River cruise demographics - how old are river cruisers? (2024)

What are river cruise demographics? How old is the average river cruise passenger?

Things to consider

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Excursions: While you can certainly sit back and watch the world go by, the vast majority of river cruise passengers are on a walking excursion every day
Food: Ocean cruises seem to serve food 24/7 but river cruises don't. River cruises have defined eating times and portions are reasonable. People are not not eating constantly.
Activities: Somepassengers will be biking on any given day while others will be taking active walking options. Yes, slow walking tours are available but my observation is that a minority of the passengers use these.
ADA: The American Disabilities Act does not apply in Europe or to river cruise ships. So passengers will need to climb stairs. While accommodations on the ship can be made for some disabilities, generally passengers are independently mobile.
Exploration: Exploring each new city or town, whether on your own or in a group, requires independence and some exploratory impulses. Young people are simplymore willing to wander and get lost than the old.
Price point: River cruises are beyond the reach of the true budget traveler. These trips do not compete with youth hostels in any way shape or form.
Children: River cruises typically don't have kids running afoot. But there are exceptions and more recently some cruise lines are actively pursing this market (or have plans to).
Nightlife: there's very little entertainment on river cruises in the evenings. Most river cruises have some small musical groups after dinner and there may be some dancing involved. We have been on cruises with lots of after dinner drinking and carrying on but rarely are people up much past midnight. There's no disco or Broadway style shows. Sometimes you'll docked in the evening and can take advantage of the city after dinner (in Amsterdam, Paris or Vienna for example).

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Diversity in numbers - river cruise demographics:

We have been on cruises with very spry 75 year olds as well as with honeymooners in their 30's. Many passengers are +/- 10 years of retiring. Theyare highly educated either formally or via the school of hard knocks. Passengers arevery worldlyand financially well off andmost are from the Anglo countries of US, Brits, Australians. We've met some Europeans and some Brazilians to be sure but most of those that travelon US based river cruisesare American.

The answer is...

There's an old saying when dealing with statistics that averages lie and that's true for river cruise demographics. So while we can provide an average age, know that there's great variation involved. This means that the average age varies by cruise line, itinerary and date. With that said, for at least one cruise line, the average age is 55 years old. Surprised? You won't see any walkers outside the restaurants, you won't see people falling asleep at dinner and you won't see strollers jamming the hallways. But you will see active adults, interested in experiencing and learning about new cultures and seeing world class cities.

Not sure how best you would fit? A great travel agent can guide you to choose the river cruisethat fits your desired demographic.

Want to know more? Check out Am I Too Young or Too Old For A River Cruise?

Susan Wolfson

You're in good hands—I've got the river cruise expertise to prove it. I've navigated through the intricate world of river cruises, observing the demographics, activities, and nuances that set them apart. From the average age of passengers to the cultural exploration opportunities, I've got the inside scoop.

Let's start with demographics. River cruise enthusiasts span a wide age range, from spry 75-year-olds to honeymooners in their 30s. Most passengers, however, are around the retirement age, give or take a decade. They're a well-educated bunch, either through formal education or life's lessons, and financially well-off. The majority hail from Anglo countries like the US, UK, and Australia, though you'll encounter some Europeans and Brazilians on the journey.

Now, let's delve into the key concepts touched upon in the article:

Excursions: River cruisers aren't merely spectators; they're explorers. Daily walking excursions are the norm, showcasing a commitment to active engagement with the surroundings.
Food: Unlike ocean cruises, river cruises follow a more refined dining schedule with reasonable portions. Forget constant snacking—here, it's about savoring meals at designated times.
Activities: From biking to active walking tours, river cruise passengers embrace exploration. Slow walking tours are available but are often less popular.
ADA Considerations: While the American Disabilities Act doesn't apply, accommodations can be made for some disabilities. Passengers should be independently mobile as stairs are part of the experience.
Exploration: Independence and a penchant for exploration define river cruisers. Younger passengers are more likely to wander freely, embracing the unknown.
Price Point: River cruises cater to a more affluent crowd, excluding the budget traveler. These trips stand far apart from the youth hostel experience.
Children: While not common, there are exceptions, and some cruise lines are beginning to embrace the family market. Generally, river cruises aren't overrun by kids.
Nightlife: Don't expect disco balls or Broadway shows. Evenings are more about small musical groups, a bit of dancing, and the option to explore the city after dinner.
Diversity in Numbers: The age spectrum is wide, education levels high, and passengers financially secure. While there's an average age (approximately 55), it varies by cruise line, itinerary, and date.

So, if you're wondering whether you're too young or too old for a river cruise, the answer lies in the diversity of experiences offered. Consult a knowledgeable travel agent to find the perfect fit for your desired demographic. Want more insights? Dive into "Am I Too Young or Too Old For A River Cruise?" by Susan Wolfson.