European Waterways | MORAL COMPASS: Great Places to Go Where the Going Does Good

Cruising the canals of France on European Waterways’ Panache, accentuating the trend for slow, mindful travel that immerse travelers in localities and culture © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com

“In 2025, the travel industry is all about mindful travel, personalization, and creating unforgettable experiences,” states Maryanne Sparkes, Travel Expert at European Waterways highlighting the biggest trends shaping travel demand for 2025. “With more people looking to connect deeply with the places they visit, tourism providers are stepping up with fresh ideas to match these changing expectations.”

Maryanne flags that mindful tourism will definitely take center stage in 2025: “Sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it’s become essential in travel. We’re seeing airlines investing in sustainable fuels and working to offset their carbon emissions, which is such an important step. Hotels are also stepping up, with more achieving certifications like LEED and Green Globe, and even entire ‘green resorts’ running on renewable energy while promoting eco-friendly practices.”

“Another big shift is in how people travel. Slow travel is really taking off, with more people choosing longer stays in fewer places to not only reduce their environmental impact but also to truly connect with the local culture. It’s about making travel more meaningful for everyone involved,” she adds.

In addition to this, she also suggests that there will be a rise of boutique and off-the-beaten-path destinations: “With over-tourism putting pressure on major cities, travellers are increasingly turning to lesser-known destinations for more authentic and mindful experiences,” says Maryanne Sparkes. “Places like Albania, Greenland, and Uzbekistan are really having a moment. People are drawn to their raw beauty, unique cultures, and opportunities for immersive, local-focused tourism—whether it’s farm-to-table dining, craft workshops, or guided tours by locals.”.

Sparkes highlights the growing trend of seasonal flexibility as well. “Travellers are also exploring destinations in the off-season, which not only avoids the crowds but often comes with lower costs and a deeper connection to the place.”

The Scottish Highlands, UK: “There’s something magical about experiencing the Highlands by water,” Sparkes shares. “Luxury barge cruises along the Caledonian Canal combine breathtaking views, whisky tastings, and Scotland’s rugged beauty—all from the comfort of a floating boutique hotel.”

The Loire Valley, France: “The Loire Valley is like stepping into a storybook,” Sparkes says. “River cruises along the River Cher reveal enchanting castles, medieval villages, and a history that’s impossible to replicate. Known as ‘The Valley of the Kings of France,’ it’s the perfect destination for those who love history, elegance and cultural depth.”

As Sparkes points out, European Waterways offers an exclusive hotel barge experience in the Loire Valley. “It’s not just about sightseeing—it’s about true immersion. Guests can wander centuries-old streets, explore vibrant markets, and sample local delicacies like world-famous goat cheese and fine wines.”

Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast: “Boutique cruises are making Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast even more accessible,” Sparkes adds. “Hidden gems like Vis and Lastovo are ideal for travellers seeking untouched beaches and vibrant local culture. It’s a seafood lover’s paradise and a dream for anyone chasing authenticity.”

Another trend that Maryanne suggests will escalate in 2025 is advances in technology: “Technology is transforming every part of the travel experience, making it smoother, smarter, and more connected,” says Maryanne Sparkes. “Biometric check-ins and digital wallets are taking the hassle out of airports, letting travellers focus on the journey rather than the logistics.

“Even luggage is getting an upgrade—GPS tracking, self-weighing features, and built-in charging ports are becoming the norm, which is a game-changer for peace of mind and convenience,” she adds.

Sparkes also highlights how technology is breaking down cultural barriers. “Real-time AI translation tools are a huge leap forward. They make it so much easier to connect with locals, whether you’re ordering a meal, asking for directions, or just having a chat. It adds a whole new layer of richness to the travel experience.”

Connect with European Waterways at www.europeanwaterways.com.

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*Experiencing the innovative wine-making techniques of the Lissner Winery on European Waterways’ Panache canal cruise through the Alsace-Lorraine, France © Karen Rubin/goingplacesfarandnear.com*

“Wine and friends are a great blend,” Ernest Hemingway once said. This philosophy is at the heart of European Waterways’ dedication to offering its guests exclusive, immersive wine experiences on their luxury hotel barges that cruise the canals.

Guests cruise with like-minded fellow travelers who are enjoy sharing the experience of learning about the history and traditions of winemaking, from grape growing to bottling, and the nuances of the different wines. Excursions feature tastings at family-owned vineyards and private tours of historic châteaux.

The cruises also include gastronomic meals paired with the finest regional wines, sometimes from the very vineyard visited. On board hosts explain the significance of each vintage and guide guests on how to best enjoy them.

“Wine and the company of fellow passengers are integral parts of the luxury hotel barge cruising experience,” said Derek Banks, Managing Director of European Waterways. “Whether serious connoisseurs or just curious about wines, our guests are always sure to stay in good ‘spirit’ throughout the six-night, all-inclusive cruises.”

A Fine Wine Romance

Among European Waterways’ popular hotel barges is the eight-passenger Finesse, which cruises Southern Burgundy. Guests aboard Finesse visit Maison Champy – a winery located in the heart of Beaune, the Capital of Burgundy Wines. A UNESCO historical monument, the winery was designed by the famed architect, Gustave Eiffel, and is one of the oldest in France. Here they’ll enjoy a guided tour of the vineyards and a tasting hosted by a wine expert. They’ll also be treated to a gourmet lunch at CUVE 17, a unique dining experience inside one of the winery’s huge historic wooden wine vats, known as ‘cuves’, where a four-course seasonal lunch with wine parings of Premier and Grand Crus is served.

Guests aboard European Waterways’ eight-passenger Renaissance, cruising France’s oldest canal, the Canal de Briare, enjoy a tour and private wine tasting at the Sancerre winery of La Perrière. The winery is famous for its vast natural cave, dating back millions of years, where its distillation vats are housed. Renaissance cruises include excursions to the studio home of artist Rosa Bonheur, the most celebrated female artist of the 19th century, with a private lunch in her salon. They also offer a cooking demonstration at the privately-owned Château de La Bussière, a former fortified castle dating back to the 12^th century.

Guests on the 12-passenger Panache visit the boutique Grand Cru champagne house of Frerejean Frères, located in the middle of the Champagne countryside. The tour is followed by lunch in the family Domaine, with ingredients harvested from its gardens. Champagne cruise passengers savor more bubbles with tastings at the world-renowned house of Moët & Chandon and the Maison Pannier winery with its labyrinth of medieval underground cellars.

The Panache also travels through the Alsace-Lorraine region.

Hotel Barging on European Waterways

Hotel Barging is a boutique experience that offers an immersive and all-inclusive “gentle voyage of discovery,” focusing upon the culture, history, fine wine, and gourmet cuisine of the cruise regions. With a 6-to-20-person capacity and 1:2 crew ratio, European Waterways is able to provide an impeccable level of on-board service and transport its guests on intimate inland waterways that are inaccessible to larger vessels.

This fascinating network of smaller canals allows for flexibility, spontaneity, and ample opportunity to hop off and explore the beautiful surroundings via bicycle or on foot. In addition, there are daily, chauffeured excursions “off the beaten track” to a wide variety of enthralling locations and activities, from exquisite wine tastings to private tours of stately homes.

With over 40 years’ experience and a fleet that spans nine countries, European Waterways is one of the largest luxury hotel barging companies in Europe.

Most European Waterways hotel barges can also be chartered for a more immersive Wine Appreciation Cruise.

For more information, call 1-877-879-8808 in the U.S. and 1-877-574-3404 in Canada, or visit www.europeanwaterways.com.