River Cruises
River cruising isn't really a destination per se but it is a method of getting to a destination that is very popular. Why? There are several factors. Some people don't enjoy the typical escorted group tours where you all get on a big motorcoach every day and you pack and unpack every 1-2 nights.
With river cruises, it is like you are staying on a luxurious, floating, boutique hotel that follows you. You can find a river cruise suited to any taste level and age group because, as the demand rises, there will be more options the river cruise companies will offer.
River cruises are typically best for educated and active people who are looking for a deeper immersion into each port's culture and history. Also, since the ships are small (they typically hold less than 200 people) you can really connect and make friendships with the people on board. You can even find cruises that focus on various interests like wine, chocolate, cooking, spa, wellness and more.
Another appeal of river cruising is the all-inclusive nature of the trip too. Many cruise lines include wine and beer at meals and at least one excursion at each port you stop in. Some offer even more!
River cruising is perfect for people who are seeking a relaxed tour of Europe and enjoy the sights along the river's edge and for adventurous folks who want to explore Europe beyond the coastline.
Below are links for more information about various products and brands that we support. You won’t be able to book directly from these links but you can get more information and request brochures. Please make sure to contact us and a Travel Expert will be happy to assist you.
Geography
River cruises can take you almost anywhere in the world. Well, anywhere that has a river! It started out with several destinations across Europe but now you can find river cruises across the United States, China, Portugal, Egypt, Russia, Vietnam and more.
Some river cruise companies are even expanding into ocean cruises which means the destination options are becoming even more diverse. It is a different cruise experience than other ocean cruises as the ships are smaller, all private verandas, fine dining and in-depth exploration at each destination.
These ocean cruise ships will take you to the Viking homelands, the Baltic Sea, the Mediterranean, the British Isles, North America, the Caribbean and more.
Did You Know?
- The average length of a river ship is 390 feet which is about the same size as a football field.
- In 1992, the Main-Danube Canal opened which finally connected the Europe's main arteries. The canal connects the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean to the Black Sea.
- River cruises mostly operate seasonally in Europe from March to November and some have special Christmas Market cruises in December.
- If biking is important to you, make sure to pick a cruise line that has bikes available for everyone to use.
- Kids on board? There are some companies and some sailings that do cater to families. River cruising tends to work better with teens and young adults.
- River cruisers generally range from between 100 and 200 passengers.
Sample Packages & Itineraries
Get More Info
Below are links for more information about various products and brands that we support. You won’t be able to book directly from these links but you can get more information and request brochures. Please make sure to contact us and a Travel Expert will be happy to assist you.
Ama Waterways
Celebrating 20 incredible years on the world’s rivers, our family-owned and operated company has remained focused on what we do best: providing our guests with innovative and unforgettable travel experiences. Our visionary leaders were the pioneers of modern luxury river cruising and have received numerous prestigious awards and accolades. However, we are most fulfilled by the positive feedback we receive from our guests, whom we have always considered a part of our family. Join us, stay awhile and discover Europe, Asia or Africa with us – one river at a time.
Viking River Cruises
Sailing Europe’s storied rivers, the award-winning Longships offer a variety of stateroom categories and true two-room suites with full-size verandas. Onboard amenities include a restaurant, bar and lounge, library and expansive sun deck. The ships feature an elegant Scandinavian design and “green” features, such as solar panels, an onboard organic herb garden and energy-efficient hybrid engines for a remarkably smooth ride.
River cruises range from 8 to 23 days, with itineraries featuring Europe’s Rhine, Main, Danube, Seine, Rhône, Douro, Moselle, Elbe, Dordogne, Garonne and Gironde Rivers; Russia’s Volga, Neva and Svir; Egypt’s Nile; China’s Yangtze; and Southeast Asia’s Mekong.
Viking Ocean Cruises
The company’s award-winning ships are engineered at a size that allows direct access into most ports, so guests have easy and efficient embarkation and disembarkation. Each ship boasts a private veranda in every stateroom, a choice of restaurants offering a variety of fine dining options, the most al fresco dining at sea, an infinity pool, a Nordic-inspired spa, panoramic Explorers’ Lounge and thoughtfully curated book collections throughout the ship, and more—all designed in understated elegance.
Base ocean cruises range from 8 to 15 days, with itineraries designed to maximize the amount of time travelers spend in their destination. Destinations include Northern Europe, Scandinavia and the Baltic, the Mediterranean, the Adriatic, the Americas and the Caribbean, as well as combination cruises of those itineraries available ranging from 22 to 50 days.
Uniworld River Cruises
Sailing by river means enjoying all the conveniences of a traditional cruise, along with all the benefits of inland travel. Stopping in multiple destinations on every trip, you’ll visit bustling cities and hidden gem villages, only unpacking once. Even while onboard you’ll be immersed in the local sights, with ever changing views right outside your window. River cruising is absolutely the best way to cruise, and the best and most luxurious river cruise is with Uniworld.
