Cruise and River Cruise Travel Agent

Rhine River Cruise with AMA and Backroads Travel

River cruising has become one of the most sought-after ways to travel since 2020 and for good reason. After experiencing a river cruise for myself and with two more planned I am a big river cruise fan!  River cruises offer laid-back, intimate and truly unique travel experiences. If you dislike big crowded dining rooms or long lines to exit the ocean cruise ship, then a river cruise with an average passenger count of 120 people, might be for you. There’s something truly magical about laying in your bed while gazing out the window at sunset while you slowly sail past a charming European city with the city lights just starting to sparkle. One of the best parts is waking up almost every morning in a new city. In my opinion, a river cruise is the best way to see Europe. 

River Cruise Destinations 
One of the most exciting aspects of river cruising is the variety of destinations you can explore. Europe remains the most popular destination for river cruisers. Rivers meander through the heart of the countries and right through major cities, places large cruise ships simply cannot go. The Danube, for example, winds through Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, and beyond, offering breathtaking views of castles, vineyards, and historic towns. The Seine in France provides a scenic route through Paris, Monet’s gardens, and Normandy, while the Duoro River takes you through Spain and Portugal’s charming riverside villages and wine regions, just to name a few. Oh, and don’t forget the river cruise Christmas markets! Beyond Europe, river cruise itineraries include Asia, South America, Africa and the United States. The Mekong River offers a fascinating glimpse into life in Vietnam and Cambodia, while the Nile allows travelers to explore Egypt’s ancient wonders. On Africa's Chobe River, you can enjoy spectacular wildlife safaris from the comfort of your boat. South America now makes its entry into river cruising with AMA Waterways’ sailings down the Magdalena River in Colombia, while American history buffs will love cruising along the Mississippi River.

How to Choose the Right River Cruise
Selecting the ideal river cruise can feel overwhelming, but that’s where my expertise comes in. This year, I attended the ASTA River Cruise Expo in Vienna, where I toured nine different river cruise lines. I was able to view each type of stateroom, tour the sundeck and eat in the dining room of each ship. Additionally I learned from industry professionals and business development managers from each cruise line. I learned that each brand caters to a unique type of traveler, from the laid-back luxury seekers to active mid-premium adventurers and everything in between.For those new to river cruising, AMA Waterways, Avalon, and Emerald Cruises are excellent options offering premium value. If you prefer opulence and boutique-style experience, you have to see Uniworld River Cruises, Riverside or Tauck. Viking River Cruises is a household name, but don’t overlook hidden gems like Amadeus, which offers exceptional itineraries and service. With so many choices, working with a river cruise travel advisor like me ensures you’ll find the perfect match for your travel style and preferences.Ultimately, river cruising offers something unmatched by other forms of travel. Drop me a line or give me a call and let’s talk about river cruises.I look forward to helping you choose and book your next river cruise!

Why Travel by River Cruise? River cruises are perfect for those who want to explore multiple destinations without the hassle of constantly packing and unpacking. These intimate journeys allow you to dock right in the heart of beautiful cities, giving you immediate access to iconic landmarks and charming streets. From the cobblestone lanes of Europe to bustling towns along the Mekong, the convenience of stepping off the ship into the city center cannot be overstated.With fewer passengers than ocean cruises, river cruises maintain a tranquil and friendly atmosphere. The average river cruise hosts just 120 passengers, compared to the thousands on ocean liners. This smaller setting means you can enjoy personalized service, gourmet meals, and the luxury of uncrowded spaces.Shore excursions, often included in the cost, are another standout feature. Whether you prefer a guided walking tour through historic villages or biking through picturesque wine regions, you’re sure to find excursions that match your activity level and interests. And with the flexibility to engage in active adventures or simply relax onboard, river cruising offers the perfect balance for every traveler.