Cruise on...
River cruising is a hotel and transportation all in one. Since many of Europe's historic cities are located directly on navigable rivers, cruising makes an excellent way to move between them without packing and unpacking. Most lines include at least one tour per day, and as choices expand, some lines are even staying overnight. The difference between lines can be seen in crew to passenger ratio, included amenities, fit and finish of the vessels, and ambiance onboard.
On occasion water level (either too much or too little) can be an issue for river cruise ships. Each line has a different method of dealing with the problem, some bussing clients between ships, others move guests to hotels at their expense, and still others cancel the trip entirely. This does not happen in any particular season, and is weather dependent. This link gives an overview of current conditions: http://rivercruiseinfo.com/content/river-levels However, just because conditions are low or high, does not necessarily mean that ships are being effected, so you would want to check with your particular cruise line of choice. Of the lines some of AMA Waterways ships are designed to sail in the lowest water. River cruising can be broken down into two markets.
No matter your style of cruising there is a river cruise experience for you!
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River Cruise Line Comparison
. |
Ama |
Amadeus |
Avalon |
Crystal |
Emerald |
Riviera |
Scenic |
Tauck |
Uniworld |
Viking |
Bikes on Board |
yes |
most* |
yes |
yes |
yes |
. |
yes |
yes |
yes |
. |
Excursions Included |
yes |
purchase |
yes |
yes |
yes |
purchase |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
Fitness Center |
yes |
most* |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
. |
Beer/Wine Lunch & Dinner |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
Anytime Drinks |
Daily Happy Hour |
. |
. |
yes |
. |
. |
yes |
yes |
yes |
purchase |
Butler Service |
. |
. |
. |
yes |
. |
. |
yes |
yes |
some |
. |
Airport Transfers |
with air |
. |
with air |
yes |
yes |
. |
yes |
yes |
yes |
. |
Prepaid Gratuities |
. |
. |
. |
yes |
. |
. |
yes |
yes |
yes |
. |
Room Service |
. |
. |
. |
yes |
selected suites. |
. |
yes |
. |
yes |
selected suites |
Two Room Suite |
some connecting cabins |
. |
. |
yes |
. |
. |
yes |
. |
. |
yes |
Outside Balcony |
yes |
some |
. |
yes |
yes |
some |
yes |
. |
some |
yes |
Amadeus: MS Amadeus and MS Rhapsody do not have fitness centers. Bikes are available on Princess, Elegant, Diamond, Brilliant, Silver, Silver II, Provence
AMA Waterways
AMA Waterways is a high quality upper end cruise line. Their ships are designed to sail in the lowest water of any river cruise line. This family owned business has won many awards. A member of Chaine De Restauranteurs, they offer fine cuisine, and gracious service. Free wi-fi. They offer wellness cruises, holiday cruises, wine cruises, culinary cruises, and cruises with a Spanish speaking guide. Additionally selected sailings offer a no single supplement cabin.
Sailing: Europe, Cambodia/Vietnam, and Africa.
Sailing: Europe, Cambodia/Vietnam, and Africa.
Ship |
Year Built/Renovated |
# of Passengers |
Outside Balconies |
Dining Options |
Pool |
AmaBella |
2010 |
161 |
Yes |
3 |
Yes |
AmaCello |
2008 |
144 |
Yes |
3 |
Yes |
AmaCerto |
2012 |
162 |
Yes |
3 |
Yes |
AmaDante |
2008 |
144 |
Yes |
3 |
Yes |
AmaDolce |
2009 |
144 |
Yes |
3 |
Yes |
AmaKristina |
2017 |
156 |
Yes |
3 |
Yes |
AmaLea |
2018 |
156 |
Yes |
3 |
Yes |
AmaLyra |
2009 |
144 |
Yes |
3 |
Yes |
AmaMagna |
2019 |
tba |
Yes |
3 |
Yes |
AmaMora |
2019 |
tba |
Yes |
3 |
Yes |
AmaPrima |
2013 |
162 |
Yes |
4 |
Yes |
AmaReina |
2014 |
162 |
Yes |
4 |
Yes |
AmaSerena |
2015 |
162 |
Yes |
4 |
Yes |
AmaSonata |
2014 |
162 |
Yes |
4 |
Yes |
AmaStella |
2016 |
156 |
Yes |
4 |
Yes |
AmaVenita |
2015 |
162 |
Yes |
4 |
Yes |
AmaVerde |
2011 |
161 |
Yes |
4 |
Yes |
AmaViola |
2016 |
156 |
Yes |
4 |
Yes |
AmaDouro |
2019 |
102 |
Yes |
tba |
Yes |
AmaVida |
2013 |
102 |
Yes |
2 |
Yes |
AmaDara |
2015 |
124 |
Yes |
3 |
Yes |
Zembezi Queen |
2009/2015 |
28 |
Yes |
1 |
Yes |
Avalon River Cruises
Avalon is known for their french veranda cabins. On their suite ship cabins the bed is turned to face the window, which in turn provides a larger space for the showers. Known for offering shore excursion choices, and free wi-fi. With the purchase of Avalons airfare, transfers on cruise dates are included. The knowledgeable cruise director brings the ports to life. Local entertainers come onboard to entertain, and activities include cheese and chocolate tastings.
