TORONTO — Avalon Waterways is preparing for another show-stopping season in 2026, announcing the return of its highly popular Storyteller Series.

Now in its fifth year, the series offers travellers the opportunity to sail Europe’s rivers alongside icons of entertainment and literature.

For the 2026 season, Avalon will once again roll out the red carpet for two major headliners: chart-topping rock band Sister Hazel and celebrated actor, author and Avalon Waterways spokesperson Graham McTavish.

“While the world’s waterways will always take centre stage with Avalon, when you combine breathtaking scenery with some of the most talented storytellers of our time, you create an experience unlike any other,” said Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways. “With our Storyteller Series, we’ve redefined river cruising—offering guests front-row access to their favourite icons, unforgettable encounters and immersive adventures that turn the page on traditional travel.”

Since launching its Storyteller Series, Avalon Waterways has welcomed a wide range of celebrated guests, including Diana Gabaldon, Candace Bushnell, Gillian Flynn, Jen Hatmaker, Christopher Moore and Cheryl Strayed.

The 2026 lineup includes:

Rogue on the Rhône: A Legendary Voyage with Graham McTavish
8-Day River Cruise | Lyon to Arles | June 9 – 16, 2026
Guests will join Outlander star and bestselling author Graham McTavish for an epic journey along the Rhône River. This special Active & Discovery cruise invites travellers to sip, sail and swagger through Provence and Burgundy, exploring the region’s Roman heritage, artistic masterpieces and wine traditions while enjoying McTavish’s behind-the-scenes stories from his life on screen and in print.

Rockin’ on the Rhine with Sister Hazel
8-Day River Cruise | Amsterdam to Basel | July 11 – 18, 2026
Sister Hazel returns for its third sailing with Avalon, inviting fans to rock the boat along the Rhine River. Cruisers can look forward to exclusive performances, personal meet-and-greet moments and special events, all set against the backdrop of Europe’s most picturesque riverscapes – from Amsterdam’s canals to the medieval castles of the Rhine Gorge.

For more information, visit www.avalonwaterways.ca/storyteller. Travel advisors can find resources at www.traveladvisorportal.ca.