best luxury river cruise lines

The Best Luxury River Cruises

Thought ocean liners were the only option? Think again.

By Elite Traveler

While country-hopping ocean cruises have become the favorable option for many, there are still a wealth of luxury river cruises traversing along the world’s most famous waterways. And thanks to the limited room, you’ll often find that river cruise ships are far smaller meaning that there are fewer people onboard and more intimate experiences to be had. 

The more intimate feel extends to the ports of call too. While most ocean cruise liners will have similar stopping points (meaning all but guaranteed crowds when you embark) river cruises have the luxury of calling at lesser-visited cities and destinations along their route.

Read on to discover the world’s best luxury river cruises, from expeditions along the Nile to meanders down the Seine.

[See also: The Top Cruises for an Adventure in 2023]

Crystal River Cruises

No matter what voyage you embark on with Crystal Cruises , be it ocean or river, you’re in for a five-star experience, think: butler service, a one-to-one (or more) guest to staff ratio, in-room technology, world-class wine and champagne and Michelin-inspired dining. Its five fleet sail through Vienna, Amsterdam, Budapest and Basel, all varying in duration of trip. On any cruise, you will sail the Rhine, Main and Danube and get up close and personal with the quaint villages in Germany, Belgium, Slovakia, Hungary, Austria and the Netherlands. crystalcruises.com

Tauck River Cruises

Tauck offers European river cruises, small-ship cruises, land journeys, group trips and special events. The river cruises in particular are focused on cultural immersion in smaller medieval villages and quaint towns along the way with a strong focus on art and culture along the way. While Tauck hosts trips on the Danube, through Budapest and Amsterdam, through the Douro River Valley and the Seine and through the Swiss Alps, the Savoring France: Paris, Lyon and Provence excursion is perfect for food and wine lovers.

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AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways has debuted three new ships:  AmaMagna , twice the width of traditional cruise ships;  AmaMora , a twin balcony ship; and AmaDouro , sailing exclusively on the Douro River. There are plenty of exciting additions to each ship, including a Zen Wellness Center and more spacious staterooms and full-balcony suites. AmaWaterways sails on rivers worldwide, including the Mekong in Cambodia and Vietnam, Botswana; Chobe River in Africa; and rivers in Europe, including the Rhine, Danube, Douro, Seine, Moselle and more. There are specific wine tours, speciality tours and Christmas tours to book, too.

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Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Uniworld’s Boutique River Cruise collection offers some of the most luxurious amenities in the world paired with custom itineraries you’d be hard pressed to find anywhere else. It’s one of the most sought-after river cruise lines for its boutique-hotel-like aesthetic, bespoke shore excursions, wellness programming and gastronomy. Travel to India on the sacred Ganges River or on the Yangtze in China. There are also Russian excursions; Italian journeys and themed cruises that allow you to connect with your heritage, learn more about local cuisine and wine or focus on culture through a Uniworld Signature Lecture Series. Floating Art Workshops are also a unique offering.

uniworld.com

[See also: Orient Express to Launch World’s Largest Sailing Ship]

Aqua Expeditions

Boutique luxury river and yacht cruise line, Aqua Expeditions, sails the Peruvian Amazon, Mekong River and East Indonesia, offering something different than your traditional European cruises. There is a one-to-one guest to staff ratio on each ship and the line has a strong focus on sustainable practices. A sleek, modern design feels like you’re in a five-star boutique hotel or on a yacht, and with Aqua Blu, you actually are on a yacht. Aqua Blu will launch in November 2019 and is Aqua Expeditions’ first ocean explorer yacht. Every inch of all the cruise ships and yacht are ultra-luxe, with a private cinema, sun deck and spa.

aquaexpeditions.com

[See also: Ship Mates: Cruise Lines Joining Forces with Celebrity Partners]

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The 11 Best Luxury Cruise Lines, According to T+L's Experts

These luxury cruise lines offer stunning suites, fine dining, and exceptional itineraries.

Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal , Departures , TripSavvy , and other publications.

Cruising is back — and you might even say it's better than ever. "Vacations at sea are suddenly one of the biggest things in travel," Travel + Leisure cruise expert Paul Brady reported recently, as summer air travel is looking progressively messier but the cruise industry continues to stabilize post-pandemic. For those looking to plan a cruise, whether it's a last-minute trip for the summer or a 2024 around-the-world cruise, we've narrowed down the best luxury cruise lines to ferry you to some of the world's most mesmerizing destinations in comfort. Here, our favorite luxury cruise lines in the world.

