Introduction


River cruising has seen a surge in popularity in recent years as travelers seek out intimate, unique ways to see the world. Though river cruises have been operating in Europe since the 19th century, the modern concept began taking shape in the 1970s and 1980s. Companies like Viking River Cruises and Avalon Waterways pioneered the business of luxury river cruises. 


In the 1990s and 2000s, river cruising continued to grow and evolve with the construction of innovative new riverboats. Companies expanded their offerings dramatically in the 2010s and river cruises went mainstream. Today, river cruises are one of the fastest segments in the travel industry. 


River cruises allow passengers to journey into the heart of destinations like Europe, Russia, China, Southeast Asia and Egypt. The small size of river cruise ships gives them access to ports, canals and rivers that are inaccessible to large ocean cruise liners. River cruising provides an intimate, enriched experience with opportunities to immerse in local cultures and make new discoveries.


From luxurious, all-inclusive ships to adventures ashore, river cruises showcase the very best of river destinations. Read on to learn all about the latest and greatest the world of river cruising has to offer.


New Ships


River cruise lines are constantly updating and expanding their fleets with innovative new ship designs. Over the past few years, leading lines like Viking, AmaWaterways, and Avalon have debuted stunning new vessels packed with the latest amenities and features. 


For example, Viking launched six new Longships in 2022. These state-of-the-art ships include:


  • 95 outside staterooms with full verandas and innovative French balcony design
  • Open-air Aquavit Terrace for casual dining
  • Sun Deck with 360-degree views and shaded canopy system  
  • Spa treatment room and fitness center
  • Organic herb garden and solar panels
  • Elegant Scandinavian decor throughout



AmaWaterways introduced three new ships in 2021: the AmaLucia, AmaSiena, and AmaDahlia. They feature:


  • Spacious 302-350 square foot staterooms, most with twin balconies
  • Heated sun deck swimming pool and lounge area 
  • Zen Wellness Studio with exercise, yoga, and massage
  • Chef's Table specialty restaurant
  • Exclusive partnership with Schubert Club musical performances



Avalon View and Avalon Envision launched in 2019. Their standout elements include:


  • Panoramic Open-Air Balcony in most staterooms with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows
  • Flexible bed configurations and bathroom doors that slide open to create more living space
  • Club Lounge with 24/7 self-serve beverages and snacks
  • Fitness center and premium mattresses for a good night's sleep
  • Contemporary design with rich wood accents and artwork


With expanded suite sizes, high-tech amenities, and sleek, modern decor, these latest river ships truly raise the bar. Exploring Europe's waterways has never been more stylish or comfortable.


Itineraries 


River cruises allow you to fully experience the heart of a destination, with ships docking right in the center of towns and cities. Itineraries focus on Europe's famous waterways like the Danube, Rhine, Seine and Rhone rivers. Popular routes include Rhine Getaway cruises from Amsterdam to Basel, Danube Waltz cruises between Budapest and Passau, Paris & Normandy cruises between Paris and Rouen, and European Jewels cruises on the Main, Rhine and Danube rivers. Beyond Europe, exotic river cruise destinations include Egypt on the Nile River, China on the Yangtze River and Mekong River, the Amazon River in South America, and the Mississippi River in the United States. With most river cruise itineraries, you'll get to visit multiple ports of call during your vacation. Itineraries range from 4-5 days up to 3 weeks or more. Themed cruises like Christmas market cruises, wine and culinary cruises, and even castles and gardens cruises cater to special interests. The length, destinations and focus of river cruise itineraries allow you to experience each port in-depth, with included walking and coach tours that help you maximize your time. River cruises offer a phenomenal way to explore the heart of iconic cities and towns in Europe and across the world.


Onboard Amenities: Luxury and Relaxation


River cruising has come a long way in recent years when it comes to onboard amenities. The latest river cruise ships rival small ocean liners in terms of luxury features and facilities. Here's a look at some of the top amenities you can expect on a river cruise:


  • Complimentary wi-fi service - Internet access is now a standard offering, allowing you to stay connected with friends and family back home. Bandwidth may be limited depending on location.
  • Swimming pools - Many new river cruise ships have small swimming pools on their sundecks, along with hot tubs. Enjoy a dip or soak while taking in scenic views.
  • Premium dining - Quality cuisine with menu offerings from locally-inspired specialties to continental classics. Expect multiple dining venues plus 24-hour room service.
  • Bars & lounges - Well-stocked bars providing beers, wines, spirits and cocktails. Comfortable lounge areas for socializing with new friends. Some ships have a self-serve beverage station.
  • Spas & salons - Indulge in massages, facials, hair styling and more at full-service spas. Some treatments feature local ingredients.
  • Fitness centers - Stay active with treadmills, stationary bikes, free weights and other gym equipment. Yoga and fitness classes may be offered.
  • Entertainment - Musical performances, local folklore presentations, cooking demos and themed events. Many ships have a lounge with a dance floor.


With spacious, well-appointed staterooms and first-rate dining already standard, the competition among river lines is focused on providing the most enticing amenities and luxuries on board. The newest river cruise ships feel like intimate floating boutique hotels.