Christmas market cruises are close to full for this holiday season, with several river cruise lines reporting limited space available. So those lines' message to travel advisors is clear: Tell clients who are doing some last-minute holiday shopping to instead book now for 2026 and beyond.
Though travel companies have reported a shorter booking window for trips, holiday cruises buck that trend. Viking has sold out 64% of its 2026 cruises already, said Richard Marnell, executive vice president of marketing. And this year? Effectively no availability, he said.
"We encourage guests and their travel advisors to book as early as possible for the widest possible selection in stateroom categories and departure dates," he said.
Unlike its competitors Uniworld said it still has options for last-minute shoppers. As of Nov. 21, the line had space available on four departures for its Magical Parisian Holiday itinerary, which travels roundtrip from Paris. The cruise also visits Rouen for its Christmas market and a cider farm in Vernon.
It's a different story elsewhere, though.
Amadeus River Cruises said its 2025 sailings are nearly full, and the same is true for many of its 2026 itineraries already. The best availability for a Christmas cruise with Amadeus isn't until December 2026, said marketing director Victoria Singleton.
Christmas cruises are always among AmaWaterways' most popular offerings, said chief sales officer Alex Pinelo; all of its 2023 and 2024 market sailings sold out. The popularity led the line to expand its Christmas portfolio. Its Festive Delights sailings, for instance, take place in November, enabling guests to get in the holiday spirit early, at the beginning of market season.
"It's a wonderful option for guests who want to soak in the festive atmosphere and still be home in time for the holidays, with November and early December departures offering that perfect balance," Pinelo said.
Avalon Waterways reports that its 2025 Christmas market cruises are effectively sold out, with 97% booked. President Pam Hoffee said the line has added capacity two years in a row and plans to expand its offerings again next year to meet demand.
Scenic Group, the parent company of Emerald Cruises & Tours and Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, added three departure dates this year and plans to add more next year.
Tauck said it is doubling capacity on its Christmas Markets on the Rhine itinerary in 2027.
The company debuted an itinerary on the Seine this year due to surging demand. It sold out quickly but will return for 2026.
The Seine: Holiday Magic cruise takes passengers on an eight-day trip through France, where they will experience Paris' festive spirit, visit holiday markets and also enjoy non-Christmas-themed excursions.