The Ultimate Guide to River Cruising 2024-2026

Your frequently asked river cruise questions answered: Why choose a river cruise? How do you choose a river cruise? Which European rivers can you cruise? Which is the best river cruise line? What’s included in a river cruise?

Until very recently, I’d never set foot on a river cruise ship, and had many misconceptions. However, I quickly realised these were unfounded, and whilst you can’t compare ocean cruising with river cruising, as they are so completely different, a river cruise is an equally wonderful experience.

In this series, I will answer your most pressing questions about river cruising. If you have a specific question please leave a comment and I will get back to you within a day.

Why River Cruising?

River cruising is seeing a huge growth in popularity, and justifiably so. It is a great alternative to the ubiquitous city break and can be a luxurious, immersive experience. It is relaxing, stress-free and luxurious. But is it for you? In this beginners guide to river cruising I hope to answer your questions to help you decide whether this could be a holiday you would enjoy.

River Cruising - An Overview

Let me set the scene for you - imagine yourself sitting on deck in the fading sunshine on a warm summer evening, a glass of something chilled in your hand. All you can hear is birdsong, the ripple of water as your ship glides down the river, and possibly some gentle music. The sunset is breathtaking behind the rolling hills, glinting off stained glass windows of a distant church. The golden hour - ideal for that instagram-perfect photograph. The scent of your gourmet meal being prepared is enticing and you reach for one of the delightful canapes offered to you, as you compare experiences of your day’s exploration with fellow guests. You take a deep breath and realise you have never been this relaxed.

A river cruise is an excellent way to explore often inaccessible areas of a region in comfort. It is one of the most stress-free ways to travel - no road-rage, motorway boredom or tolls. Some river cruises are even no-fly, offering you access via rail services or motorcoach. The scenery is stunning, from castles, vineyards and picturesque villages and towns, to some of the world’s most famous capital cities. The ships are relatively small, especially in comparison to ocean-going vessels, and therefore there won’t be many of the facilities that you will find on an ocean cruise. However there is usually a spa, pool, whirlpools and some entertainment. Food is a feature of a river cruise, often making use of fresh, local produce. It is a very relaxed environment but also cater for the energetic, with many ships carrying a fleet of bikes for tours or independent use when you dock. The beauty of a river cruise is that you need pack and unpack only once - yet get to explore many different destinations.

River Cruise versus Ocean Cruise - whats the difference?

There really is no comparison - it definitely isn’t a case of like for like. I am a veteran ocean cruiser and love the sea, exploring the ships and the vast array of facilities and entertainment onboard. Often the ship is the main attraction, and many passengers never bother to leave to explore the ports. For them, the ship is the destination.

A river cruise differs in that it is all about the destinations. The river cruise ship itself is a delightful, relaxing mode of transport to enable access to the delights of the ports of call. When comparing the vessels, think of an ocean cruise ship as a grand resort by the sea, whereas the river cruise ship is a luxurious floating boutique hotel set amidst stunning scenery.

Both have lots to offer, but in different ways. If you crave lots of entertainment, many choices of restaurants and bars, and organised activites, then choose an ocean cruise. If you would like to visit inland ports inaccessible by a cruise ship, but still enjoy your creature comforts and would enjoy a more intimate environment, then choose a river cruise. There is a place for both, but just appreciate they are completely different holidays.

Is it a river boat or a river ship?

I always thought that as it was on a river, it must be a boat. However, I have since discovered that this is incorrect. There is an old saying “A ship can carry a boat. A boat cannot carry a ship”, and it does appear to be a size thing. A ship is designed for carrying passengers (and/or cargo) in deep water. for extended periods. It is generally accepted, therefore that you take a river cruise on a river ship.

Will I like a River Cruise?

This is a difficult one to answer, only you know your personal preferences. A throwaway answer would be “what’s not to like”?, but obviously everyone is different.

If you feel claustophobic in confined spaces, then possibly not. That’s not to say that river cruise ships are in any way cramped, but they are narrower than other ships to enable them to traverse the inland waterways, and there are only a few decks. Also, you will have fewer passengers for company, so it is much more intimate. If you prefer to get lost in a crowd, or prefer your own company, again this might not appeal to you.

On the other hand, if you enjoy your creature comforts and the ambiance of a country house or boutique hotel, you will feel right at home. A river cruise is ideal for foodies as meals are a major feature of a river cruise. There may not be a choice of restaurants (although on some ships there are), but the chefs go to town (literally as they prefer to use local produce) to ensure that guests have the best culinary experience possible. Most river cruises are all inclusive - so all meals, snacks and drinks are often included.

Entertainment is low key, so if you expect big production shows you will be disappointed. However, if you enjoy immersing yourself in local culture, you will be in your element. Performers usually join along the route, so you may have local musicians, dancers, or a cultural show. There will often be dancing to a DJ in the lounge/bar area most evenings.

If you enjoy being active, there is usually a gym on board plus bikes for use ashore. Obviously there will be lots of opportunity for walking excursions too.

