New research from Avalon Waterways confirms what the river cruise line has long believed — travellers want fewer crowds, more space and more choice when they cruise.
According to the study, 62 per cent of travellers prefer cruising on ships carrying fewer than 150 guests. Avalon’s Suite Ships average just 150 passengers, roughly 30 per cent fewer than many competitors on the water.
Pam Hoffee, Avalon Waterways President, said the findings reflected a broader shift in how travellers define luxury.
“Travellers today are redefining luxury. Space, personalisation, freedom to explore. Smaller ships allow us to deliver all of that in ways larger ships simply can’t,” Ms Hoffee said.
The research also revealed that flexibility is now a near-universal expectation, with 99 per cent of Avalon cruisers saying a variety of excursion options matters when selecting a cruise.
Among guest preferences, 60 per cent favour classic guided sightseeing, 20 per cent choose active experiences such as biking and hiking and 16 per cent seek cultural discovery experiences.
Avalon’s Panorama Suites span two full decks of every Suite Ship and are approximately 15 per cent larger than the industry standard, with wall-to-wall windows that open wide and beds facing the view.
The cruise line maintains a 3:1 guest-to-crew ratio, with public spaces designed to comfortably accommodate all guests at once alongside smaller, quieter venues for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
For more information, travel advisors can visit the Avalon Waterways travel agent portal.
