by Sarah Kuta
Last updated: 3:00 PM ET, Tue April 28, 2026
Avalon Waterways is launching new seasonal excursions in 2027.
“Where you go matters. When you go can change the experience entirely,” says Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways. “Our new seasonal excursions connect our guests more deeply—and authentically—to the places they’re exploring. These are experiences that exist for a moment, and that’s exactly the point.”
- Examples include:
- Apricot picking and tasting experiences
- Lavender visits and distillery experiences
- Apple picking and cider tastings
- Culinary classes featuring seasonal ingredients
- Strawberry harvest experiences
- Flower picking and essential oil workshops
- Vineyard visits and farming practices
The new seasonal excursions come as traveler preferences continue to shift toward more intentional, cooler and less crowded travel. In fact, 75 percent of 10,000 Avalon cruisers say they prefer to travel outside peak months, a trend already reflected in booking patterns. In 2025, Avalon saw off-season sailings grow 18 percent year-over-year, driven in part by expanded capacity in late fall and early winter.
To meet growing demand, Avalon continues to expand its lineup of seasonally focused cruises, including its Cozy Cruise Collection featuring Harvest, Festive and Christmastime cruises as well as spring sailings, such as Tulip Time cruises.
“Travelers are realizing that shifting when they go doesn’t compromise the experience. Instead, timing can enhance it,” says Hoffee. “With fewer crowds, cooler temperatures and in some cases, more value, we’re opening the door to different experiences year-round. The introduction of seasonal excursions takes that concept even further.”
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