River cruise ships (< 300 passengers)
Over the years, AmaWaterways has become the absolute leader in river cruises in Europe, Russia, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Africa. A high standard, an innovative concept, superb fittings, beautiful cabins, excellent cuisine, and a personalised service all contribute to the excellent reputation of this company. As it is a member of La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, you will have the opportunity to dine on exquisite locally inspired dishes.
A unique feature of AmaWaterways is its extensive choice of excursions, most of which are included in the price. With a wide range of walking and cycling programmes, this shipping company is also a great choice for sports enthusiasts.
The award-winning ship, the AmaMagna, became a new definition of the river cruise experience, and this shipping company is definitely leading the way in innovation, including the first sailings from 2024 on the Magdalena River in Colombia. Looking to the future, they are investing heavily in innovative and sustainable ways to experience the rich culture and history of the banks of the world's most iconic rivers.
High standards, stunning facilities, beautiful staterooms, outstanding cuisine, and personalised service contribute to this shipping company's excellent reputation. As a member of La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, the exclusive international culinary association, you will be treated to exquisite, locally inspired dishes on board.
At AmaWaterways, they realise that everyone has different tastes, which is why you can choose from different options for each destination, all of which are included in your cruise fare.
They were the first river cruise line to have an entire fleet of free bikes on board, allowing you to cycle along enchanting river paths and into historic city centres. Whether you feel like joining one of the exclusive guided bike tours, or want to explore on your own, there are many ways you can explore on two wheels during your cruise.
River cruise ships (< 300 passengers)
American Cruise Lines is an American shipping company, offering mainly river cruises on the most legendary rivers of the United States. The brand new river ships, including the American Song, American Symphony, American Harmony and American Jazz, are bathed in contemporary style, with luxurious amenities that take river cruises to a new level of sophistication. Each cabin has a private balcony, and you have spectacular views from anywhere on the ship.
If a Victorian-style riverboat is more your style, board the American Splendor, American Pride, American Heritage or American West. Enjoy the nostalgia and romance of an authentic paddleboat while experiencing all the modern amenities and conveniences of a new ship. With these paddle boats, exploring the legendary Mississippi River is wonderful. But cruises in New England are also definitely worthwhile. The historic towns and rocky beaches of New England are extraordinarily beautiful in both summer and autumn.
River cruise ships (< 300 passengers)
Anakonda Amazon Cruises offers luxury river cruises on the Amazon, through the Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest. You really do experience the Amazon in a unique way, exploring remote and pristine areas, and connecting with local communities in the region, while enjoying the comfort and service of a 5-star boutique ship.
The Ecuadorian Amazon Rainforest is a unique living treasure. The ecosystems in this paradise work together harmoniously to maintain the natural balance of the environment. The habitat is threatened by industries that have endangered many species. Anakonda Amazon Cruises has set up programmes with local communities to restore this area, including rescuing charapas turtles and pink river dolphins. You will also be made aware of conservation efforts during each cruise.
They offer unforgettable 4, 5, and 8-day cruises aboard their 2 ships to explore the Amazon jungle and enjoy traditional and delicious fusion dishes from around the world. Adventure activities include hiking, skiff or canoe trips, bird watching, an immersion in the indigenous community, kayaking, cooking classes, and swimming.
River cruise ships (< 300 passengers)
Avalon Waterways was started in 2004 with a single ship, and now the fleet consists of 21 ships and operates on the Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Rhône, Seine and Saone in Europe, the Mekong River in Southeast Asia, as well as the Yangtze (in China), the Ganges (in India) and the Amazon River (in Peru). In the spacious suites, the beds face the wall-to-wall panoramic windows so that, from your bed, you have a wonderful view of the landscapes gliding by.
Avalon serves scrumptious top-level cuisine and practises the principle of limited table times in limited settings. Thus, you can choose from a breezy al fresco lunch in the Sky Grill, an elegant four-course dinner in the glass Panorama Dining Room, or a more casual culinary setting in the Panorama Bistro. Whichever table setting you choose, you will enjoy both local new flavours and the familiar favourites you love. On an Avalon cruise, dining is part of the journey.
River cruise ships (< 300 passengers)
Cruise past sun-drenched vineyards, ancient charming castles and picturesque villages in France. And all on one of 7 luxurious Belmond boats, which you can use privately. This will be pure indulgence as all your needs will be met. Relax in stylish comfort and enjoy sensational French cuisine as you cruise along picturesque riverbanks, then dock for tailor-made excursions. From truffle hunting in Burgundy to ballooning over castles and vineyards, indulge in incomparable luxury river cruises that perfectly suit an unhurried pace.
