The 10 Top River Cruise Lines

If you’d like to take a cruise, but aren’t interested in the crowds or hustle and bustle of a massive ocean liner, you may want to consider a river cruise. River cruises offer the opportunity to visit lesser-known ports around the world, thanks to the small size and maneuverability of the vessels. They also often provide exceptional, personalized service, as most welcome fewer than 200 guests at a time. On top of that, you’ll spend the majority of your trip exploring a different port each day, as most destinations along the waterways are fairly close together.

© (Courtesy of Viking River Cruises)
Top River Cruises

To help you determine the best river cruise line for you, U.S. News analyzed traveler and expert reviews, and detailed the onboard amenities, shore excursion options, price points, diverse itineraries and overall experience to expect below. Read on to see which river cruise line ticks all the boxes for what you’re looking for in your next cruise vacation. (Note: Some sailings may be affected due to the coronavirus pandemic. Cruise lines may require travelers to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination or present a negative COVID-19 test before boarding. For the latest information, please visit the CDC website and each individual river cruise line’s website.)

Top River Cruise Lines

• Viking River Cruises
• Uniworld River Cruises
• American Cruise Lines
• AmaWaterways
• Avalon Waterways
• American Queen Voyages
• Tauck
• Emerald Cruises
• Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours
• Crystal River Cruises

Viking River Cruises

Price range: About $2,000 to $11,000 per person

Sails to: Europe, Asia, Africa, U.S. (starting summer 2022)

Founded in Russia in 1997, Viking River Cruises is one of the most well-known river cruise lines sailing today. Viking’s 60-plus ships carry roughly 75 to 250 people (depending on the vessel) and traverse major rivers across Europe, including the Danube, the Rhine, the Douro and more. Other popular routes sail to destinations in Asia, Russia, Ukraine, Egypt and – starting in summer 2022 – along the Mississippi River.

Travelers may be familiar with Viking’s sister brand, Viking Ocean Cruises, which operates larger ocean voyages with an emphasis on opulent accommodations and diverse enrichment activities. Viking’s river cruises follow a similar road map, with meals, most shore excursions and Wi-Fi access (where applicable) included in the base fare, and amenities and activities like guest lectures, cooking demonstrations, musical performances, libraries, outdoor decks and more. Select Viking river boats are also equipped with swimming pools, while cabins feature minibars, premium toiletries, purified water and TVs.

On board, you can expect to find mostly English-speaking passengers. Viking’s high price point generally attracts older crowds in the 55-plus age group, and travelers must be at least 18 years old to cruise on the line. Recent cruisers considered their river voyages on Viking to be bucket list experiences, praising the scenic shore excursions, top-notch service and comfortable rooms. However, a few were disappointed with the food quality and options on board, with some noting that snacks were not offered between mealtimes. Viking’s river cruises for 2022 and 2023 last between eight and 23 days, and prices range from around $2,000 to $11,000 per person. For more information, visit the Viking River Cruises website.

[See: The Best Luxury Cruise Lines.]

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Price range: About $2,000 to $23,000 per person

Sails to: Europe, Asia, South America

Uniworld offers luxurious sailings in historic cities across Central Europe, France, Italy, Portugal, India, Egypt, Russia and Peru. Its 19 ships – which aim to create the feel of a boutique hotel with their stylish decor, antique artwork and specialty restaurants – hold an average capacity of 120 cruisers, and the company boasts one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios in the industry (one crew member for about every 2 travelers).

Stateroom amenities vary by vessel, but may include marble bathrooms, Egyptian cotton linens, French balconies, iPod docking stations, Nespresso coffee machines, rainfall showers and more. The line’s all-inclusive rates cover all meals, alcoholic beverages, excursions, gratuities, onboard fitness classes, internet and Wi-Fi access, plus entertainment and enrichment classes. Uniworld prides itself on its top-notch cuisine, which is made with local ingredients sourced from the ports on your itinerary.

Uniworld’s typical clientele tend to be in their 50s or 60s and reside in North America, the U.K. and Australia, though the river cruise line has select vessels aimed at a younger demographic. For example, two of its ships – The A and The B – were designed with millennials ages 21 to 45 in mind. The compact ships have onboard bars and nightclubs, yoga classes, rooftop lounges and more, and there are plenty of phone charging ports scattered throughout the common areas.

Recent cruisers offered abundant praise for their voyages, complimenting the stylish accommodations, attentive staff and fascinating excursions. Though complaints were few and far between, a handful of past travelers felt the experience was not worth the high price point. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises’ 2022 and 2023 sailings range from eight to 25 days and cost between $2,000 and roughly $23,000 per person, depending on the itinerary. Learn more on Uniworld’s website.