Regent Seven Seas Cruises

When this luxury cruise line says it's all-inclusive, it's not overstating. Everything from shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and laundry to gratuities, top-shelf liquor, and business-class international flights are included with Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' fares. While each luxurious suite features ocean views, nothing beats the view from the epic 4,000-square-foot, two-bedroom Regent Suite, which has two wraparound balconies, three walk-in closets, two Picasso lithographs, and a grand piano.

For the best in-suite views, book a room at the back of the ship, Kelly Cochrane, executive chef of Regent Seven Seas Cruises tells T+L.

Oceania Cruises

Oceania Cruises has just seven ships, but the debut of the brand-new Oceania Vista catapults this cruise line into the luxury division. The cruise line's relatively new Go Local shore excursions for small groups bring travelers to under-the-radar destinations, T+L contributing editor and long-time cruiser Sarah Greaves-Gabbadon reported recently. Her 2022 cruise on Riviera included 70 excursions "from canoeing Croatia’s Cetina River to cooking classes in Athens."

If you've ever dreamed of having your own butler, Silversea is the luxury cruise line for you. In fact, Silversea's butlers take white-glove service to a whole new level — they'll handle your laundry with more care than you do, scour port towns to find your favorite tastes of home, and even help you pack and unpack your suitcase. Further, Silversea's new culinary program, nicknamed S.A.L.T. (for Sea and Land Taste), brings the taste of destinations on board through cooking classes. Of course, there's no need to cook for yourself aboard a Silversea ship, as each one features several restaurants with multi-course menus to whet your appetite every night.

Viking Cruises

Viking Cruises is a river and ocean cruise line that recently added expedition sailings and the Great Lakes trips to its repertoire. "T+L readers rave about the consistency of Viking's vessels and their Scandinavian design," cruise expert Fran Golden reported when Viking once again topped T+L's World's Best Awards last year. Viking came in at No. 1 in T+L's best mid-size ship category and river cruise category. Golden said the WBA Hall of Fame honoree's 50 river "longships" are "light-filled floating boutique hotels."

Laureen Robert / Courtesy of Ponant

French luxury cruise line Ponant aims to make passengers feel as if they're traveling on their own private yachts. Guests enjoy Ladurée macarons, Veuve Clicquot Champagne, and luxurious Hermès bath products on board. Each of the company's ships features an onboard spa with massage cabins and either a Turkish bath or sauna. Ponant's luxurious small ships sail to remote destinations like Antarctica, incorporating once-in-a-lifetime experiences such as eclipse spotting from the edge of the earth. The company also partners with Smithsonian and Disney on certain sailings.

Seabourn cruises to all seven continents, and most recently launched Seabourn Venture , "marking the first time the Carnival Corporation–owned luxury cruise line will offer adventurous sailings on an expedition ship built for extreme environments," Brady reported. (The sibling ship to Venture , Seabourn Pursuit arrives later this year.) The World's Best Award-winning cruise line has all-suite ships and "is known for its onboard service and over-the-top food including complimentary caviar and Thomas Keller steakhouses on ships such as the  Seabourn Ovation, " Brady said.

Windstar Cruises

Windstar Cruises ' luxury small ships call on 150 ports throughout Europe, Central America, the Caribbean, and the South Pacific, and there's no way you'll go hungry on the journey. Exquisite onboard menus have been designed by acclaimed chefs from Michelin-starred restaurants. (You'll have to pay extra for alcohol, but all meals and a Windstar signature onboard barbecue — a feast of whole suckling pig, shrimp brochette, and more — are included.) The cruise line is not only a T+L World's Best Awards Hall of Fame honoree, it has a "long-standing partnership with the James Beard Foundation ," Brady reported, and regularly brings chefs on board for culinary-focused sailings. Yes, chef.

Courtesy of Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Whether it's a river or an ocean you want to cruise, Scenic can take you there in style. The luxury cruise line operates river cruises in Europe and Asia, while ocean cruises on Scenic Eclipse (and the forthcoming Scenic Eclipse II ) can take guests to Antarctica, the Arctic, Australia, South America, and Greenland, among other coveted destinations. On board, you'll find fine dining, expansive spas and fitness facilities, and butler service.

Cunard Line

Jonathan Atkin / Courtesy of Cunard Line

This British luxury cruise line is known for its transatlantic service, which also transports pets between its headquarters in Southampton, England, and New York City. Cunard operates three ships with a fourth in the works, though only the Queen Mary 2 sails the transatlantic route. It's a cruise line that takes formality seriously; white-gloved waiters serve afternoon tea each day at 3:30 p.m. State rooms include 24-hour room service and evening turndown service with chocolates. Don't forget your tux, the gala nights are black tie.

