Emerald Cruises has officially opened pre-booking service for its 2027 European River Cruise collection, to offer travelers the earliest opportunity to reserve their tickets for next year’s adventures. This announcement marks a significant move toward for both Emerald Cruises and European river tourism, with a lineup of new itineraries, the debut of the Emerald Lumi on the Seine River, and expanded services across iconic European waterways such as the Douro, Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers.
As the cruise industry continues to grow, the 2027 collection is set to attract travelers from across the world, contributing to the strength Europe’s tourism industry. Emerald Cruises is moving to growing interest in river cruising by offering diverse itineraries that fulfil different travel preferences, from scenic wine regions to historical landmarks and festive holiday experiences.
New Ships and Itineraries for 2027
The highlight of the 2027 collection is the debut of the Emerald Lumi, set to sail the Seine River beginning in March 2027. This new addition to the fleet will provide travelers with an opportunity to explore the iconic sights of Paris and surrounding French regions, embarking on roundtrip itineraries from the Marina de Paris. Known for its stunning views, the Seine River is a top destination for those seeking cultural enrichment, history, and scenic beauty, making it a prime location for the launch of a new river cruise ship.
In addition to the Emerald Lumi, Emerald Cruises will continue to offer its popular routes along the Douro Valley in Portugal. This itinerary is famed for its stunning vineyard-covered hillsides, historic castles, and charming towns, providing an immersive cultural and scenic experience. The Douro continues to be one of the most requested cruise destinations, especially for those interested in the region’s unique wine culture and tranquil landscapes.
The Rhine-Main-Danube corridor will also remain a staple in the 2027 collection. Connecting the North Sea to the Black Sea, this extensive route offers an unforgettable voyage through some of Europe’s most captivating cities, including Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Vienna, and Bucharest. The Danube River is a particularly popular choice for those seeking a blend of cultural experiences and natural beauty, making it a favorite for both first-time and returning river cruisers.
Festive and Seasonal Cruises
For travelers seeking something special, Emerald Cruises will offer holiday market cruises along the Danube and Rhine rivers, timed to coincide with the enchanting Christmas markets in cities like Cologne, Vienna, and Nuremberg. These festive cruises are an excellent way to experience Europe’s rich holiday traditions, with opportunities to shop for handcrafted gifts, sample local delicacies, and enjoy seasonal performances in picturesque, snow-covered settings.
Emerald’s Christmas on the Rhine and New Year’s Eve on the Danube cruises are expected to draw travelers looking for a magical, seasonal getaway. These itineraries blend the best of European Christmas traditions with the elegance and comfort of a river cruise, further enhancing their appeal to a global audience.
Personalized Journeys and Extended Travel Options
Emerald Cruises is also offering greater flexibility in the 2027 collection. Passengers can combine river cruises, add land extensions, or even pair a river cruise with the company’s luxury yachts in the Mediterranean or Adriatic regions. This level of customization allows travelers to craft a vacation experience that suits their specific interests, whether they want to focus on cultural exploration, food and wine, or simply relaxing on board.
For example, the opportunity to connect a Rhine cruise with a yacht voyage in the Mediterranean presents a seamless way for travelers to extend their European journey, taking in both the charm of the inland waterways and the luxurious seaside experience offered by Emerald’s yachts.
Early Access for Travel Advisors
As part of its commitment to the travel industry, Emerald Cruises is giving travel advisors early access to prime group inventory. This exclusive access ensures that travelers can secure the best suite categories and itineraries before they become available to the general public. By offering travel advisors this benefit, Emerald Cruises ensures that booking processes are streamlined, and customers have the best possible chance of securing their preferred spots for the 2027 season.
The Growing Influence of River Cruises on European Tourism
River cruising has become one of the most sought-after forms of travel in Europe, and Emerald Cruises’ 2027 offerings are set to capitalize on this growing trend. European river cruises have witnessed a resurgence in recent years, with travelers drawn to the convenience of sailing through cities and regions that are otherwise difficult to access by land. The ability to enjoy multiple destinations in a single, relaxed trip, combined with the immersive experiences that river cruising offers, makes it an ideal choice for many tourists.
Increased demand for these cruises translates directly to an economic boost for local economies. As more passengers flock to Europe’s rivers, local hotels, restaurants, shops, and attractions benefit from the influx of visitors. Moreover, Emerald Cruises’ commitment to providing sustainable and eco-friendly cruise options is in line with the growing demand for responsible travel, which benefits the environment and local communities.
2027 Promises to Be a Landmark Year for Emerald Cruises
The opening of pre-bookings for Emerald Cruises’ 2027 European River Cruise Collection proves the company’s readiness to fulfil the growing demand for river cruising across Europe. With exciting new ships, expanded itineraries, and seasonal offerings that offer to a diverse range of travelers, the 2027 collection will be a landmark year for both the company and European tourism. From the romantic Seine River to the historic Danube, Emerald Cruises offers travelers a unique gateway and customized option to explore Europe, making it an attractive journey for those seeking a blend of culture, luxury, and adventure.
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