[Ready to plan a cruise? Find the best value sailings on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.]

American Cruise Lines

Price range: About $2,300 to $14,000 per person

Sails to: U.S.

As the name suggests, American Cruise Lines sails exclusively on rivers across the United States. Popular cruises visit destinations along the Mississippi River, throughout New England and lining the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The line also tours Alaska, the Southeast and the Puget Sound between Washington State and the Canadian border.

American Cruise Lines operates 14 relatively new river vessels (the average ship is about four years old), ranging from modern riverboats to small coastal ships to authentic paddlewheelers. The vessels can carry between 100 and 185 passengers. Comfortable cabins can accommodate up to three people per room, though some are designed exclusively for solo travelers. Each room offers picture windows, a spacious bathroom and – in some cases – a private balcony. In the ships’ public spaces, cruisers can enjoy daily onboard entertainment like jazz and blues performances, as well as presentations by historians and area experts.

The line promises an all-American experience; as such, you can expect to find American staff aboard the American-built ships and food that pays homage to the destinations you will visit, from New Orleans-style andouille sausage gumbo to New England-inspired seafood boils. Complimentary cocktails and hors d’oeuvres are served every night prior to dinner, and meals, snacks and wine and beer are included in the base fare.

Travelers on American Cruise Lines tend to lean North American and are typically of retirement age. Recent cruisers enjoyed the modern decor and tasty food on board, though a few said the housekeeping services and disorganized activities could use some improvement. Voyages in 2022 and 2023 last between five and 22 days and prices range from about $2,300 to $14,000 per person. For more information, visit the cruise line’s website.

AmaWaterways

Price range: About $1,400 to $26,000 per person

Sails to: Europe, Asia, Africa, South America (starting winter 2023)

Whether you’re looking to sail through the heart of Europe or seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure touring destinations like Vietnam, Egypt, South Africa or, beginning in 2023, Colombia, consider a river cruise with AmaWaterways. A family-owned business founded in 2002, AmaWaterways operates 26 river cruise boats (the line’s newest vessel, Magdalena, begins sailing in 2023) that welcome around 160 passengers on average. The cruise line aims to provide excursion-rich experiences and offers unique themed sailings for passengers with certain interests. Wine-themed voyages are perfect for oenophiles wishing to explore some of Europe’s most popular wine regions, while golf-themed cruises will transport passengers from one famous golf course to the next. Or, opt for a holiday river cruise to visit magical Christmas markets around Europe.

On board, guests can expect cabins suitable for couples or single travelers, as well as a set amount of connectible rooms designed for multigenerational families. Staterooms are spacious and feature one or two balconies per cabin, as well as perks like bathrobes and slippers, plush bedding and luxury toiletries. In-room Wi-Fi is complimentary, and guests will have access to movies and music on demand.

Outside of their cabins, passengers can enjoy amenities like small pools and sun decks, fitness equipment, a hair salon, massage services and more. Recent travelers had high praise for their experiences, noting the beautiful ports and fun excursions, as well as the great onboard service and comfortable accommodations. Still, some felt that certain destinations were less impressive than they were made to seem in the online marketing materials, so be sure to do your own itinerary research before booking so you know what to expect.

AmaWaterways primarily attracts North American travelers in their 50s who enjoy taking part in active shore excursions that involve walking or cycling. Still, passengers from the U.K. and Australia sail on this river cruise line as well. You can expect to find a mix of couples, families and solo cruisers on your vessel, thanks to AmaWaterways’ diverse cabin offerings. Trips in 2022 and 2023 range from seven to 16 nights and cost around $1,400 to $17,000 per person, depending on the itinerary. In summer 2023, AmaWaterways will sail the longest river cruise ever: a 46-night voyage across seven waterways in Europe. Prices for that voyage start around $26,000 per person. Learn more about AmaWaterways on its website.

[Read: 18 Cruise Essentials for Your Next Trip.]

Avalon Waterways

Price range: About $1,100 to $11,000 per person

Sails to: Europe, Asia, Africa, South America

Serving Europe, Asia, Africa and South America, Avalon Waterways sails 20 riverboats along popular thoroughfares like the Danube, the Seine, the Nile, the Rhine, the Ganges and more. Launched in 2004, Avalon stands out for its spacious vessels – known as Suite Ships – which feature some of the largest rooms in the river cruise industry and beds that face wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows, providing panoramic views. Additional stateroom perks include complimentary breakfast in bed; L’Occitane toiletries; height-adjustable sitting areas; ample storage space; and your choice of a soft, medium or firm mattress.

