Ever since Uniworld announced their intention to create a river cruising brand specifically aimed at millennials, other companies have started taking steps to encourage younger people to sail on board their ships. From offering more active excursions to introducing healthier menus, cruise lines are looking to take advantage of an influx of interest from a new generation.

The latest operator to announce plans along these lines is Amadeus, who recently released preliminary information about a range of millennial cruises that will be taking place in 2019 on two brand new ships. For now, a lot of the details are under wraps, but we know that well-known social media influencers will be invited on board each sailing to create a buzz and help craft a program of activities for the younger guests.

These celebrity influencers will be effectively hosting the cruise, running sessions on subjects like health and fitness and nutrition. The names of these special guests are yet to be announced but we do know that the cruises will be either five or six nights in length and take place on the Rhine, Danube and Rhone.

An Age Change

Meanwhile, U by Uniworld – the company specifically created to offer millennial-focussed river cruises on ships labelled The A and The B – has decided to relax its age restrictions. The debut sailing doesn’t take place until April, but the line has moved to remove the barrier that originally only allowed 21 to 45-year-olds to holiday on board.

According to U by Uniworld’s spokesperson, Devyn Barker, this is the only thing that is changing and these ground-breaking river cruises will still be offering everything else as advertised. Barker stated, "U by Uniworld will remain the same with sexy, stylish ships and itineraries that focus on longer stays in destination, allowing guests to connect with local people and experiences and each city's vibrant nightlife.”

The change of heart is said to be because they have realised that “the experience is less about a number and more about attracting a new generation of adult travellers to river cruising”, but this still calls into question whether cruises aimed specifically at millennials will take-off in the long run.

All we know is that the live DJs, chill-out areas, craft cocktails, street food and immersive excursions offered by U by Uniworld’s ships have created a truly exciting product, regardless of how old you are.

For more information on the range of river cruises we have available that are targeted at younger guests, call our knowledgeable team on 0800 954 0064 or click here to submit an enquiry online.