeking an authentic European Christmas experience.

The Rhine River is another favored route for holiday river cruises, especially with stops in cities like Cologne, Strasbourg, and Dusseldorf, all of which host some of Europe’s most famous Christmas markets. The Rhine’s gentle curves and scenic vineyards provide a beautiful backdrop for these festive journeys, while travelers can explore some of the oldest and most picturesque towns in Germany, France, and the Netherlands.

Avalon Waterways also offers sailings along the Main River, which takes travelers through charming Bavarian towns and cities like Frankfurt and Würzburg, where traditional holiday markets are celebrated in historic settings.

Unique Features of Avalon’s Christmas Market Cruises

In addition to offering more departures, Avalon Waterways continues to enhance its Christmas market cruises with features that provide guests with a comfortable, stress-free holiday experience. Passengers aboard Avalon’s river cruises can enjoy spacious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, which offer unparalleled views of the festive riverside cities and towns. This unique design makes it possible to enjoy the beautiful European winter landscapes from the comfort of the ship.

Avalon’s river cruises are also known for their personalized service and small ship experience. With fewer passengers than larger ocean cruises, Avalon guests can expect a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, with attentive staff and an array of onboard activities. The cruise itineraries are also carefully designed to allow ample time in each destination for guests to explore local Christmas markets, enjoy festive meals, and engage in holiday traditions.

Additionally, Avalon often arranges exclusive shore excursions and activities tailored to the holiday season. Guests can partake in guided tours of Christmas markets, sample local seasonal foods like mulled wine and roasted chestnuts, and even enjoy traditional holiday performances, all while receiving insight from local experts.

Booking a Christmas Market River Cruise

With the addition of new departures, booking a Christmas market river cruise for 2026 or 2027 through Avalon Waterways has become a highly sought-after travel experience. Those interested in experiencing the charm of European Christmas markets on a river cruise should plan their bookings early to secure a spot for the most desirable itineraries. Avalon’s expanded capacity offers travelers more options for departure dates and destinations, ensuring that there’s a perfect option for nearly every schedule and preference.

As the popularity of river cruising continues to rise, and the demand for festive European experiences grows, Avalon Waterways’ expansion of its Christmas market sailings ensures that more people can enjoy the magic of Europe’s holiday traditions in comfort and style. With its premium service, unbeatable riverfront locations, and cultural experiences, Avalon remains a top choice for those seeking a memorable holiday getaway.

Conclusion

Avalon Waterways’ decision to add seven more Christmas market river cruise departures for 2026 and 2027 is a direct response to the high demand for festive travel experiences along Europe’s iconic rivers. With increased capacity, travelers now have even more opportunities to explore the enchanting Christmas markets of the Danube, Rhine, and Main Rivers. Whether seeking the charm of Austria, the festive spirit of Germany, or the history of Hungary, these expanded sailings promise to offer an unforgettable holiday experience on the water.