Sailings: Europe, Cambodia/Vietnam, Myanmar, China and India
Sailings: Europe, Cambodia/Vietnam, Myanmar, China and India
Ship |
Year Built/Renovated |
# of Passengers |
Suite Ship |
Dining Options |
Avalon Envision |
2018 |
Yes |
4 |
|
Avalon Affinity |
2009 |
138 |
No |
4 |
Avalon Artistry II |
2013 |
128 |
Yes |
4 |
Avalon Expression |
2013 |
166 |
Yes |
4 |
Avalon Felicity |
2010 |
138 |
No |
4 |
Avalon Imagery II |
2016 |
128 |
Yes |
4 |
Avalon Illumination |
2014 |
166 |
Yes |
4 |
Avalon Impression |
2014 |
166 |
Yes |
4 |
Avalon Luminary |
2010 |
138 |
No |
4 |
Avalon Myanmar |
2015 |
36 |
Yes |
2 |
Avalon Panorama |
2011 |
166 |
Yes |
4 |
Avalon Passion |
2016 |
166 |
Yes |
4 |
Avalon Poetry II |
2014 |
128 |
Yes |
4 |
Avalon Saigon |
2018 |
36 |
Yes |
1 |
Avalon Siem Reap |
2015 |
36 |
Yes |
1 |
Avalon Tapestry II |
2015 |
128 |
Yes |
4 |
Avalon Tranquility II |
2015 |
128 |
Yes |
4 |
Avalon Visionary |
2012 |
128 |
Yes |
4 |
Avalon Vista |
2012 |
166 |
Yes |
4 |
Delfin III |
2015 |
44 |
. |
2 |
Ganges Voyager |
2015 |
56 |
. |
2 |
Treasure of the Galapagos |
2009 |
16 |
. |
2 |
Century Legend |
2013 |
312 |
. |
Amadeus River Cruises
Providing a high end cruise experience, but on an a la carte basis for the shore excursions. They have a fitness room, as well as offering massage and a hairdresser.
Sailing: Europe
Sailing: Europe
Ship |
Year Built/Renovated |
# of Passengers |
Outdoor Balcony |
Indoor Pool |
Bikes |
Dining Options |
MS Amadeus Queen |
2018 |
162 |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
3 |
MS Amadeus Provence |
2017 |
140 |
Yes |
No |
No |
3 |
MS Amadeus Silver |
2013 |
180 |
Yes |
No |
No |
3 |
MS Amadeus Silver II |
2015 |
168 |
Yes |
No |
No |
3 |
MS Amadeus Silver III |
2016 |
168 |
Yes |
No |
No |
3 |
MS Amadeus Brilliant |
2011 |
150 |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
2 |
MS Amadeus Elegant |
2010 |
150 |
No |
No |
No |
2 |
MS Amadeus Diamond |
2009 |
146 |
No |
No |
No |
2 |
MS Amadeus Royal |
2005 |
142 |
No |
No |
No |
2 |
MS Amadeus Symphony |
2013 |
144 |
No |
No |
No |
2 |
Crystal River Cruises
Experience the premier river cruise line. All 5 star, and state of the art. Complimentary/paid fitness program, including yoga, and fitness classes. Two bedroom suites, and Butler service. Self service guest laundry is available. Multiple restaurants, and choices, along with a Crystal casual dress code. Multiple shore excursions are included in each port, and local entertainment as well. Free wi-fi.
Cruising: Europe
Cruising: Europe
Ship |
Year Built/Renovated |
# of Passengers |
Dining Options |
Crystal Bach |
2017 |
106 |
4 |
Crystal Mahler |
2017 |
110 |
4 |
Crystal Mozart |
2016 |
154 |
4 |
Emerald Waterways
An inclusive choice, getting good marks for customer satisfaction. Shore inclusions included and onboard bicycles, and even room service with some suites. Free wi-fi!