Paul Gauguin Cruises

Roger Paperno / Courtesy of Paul Gauguin Cruises

Paul Gauguin Cruises operates just one ship, but it is exquisite, hosting 330 guests and sailing only in the South Pacific to destinations like Tahiti, Fiji, Tonga, and the Cook Islands. The ship is small enough to access private ports at remote beaches and take travelers well off the beaten path. Named the best small-ship ocean cruise line in T+L's 2022 World's Best Awards, Golden said the line is known for Tahitian-inspired massage techniques in the onboard spa and noted that cruisers particularly love the wonderful staff.

Celebrity Cruises

Steve Dunlop / Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity Cruises ' new Edge Series ships are taking things up a notch. Celebrity's signature Iconic Suites on board the Celebrity Edge and Apex offer panoramic views from above the ship's bridge; each suite boasts more than 2,500 square feet of space, including expansive 690-square-foot terraces, and comes with two bedrooms and two bathrooms. Celebrity Beyond , which debuted in 2022, accommodates 3,260 guests has 32 bars and restaurants, like Le Voyage by chef Daniel Boulud, and two-story villas on board. Beyond 's sibling ship, Ascent , will be delivered later this year.

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19 Luxury River Cruise Lines To Sail With

Choosing the perfect river cruise can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. Yet, the secret to an unforgettable journey lies in selecting luxury river cruise lines that offer more than just a trip – they provide an experience.

This article shines a light on elite river cruises that redefine luxury travel, promising not just destinations but also unrivaled comfort and elegance.

With years of travel writing under our belt and countless rivers crossed, we’ve seen firsthand what sets apart the good from the truly exceptional in river cruising. From the serene beauty of Europe’s grand rivers to remote corners of Asia, get ready for adventure!

Top Luxury River Cruise Lines

The best river cruising companies set the benchmark for luxury and customer service. These cruise lines transform every trip into a journey of cultural enrichment. They are listed in no particular order, just numbered for your ease of reference.

1. Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises  blends modern Scandinavian design with traditional river cruising elements for a comfortable yet refined adventure across various destinations.

With its fleet of Nordic-inspired “Longships,” Viking sails along iconic rivers such as the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Elbe, Rhône, and Portugal’s Douro .

The cruise line stands out for its emphasis on  destination-based entertainment  over traditional shipboard activities.

This approach has earned them recognition as one of the top river and ocean line cruises  and a premier choice for travelers seeking unique and well-curated experiences.

2. Riverside Luxury Cruises

Riverside Luxury Cruises  deliver an exceptional level of elegance on its vessels, acquired from Crystal Cruises. They are renowned for their crew to guest ratio and butler service. Each suite boasts a king-size bed.

The line prioritizes personalized experiences along Europe’s most scenic rivers such as the Danube, the Rhine and the Mosel. Their itineraries can be combined and extended in a variety of different ways.

Aiming to redefine river cruising and set itself apart from other river cruise lines, Crystal River Cruises delivers  exceptional experiences  that go beyond impeccable service and exceptional cuisine to its guests.

Unlike most other river cruise lines, they have open dining times and many tables for two. There are five dining options on board.

3. Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Going strong for 38 years, Scenic Luxury Cruises  are known for their all-inclusive offerings that leave nothing to chance. From butler service for every suite to complimentary beverages and included gratuities, it’s a five-star luxury experience.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours operates a  contemporary fleet  of river vessels and luxury ocean ships such as the Eclipse and Crystal.

Their state-of-the-art river cruise ships provide guests with technology-enhanced rooms and expansive viewing decks for breathtaking vistas.

Scenic’s ultra-luxury river cruises focus on the waterways of Europe and South-East Asia.

4. Amadeus River Cruises

This family-owned Austrian company has over 40 years of experience in river cruising. Also known as Lüftner Cruises, they sail along the Danube, Rhine, Main, Moselle, Elbe, and Seine rivers in Europe.

Amadeus offer gourmet dining in multiple venues and free flowing wines from the finest wine regions . There’s a gym open 24/7 and complimentary use of onboard bicycles.

Their river ships feature spacious, comfortable staterooms and suites, many with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies.

5. Heritage Line

Heritage Line is an award-winning luxury river cruise company that operates vessels along some of Asia’s most scenic and culturally-rich waterways. Their fleet of boutique river cruise ships provides an intimate and high-end experience for travelers.

