River Cruises
Glide past castles, vineyards and historic towns, and step off right in the heart of each port. River cruising is a relaxed, intimate way to see more of the world.
Why Choose a River Cruise?
Smaller ships, scenic sailing and docking right in town make river cruising one of the easiest ways to explore several destinations in one trip.
Dock in Town
Ships tie up close to the centre of town, so you can often walk straight off and start exploring.
Smaller Ships
Fewer guests means a relaxed, social atmosphere and no long lines.
More Included
Many fares include excursions, Wi-Fi and drinks with meals, so there are fewer surprises.
Scenery Every Day
There’s always something to see from the deck, with land on both sides of the ship.
Planning a European river cruise? See our European River Cruises guide.
Explore Our River Cruise Lines
Every river cruise line has its own style, from active and adventurous to elegant and all-inclusive. Ask us which one is the best fit for you.
Avalon Waterways
Avalon Waterways is known for its Suite Ships, with Panorama Suites featuring wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows that open to create an open-air balcony.
Avalon Choice lets you pick from classic, active and discovery excursions in many ports, so you can explore your way.
Ask an Advisor
AmaWaterways
AmaWaterways is an award-winning line where many staterooms feature twin balconies, and wine, beer and soft drinks are included with dinner.
Onboard bicycles, a Wellness Program and a range of included excursions, from gentle walks to more active options, make it easy to stay active ashore.
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Viking River Cruises
Viking is one of the best-known names in river cruising, with sleek, Scandinavian-designed Longships built for life on Europe’s rivers.
Fares include a shore excursion in every port, Wi-Fi, and beer and wine with lunch and dinner, and voyages are designed for adults.
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CroisiEurope
CroisiEurope is a French, family-owned river cruise line with one of the largest fleets in Europe, known for great value and French-inspired cuisine.
Most drinks are included on board, and its fleet reaches smaller rivers and canals, like France’s Loire, that larger ships can’t.
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Emerald Cruises
Emerald Cruises sails modern Star-Ships with balcony suites and a heated indoor pool that turns into a cinema in the evening.
Fares include select excursions and drinks with lunch and dinner, and EmeraldACTIVE adds options like guided hikes and bike rides for travellers who like to keep moving.
Ask an AdvisorDreaming of Europe’s rivers?
See our European river cruise guide for the Danube, Rhine, Seine and more.
River Cruise FAQs
How is a river cruise different from an ocean cruise?
River ships are much smaller, so the atmosphere is relaxed and social, and you dock right in the heart of town instead of at a big cruise port. You’ll see scenery on both sides of the ship every day. In exchange, you won’t find the casinos, waterslides and big production shows of large ocean ships.
What’s included in a river cruise fare?
Your stateroom and meals on board are included, and many lines also include guided excursions, Wi-Fi and wine or beer with meals. Inclusions vary from line to line, so it’s worth comparing what each fare covers before you book.
When is the best time to take a European river cruise?
Spring brings tulip season in the Netherlands and Belgium, summer offers long, warm days, and fall is lovely for vineyards and harvest season. Late November and December are popular for Christmas market cruises. River levels can sometimes affect itineraries, so we’ll help you weigh the timing.
Is a river cruise a good fit for active travellers?
Yes! Many lines offer active options like guided hikes, bike rides and longer walking tours, and some carry bicycles on board. Keep in mind that town walks often include cobblestones and hills, so let us know about any mobility needs and we’ll help you find a good fit.
Can I river cruise outside of Europe?
Absolutely. Along with Europe’s Danube, Rhine and Seine, river cruise lines sail rivers like the Nile in Egypt, the Mekong in Southeast Asia and the Amazon in South America. Ask a Travitude Travel Group advisor which rivers and lines match your wish list.
Ready to Cruise the Rivers?
Tell us which part of the world you’d like to explore, and a Travitude Travel Group advisor will help you compare river cruise lines, ships and itineraries to find the right fit.
Start Planning Your River CruiseCruise line features and inclusions vary by ship, itinerary and fare, and are subject to change.