AmaWaterways UK managing director Jamie Loizou said this extra demand had helped drive record-breaking booking levels this year. 

Demand for March and April departures has been growing in recent years with triple digit increases seen for 2024 against the same period last year. 

This additional demand prompted AmaWaterways to bolster its 2024 programme with the introduction of Rhine and Danube sailings in February. The move will be repeated next year. 

Festive cruises, meanwhile, have been extended from mid-November until the New Year. 

Loizou added: “Traditionally, the Christmas Markets season only lasted a few weeks. However, with growing popularity, many iconic Christmas Markets have announced earlier opening dates starting mid-November.

"[This is] allowing the introduction of A Taste of Christmas Markets cruises during which guests will enjoy an early start to the festive season on beautifully decorated ships, and visits to one or two Christmas markets.

“This move led to a 258% rise in bookings for November 2023, compared with November 2022, and forward bookings for November 2024 are following the same trend.”

With 30% more guests booked for a cruise departing over Christmas 2024, compared with 2023, the line is also reporting a “significant” rise in revenue from bookings for the festive holiday period. 

Sales growth is coupled with a higher than average spend as guests choose to upgrade to higher stateroom and suite categories. 

Loizou continued: “Demand for Christmas and New Year departures is being driven by small groups of extended family and friends looking for a different way to celebrate the best of what the holidays offer.” 

The line’s 2025 brochure featuring cruises through Europe, Asia, South America and Africa and can be pre-ordered via TradeGate.