Some of Heritage Line’s most popular destinations include:

• The Mekong River, spanning Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos
• The Irrawaddy River in Myanmar (Burma)
• Halong Bay in Vietnam

Heritage Line’s ships are designed with elegant, locally-inspired decor that captures the cultural essence of each region. Cabins are spacious and outfitted with private balconies, allowing guests to take in the stunning riverside landscapes.

Onboard, Heritage Line offers exceptional cuisine featuring fresh, regional ingredients. There are also spa facilities, a jacuzzi pool, and other upscale amenities for guests to enjoy. Experienced guides lead shore excursions that provide immersive cultural experiences.

6. AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways  is celebrated for its award-winning dining, wellness activities, and innovative ship designs, such as twin-balcony staterooms. This family-owned company has more than two decades of experience of river cruising.

AmaWaterways provides a high-end, all-inclusive river cruise experience. Fares typically cover accommodations, dining, beverages, sightseeing activities, and other amenities. Guests on board AmaMagna have access to a full-sized pickleball court.

They offer complimentary bikes, The Chef’s Table and high-speed WiFi. This makes them an attractive option for travelers seeking a hassle-free, upscale river journey.

7. Les Bateaux Belmond

Les Bateaux Belmond is the river cruise division of the prestigious Belmond luxury travel brand. Their fleet of 7 floating villas operates in French regions like Burgundy, the Camargue, Champagne and Provence.

Belmond’s highly curated and exclusive itineraries focus on exclusive experiences, culinary delights, and scenic landscapes. Some of their barges have heated pools, and one has a grand piano.

You can also charter one of their luxury barges and enjoy a custom-made itinerary.

8. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Uniworld is recognized as one of the most luxurious and distinctive river cruise lines. They appeal to discerning travelers seeking an elevated, boutique-style experience on the rivers of the world.

They offer river cruises in Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America. Uniworld’s luxurious fleet boasts original artworks and antiques together with the latest technological innovations.

Their spacious suites feature marble bathrooms, Asprey toiletries, Savoir Beds of England and a fully stocked bar. Your butler will deliver fresh cookies and fruit daily.

Uniworld are known for their all-inclusive luxury travel experience. Guests enjoy unlimited premium wines and spirits, farm to table cuisine, wellness classes, WiFi, all gratuities onboard, shore excursions and airport transfers.

9. Adventures by Disney

Adventures by Disney is the family-focused river cruise brand operated in partnership with AmaWaterways.

Launched in 2016, Adventures by Disney river cruises sail along major European waterways like the Danube, Rhine and Seine rivers.

These cruises are designed to provide an engaging, hands-on travel experience for families, with activities, excursions, and programming specifically tailored for both adults and children.

Onboard, guests enjoy the services of two Disney-trained Adventure Guides who lead the family-oriented activities, excursions, and entertainment. There are onboard Disney sweet treats and fun activities such as Disney-themed karaoke and trivia.

10. Tauck River Cruises

Tauck River Cruises  earns its reputation through meticulously planned tours that cater to travelers looking for depth in their journey.

This American cruise operator stands out for its spacious ships that offer the  highest space per guest  on European waterways.

Guests enjoy a blend of casual elegance and  all-inclusive amenities , which cover a wide range of shore excursions and drinks with meals.

Exploring destinations along iconic rivers such as the Danube, Rhine, Rhône, Douro, and Seine allows travelers to immerse themselves in rich history and culture. Tauck have an interesting collection of themed river cruises, such as Christmas Market River Cruises and Musical Magic Along the Blue Danube.

11. Aqua Expeditions

Aqua Expeditions was founded in 2007 and operates small expedition-style river cruise ships that sail on the Amazon River in Peru, as well as the Mekong River in Southeast Asia.

The cruise line is known for its sustainability efforts, supporting local communities and utilizing eco-friendly practices.

Aqua Expeditions’ Amazon river cruises explore the remote Peruvian Amazon, with itineraries that allow deep immersion in the rainforest environment and local indigenous cultures.

On the Mekong River, Aqua Expeditions offers cruises that visit destinations in Vietnam and Cambodia, showcasing the river’s natural landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant local communities.

12. Croisi-Europe

CroisiEurope is a French river cruise line that operates cruises in Europe, Africa and Asia. It operates a fleet of 50 river cruise ships that sail on rivers like the Rhine, Danube, Seine, Rhône, and Douro in Europe, the Mekong river in Asia and Lake Kariba in Africa.

