‘Exceptional’ wave period returning river cruise to pre-pandemic levels

This was the message from Tui River Cruises managing director Chris Hackney, who spoke during a panel session at the 2023 Clia Riverview Conference in Vienna on Sunday (12 March).

"I think it’s fair to say, before Christmas, the cost of living – and how much of an impact it was going to have – was a concern," he told delegates. 

"But we’ve been surprised as to how much demand there has been. This was a key wave period and it has exceeded our expectations in terms of bookings. We are seeing customer book further out, and I think it’s in everyone’s interest to extend the booking curve."

Hackney was joined on the panel by A-Rosa managing director Lucia Rowe, managing director of Riverside Luxury Cruises Stuart Perl and Scenic Group UK and Ireland managing director Richard Twynam. 

Echoing Hackney, each described how this year’s wave period has so far hinted a positive year for the sector. 

"River is definitely back," Rowe said. "We are going to have a wonderful time this year – but only if [agents] make it so.

"We are here to support you, but now it is about performance. It’s important to speak about this, as we all want to be successful and we all want to achieve the same things."