Created to take place exclusively during specific times of the year, these experiences – which span across spring, summer, autumn and winter – are rooted in a simple idea that the season is part of the travel story.
From fleeting blooms and harvest traditions to time-honoured rituals shaped by local life, Avalon’s newest excursions are timed to deliver a more immersive, more personal way to enjoy each destination in ways that don’t exist year-round.
“Where you go matters. When you go can change the experience entirely,” said Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways.
“Our new seasonal excursions connect our guests more deeply – and authentically – to the places they’re exploring. These are experiences that exist for a moment, and that’s exactly the point.”
Highlights from the new 2027 line up include:
- Harvest summer’s sweetest moments in the South of France with hands-on apricot picking and tastings
- Wander fields of purple in bloom with lavender visits and distillery experiences timed to the season
- Step into autumn in Normandy with apple picking and cider tastings as orchard life comes alive
- Cook what the season calls for with hands-on culinary classes featuring fresh, regional ingredients from local markets
- Pick, taste & enjoy summer with strawberry harvest experiences that celebrate the season
- Discover the art of distillation through flower picking and essential oil workshops rooted in tradition
- Experience harvest traditions across Europe with vineyard visits and farming practices shaped by generations.
The introduction of seasonal excursions comes as traveller preferences continue to shift toward more intentional, cooler and less crowded travel.
In fact, 75% of 10,000 Avalon cruisers say they prefer to travel outside peak months, a trend already reflected in booking patterns.
In 2025, Avalon saw off-season sailings grow 18% year-over-year, driven in part by expanded capacity in late autumn and early winter.
“Travellers are realising that shifting when they go doesn’t compromise the experience. Instead, timing can enhance it,” added Ms Hoffee.
“With fewer crowds, cooler temperatures and in some cases, more value, we’re opening the door to different experiences year-round. The introduction of seasonal excursions takes that concept even further.”
www.avalonwaterways.com.au. Travel Advisors can visit the Travel Advisor Portal.