The company’s ships carry between 16-200 passengers. CroisiEurope owns its own shipyard and vessels, allowing them to customize ships for the shallow rivers of Europe. Each cabin has an exterior view.

Known for their French cuisine and hospitality onboard, CroisiEurope excels at multi-generational all-inclusive cruising. Their themed cruises such as hiking and music are particularly popular.

13. American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines is a U.S.-based cruise company that specializes in small ship and riverboat cruises, primarily along the rivers and waterways of the United States.

The company operates a fleet of modern riverboats and small cruise ships that sail on rivers such as the Mississippi, Ohio, Columbia, Snake, and the Intracoastal Waterway.

Compared to large ocean cruise ships, American Cruise Lines’ vessels carry a relatively small number of passengers, typically between 100-190 guests.

Itineraries range from 5 to 15 nights and cover a variety of themes, including music and culture, Civil War history, nature and wildlife, and more.

14. Emerald River Cruises

Emerald Waterways is a river cruise line operated by Scenic Group and launched in 2014. They offer river cruises on major European waterways including the Danube, Rhine, Main, Moselle, and Douro rivers.

Emerald’s fleet consists of over 15 custom-built “Star-Ships” that feature contemporary, innovative design with features like indoor balconies and pool areas.

The ships accommodate around 180-220 passengers, providing a mid-size, more intimate river cruise experience compared to some larger lines.

15. Avalon Waterways

Established in 2004, Avalon Waterways is a river cruise company that operates river cruise ships along various waterways in Europe, Asia, and South America.

Avalon is known for its focus on providing innovative ship design, all-inclusive pricing, and flexible cruise packages that appeal to both experienced and first-time river cruisers.

Their fleet consists of over 30 modern river cruise ships, including Suite Ships which feature spacious suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows.

Avalon’s cruise itineraries range from 8 to 24 days and include shore excursions, onboard entertainment and fine dining.

16. TUI River Cruises

TUI River Cruises is a relatively new river cruise brand that launched in 2019. It’s a subsidiary of the TUI Group, one of the world’s largest travel companies.

The cruise line operates a fleet of modern, custom-built river cruise ships that sail on popular European waterways like the Danube, Rhine, Main, and Moselle rivers.

TUI’s ships accommodate around 155-190 passengers, providing a more intimate cruising experience compared to some larger river cruise lines.

Shore excursions range from walking tours and bike rides to more active adventures like hiking and kayaking, allowing guests to explore the destinations in depth.

17. A-ROSA Cruises

A-ROSA is a German river cruise line that operates primarily on the rivers of Europe like the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Douro, and Rhône.

They have a relatively modern fleet of around 15 ships with ship capacities ranging from around 100-300 passengers.

Their cabins tend to be larger than average for a river ship, with most having French balconies or step-out balconies.

A-ROSA attracts an international audience but caters especially well to English and German speakers.

18. Saga River Cruises

Saga River Cruises is a British river cruise line that is part of the Saga Group, a company known for providing travel and insurance products for older adults. The cruise line caters specifically to the 50+ demographic, with an average passenger age of 65-75 years old.

Saga’s river cruise ships accommodate around 190-250 passengers, providing a mid-sized, intimate cruising experience. The ships feature modern, contemporary design with amenities like balcony suites, wellness facilities, and spacious public areas.

This river cruise line is known for its all-inclusive pricing, which covers gratuities, select drinks, and door-to-door chauffeur service to the departure point.

19. Antara Cruises

Specializing in all-suite river journeys in India, Antara Cruises guarantee a memorable trip. As well as river ships, they have catamarans – exclusive 2-suite vessels built specifically for the river in Bhitarkanika National Park.

What’s more, Antara offer a complete buyout of their ships for charters ranging from 2-7 nights, for a maximum of 56 guests.

Antara River Cruises boast a number of key inclusions such as farm to table cuisine, a complimentary signature event during each trip, butler service and free WiFi.

Final Thoughts on the Best Luxury River Cruise Lines

Luxury river cruising has evolved from sparse accommodations in the early 1990s to beautifully decorated ships inspired by the destinations they cruise through.

River cruising provides amazing experiences in iconic major cities, unique local culture, and panoramic views of natural beauty. Many luxury river cruise lines boast award-winning dining options featuring local and international cuisines.

River cruise ships are often referred to as boutique hotels on water, offering “hotel style” amenities and all-inclusive experiences.

There are several all-inclusive river cruise lines offering inclusions such as airport transfers, tour experiences, meals, beverages, in-suite bar, shore excursions, gratuities, bike rentals, and butler service.