The latest luxury boat, the Coquelicot, is an illustration of savoir-vivre and sums up the essence of a modern luxury river cruise. A beautiful floating villa, this renovated Art Nouveau boat has extremely comfortable spaces in a sleek design. With its open kitchen, the beautiful wooden upper deck sets the scene for any celebration, whether with family or friends. This trip starts in Épernay and immediately on board you will be welcomed in the lounge, where the sommelier is ready to serve a refreshing bottle of Ruinart, the soul of Champagne.
On the Amaryllis, another Belmond boat, you'll cruise the waters of Burgundy's picturesque wine region, from St-Léger-sur-Dheune to Pontailler-sur-Saône. You will discover the secrets of historic castles hidden in the shady landscape, wander around elegant towns, and taste the spirit of Burgundy in its deep, complex wines.
Another cruising area to discover is the Canal du Midi. And that aboard the intimate Alouette boat, from Carcassonne to Béziers. Mysterious medieval forts, sun-drenched vineyards and lovely villages await you. At local markets, you'll search for fresh ingredients for dinner with your private chef.
If you're looking for privatised intimacy and complete relaxation, this is the river cruise for you.
River cruise ships (< 300 passengers)
In the north of Peru, you will find the magnificent reserve of Pacaya Samiria, one of the largest protected natural reserves in the country. The region shelters an enormous diversity of flora and fauna, and is thus a veritable paradise for lovers of nature.
Covering more than 5 million hectares, the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve is the largest protected flooded forest in the world. It is also known as the "mirror forest" and is one of the most important intact patches of jungle in the Peruvian Amazon. It houses a huge biodiversity of both flora and fauna, making it a true paradise for nature lovers!
There are times when life surprises us in different ways, and fables become reality in the Amazon. The Amazon and its tributaries harbour age-old myths and legends. For instance, the pink dolphin is believed to have supernatural powers. They are usually found in slow-flowing river basins, streams and lakes.
The exclusive shipping company Delfin Amazon Cruises offers stunning luxury Amazon cruises in this part of Peru with three fantastic ships: Delfín I, II and III, varying in size, comfort and exclusivity. Delfín I has only four staterooms, bringing out the private yacht feel all the way as you enjoy an immersive experience in this slice of paradise. The gentle blend of immigrant traditions throughout Peruvian history has led to one of the world's most unique and delicious cuisines. This is why dining on board Delfin is truly a comprehensive gastronomic, cultural and historical adventure.
Delfin III is the newest and immediately the largest ship in the fleet, with 22 suites and a capacity for up to 43 passengers. This ship is beautifully finished with the finest details and with handmade Peruvian artefacts.
River cruise ships (< 300 passengers)
Emerald Cruises stands for a contemporary river experience with state-of-the-art ships, great innovative service on board, and attractive prices that cover a lot, ranging from transfers to and from the ship, beverages with all meals, transfers, WiFi, and a wide range of land-based activities. These activities are divided into EmeraldPLUS - ACTIVE.
For instance, the EmeraldACTIVE programme is designed for guests who like to be a bit more active during their river cruise. It allows you to see each destination from a different perspective, such as guided cycling tours, canoe excursions, and yoga classes or, on certain ships, an aqua aerobics session in the pool. Most of the European Star-Ship ships, except on the Douro, have bicycles on board that you can use for free.
Every aspect of the DiscoverMORE programme is designed to let you discover hidden gems beyond ordinary travel encounters. For example, you can experience the fairytale estate of Quinta Aveleda during your Douro cruise, where the Vinho Verde is produced. The estate is surrounded by magically beautiful gardens that are a real highlight during this excursion. Or how about an evening concert in Avignon during your Rhône cruise?
With the Emerald Harmony, you will explore the beautiful and mystical Mekong through Vietnam and Cambodia. This is a prime time to see Cambodia's countless temples and stunning natural landscape glide past you and to witness the eventful past from Chinese and French rule to the traces of the US-Vietnam war. Emerald Cruises offers 8- to 17-day programmes here, with the 13-day cruise providing a 3-night stay in Ho Chi Minh City or Siem Reap, depending on your chosen sailing. If you opt for the 17-day Mekong trip, you'll also travel to Hanoi and Halong Bay, where you'll board a traditional-style junk boat for an unforgettable adventure through this breathtaking landscape.
