RIVER CRUISING
River cruises may visit many of the same destinations, but the experience can vary considerably from one cruise line and itinerary to another. Ship style, included excursions, activity level, stateroom design, dining, time in port and what’s included in the fare can all affect which cruise feels right for you. I help you compare those differences and choose the river cruise that fits the way you want to travel.
If you’d like more time before or after your cruise, I can also help coordinate an appropriate pre- or post-cruise stay or extension.
Why Work With a River Cruise Specialist?
If you’ve already narrowed your choices—or even found a sailing you like—you don’t have to start over. I can help you look at the differences that matter and determine whether the cruise you’re considering is a good fit.
- Choosing the right river and itinerary
- Comparing river cruise lines
- Selecting cabin categories
- Deciding whether an upgrade is worthwhile
- Pre/post-cruise hotels
- Rail connections and transfers
- Independent land extensions
- Passports/documentation reminders
- Excursions and optional tours
- Travel insurance
- Final itinerary review
- Coordinating the cruise and applicable travel arrangements while allowing you to arrange your own airfare if you prefer
River Cruise Lines I Work With:
There isn’t one river cruise line that’s right for everyone. Differences in ship design, included experiences, excursion style, dining, pace and overall atmosphere can make one line a better fit for a particular traveler or itinerary. These are several of the river cruise companies I regularly consider when helping clients compare their options.
Premium River Cruise Lines
AMAWaterways
AMAWaterways sets the standard for premium cruising on the rivers of Europe, Asia, and Africa. With unmatched service, immersive small group excursions, and thoughtfully designed staterooms, an AMA river cruise can truly be tailored to your vacation vision.
Avalon Waterways
It’s all about your outlook on Avalon Waterways’ Suite Ships®! These suites feature beds that face the floor-to-ceiling windows and the ability to transform your suite into an Open-Air Balcony, so you can soak up the view while sailing past Europe’s charming towns and hillside castles. Dedicated to the experience and enjoyment of their guests, Avalon Waterways will ensure your river cruise is one to remember.
Viking River Cruises
Viking is among the well-known names in river cruising for good reason. Viking’s elegant, innovative Longships are designed specifically to navigate Europe’s great rivers, and they also have all the amenities of a first-rate hotel. The Romantic Danube and Rhine Getaway sailings are among the popular ways to explore European’s scenic countryside and cultural centers.
Luxury River Cruise Lines (more all-inclusive)
Uniworld
Uniworld offers a more all inclusive experience onboard featuring luxurious in-room amenities, free-flowing premium wines, beer and spirits, five-star farm-to-table dining onboard, multiple options for daily excursions, onboard entertainment and much more. Their ships resemble boutique hotels uniquely styled with custom fabrics, unique color palettes and original works by renowned artists, no two ships—or even suites for that matter—are alike. Highly rated service with guest ratios approximately 1 to 2.4 so you know you can expect outstanding service.
Tauck
The magic of Tauck’s award-winning European river cruises goes far beyond the riverboat you’re aboard or the landmarks you’ll visit. It’s in the intimate ambiance and personalized service… the places you’ll discover off the beaten path… and in the uncommon access to local culture and exclusive destination driven experiences you can’t get on your own, as you experience a true slice of European life and return home transformed.
Riverside
Luxury on the water…. Riverside is fairly new to the river cruise scene, with its launch in 2022. They acquired several vessels from the now defunct Crystal River Cruise Line along with debuting several new ones of their own. The company focuses on a high-level of service, its all inclusiveness, and unmatched luxury. It’s received a prestigious award from Travel & Leisure after only one year of sailing which speaks for itself. They boast the largest average suite size on the rivers which include large panoramic windows that can go up and down to let in fresh air (no step out balconies). They also include butler-personal concierge service in every suite as well as 24-hour room service.
Pre- and Post- Cruise Planning
Extend Your Vacation Beyond the Cruise
A European river cruise is a wonderful opportunity to spend additional time exploring before or after your sailing. We can help coordinate hotels, rail, transfers, sightseeing and independent land arrangements in addition to cruise-line extension packages. Learn More About Pre- & Post-Cruise Planning
Already Considering a River Cruise?
If you’ve found an itinerary or river cruise line that interests you, you’re welcome to start there. Tell me what you’re considering and what matters most to you, and I’ll help you evaluate the options and determine the next steps.