Sails: Europe
Sails: Europe
Ship |
Year Built/Renovated |
# of Passengers |
Pool |
Dining Options |
Mekong Navigator |
2014 |
68 |
No |
2 |
Emerald Star |
2014 |
182 |
Yes |
3 |
Emerald Sky |
2014 |
182 |
Yes |
3 |
Emerald Sun |
2015 |
182 |
Yes |
3 |
Emerald Dawn |
2015 |
182 |
Yes |
3 |
Emerald Radiance |
2017 |
112 |
Yes |
3 |
Emerald Liberte |
2017 |
138 |
Yes |
3 |
Emerald Destiny |
2017 |
182 |
Yes |
3 |
Riviera River Cruises
Although new to booking in the USA, Riviera has been in business for over 30 years. There is one shore excursion included in every port. Additionally they offer a no solo supplement cabin on every ship. Alcohol is not included, but is reasonably priced, and can be purchased as a package with beer and wine for lunch and dinner. Interestingly all ships have a putting green.
Sailing: Europe
Sailing: Europe
Ship |
Year Built/Renovated |
# of Passengers |
Outside Balcony |
Dining Options |
MS Emily Bronte |
2017 |
169 |
Yes |
2 |
MS Thomas Hardy |
2017 |
169 |
Yes |
2 |
MS Oscar Wilde |
2017 |
169 |
Yes |
2 |
MS Robert Burns |
2018 |
169 |
Yes |
2 |
MS Lord Byron |
2013 |
140 |
No |
3 |
MS Swiss Corona |
2004 |
139 |
No |
2 |
MS Jane Austin |
2015 |
140 |
No |
2 |
MS William Shakespeare |
2014 |
140 |
Yes |
3 |
MS Charles Dickens |
2015 |
140 |
Yes |
3 |
MS Douro Elegance |
2017 |
126 |
No |
2 |
MS Douro Splendour |
2018 |
126 |
No |
2 |
Scenic River Cruises
Targeting the premium river cruise market, this line includes most premium amenities. They have fitness center, massage available, e-bikes, wi-fi, and spacious suites, and many ships include a pool.
Sailing: Europe, Russia, Vietnam/Cambodia, Myanmar, and hosting National Geographic River Cruises (Europe and Southeast Asia)
Sailing: Europe, Russia, Vietnam/Cambodia, Myanmar, and hosting National Geographic River Cruises (Europe and Southeast Asia)
Ship |
Year Built/Renovated |
# of Passengers |
Outside Balconies |
Dining Options |
Scenic Sapphire |
2008/2017 |
155 |
Value |
|
Scenic Diamond |
2008 |
151 |
Yes |
6 |
Scenic Ruby |
2009 |
167 |
Yes |
5 |
Scenic Pearl |
2011 |
167 |
Yes |
5 |
Scenic Tsar |
2012 |
112 |
Yes |
2 |
Scenic Crystal |
2012 |
169 |
Yes |
4 |
Scenic Jewel |
2013 |
169 |
Yes |
4 |
Scenic Jade |
2014 |
169 |
Yes |
4 |
Scenic Gem |
2014 |
128 |
Yes |
4 |
Scenic Opal |
2015 |
169 |
Yes |
4 |
Scenic Jasper |
2016 |
169 |
Yes |
4 |
Scenic Spirit |
2016 |
68 |
No |
2 |
Scenic Azure |
2016 |
96 |
Yes |
5 |
Scenic Aura |
2016 |
44 |
No |
3 |
Scenic Amber |
2016 |
169 |
Yes |
4 |
Tauck River Cruises
A premium river cruise line known for their club like atmosphere and intimate service. Free wi-fi, and local entertainment.
Cruising: Europe
Cruising: Europe
Ship |
Year Built/Refurbished |
# of Passengers |
Dining Options |
ms Emerald |
2006/2017 |
98 |
3 |
ms Esprit |
2010/2015 |
98 |
3 |
ms Grace |
2016 |
130 |
3 |
ms Inspire |
2014 |
130 |
3 |
ms Joy |
2016 |
130 |
3 |
ms Sapphire |
2008/2017 |
98 |
3 |
ms Savor |
2014 |
130 |
3 |
ms Treasures |
2011 |
98 |
3 |
Uniworld River Cruises
All inclusive premium cruise line, with a distinctive boutique ambience. Free wi-fi, beverages anytime, gourmet cruising, and an attention to detail. Slightly more formal than some cruise lines with a Captains gala dinner. Customer satisfaction is high and shore excursions are included.