River cruise ships (< 300 passengers)
Farah Nile Cruise goes for ultra-deluxe cruises, aboard the MS Farah Nile, where you can experience the fine taste of Egyptian hospitality in every detail, from the handmade Egyptian cotton sheets to the natural dark wood furniture, all designed to awaken your senses and enhance your comfort. In refined surroundings, you can fully enjoy your stay on the Nile. In Arabic, the word 'Farah' means happiness and joy, and you will certainly experience that on board this 5-star cruise ship.
In the sumptuous restaurant, you will be pampered with carefully prepared and served meals. Both breakfast and lunch are offered in buffet style, while dinner is à la carte, with the exception of one special evening with an Egyptian buffet. There is always a nice selection of mouth-watering vegetarian dishes. After a long day of sightseeing and exploration, it's time to sit back and relax over your favourite drink and feast your eyes on the breathtaking views of the Nile.
In Upper Egypt, Farah Nile Cruise offers 2 programmes. The first starts in Luxor and ranges from 4 to 7 nights, the second starts in Aswan and ranges from 3 to 7 nights. These cruises offer fantastic experiences of over 5,000 years of civilisation, picturesque Egyptian rural life, and the tranquility and beauty of the mighty Nile.
River cruise ships (< 300 passengers)
Nicko Cruises is a German-speaking shipping company and has a very large fleet of river cruise ships for exploring Europe's most beautiful rivers in an extremely comfortable way. The shipping company has both classic and more modern river ships, one of which, the NickoVision, was named one of the best cruise ships of 2019 because of its extraordinary interior design.
You can choose from 5- to 15-day Danube cruises, but also discoveries on the Elbe, Weser, Havel, and Oder rivers. In addition, the Douro and the Nile are programmed at Nicko too. The cruise on the Mekong, which lets you discover the treasures of Vietnam and Cambodia, is highly recommended. Aboard the Mekong Navigator, an all-suites ship that has a nostalgic French colonial atmosphere, you can take in the beautiful landscapes along this mighty river.
There is no better way to see the Mississippi than from a steamboat. After all, the stretch of the "Old Man River" between New Orleans and Memphis is legendary. So what could be more fitting than to travel this stretch on a legendary ship, in this case, an exceptional ship, the American Queen? This ship, the largest steamer ever built, takes you on a trip on the powerful currents of the Mississippi River through breathtaking scenery, picturesque locations in the south, and some of the most vibrant cities in North America.
Popular are the Advent cruises from Cologne (4 days), Nuremberg (5 days) and Passau (5 days). Other themed cruises revolve around wellness, wines and gastronomy.
River cruise ships (< 300 passengers)
"Only the best, is good enough", with this slogan the German company Seaside Collection offers a fine selection of luxurious city and beach hotels. With the purchase of all 5 river cruise ships from the former Crystal Cruises fleet, they will launch from April 2023, under the brand name Riverside Luxury Cruises, luxury voyages on Europe’s most scenic rivers.
Riverside Luxury Cruises stands for a luxurious cruise experience, exceptional onboard service, top-level culinary delights and an uncompromising style. As one of the largest river cruise ships on the Danube, and certainly the most well-appointed, she knows – just like her famous namesake – how to captivate and constantly surprise her guests. Luxury means having a choice, on the Riverside Mozart the choice is yours. Four different restaurants offer you genuine culinary perfection and variety.
As the ship moves from port to port, the specialties on board also change, inspired by the different regions. Accompanied, of course, by fine wines. No matter which suite you choose, you will always make the right choice. While they differ in styling, size and subtle nuances, with every suite you will enjoy fine materials such as leather and velvet, elegant marble bathrooms and king-size beds. In every suite, your butler will ensure every cruise is a personal masterpiece.
River cruise ships (< 300 passengers)
The Sanctuary Retreats portfolio includes spectacular river cruises that aim to give you an authentic expedition experience on 6 luxury boutique vessels. On some of the world's most amazing cultural and ecological locations, epic rivers - the Yangtze in China, the Nile in Egypt, and the Irrawaddy in Myanmar - you will experience unique unforgettable moments, topped off with a luxurious framework.
The Sanctuary Nile Adventurer is definitely one of the best river cruise ships on the legendary Nile. With only 32 staterooms, this ship is decorated in an elegant contemporary style and seamlessly blends modern Egyptian culture with 7,000 years of heritage. Add gourmet cuisine, exquisite service and unforgettable moments on the teak sun deck to relax while enjoying the landscape gliding by.
In turn, the Sanctuary Ananda takes you to the mysterious Irrawaddy in Myanmar. Traditional materials were used to build this ship, and the 21 spacious suites are decorated with sleek contemporary elements. Eye-catching facilities include the sun deck with outdoor pool, the Kansi panorama lounge and the Thambyadine Spa by L'Occitane.
