If you’ve been dreaming of the gentle chime of a ship’s bell or the sight of the Rhine River winding past a medieval castle, your moment has arrived. This week marks the official start of Wave Season—the most significant three-month window in the travel industry.
What is Wave Season?
For the uninitiated, Wave Season (January through March) is when cruise lines release their most aggressive promotions of the year. Historically, cruise companies see nearly 50% of their annual bookings during these 90 days. It’s a period of high energy, high value, and—most importantly—the best availability for the most sought-after itineraries.
Why the Anticipation?
These aren't just standard discounts. Guests wait all year for these promotions because they often include "value-add" perks that aren't available at other times. We’re talking about:
Significant Fare Reductions: Deep discounts on the base price.
Airfare Specials: Many river cruise lines offer free or heavily subsidized international airfare.
Luxury Upgrades: Complimentary cabin upgrades (e.g., moving from a French Balcony to a Suite).
Onboard Credits: "Boutique money" to use for spa treatments, premium excursions, or that special bottle of wine.
The "Sneak Peek" vs. The "Real Deal"
You may have noticed some brands releasing "Early Access" offers this week. Think of these as the opening act. While they are fantastic, we expect the "Real" flagship offers to drop later this week. Each brand—from Viking and AmaWaterways to Uniworld and Avalon—operates on its own timeline. Some will release their full "Wave" suites on January 1st, while others wait for the first Monday of the year.
My advice? If you have a specific ship, date, or destination in mind, let me know today. I am monitoring the internal "agent-only" portals and can jump on a deal the second the "Real" offer goes live, ensuring you get the exact cabin you want before the rest of the world hits "book."
A Glimpse into the Industry Right Now
The travel world is currently buzzing. After record-breaking travel years in 2024 and 2025, ships are filling up faster than ever.
The Trend: Travelers are booking further out. We are seeing heavy interest in 2026 and even early 2027.
The Demand: River cruising remains the fastest-growing segment of the industry because of its intimate size and "dock-in-the-heart-of-the-city" convenience.
The Strategy: Wave Season isn't just about the lowest price; it’s about securing the best value. Don’t get left on the dock! Let’s find your perfect itinerary together while the "Wave" is at its peak.
🚢 Wave Season "Sneak Peek" List
This week only—early access to 2026/2027 values.
Viking River Cruises:
The Offer: Up to FREE International Airfare + Reduced Fares.
The Catch: Requires a $25 deposit to lock in the rate.
Best For: Iconic itineraries like the Rhine Getaway and Danube Waltz.
AmaWaterways:
The Offer: Triple Savings Event. Receive $2,000 off per stateroom, a complimentary stateroom upgrade, and $100 onboard credit.
Bonus: Can be combined with their "AirPlus" fixed rates (starting at $899 roundtrip air).
Avalon Waterways:
The Offer: Save $2,000 per couple PLUS Free Air on select 2026 European departures.
Solo Traveler Special: They are currently waiving the single supplement on select 2026 sailings—a rare find for Wave Season!
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises:
The Offer: 2026 Ultimate Travel Sale. Savings of up to $2,000 per person on their most luxury-inclusive sailings (Vietnam, Egypt, and the Danube).
Past Guest Perk: Additional "River Heritage Club" savings are currently stackable with these Wave offers.
Riviera Travel:
The Offer: 50% OFF per person on all 2026 and 2027 departures, plus a $500 airfare credit.
