European river cruises are back to and even beyond pre-pandemic numbers, but it's not all the same. Itineraries have gotten longer, cruisers have gotten younger and sustainability has become part of the conversation.
Those are some of the takeaways from a Vienna conference of European cruise operators who are members of the Cruise Lines International Association.
The younger audience, operators say, is coming from people who were previously in the habit of short city breaks, but have found the cruises an alternative at a time when European hotel rates have skyrocketed. Among other segments, 10 to 11-day itineraries are replacing some of the traditional seven-day routes.
Several lines have qualified or are working on eco-friendly initiatives which qualify for Green Award certification based on the environmental impact of its engines, fuel consumption and waste management systems. One line that ditched its traditional buffet noted a decrease of 30% in food waste.
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