River Cruises

What is a River Cruise?

A river cruise is an intimate, immersive way to travel through the heart of a destination. Unlike ocean cruises that visit coastal ports, river cruises glide along the inland waterways that have shaped civilizations for thousands of years. You will pass through charming villages, historic cities, vineyard-covered hillsides, and medieval castles - all from the comfort of a boutique-sized ship that typically carries 100 to 200 guests.

River cruise ships are designed to navigate narrow waterways and fit through locks, so they are significantly smaller than ocean liners. This means a more personal experience with exceptional service, gourmet dining, and included excursions at nearly every port of call. Many river cruises are all-inclusive, covering meals, wine and beer with dinner, guided tours, and even gratuities.

River Cruises vs Ocean Cruises

Both river and ocean cruises offer wonderful vacation experiences, but they cater to different travel styles:

Ship Size: River ships carry 100-200 guests compared to 2,000-6,000 on ocean ships. The intimate atmosphere means you will get to know fellow travelers and receive personalized attention from the crew.

Destinations: Ocean cruises visit coastal cities and islands, while river cruises take you deep into the interior of continents, passing through countryside that is inaccessible by larger vessels.

Pace: River cruises tend to be more relaxed and culturally focused, with daily excursions to historic towns, local markets, and cultural landmarks. Ocean cruises offer more onboard entertainment, pools, and sea days.

Scenery: On a river cruise, you are never far from shore. The ever-changing scenery of castles, vineyards, villages, and bridges provides a constantly engaging backdrop. Ocean cruises offer vast open-water vistas and dramatic coastlines.

Inclusions: River cruises typically include more in the base fare - shore excursions, wine with meals, and sometimes gratuities. Ocean cruises often charge separately for specialty dining, drinks, and excursions.

Popular River Cruises Worldwide

European Rivers

Danube River - The most popular European river cruise, flowing through Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, and beyond. Highlights include Vienna, Budapest, and the scenic Wachau Valley.

Rhine River - Cruise past fairy-tale castles, terraced vineyards, and the legendary Lorelei Rock through Germany, France, Switzerland, and the Netherlands.

Seine River - A romantic journey through Normandy to Paris, with stops at Monet's garden in Giverny, the D-Day beaches, and the medieval town of Rouen.

Douro River (Portugal) - Glide through the stunning terraced vineyards of Portugal's port wine region, with visits to Porto and picturesque valley towns.

Beyond Europe

Mekong River (Vietnam & Cambodia) - An exotic journey through Southeast Asia, from Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap, with visits to floating markets, Buddhist temples, and the magnificent Angkor Wat.

Nile River (Egypt) - Follow the path of pharaohs from Luxor to Aswan, visiting the Valley of the Kings, Karnak Temple, and the Temple of Philae.

Amazon River (South America) - An expedition-style cruise through the world's largest rainforest, with wildlife spotting, village visits, and jungle excursions.

Yangtze River (China) - Cruise through the dramatic Three Gorges before they were forever changed by the massive dam project, with visits to ancient temples and riverside cities.

Mississippi River (USA) - Paddle-wheel riverboat cruises evoking the spirit of Mark Twain, from New Orleans to Memphis, with stops at antebellum plantations and blues clubs.