Tauck talk: growing demand for river cruises

River cruising is booming, with travellers embracing the concept of exploring Europe while sleeping in the same space.

Tauck has this week today announced five new European river cruises for 2027, released earlier than ever, driven by what it describes as "exceptional demand".

Tauck’s growing fleet will also welcome two new river cruisers: the ms Saudade, sister ship to the ms Andorinha on the Douro (above), and the ms Reverie, sister ship to the ms Serene on the Seine (below).

Designed to meet evolving guest preferences, Tauck will also introduce a new six-day river cruise format, set to launch in late 2026, and will expand shorter itineraries for 2027.

To be offered primarily during the shoulder seasons, these journeys provide guests with the added benefits of milder weather and fewer crowds along Europe’s most popular rivers.

These shorter itineraries will also make river cruising more accessible to travellers with tighter schedules (read Americans who only get limited vacation time).

David Clark, Tauck's managing director Australia, said: “Our guests can now book these highly sought-after river cruises for 2027, providing earlier access than ever, which I know will be well received by the Australian market.

"Our growing fleet continues to unveil Tauck’s innovation, unique access and trusted expertise as we prepare to embark on our second century."

The business reports ever-increasing demand.

“We’re seeing extraordinary growth across our river portfolio, and that inspires us to find new ways for guests to experience Tauck,” said Tauck CEO Jennifer Tombaugh.

"River cruising continues to be one of the most popular ways to experience Tauck for the first time, and with these new shorter itineraries, we can now offer that exceptional entry point to guests with limited time."

With departures in March and November, Essence of the Seine is a six-day journey round trip from Paris debuting the launch of the ms Reverie. Sailing through the heart of Normandy, visits will include Rouen and the D-Day Beaches of Normandy, a cider and calvados tasting in Vernon, and a gala evening at a historic château. (From $5,290 per person double-occupancy, plus airfare).

Essence of the Danube is a six-day sailing journey between Budapest and Vienna aboard the ms Joy. Highlights include guided sightseeing in Vienna and Bratislava, a gala dinner with live music and performance at Vienna’s Palais Pallavicini, and a wine tasting in Dürnstein. Departures are available in October and November. (From $4,540 per person double-occupancy, plus airfare).

Tauck is also deepening its commitment to Portugal’s Douro River, where demand remains strong and cruises often sell out well in advance.

For the first time, Tauck is opening reservations for these 2027 itineraries earlier than ever, allowing guests to secure preferred departures with risk-free deposits while final details are being completed.

For more details see www.tauck.com.au.