Kathy Harrigan

River Cruising has become a passion for me. I book both individuals and groups  onto river cruises.  it's fun to work with clients to find the best river cruise line and itinerary.

Over the past few years, river cruising has surged in popularity, offering travelers a unique and intimate way to explore destinations. While both the USA and Europe boast numerous river cruise options.

When many think of river cruising, Viking often comes to mind, thanks in part to their strategic marketing partnership with PBS. However, the European river cruise market is rich with a variety of companies, each offering distinct experiences:  AMA Waterways, ARosa, Avalon Waterways, Crosi Europe, Emerald Cruises, Riverside, Riveria, Scenic, Tauck River Cruises and Uniworld.  Additionally, new entrants like Trafalgar River Cruises and Celebrity River Cruise are entering the market, with other ocean cruise companies planning to launch river cruise offerings in the near future. This growing competition may influence pricing structures, but only time will reveal the full impact.

A common misconception is that river cruises cater exclusively to older travelers. While it's true that some U.S.-based lines focus on senior demographics, European river cruises are attracting a broader age range. Many offer active excursions such as hiking and biking tours. Some ships even feature amenities like pickleball courts, swimming pools or hot tubs, and onboard exercise classes, appealing to younger, more active travelers.

Selecting the ideal river cruise for you depends on various factors.  Some lines offer a luxurious experience, while others are more casual.  Some are all-inclusive covering gratuities, some include all excursions while others include basic tours with optional paid activities. Some include unlimited alcohol, some offer drink packages but most include beer and wine at dinner. Some offer special sailings including Christmas Markets, guest hosts, etc.  While many river cruises are adult-oriented, some lines accommodate children, particularly older ones. Notably, Adventures by Disney partnered with AMA Waterways to offer family-focused experiences.