How big are river cruise ships?

River Cruise Ships are sometimes referred to as longships or longboats, which are good descriptions. A river cruise ship is generally between 100-140 metres long, with a width of around 12 metres wide and carry between 80-180 passengers. An exception to this is the new Amawaterways, AmaMagna which is 22 metres wide, nearly double the width of other river cruise ships enabling them to maximise their facilities.

There will rarely be more than three or four decks, on which you will find a sundeck/pool, accommodation, lounge, dining room and bar. There may also be room for a spa and fitness room. Lets put it like this, your morning constitutional won’t take you very long if it involves walking around the ship.

What facilities are onboard a River Cruise Ship?

Starting at the top, there will be a sundeck on which you will, in most cases, find at least a plunge pool, although many have small swimming pools and hot tubs. There will be comfortable seating/sun loungers, a bar and the bridge house. Interestingly, both of the latter have retractable roofs to enable them to navigate under low bridges/locks. Some river cruise ships have mini golf or giant chess to while away the cruising hours.

Downstairs, (or below deck in nautical terms), there will be an atrium of sorts (don’t expect swarovski staircases and giant chandeliers, although it will be beautifully decorated), where you will find a 24 hour reception desk, and possibly a tiny shop. Randomly, on ARosa Flora there was a nice touch - a little table featuring a selection of top perfumes to try. There may also be a corridor of cabins on this level, plus lounge/bar and restaurant. Depending on the layout of the ship, the restaurant may be on the deck below with further cabins. In case you were wondering, all public areas and guest cabins are above the water line (although in some cases, only just).

On a lower deck (usually) you will find the spa and fitness room. On ARosa Flora there was a sauna with a fabulous window looking out onto the river. Some ships may have additional features, such as a library, additional restaurant, or private dining/chefs table.

What are the cabins like onboard a river cruise?

I was pleasantly surprised by the size of cabins we either stayed in or viewed at the CLIA River Cruise Conference recently. On both ships we stayed on - ARosa Flora and CroisiEurope’s Douce France - we had large ‘balcony’ cabins. The balcony was actually a French Balcony, similar to a juliette balcony, but had fabulous views and made the room very airy. Many river cruise ships have proper balconies, but there are also more modest (in price, not size) outside cabins with windows. There are generally no inside cabins on a river cruise ship, the lowest grade is a cabin below the waterline (not that you could tell) with a high non-opening window to let in natural light. Most ships offer Suites at a premium and some have interconnecting and solo cabins also.

Standard river cruise cabins in Europe are around 150-170 square feet, whilst suites vary but are around 220 square feet. You will always have an ensuite bathroom (with either bath or shower), and some storage space in the cabin. Normally hairdryers and toiletries are provided.

Are river cruises all-inclusive?

Most river cruises are all-inclusive, or at the very least full board plus (as in all meals plus wine/beer with dinner). Some are even ultra-all inclusive including airport transfers, premium drinks, included excursions etc.). It is this that makes river cruises such a good deal in comparison to other holidays. Gratuities may not always be included though, so it is best to read the terms and conditions, and tipping advice. Some river cruises aren’t inclusive of travel to the ship so that is something else worth checking.

Will I get seasick?

The answer to this one is easy. Definitely NOT! You aren’t at sea and there are no big waves on rivers. The river cruise ships are stable and just glide effortlessly along on calm water, so the ride is gentle. However, if you are someone who suffers from motion sickness generally, it cannot be guaranteed obviously.

Which Rivers can you Cruise?

Wondering where you can go on a river cruise? There is a huge choice in river cruise itineraries spanning Europe, Asia, North America and Russia. Which is the best river for you will depend on how far you wish to travel, what your interests are, and which destinations you wish to visit.

European Rivers

European rivers include The Rhine (and Rhine Basin), The Rhone & Saone, The Danube (and Lower Danube), The Loire, The Douro, Dutch Waterways, The Elbe, The Seine, The Dordogne, The Moselle and The Main.

Rivers further afield

Some river cruise ships have extended their options to include The Mekong in South-East Asia covering Vietnam and Cambodia, The Nile, and even The Zambezi in Africa, American specialist river cruise lines (e.g. American Queen Steamboat Company) also cruise The Mississippi, The Ohio, The Tennessee, The Columbia and Snake rivers. Some river cuise lines also include Russia in their portfolio.

Which is the best river cruise line?

With so many river cruise lines in the sector, this is subjective. It will come down to what your criteria are. There might be a best cruise line for wine tours, or best cruise line for all-inclusive excursions. Some will offer better cabins than others or more desirable itineraries. Check out the River Cruising web page where I have listed the main river cruise lines in the sector, and provided links to their websites. All have something special to offer so do your homework.

If you are seeking the most luxurious cruise line, then check out my related post The 5 Most Luxurious River Cruise Lines.

Is a river cruise expensive?