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Suze and Paul are the founders of LuxuryColumnist, one of the leading luxury online magazines worldwide.

Best river cruise lines around the world

River cruising is the original slow way to travel, as you cruise the calm waters of inland waterways just like Cleopatra did on the Nile. The best river cruise ships are floating hotels with views galore, such as the castles and vineyards of the Rhine or the rice paddies and villages on stilts along the Mekong.

River ships dock near key attractions and feature mostly-inclusive pricing; fares include such perks as basic daily walking tours and wine and beer at meals. But beyond that standard, there are differences in the products. One person's idea of a great vacation may be extraordinary excursions such as an exclusive dinner in a chateau, while others may want spacious cabins or as much foie gras and French cheese as you can possibly eat. Want to relax in a swimming pool? That's doable on some but not all ships. And some river cruises are much more active than others with, for instance, biking and hiking tours.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Here's a rundown of the best river cruise lines traversing inland waterways around the world.

The world's largest river cruise line, Viking has a fleet that in Europe includes dozens of cutting-edge, 190-passenger "longships" with light-filled atriums, an appealing contemporary Scandinavian decor, and cabins with step-out balconies. An outdoor restaurant on the bow means you never miss a chance to take in unobstructed views.

The value-packed experience is geared toward adults and is consistently high quality. Destinations include all the popular rivers of Europe — such as the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Bordeaux, Rhone, Elbe and Douro — as well as the Nile in Egypt, the Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia, and the Mississippi.

For those seeking consistency and value, Viking is the best of the mainstream river companies.

Learn which card in your wallet will help you reach your travel goals for 2022 – just download the free TPG App .

AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways offers such popular upscale features as a top-deck swimming pool with swim-up bar and a big focus on cuisine; its multiple dining venues use high-quality ingredients and its Chef's Table experience is focused on fine local food and wine. The 106- to 196-passenger ships in Europe also have a wellness focus with small spas and fitness rooms and a fleet of bikes for use either on your own or on organized excursions.

AmaWaterways' partnership with Adventures by Disney means families are on board select chartered sailings on the Seine, Rhine and Danube. In addition to a big presence on all the main rivers of Europe, the line sails the Mekong and Nile, as well as the Chobe River of Botswana.

AmaWaterways hits a sweet spot for both foodies and active travelers (and families on the Disney sailings).

Related: Best river cruises in Europe

Uniworld positions itself as a high-end luxury line. Its ships are designed as floating palace hotels, employing marble, Murano glass and expensive fabrics in its over-the-top decor. Don't be surprised if you find yourself lounging in a room decked out in animal prints. The 159-passenger S.S. Catherine on the Rhone and Saone, for instance, boasts a $1 million art collection.

For foodies, foie gras, fresh oysters, regional cheeses and other local delicacies appear on menus. Guests in suites on select ships have butlers on call. Bikes are available to borrow, and the ships have gyms and spas, and, on some ships, lavish indoor pools. Family departures add active excursions, arts and crafts, and visits to amusement parks.

In addition to the major rivers of Europe, Uniworld cruises the less-traversed Po River in Italy (from Venice) and has ships on the Nile and Mekong as well as the Ganges in India.

If you are looking for Old World-style luxury with dramatic flair, Uniworld is your line.

Related: Booking your first river cruise? Here's what you need to know.

Sleek ships with marble lobbies, mid-century furnishings and impressive art collections mark the Australian-owned Scenic as all about luxurious, high-end river cruising. Butler service is part of the scene, and so are free-flowing cocktails, e-bikes and six dining options – all for a passenger contingent of fewer than 170.

Included shore excursions go beyond the standard tours that most lines offer, such as a visit to the Szechenyi baths in Budapest. If you prefer independent travel, Scenic provides a nifty GPS gadget about the size of a cellphone, loaded with maps and commentary that is automatically activated at points of interest. Most of the ships have a pool on the sun deck, along with a fitness center and spa.

Routes include the Rhine and Danube, the Seine, Saone, Rhone, Garonne and Dordogne in Bordeaux, and Portugal's Douro, as well as the Mekong.

When it comes to an active, contemporary, luxury experience, Scenic is at the top.

Emerald Cruises

A sister line to Scenic but priced for budget-conscious travelers, Emerald continues the cool decor on its 182-passenger "Star Ships." The design highlight is an amazing infinity-style indoor/outdoor pool that converts (with a cover) into a movie theater at night.

