Avalon Waterways has unveiled new seasonal excursions for 2027 designed to take place exclusively during specific times of the year, according to a press release.

The excursions span spring, summer, fall and winter and are timed to regional activities and traditions.

“Our new seasonal excursions connect our guests more deeply to the places they’re exploring,” said Pam Hoffee, president at Avalon Waterways.

“These are experiences that exist for a moment.”

Highlights from the 2027 lineup include apricot picking and tastings in the South of France, lavender visits and distillery experiences, apple picking and cider tastings in Normandy, hands-on culinary classes featuring seasonal ingredients from local markets, strawberry harvest experiences, flower picking and essential oil workshops, and vineyard visits.

The seasonal experiences build on the line’s Avalon Choice Excursions program, which offers classic sightseeing, active exploration or cultural discovery options in each port.

The introduction of seasonal excursions comes as traveler preferences shift toward intentional travel outside peak months, the company said.

According to Avalon, 75 percent of 10,000 Avalon cruisers say they prefer to travel outside peak months.

In 2025, off-season sailings grew 18 percent year-over-year, driven in part by expanded capacity in late fall and early winter.