Across the ship, passengers can enjoy amenities like a sun deck with lounge chairs, whirlpools and a game area, as well as numerous restaurants and bars and a 24-hour self-serve coffee station. Travelers will also have their pick of Classic, Active or Discovery shore excursions – ranging from standard tours with a local guide to hiking outings along a hilltop castle – depending on their interests and physical abilities. Most recent travelers reported having a great experience on their Avalon river cruises, highlighting the friendly, knowledgeable staff and tasty food. Still, some were disappointed in their itineraries, stating they felt they overpaid for the sights they saw on the trip.

Avalon Waterways attracts English-speaking cruisers from a variety of countries, typically in their 50s and 60s. However, children ages 8 and older are welcome on board (though there are no designated kids clubs), and some voyages attract younger or older passengers. River cruises on this line typically last between four and 15 days in 2022 and 2023, and prices range from around $1,100 to $11,000 per person. Fare inclusions vary by itinerary. For more information, visit the Avalon Waterways website.

American Queen Voyages

Price range: About $1,300 to $6,000 per person

Sails to: U.S., Canada (by 2023)

In fall 2021, American Queen Steamboat Company merged with Victory Cruise Lines to form American Queen Voyages. Based in North America, American Queen Voyages sails a few routes in the U.S., including the Mississippi River; the Ohio, Tennessee and Cumberland rivers; and the Columbia and Snake rivers. It is set to expand its sailings to Canada and other regions in the U.S., such as the Pacific Northwest, by 2023.

This river cruise line operates four authentic paddlewheelers that hold between 150 and 400 passengers. All-inclusive sailings include unlimited onboard Wi-Fi, unlimited beverages (and an open bar), unlimited guided tours, dining throughout your cruise and more. On board, travelers will find a main dining room, an entertainment hall, a sun deck, card rooms and lounges. Each cruise serves up tasty local cuisine that varies by itinerary. Staterooms feature plush linens, coffee makers and minifridges, TVs, private balconies (in select accommodations) and more.

Recent cruisers were impressed with American Queen Voyages’ offerings, noting the line’s well-kept vessels, pleasant staff and delicious food. On the other hand, some travelers experienced internet connectivity issues throughout their trips, and others were unimpressed with the customer service agents they spoke with over the phone.

American Queen Voyages’ 2022 and 2023 cruises last from five to 20-plus days and cost between $1,300 and $6,000 per person. The line mainly caters to travelers in their 50s, though you may find the occasional grandparent and college-aged grandchild. The line is especially suitable for passengers who use wheelchairs, thanks to its abundance of accessibility options. History buffs also tend to like the itineraries and enrichment programs on board. Learn more on the American Queen Voyages website.

[Read: 20 Tips for Finding Cheap Cruise Deals.]

Tauck

Price range: About $3,000 to $13,000 per person

Sails to: Europe

Travel company Tauck wears multiple hats: It operates small ship voyages around the world, land tours across seven continents, small group journeys for an average of 24 travelers at a time, family tours and – finally – European river cruises. Take your pick from nine river vessels to explore popular waterways like the Moselle, the Rhine, the Danube and the Rhone. All-inclusive fares cover shore excursions, onboard activities and entertainment, gratuities, beverages and more. Plus, Tauck offers exclusive access to unforgettable experiences like wine tastings at private vineyards and gala dinners in historic castles.

Tauck’s river boats are freshly renovated (between 2018 and 2019) and carry between 84 and 130 passengers. More than 80% of the staterooms feature French balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing for excellent views. Other in-room amenities may include adjustable climate controls, satin linens, pillow-top mattresses, terry cloth robes and more. Outside of your cabin, you’ll find perks like a sun deck, a putting green, enrichment programs like cooking demonstrations, a fitness center and complimentary bikes to explore on shore.

Tauck caters to affluent, English-speaking cruisers – primarily Americans in the 55 and up age group – though you may also find families with adult children on board. The line appeals most to travelers who prefer all the details of their trip to be taken care of for them, versus those who like to plan activities independent of the cruise line. Recent passengers speak highly of their river cruise experiences, highlighting the exceptional level of organization and spacious, luxurious accommodations. However, some were left desiring more out of the food quality on board.

River voyages with Tauck range from eight to 25 days in 2022 and 2023, and prices run between $3,000 and almost $13,000 per person. Visit Tauck’s website for more information.

