River Cruising Specialist

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Minoru Matthews, Travel Agent in Charlotte, NC

Minoru Matthews

Charlotte, NC Travel Agent
Super Agent

Minoru Matthews

Charlotte, NC · 3 Years of Experience

Minmin Travel LLC, an independent agent with Nexion, LLC, a Travel Leaders Network Affiliate Agency
5.0
(30)
100% Recommended
Was very open to share credentials to earn my trust, saved us lots and is very knowledgeable! Now my go to TA, thank you! Read More >
About
Reviews
My Places

Areas of expertise

Destinations:

Eastern Europe, France, Germany, Italy, Asia

Interests:

River Cruises, Luxury Cruises, All Inclusive, Family Vacations, Groups

Suppliers:

AmaWaterways, Viking, Avalon Waterways

About Me

River cruising is one of the most elegant, immersive, and relaxing ways to explore the world—and it has quickly become one of my favorite travel styles to specialize in. As a certified travel advisor, I’ve completed formal training with all of the major river cruise lines, including Viking, AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, and Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection. Each of these cruise lines offers a unique experience—ranging from AmaWaterways' wellness-focused sailings and wine cruises to Uniworld’s all-inclusive luxury with boutique hotel-style ships. Viking is known for its cultural depth and consistency, while Avalon offers spacious Panorama Suites and flexible excursions. I know the strengths of each line and help clients confidently choose the one that matches their travel personality, interests, and pace.

River cruises take you into the heart of destinations that ocean ships can’t reach. You’ll dock directly in walkable towns and historic cities like Vienna, Strasbourg, Budapest, and Rouen—often just steps from the action. Itineraries are rich in culture, history, food, and wine, and many excursions are included, with expert guides bringing local traditions to life. You won’t find flashy water slides or casinos onboard—river cruising is about meaningful travel, scenic sailing, and curated experiences with a more intimate crowd.

With such a variety of rivers, regions, ships, and sailing styles available, I offer clients more than just bookings—I provide insight. I’ll help you understand the differences between ships and stateroom categories (French balconies, full balconies, or picture windows?), recommend ideal travel seasons, and identify which itineraries offer the best pacing or themed departures. Whether you're interested in festive Christmas Markets, spring tulip cruises, wine sailings, or once-in-a-lifetime rivers like the Douro, Nile, or Mekong, I’ll make sure every detail suits your needs.

In addition to cruise selection, I assist with every aspect of your journey, including pre- and post-cruise hotel stays, flight planning, travel insurance, and optional excursions. I also keep you updated on promotional offers, past guest discounts, and value-added extras that aren’t always advertised online.

If you’re new to river cruising or looking to branch out from your usual line or itinerary, I’d love to help you discover a trip that flows at just the right pace for you. Let’s turn your next vacation into a story worth telling—one scenic riverbend at a time.

REVIEWS

Rating: 5.0
30 reviews
100% Recommended
Your trust is our priority. Every review is submitted by verified travelers after they have booked and completed their trips. Learn more about our review guidelines.
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Showing 30 reviews

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Reviewed By Claire - Scranton Pennsylvania | Traveled to Bahamas | Caribbean
Was very open to share credentials to earn my trust, saved us lots and is very knowledgeable! Now my go to TA, thank you!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
2 of 3 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
4th Cruise through Minoru
Reviewed By Pam - Port Charlotte Florida | Traveled to Nassau | Bahamas | Caribbean
Just got off Utopia of the Seas last weekend. What a great ship. I have to brag about our booking. Min booked us a beautiful oceanview balcony 4 doors down from the elevator on the 7th floor. Perfect location. The other 12 people in our group booked oceanview guaranteed, not through Min. Our room cost less and we were not under the pool on the 14th floor. We had enough money with the $50 credit and our savings to pay for our refreshment packages. Thanks for the great booking.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Perfect week on Sky Princess – Caribbean escape
Reviewed By Nate - TN | Traveled to Caribbean
We sailed on Sky Princess for a Caribbean cruise and had a fantastic experience. Minoru was so helpful in explaining the different Princess packages, and we loved the Princess Plus perks. The ship was beautiful, service was excellent, and it was the relaxing escape we needed.
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Eastern Caribbean on Wonder of the Seas – so much
Reviewed By KevinC - Miami, FL | Traveled to Caribbean
Wonder of the Seas was the most impressive ship we’ve ever been on! There was something for everyone—shows, slides, and tons of dining options. Minoru helped us choose the best week to sail and got us in a great central location on the ship. Everything was seamless! Looking forward to my next one on Star of the Seas!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
1 of 1 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO
Incredible first cruise with Virgin Voyages on Sca
Reviewed By HenryR - Georgia | Traveled to Caribbean
I wasn’t sure what to expect from Virgin Voyages, but I ended up loving it! Scarlet Lady had such a cool vibe—great food, fun entertainment, and no kids onboard. Minoru helped me snag an incredible solo deal! I’m already looking at my next one!
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends.
2 of 3 people found this review helpful. Was this review helpful to you?YES|NO

My Places

When it comes to travel planning, real-world experience makes a huge difference. Check out the map below to see all the places I have personally visited or booked for my clients. I know these destinations well and can give you reliable guidance.
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