The UK and Ireland river cruise market grew in 2018 but at half the rate of the previous year.
According to the latest figures from Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), 232,300 river cruises were taken by British and Irish holidaymakers last year, an increase of 10.4% over 2017.
In 2017, passenger numbers rose by 21% to a record 210,400 passengers.
"One-third of all river ships have been built within the past 10 years, with 18 new vessels set to launch from now to 2020, meaning that guests can sail on ships that are contemporary, luxurious and have plenty to offer. This attracts the modern-day traveller, who seeks to explore the world in comfort and style.
"River cruise lines are also focussing on shore excursion choices with activities that either keep guests active with biking, hiking or canoeing or that offer enriching experiences, where guests can learn a new skill or improve an existing one.~"
The Danube overtook the Rhine to become the most popular river for UK and Irish passengers.
Together, the rivers and their tributaries accounted for 58% of passenger numbers, compared to 53% in 2017.
In Southern Europe, the Douro experienced the highest growth with an increase of almost 15% in passenger numbers.
The average length of a river cruise in Europe rose slightly to eight nights and non-Europe cruises had an average length of 6.7 nights, an increase of 3.1% from 2017.~