Cruising: Europe, China, Russia, and Egypt
Cruising: Europe, China, Russia, and Egypt
Ship |
Year Built/Refurbished |
# of Passengers |
Outside Balconies |
Dining Options |
Queen Isabel |
2013 |
116 |
Yes |
1 |
River Countess |
2003/2012 |
130 |
No |
2 |
River Duchess |
2003/2012 |
130 |
No |
2 |
River Empress |
2001/2010 |
130 |
No |
2 |
River Princess |
2001/2011 |
130 |
No |
2 |
River Queen |
1999/2010 |
128 |
No |
2 |
River Royale |
2006/2012 |
130 |
No |
2 |
S.S. Antoinette |
2011 |
154 |
Yes |
1 |
S.S. Beatrice |
2009/2018 |
154 |
No |
1 |
S.S. Catherine |
2014 |
159 |
Yes |
2 |
S.S. Joie de Vivre |
2017 |
128 |
No |
3 |
S.S. Maria Theresa |
2015 |
150 |
Yes |
2 |
River Tosca |
2010 |
82 |
No |
1 |
Mekong Navigator |
2017 |
68 |
Yes |
2 |
Ganges Voyager II |
2016 |
56 |
No |
1 |
River Victoria |
1982/2011 |
202 |
Yes |
1 |
Century Legend |
2013 |
398 |
Yes |
3 |
Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer |
2008/2017 |
124 |
Yes |
1 |
Viking River Cruises
Known for their ever expanding fleet, Viking offers more ships than any other cruise line, all with a minimalist Scandinavian feel. There are many things included, and extras can be purchased to make the package right for you.
Cruising: Europe, Egypt, Russia, and China
Cruising: Europe, Egypt, Russia, and China
Ship |
Year Built/Refurbished |
# of Passengers |
Viking Akun |
1990/2013 |
204 |
Viking Astrild |
2014 |
98 |
Viking Beyla |
2014 |
98 |
Viking Emarald |
2011 |
256 |
Viking Helgi |
1984/2013 |
204 |
Viking Hemming |
2014 |
106 |
Viking Ingvar |
1990/2013 |
204 |
Viking Legend |
2009 |
187 |
Viking Mekong |
2011 |
56 |
Viking Orion |
2018 |
930 |
Viking Osfrid |
2016 |
106 |
Viking Prestige |
2011 |
188 |
Viking Ra |
2017 |
52 |
Viking Rurik |
1975/2012 |
196 |
Viking Sea |
2016 |
930 |
Viking Sineus |
1979/2013 |
196 |
Viking Sky |
2015 |
930 |
Viking Star |
2015 |
930 |
Viking Sun |
2017 |
930 |
Viking Torgil |
2014 |
106 |
Viking Truvor |
1987/2013 |
204 |
All Remaining Ships |
2008-2018 |
190 |
River Cruise Line Comparison
. |
Ama |
Amadeus |
Avalon |
Crystal |
Emerald |
Riviera |
Scenic |
Tauck |
Uniworld |
Bikes on Board |
yes |
most* |
yes |
yes |
yes |
. |
yes |
yes |
yes |
Excursions Included |
yes |
purchase |
yes |
yes |
yes |
purchase |
yes |
yes |
yes |
Fitness Center |
yes |
most* |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
Beer/Wine Lunch & Dinner |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
Anytime Drinks |
Daily Happy Hour |
. |
. |
yes |
. |
. |
yes |
yes |
yes |
Butler Service |
. |
. |
. |
yes |
. |
. |
yes |
yes |
some |
Airport Transfers |
with air |
. |
with air |
yes |
yes |
. |
yes |
yes |
yes |
Prepaid Gratuities |
. |
. |
. |
yes |
. |
. |
yes |
yes |
yes |
Room Service |
. |
. |
. |
yes |
selected suites. |
. |
yes |
. |
yes |
Two Room Suite |
some connecting cabins |
. |
. |
yes |
. |
. |
yes |
. |
. |
Outside Balcony |
yes |
some |
. |
yes |
yes |
some |
yes |
. |
some |
Amadeus: MS Amadeus and MS Rhapsody do not have fitness centers. Bikes are available on Princess, Elegant, Diamond, Brilliant, Silver, Silver II, Provence
