River cruises are becoming very popular. In fact, with so many companies opening up newer routes along major rivers, and old and established ones offering newer amenities, 2023 is really the year for trying out river cruises.
So what exactly is a river cruise and how is it any different from being at the sea?
A river cruise is a unique voyage along inland waterways, often stopping at multiple ports along the way. Since cities and towns often grew up around rivers, river cruise ships frequently dock in the center of cities and towns giving cruise goers easy access.
The main differences between river cruises and their ocean counterparts is ship size. River vessels are much smaller than ocean cruisers as they have to navigate shallow rivers and locks, whereas ocean ships, as the name suggests, are large enough to sail effortlessly across vast stretches of water.
Here are our four favourite river cruises, and once you read what they offer, you will be in agreement with us – making them your favourite ones as well!
APT Travelmarvel
APT Travelmarvel are a four star premium European river cruise company. It’s the extra little things APT Travelmarvel think of that make your journey totally unforgettable. With inspirational destinations and eye-opening experiences, and so much included in the price, Travelmarvel give you the very best in travel.
With APT Travelmarvel, you can experience the world in a new way as unfamiliar cultures are vividly brought to life by hand-picked local guides, all while enjoying unrivalled care and attention. Travelmarvel also offer small ship yacht cruising around the coast of Croatia.
Viking River Cruises
Viking is a cruise line providing river, ocean, and expedition cruises. The company has three divisions, Viking River Cruises, Viking Ocean Cruises, and Viking Expeditions.
With Viking immerse yourself in the old world as you sail Europe’s most iconic rivers. Discover Danube gems like Vienna and Budapest, see storied Rhine castles, trace French history along the Seine.
From the Main to the Moselle, the Douro to the Dordogne, the Viking experience is unsurpassed.
Riviera River Cruises
With almost 40 years of experience as the UK’s leading escorted tour operator, Riviera can offer remarkable value on their river cruises. The outstanding cruise directors and local guides, meticulously crafted itineraries, award winning reputation, personalised experiences, luxury ships and first-class service are all reasons to book with Riviera River Cruises.
The team of experts personally selects every aspect of your holiday so that it is thoughtfully balanced and honed to perfection. Between their exceptional fleet of ships and handpicked hotels, you can rest assured that you’ll be exploring the world in comfort.
Uniworld
Uniworld boutique river cruise collection is located in Los Angeles, California and the company operates a fleet of 21 river cruising cruise ships along the rivers of Europe, Egypt, South America, and China.
Uniworld offers a 5* luxury experience. Each exquisitely appointed Uniworld river cruise ship is a work of art designed to be as unique as guests and as inspiring as the destinations Uniworld visit. The innovative onshore programs go well beyond landmarks and group tours. With personalized experiences tailored to match both your interests and lifestyle, you can choose from a generous menu of excursions and activities designed to immerse you in the local culture.