River cruise ships (< 300 passengers)
A river cruise with Australian shipping company Scenic is a highly sophisticated all-inclusive journey along fascinating waterways aboard luxurious 5-star vessels, comparable to a world-class hotel. For more than 35 years, they have made it a point of honour to give you an unforgettable journey to iconic places with once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
From the moment you step aboard a Scenic riverboat, you immediately feel at home. Your butler and the rest of the attentive crew will make sure you lack for nothing. The five dining experiences on board guarantee a gourmet selection of dishes to suit all tastes. The Scenic Enrich programme was specially designed to offer you boundless cultural discovery, from a tour of an exclusive castle in the French countryside or at Schloss Rastatt to a private music performance at Vienna's Palais Liechtenstein, or a private classical recital at the Palais des Papes in Avignon.
What also immediately stands out are the very spacious suites. The ships are not called Scenic Space-Ships for nothing, and they exude a warm, contemporary atmosphere. The ultra-luxury is expressed not only in the service and attention, but also in the all-inclusive concept, where everything is included, such as all meals, premium drinks, the minibar, butler service, wifi, tips, excursions, and transfers.
The Douro is one of those luxurious explorations, with a journey through the lush and sun-drenched valleys of this golden river where wine has been grown for more than 2,000 years. You will discover the rich history of cities like the famous Porto, as well as forgotten towns like Régua and Vega de Terron, enjoy a private classical concert at the São Francisco church and briefly cross the Spanish border to sample the lively atmosphere of Salamanca. And while we are on the subject of tasting, of course tastings of wines and ports are on the programme at various wine estates called quintas.
River cruise ships (< 300 passengers)
Uniworld can truly be called an authentic shipping company, with a fleet of river cruise ships sailing the most iconic rivers of Europe, Asia and South America as stylish floating hotels. Inviting spaces, exquisite antiques, custom-made fabrics, and original artworks are very characteristic of Uniworld, as are destination-inspired interiors, gracious service and carefully selected amenities. The smallest details often make one smile. The passion of Uniworld staff is evident in their unparalleled attention to your interests, such as remembering your drink order from day one, or quickly disembarking to surprise you with chocolates from a local shop you casually mentioned.
Certainly special are the cruise + train programmes to experience fantastic regions in a truly unique way, by combining the pleasure of luxury cruises with the nostalgic feel of unforgettable train journeys. The programmes offered include, Milan & the Swiss Alps, the Danube & the castles of Transylvania, and the Holy Ganges & the Maharajas Express.
River cruise ships (< 300 passengers)
Viking Cruises was founded in 1997 with the vision that travel should be more focused on destinations and cultural depth. In 2000, the company bought Europe's KD River Cruises to expand its fleet, profit from 40 years of river cruise experience, and acquire rights to excellent berths in key European cities. Cruising Europe's legendary rivers, the award-winning fleet of Viking river ships offer a variety of cabin categories. Onboard facilities include a restaurant, bar and lounge, library, and an extensive sun deck. The ships offer al fresco dining on the revolutionary Aquavit Terrace, and there are eco-friendly features, such as solar panels, an organic herb garden on board, and energy-efficient hybrid engines.
European river cruises range from 8 to 23 days, with itineraries along the European rivers Rhine, Main, Danube, Seine, Rhône, Douro, Moselle, Elbe, Dordogne, Garonne, and Gironde. Viking also offers voyages on the Nile in Egypt, and the Mekong in Southeast Asia.
River cruise ships (< 300 passengers)
Viva Cruises is a fairly recent shipping company offering river cruises on Europe's most iconic rivers. The ships range in luxury from 4- to 5-star, where you can enjoy excellent service, delicious food, a convivial atmosphere and a spacious, elegant suite. With the all-inclusive concept, you sail carefree from one destination to another, as premium wines, cocktails, champagnes, brandies and spirits are included. And on boarding, you will be welcomed with a bottle of bubbly in your suite.
The Viva One and Viva Two are the two proud newcomers to the Viva fleet, and they are highly innovative in terms of technology and sustainability. This shipping company has a perfect formula for short-haul cruise holidays, such as Moselle sailings, 5-day Rhine cruises, or even a 2-day Düsseldorf Citybreak. Of course, the Danube, the Seine, and the Rhone are also on the programme, as are the Main and the Baltic coast.
If you love comfort, relaxation, stylish travel, and a touch of luxury, you will undoubtedly feel at home aboard VIVA Cruises' ships. The gastronomy and service are of a high standard, making these river cruises great for epicureans who want to experience carefree river travel.
