6 Best River Cruise Lines for American Travellers

River cruising is gaining popularity with Americans.

River cruising is the new luxury trend for US travellers who want intimate ships, immersive destinations, and all-inclusive ease. But with so many options out there, which river cruise line should you choose?

Here are six of the best river cruise brands and itineraries, handpicked for American travellers.

1️⃣ Viking River Cruises – The US Favourite

Viking is a familiar brand to UK Travellers. Photo: Viking river ship in Paris

Viking is the most recognisable name in river cruising, thanks to its sleek Scandinavian ships and itineraries designed for first-time European travellers.

  • Why it’s great for Americans: Easy booking from the US, consistent quality, strong reputation.

  • What’s Included: Beer, wine, and soft drinks at meals, Wi-Fi, guided shore excursions.

  • Itineraries to Try:

    • Danube Waltz (8 days, Budapest to Passau) – Castles, vineyards, and charming villages. From $3499 per person.

    • Paris & the Heart of Normandy (8 days) – Combines Parisian elegance with French countryside and WWII history. From $3399 per person

2️⃣ AmaWaterways – Boutique Luxury

River ship AmaBella. Photo: courtesy of AmaWaterways

Family-owned AmaWaterways offers a boutique feel with a focus on wellness and food. Their ships are stylish but relaxed, and excursions often include biking, hiking, or wine tasting.

  • Why it’s great for Americans: Warm, personal service and plenty of activity options.

  • What’s Included: Wine and beer at meals, Wi-Fi, multiple excursions daily, specialty dining.

  • Itineraries to Try:

    • Taste of Bordeaux (7 nights) – Vineyard tours and château tastings. From $3199 per person.

    • Colors of Provence (7 nights, Lyon to Avignon) – French food, art, and lavender fields. From $3299 per person.

3️⃣ Uniworld Boutique River Cruises – True All-Inclusive Luxury

Uniworld’s SS Victoria in Rhine Basin.

If you want five-star glamour without surprise costs, Uniworld is the gold standard. Their ships are inspired by luxury hotels, with elegant interiors and impeccable service.

  • Why it’s great for Americans: Everything is included—no nickel-and-diming.

  • What’s Included: Unlimited premium drinks, excursions, gratuities, Wi-Fi, airport transfers, laundry.

  • Itineraries to Try:

    • Enchanting Danube (8 days, Budapest to Passau) – Palaces, concerts, and historic cities. From $4399 per person.

    • Burgundy & Provence (8 days) – French wine, art, and regional cuisine. From $4799 per person.

4️⃣ Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours – Ultra All-Inclusive

Scenic offer modern luxury on their river ships

Scenic’s “Space-Ships” set the bar high with modern luxury, butler service, and absolutely everything included. Perfect if you want indulgence without worrying about extra bills.

  • Why it’s great for Americans: True five-star comfort with butlers for every guest.

  • What’s Included: Unlimited premium beverages, excursions, gratuities, butler service, Wi-Fi, transfers.

  • Itineraries to Try:

    • Gems of the Danube (8 days) – Classic castles and cities. From $5195 per person.

    • Normandy & Gems of the Seine (11 days) – French history and Parisian elegance. From $6495 per person.

5️⃣ Tauck River Cruises – Escorted Luxury

Truck’s MS Andorinha. Courtesy of Tauck

As a US-based company, Tauck understands American travellers better than most. Their river cruises combine luxury ships with expert tour directors and curated excursions.

  • Why it’s great for Americans: Seamless, guided travel with everything taken care of.

  • What’s Included: Excursions, gratuities, unlimited drinks, Wi-Fi, cultural events, transfers.

  • Itineraries to Try:

    • The Blue Danube (12 days) – A cruise paired with land stays in Prague and Budapest. From $6990 per person.

    • Rhine & Moselle (12 days) – Castles, vineyards, and old-world charm. From $6790 per person.

6️⃣ Avalon Waterways – Panoramic Views & Flexibility

Avalon Algeria on Douro

Avalon is known for its Panorama Suites, where your bed faces floor-to-ceiling windows. More casual than some lines, Avalon is ideal for travellers who want flexibility and active excursions.

  • Why it’s great for Americans: Relaxed luxury and a choice of excursion styles (classic, active, discovery).

  • What’s Included: Beer, wine, and soft drinks with meals, Wi-Fi, excursions.

    Itineraries to Try:

    • Active & Discovery on the Danube (8 days) – Hiking, biking, and immersive experiences. From $3099 per person.

    • Romantic Rhine (8 days) – Fairytale castles and historic towns. From $3399 per person.

Which River Cruise Is Right for You?

  • Choose Uniworld, Scenic, or Tauck if you want a true all-inclusive luxury experience.

  • Opt for Viking or AmaWaterways if you want great value with excursions included.

  • Pick Avalon if you’re looking for casual, flexible river cruising with stunning views.

No matter which you choose, river cruises offer intimate luxury, cultural immersion, and all-inclusive convenience—making them the perfect choice for US travellers ready to see Europe differently.

River CruiseKathy TaylorComment