The big question is, perhaps, how much does a river cruise cost? Although the price of a river cruise might initially look high, if you consider what is included it actually represents very good value for money. A 7-night River Cruise can cost as little as £850 per person on one of the more affordable cruise lines (e.g, CroisiEurope) and as much as £2500 (or more) per person on a premium river cruise line such as Crystal River Cruises. As with any holiday, you get what you pay for. At the cheaper end of the sector there may be less included in your fare, and possibly simpler decor and fittings, and fewer facilities onboard. There will possibly be more inclusions in the higher priced cruises such as a larger choice of itineraries, excursions, opulent interiors, more types of cabin, and premium drinks. If a butler is important to you then you would expect to pay more for a cruise with this amenity. As with any holiday, search for special offers and deals to get best value. See my related post ‘5 Affordable Cruise Lines’.

Do I have to fly to join a river cruise?

How do you get to your river cruise ship if you don’t wish to fly? A river cruise is an ideal choice for those who are unable to fly for whatever reason. If you are based in Europe, you have the option of travelling by train or motor transport. From the U.K. you could take the Eurostar and benefit from overseas transfers. Or why not consider a cruise-and-stay, including a pre or post cruise add on to your journey. However, if you are considering an Asia or North American river cruise, then unless you are already based in those countries you will have no alternative but to fly.

Cabins on River Cruises

As with any cruise, there is a cabin to suit every taste and every budget. From cosy inside cabins to the most luxurious of suites. Sone may have a porthole, others a Juliette balcony or even a full veranda.

Food on a River Cruise

Most river cruises include at least your three main meals, but many include extras such as afternoon tea and snacks throughout the day. What you can be assured of is that the food will be exceptional - it is a main event on a river cruise. Chefs often make the most of local produce straight from the ports of call, and create dishes appropriate to your destinations. Most will include drinks with meals, others offer an all inclusive experience.

What should I pack for a River Cruise?

Most river cruises are completely informal and you can dress how you please within reason. Resort casual is acceptable during the day, and most evenings too. There will be no formal nights as on an ocean cruise. There may be a welcome cocktail party or a captains dinner for which you may wish to pack a smarter outfit, but evening dress, suits, and tuxedos are definitely not required (unless you are choosing a glamourous excursion to the opera or ballet maybe).

Dress for the weather - even in summer Northern Europe can have the odd rainy or chilly day so pack layers. Further south where the climate is milder, pack your summer holiday wear. For Asia, pack lightweight clothing in natural fibres. Winter in Europe can get very cold, so definitely pack warm layers for when you are out and about. With regard to footwear, onboard it is sensible to keep to flat shoes (other than if you wish to dress up for dinner). Also remember to pack comfortable shoes for when you are exploring ashore.

Most river cruise ships use European voltage, so remember to pack international adapters. A multi-plug socket it often useful if you have a few gadgets (don’t for get the chargers themselves). Worth noting, is that for fire safety reasons, some river cruise lines will unplug any items left charging unattended in your cabin and there may also be restrictions to the use of hair straighteners.

How do I choose a river cruise?

What should you think about when choosing a river cruise? How can you compare river cruises?

One consideration is your budget - how much are you willing to spend on your river cruise? What level of luxury do you want from your river cruise? Think which region you would like to explore - do your research as each river has its own unique attractions. What interests you most? There are specialist river cruises for wine lovers, historians, nature lovers (think of the Netherlands and their bulbs, or the lavendar in Provence). Do you want a scenic cruise, or one that offers many cities? Do you want an active holiday? If so, look for golf river cruises, or those river cruise lines that offer bikes, hiking and even white-water rafting. Check out the fitness activities onboard. Another consideration is when you want or are able to take your river cruise as this might impact on itineraries. Watch out for my forthcoming related River Cruise Checklist coming soon!

Are river cruises suitable for families?

Whilst the majority of river cruises are most suited to adults, there is a move towards multi-generational river cruising. Three of the most family-friendly river cruise lines are AmaWaterways, A-Rosa, and CroisiEurope. You will find family accommodation, interconnecting and solo cabins onboard these ships, making them suitable for families. A-Rosa and CroisiEurope even have a free-child policy for those under 16, plus kids clubs and activities on certain cruisees. AmaWaterways, whilst welcoming older families, do not recommend river cruising for children under the age of 7. If you are an active family with older children, a river cruise could be a great option to spend quality time together.

River Cruising for Solo Travellers

River Cruising is a fabulous holiday for those travelling alone. Given their intimate nature, it is very easy to mingle with other guests and to join group excursions, should you so wish. Often meals are taken at larger shared tables so there is no need to dine alone.

Most river cruise lines have some solo cabins or competitively priced double cabins for single-occupancy. Riviera Cruises for example advertise no single supplements across the entire ship on selected cruises and departure dates; whilst Emerald Cruises also offer (limited) supplement-free solo places on certain European river cruises.

If you are over 50, look at Saga River Cruises who operate dedicated solo itineraries.

I hope this article has answered most of your questions. However if there is anything else you want to know, do not hesitate to contact me or leave a comment and I will get back to you as soon as possible.