Thinking about a river cruise but not sure where to start? At Stellar Travel, we don’t pick favorites—because every traveler is unique. Instead, we’ve created this guide to help you find the river cruise line that best fits your style. Each of these five exceptional brands offers something different, from all-inclusive luxury to immersive cultural experiences.
Whether you’re seeking all-inclusive ease, immersive excursions, or a ship that feels like a boutique hotel, there’s a perfect fit waiting for you. Here’s how they compare:
AmaWaterways
AmaWaterways offers a warm, welcoming experience with a focus on wellness, gastronomy, and immersive excursions. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to stay active while discovering culture up close and personal.
Best for: Active travelers and food lovers
Onboard style: Warm, modern, and casually elegant
Standout features: Daily excursions including biking, hiking, and tastings. Twin balcony staterooms and exceptional regional cuisine paired with local wines.
Viking River Cruises
With sleek ships and a strong cultural focus, Viking is ideal for adults who enjoy thoughtful travel, immersive learning, and seamless onboard comfort.
Best for: Culturally curious, adults-only travelers
Onboard style: Sleek, minimalist Scandinavian design
Standout features: Shore excursions at every port. Strong focus on local history, music, and cuisine. No kids, crowds, or casinos.
Tauck
Tauck blends understated luxury with total peace of mind. Every detail is taken care of, so you can simply relax and enjoy a seamless journey through Europe’s most iconic rivers.
Best for: Luxury travelers who want everything taken care of
Onboard style: Upscale, understated, and elegant
Standout features: Truly all-inclusive pricing with gratuities, drinks, excursions, and airport transfers; fewer guests for a more spacious onboard experience; exclusive access to landmarks and local events.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
Uniworld offers an artistic and indulgent experience, where no two ships are the same. Perfect for those who appreciate the finer things and want their cruise to feel as curated as their destination.
Best for: Travelers who love design, art, and indulgence
Onboard style: Lavish, whimsical, and richly detailed
Standout features: Individually designed ships with opulent décor. Farm-to-table dining and fine wines. Inclusive gratuities, excursions, and top-tier service.
Avalon Waterways
Avalon is ideal for modern travelers who like flexibility and a fresh approach to river cruising. Their innovative suite design and customizable excursions make each day your own.
Best for: Modern explorers seeking flexibility
Onboard style: Contemporary and relaxed
Standout features: Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall windows.“Active & Discovery” cruises with multiple excursion types. A-la-carte excursions so you can do as much—or as little—as you like.
No matter your travel style, river cruising offers an effortless way to see the world—unpacking once, dining well, and waking up somewhere beautiful each day.
Connect with your Stellar Travel advisor to start planning the river cruise that fits you best!