The summer holiday period may be over, but Avalon Waterways, part of the Globus family of brands (GFOB) has kicked off a record-breaking January as eager Aussies book in their 2025 travel adventures with the river cruising operator.
Globally, 2025 bookings are outpacing 2024 by more than 50 per cent with France leading the charge as the destination of choice. Avalon Waterways has responded by adding two new rivers (for a total of five), six new cruises and 33 per cent more capacity to meet demand in France in 2025.
In Australia, bookings are also already up compared to the same period last year, with these early indicators pointing to an increased level of consumer confidence in travel.
“Not only have we seen a 32 per cent increase in passenger bookings and a 21 per cent increase in spend, we are also seeing an increase in the amount of time people are wanting to spend on their river cruise holiday,” said Chris Fundell, head of marketing Asia Pacific at Globus family of brands.
“The 11–14-day cruises are again proving 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.”
The voracious appetite for travel extends beyond river cruising, with both Cosmos and Globus also seeing growth, with booking value up 42 per cent and 27 per cent respectively versus the same period last year. The train travel trend continues to have its moment, whilst independent travel is seeing a surge in popularity.
Chris Fundell added, “Last year we saw an increase of 88 per cent on Scenic Switzerland – one of our rail adventures, and this year, Independence by Globus, our independent travel package offering, which is the ideal bolt on to a river cruise, is seeing 2025 January sales outperform 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.”
For those that are ready to book their 2025 adventure today, they can save up to $6,000 per couple with Avalon Waterways, up to $1,000 per couple with Globus and up to $250 per person with Cosmos, until 28 February, 2025.*
* T&Cs apply. See avalonwaterways.com.au, globus.com.au or cosmostours.com.au for details. Offers valid for new bookings made 26 December 2024 – 28 February 2025, unless sold out prior.
