River Cruises
Overview
River cruising isn't really a destination per se but it is a method of getting to a destination that is very popular. Why? I think there are several factors. People have gotten tired of the typical escorted group tours where you have to pack and unpack every 1-2 nights. When you stay in a different hotel almost every night, the level of quality and comfort can vary. With river cruises, the standard of luxury has been raised to a new standard. Also, since you are staying there for 7-nights or more, it is nice to unpack once and know exactly what kind of accommodations you will have. You can find a river cruise suited to any taste level and age group because as the demand rises, the more options the river cruise companies are going to offer.
These cruises are 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 and 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 and chocolate or cooking or spa and wellness. Another appeal for people 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.
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.
Locations
River cruises can take you almost anywhere in the world ... that have a river anyway. They started out by offering destinations across Europe but you can find river cruises across the United States (Mississippi), China, Portugal (Douro), Egypt (Nile), Vietnam and more.
Some river cruise companies are even expanding into ocean cruises which means the destination options are becoming even more diverse. Also, some ocean cruise lines are getting into the river cruise business too.
River cruising is a different cruise experience than most ocean cruises as the ships are smaller, most have private verandas, fine dining and in-depth exploration at each destination.
The predominate destination for river cruising is in Europe which have a long history and many rivers to choose from. The Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers are the most famous, allowing uninterrupted passage through multiple countries from the Netherlands (Amsterdam) to Hungary (Budapest) and beyond, featuring castles, vineyards, and Christmas Markets. Other popular routes include the Seine (Paris to Normandy), the Rhône (through France's wine regions), and the Douro (through Portugal's Douro Valley).
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? For the most part, no but there are some companies and some sailings that do cater to families. River cruising is probably best with teens and young adults.
European river cruisers generally range from between 100 and 200 passengers.
River Cruise Options
The river cruise market in Europe and beyond is characterized by distinct cruise lines that cater to different styles. The market is generally split between Premium Inclusive Lines and True Luxury cruise lines but there is a line suited for just about any type of traveler.
In the premium segment, Viking River Cruises is the largest operator, known for cultural enrichment, consistent Scandinavian design, and a focused adult-only atmosphere. Its close competitor, Emerald Cruises, is also positioned here, offering strong value with many inclusions (like wine/beer with meals and excursions) and unique onboard amenities like a retractable pool. Avalon Waterways distinguishes themselves with a focus on cabin space and beds facing wide windows. Finally, AmaWaterways appeals to active travelers with acclaimed cuisine and varied physical excursions.
At the luxury and all-inclusive segment, Tauck River Cruises is famous for its truly all-inclusive model, covering virtually every expense, including all gratuities and excursions, making for a completely seamless experience. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises operates as a highly themed, floating boutique hotel, offering total luxury immersion, while the newer Riverside Luxury Cruises provides unparalleled space, exquisite food and wine offerings and dedicated butler service for every cabin. Finally, Scenic Cruises offers a high-end, all-inclusive package featuring sleek decor, butler service and unlimited premium beverages.
Riverside Luxury Cruises
River cruising is a treat for the senses, allowing you to see, touch, feel and experience the world like never before. Sit on the intimate, open-air upper deck as you pass by lovely landscapes and lively locales – breathe in life and know. These are moments you will never forget. Enjoy an Earl Grey at teatime or perhaps a Taittinger rosé for a sundowner, while marveling at the engineering feat of the locks. When on land, immerse yourself in the culture of Europe's most beautiful cities. Back on board, enjoy the culinary specialties of the regions you just explored. Unpack once and delight in a million memories. A river cruise with Riverside Luxury Cruises means getting lost in the world and finding yourself.
Tauck River Cruises
Tauck groups its offerings into four product collections: Tauck Journeys are classic land tours visiting multiple destinations and including popular “must-see” attractions as well as authentic, off-the-beaten-path local experiences. Tauck Bridges journeys are designed specifically for families. Tauck Small Ship Cruising and Tauck River Cruising itineraries are enriching cultural land explorations that leverage the ease and convenience of water-borne travel, including private yachts and expeditionary ships, and luxury riverboats, respectively.
Viking River Cruises
Viking is the largest and most widely recognized operator in the river cruise market, known for its consistent fleet of Scandinavian-designed "Longships" and a strong emphasis on cultural enrichment. They provide a refined, adult-only experience where every cruise includes daily shore excursions and beer and wine with lunch and dinner. This focus on consistency, culture, and included amenities has made them the popular choice for broad-appeal, premium river cruising.
They also have a Viking Expeditions division as well which you can read more about on my Expedition Cruises page.
