Consolidation coming?

[FuelScience]

The CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) River Conf 18 is occurring this week, and there are several predictions that private equity firms and ocean cruise lines will buy river cruise companies and form "superfleets."

 

https://www.ttgmedia.com/news/news/clia-river-conf-18-consolidation-could-fuel-creation-of-super-fleets-16088

[suspaul]

Sure there’s demand for river cruises but the rivers are getting so saturated and congested with all of the different lines that IMHO it’s not nearly as enjoyable as say 5-8 years ago.  Between rafting to other boats, docking locations less than ideal and being bused into towns, it’s changed drastically and not for the best.  

[pully8]

Agree I followed the proceedings. European river cruising as we know it has changed.

More land based adventure/active programmes.

Marketed to younger demographics albeit the target audience is pre/baby boomers because they are perceived to have the wealth.

Ambitious targets for agents to push products.

A little chat about the current river level issues.

Wider ships that will not travel far may suit if river levels remain unreliable.

Glad we sailed when we have, mixed about future offerings, given the post purchase service issues and current issues.

Fortunately we have many choices. 

[Host Jazzbeau]

Not sure if this is what you meant, but there is a new article on Cruise Critic about consolidation in the US river cruise market:

American Queen Steamboat Company Purchases [Victory] Cruise Line, Expands to Great Lakes

https://www.cruisecritic.com/news/news.cfm?ID=8990