Fares include most tours, even well-programmed full-day tours with lunch ashore. Destinations include the Danube, Rhine, Main, Rhone, and Douro, as well as the Mekong.

For those watching their pennies, Emerald is the best of the budget-priced ships.

Related: Are river cruises right for kids?

Leading luxury tour operator Tauck has its own fleet of award-winning 84- to 130-passenger river ships cruising the Danube, Douro, Rhine, Rhone and Seine. The big selling point here is that a Tauck tour director and three Tauck cruise directors are on board all departures, assuring that guests are catered to.

The ships deliver great food and wine and beyond-the-norm experiences on shore, such as the chance to sip local varietals in a wine cave. Special family departures — Tauck Bridges — cater to multigenerational families, adding such kid-friendly adventures as a scavenger hunt at the Louvre in Paris. Some staterooms on the newer ships are lofts with high ceilings and a raised seating area; some ships have a Jacuzzi and putting green on the sun deck. Local performers including dance troupes come on board to entertain.

The hand-held, everything-taken-care-of luxury experience that Tauck provides is hard to beat.

Avalon Waterways

Avalon is owned by the Globus Family of Brands, a tour operator company, and that experience comes into play on shore, with such VIP experiences as skipping the line at the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. Pricing on this line is middle of the road, with everything comfortable, reliable and not overly fussy. That said, on the company's sleek, 166-passenger Suite Ships, you can splurge on a Panorama Suite with sitting areas and glass doors that open to bring the fresh air in.

The company lets you personalize your experience down to the kind of pillows you prefer. All ships have a fitness room and fleet of bikes for tours in places such as Amsterdam and Cochem, Germany. There are also hiking excursions. The ships traverse waterways that include the Seine, Rhine, Danube, Douro, Main, Moselle, Rhone, Saone and Mekong.

Avalon is your best choice in the affordable, active category.

CroisiEurope Cruises

French line CroisiEurope caters to travelers on a tight budget and does river cruising in a friendly European style. Among the differences here is you won't just be cruising with fellow Americans. The passenger contingent is mostly bargain-seekers from France and Germany, and you'll hear onboard announcements in multiple languages. Everything from the food and service to the entertainment caters to that crowd. Some will love the idea of cruising like a European, while others may miss, for instance, a wide breadth of entree choices at dinner.

The family-run line has several dozen mostly older ships that operate on rivers that include the Danube, Rhine, Rhone and Saone but also such less-traversed waterways as the Elbe between Berlin and Prague, France's Loire, Spain's Guadalquivir and the Markermeer in the Netherlands. CroiseEurope also has ships on the Nile, Mekong, and Chobe River in Africa.

Try CroisiEurope if you want to grab super-low bargain fares and see Europe with a local crowd.

Grand Circle Line

Part of tour company Grand Circle Travel, this line is a popular affordable choice for travelers age 55-plus in Europe. The fleet of 46- to 140-passenger ships cruises waterways that include the Seine, Rhine, Mosel, Main, Danube and Rhone. Always onboard are Grand Circle program directors supplementing the onboard team and assuring a certain amount of handholding on ship and shore; your American tastes and expectations will be catered to. The line focuses attention on onboard enrichment, such as lectures, dance performances and cooking demonstrations. On shore, Grand Circle's signature experiences are a home visit with a local family and a school visit.

Grand Circle is a top choice company for solo travelers because the ships feature a good number of small cabins designed and priced for one, plus reduced single-supplement pricing for solos who want larger rooms.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines offers cruises on more U.S. waterways than any other river line. Of course, the company's fleet of U.S.-flagged 100- to 190-passenger river ships (including authentic paddlewheelers) travels the popular Mississippi and Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. But it also offers itineraries along the rivers of the San Francisco Bay Area (including a stop in Napa Valley's wine country), Florida's east coast (visiting Amelia Island and St. Augustine) and New York (offering overnight trips on the Hudson). Multi-state trips via the Ohio, Tennessee and Cumberland Rivers round out the offerings.

The crew is all-American, and the ships play up the American theming. Civil War theme cruises are particularly popular.

The river cruises command big prices — from about $575 per person, per night for an ambiance that is comfortably upscale. Particularly on the newer ships, guests stay in big, hotel-like staterooms with indoor sitting areas and balconies (on the 175-passenger American Symphony, for instance, cabins range from 250 to 650 square feet). Local entertainment comes on board, the food is often locally sourced, and cocktail parties are included in the cruise fare.

These river cruises attract mostly older travelers. There are no bars, but that's a bonus in terms of socializing. Everyone goes to the cocktail parties, and getting to know your fellow passengers is a big part of the experience.