Emerald Cruises

Price range: About $1,200 to $10,400 per person

Sails to: Europe, Asia

Previously known as Emerald Waterways, Emerald Cruises transports travelers across some of the most popular rivers in Europe and Asia, including the Danube, the Rhine, the Douro, the Mekong and the Volga. The all-inclusive experience covers all meals, beverages with lunch and dinner, shore excursions, Wi-Fi access and gratuities in the base rate.

Emerald operates nine vessels holding between 84 and 180 passengers; all boats boast luxurious public spaces and accommodations with en suite bathrooms and flat-screen TVs. Common area amenities include heated indoor pools, sun decks, spa and wellness facilities, and a variety of eateries. Onboard fitness classes are available, as are other forms of entertainment. On shore, cruisers can rent bicycles to explore historic city centers.

Cruisers on recent sailings – especially first-time sailors – enjoyed their experiences on Emerald Cruises. High points included the attentive crew members and stress-free booking and planning process. However, some noted that the ship could be noisy at night and that the food was mediocre.

Typical clientele aboard Emerald Cruises’ voyages include American and British passengers around retirement age, though some younger travelers may make an appearance as well. Children 12 and older are permitted on board, but there are no kids clubs or designated activities for younger cruisers. Special rooms and dinner reservations are available for solo travelers. In 2022 and 2023, Emerald Cruises’ sailings typically last between five and 26 days, and prices range from around $1,200 to $10,400 per person. Visit Emerald Cruises’ website to learn more.

[Read: 14 Tips for First-Time Cruisers.]

Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

Price range: Less than $2,000 to $23,000 per person

Sails to: Europe, Asia

From the Danube to the Mekong, Australian travel company Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours offers lavish, all-inclusive river sailings with an emphasis on customization. The more upscale sister brand of Emerald Cruises, Scenic affords travelers the opportunity to do as much or as little as they want while on board and ashore.

Enrichment activities are hand-picked by the line’s “Journey Designers,” and vessels provide a top-notch level of service thanks to their high crew-to-passenger ratios. In fact, each passenger receives a designated butler who can complete nightly turndowns and make laundry arrangements, among other tasks. Spacious suites on board are larger than those on most other riverboats (ranging from 160 to 510 square feet), and high-tech balcony controls allow lodgers to let in as much or as little sun as they’d like with the touch of a button. Cruisers will also enjoy special in-room touches like pillow menus.

When it comes to dining, Scenic sources local ingredients from the ports visited on the itinerary to provide an authentic experience. All meals are included in the base cruise fare, along with beverages, gratuities, Wi-Fi access, shore excursions and electric bicycle rentals in select destinations.

Recent cruisers were pleased with their experiences aboard Scenic’s vessels, praising the spacious cabins, pampering butler service, and knowledgeable crew members and tour guides. However, some travelers recommended skipping the special Christmas market cruise, as they found it to be less festive than expected.

Scenic’s river cruises attract a large Australian demographic, though American, British and Canadian passengers can also be found on board. Most travelers are well-heeled adults ages 55 and older. In 2022 and 2023, Scenic’s river cruises span five to 36 days, and fares range from less than $2,000 to almost $23,000 per person. Visit Scenic’s website for more information.

Crystal River Cruises

Price range: About $2,800 to $15,200 per person

Sails to: Europe

An offshoot of Crystal Cruises – which operates two luxury ocean ships – Crystal River Cruises operates a fleet of five river cruise ships on popular waterways throughout Europe. Itineraries make stops along the Rhine, the Danube, the Main and the Moselle rivers.

On board, travelers can expect elegant accommodations with 24-hour butler service, all-day in-suite dining, one-touch lighting and bedside iPads, TVs with on-demand programming and premium toiletries. All-inclusive rates include Michelin-inspired dining, select wines and spirits, gratuities, Wi-Fi access, select shore excursions and bike rentals on land. Outside of their suites, cruisers can enjoy a spa, an indoor pool, and enrichment programs like guest lecturers and musical performances.

Recent cruisers praised the elegant riverboats and top-notch food; many said their expectations were exceeded overall. Still, a few were disappointed with the customer service experience during the booking process, and some older passengers felt the shore excursions were too hectic for their comfort levels.

The majority of Crystal River Cruises’ passengers reside in North America, and most are affluent and in their mid-50s. You’ll most consistently find couples or small groups traveling together, but occasionally families will choose Crystal during holidays or when school is out. Cruises in 2022 and 2023 last between five and 17 nights, and prices range from $2,800 to $15,200 per person. See the Crystal River Cruises’ website for more information.

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