Aqua Expeditions

Crowd-free and high-end luxury cruises are this line's calling card both on the Peruvian Amazon and the Mekong. On the 32- to 40-passenger ships, you are embraced in designer decor and expanses of glass, so you don't miss any views. Exquisite gourmet cuisine in both destinations is overseen by top chefs known for their award-winning land-based restaurants, with local ingredients a focus. Tours ashore (sometimes two a day) are often via private, 10-passenger skiffs.

For the privilege of sailing with this line, you may have to pay $1000 per person, per night. The shortest sailings are three nights on the Amazon. Families with kids ages 7 and up are welcome.

Aqua Expeditions is hands down the best luxury product on the Amazon and Mekong; intimate cruising at its finest.

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Luxury River Cruises

Discover the world from a new perspective. River cruises know how to effortlessly deliver you to the heart of a destination, all while treating you to a life of the finer things. Learn more about our selection of luxury river cruises. 

Best Luxury River Cruise Packages

Classic Rhine cruise (Basel-Amsterdam) MS Crucevita

Jewels of Europe 2024|2025 - 15 Days (13 destinations)

Danube Serenade: Romantic Journey from Vienna to Bucharest (Turnu Magurele) , MS Fidelio

Jewels of Europe 2024|2025 - 15 Days (15 destinations)

Grand Danube Cruise 2024

The beautiful blue Danube (port-to-port cruise)

Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2024

From the Blue Danube to the Black Sea (port-to-port cruise) (11 destinations)

Captivating Rhine 2024 Start Amsterdam, End Basel

Classical Rhine Cruise (Amsterdam - Basel) (10 destinations)

Treat yourself to an all-inclusive cruise

Popular luxury river cruise lines.

Want to review and compare the world's top river cruising providers? The following luxury river cruise operators have over 90 reviews from past travellers. Top-rated cruise lines boast an average 4.9-star rating based on 50+ reviews. 

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

AmaWaterways

Viking Cruises

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Best destinations for luxury cruising.

Top Regions for Luxury River Cruise Itineraries

Want more options? Browse through our extensive selection of luxury river cruise packages from all over the world. Choose the region that speaks the most to you. 

Latin America

What to expect on a luxury river cruise.

Enchanting ship

Luxurious accommodations

Michelin-inspired cuisine

Signature experiences

Impeccable service

All inclusive

Tips for planning a luxury cruise, what are the best places for a luxury river cruise.

A lot of people opt for Europe as a destination for luxury river cruising, and this magical continent does lend itself to this style of travel. However, if you want to explore a little further, it's worth considering the  Mekong  and  Irrawaddy  rivers in Asia and  Chobe  River in Africa as a new destination for river cruising. 

What are some of the most luxurious river cruise ships?

Uniworld’s Boutique River Cruise Collection  – known for its boutique-hotel-like aesthetic – pairs some of the most luxurious amenities with custom itineraries. Their newest ship for 2020, the  Mekong Jewel , will be one of the most luxurious cruise ships in the world.  Aqua Expeditions  is another option. Their luxury ships sail the Peruvian Amazon, Mekong River and East Indonesia offering something different to traditional European cruises. 

What are the best luxury river cruise lines?

The top three river cruise operators in the world are Uniworld, Scenic and APT. APT is famous for offering a modern river cruise experience with elegant interiors, while Uniworld has an excellent rating from TourRadar customers and focuses on a bespoke experience. Scenic likes to dive deep with the discovery element. Any package from these operators could be considered as one of the best luxury river cruises.

What is the best time for a luxury river cruise?

Luxury river cruises are perfect for year-round travel! Of course – based on climate – you may have to consider the destination, but generally speaking, there's no right or wrong time for this travel style. You may want to think about the low and high season when booking your trip, Europe, for example, tends to get busy during the summer. 

Other Cruising Destinations You Might Like

• Danube (596)
• Rhine (542)
• Rhone (180)
• Seine (133)
• Red River Delta (110)
• Mekong (72)
• Peruvian Amazon (60)
• Moselle (60)
• Amazon (36)
• Yangtze (22)
• Ganges (22)
• Fish River Canyon Park (12)
• Guadalquivir (12)
• Dordogne (12)
• Garonne (12)
• Gironde (9)
• Blyde River Canyon (5)

Book your luxury cruise today!

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Our team of experienced Cruise Consultants have travelled to hundreds of countries around the globe and have decades of first-hand travel experience to share. Contact us now to have all of your tour-related questions answered!

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