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River Cruising
Gently Drift into Enchantment! Your Ultimate River Cruise Adventure Awaits!
river Cruises
Unpack Once, Discover a Dozen Wonders: The Heart of Europe and Beyond, Right Outside Your Window!
Imagine waking up to a fresh, picturesque town or city shimmering just outside your window, the gentle hum of the river your morning serenade. River cruises aren't just holidays; they are intimate journeys that seamlessly weave together cultural immersion, historical exploration, and effortless relaxation. Unlike their ocean-faring cousins, river cruises bring you right to the heart of destinations, allowing you to step ashore and immediately be surrounded by local life, ancient architecture, and vibrant markets.
This isn't about rushing from one crowded attraction to another. A river cruise offers a serene and sophisticated way to explore, combining the luxury of a boutique hotel with the ever-changing panorama of stunning landscapes. You unpack only once, and your floating sanctuary glides effortlessly along, revealing vineyards, medieval castles, bustling cities, and quaint villages. It’s a truly immersive experience perfect for those who crave authentic discovery, a relaxed pace, and a deeply enriching holiday.
Top Rivers to Embark on Your Next Journey!
The Danube: Imperial Cities and Fairytale Castles
Flowing through 10 countries, the mighty Danube offers a captivating journey through the heart of Europe. Sail past grand imperial cities like Vienna, Budapest, and Bratislava, where opulent palaces and ancient ruins tell tales of empires past. Discover charming medieval towns, lush vineyards, and the stunning Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, all from the comfort of your ship.
The Rhine: Legends, Lore, and Vine-Covered Hills
Experience the quintessential European river cruise along the majestic Rhine. This river is a ribbon of history and natural beauty, famed for its dramatic castles perched on cliff tops, the legendary Lorelei Rock, and rolling vineyards producing world-renowned wines. Cruise through Germany, France, and the Netherlands, stepping ashore to explore iconic cities like Cologne and Strasbourg.
The Mekong: Exotic Cultures and Ancient Wonders
Venture beyond Europe for a truly exotic river cruise on the Mekong, weaving through Vietnam and Cambodia. This journey offers a profound cultural immersion, from the bustling floating markets of the Mekong Delta to the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat (often part of a pre or post-cruise extension). Witness vibrant local life, discover ancient traditions, and savor unique culinary delights.
Our favourite River Cruise Lines
Step into the world of river cruising, an intimate and immersive way to travel. Unlike their ocean-going cousins, river cruise ships are elegant, low-slung vessels designed to navigate the heart of countries, docking in the centre of historic towns and vibrant cities.
Uniworld
Uniworld offers a truly "boutique hotel" experience, where no two ships are alike. Each vessel is a floating work of art, with lavish and individually designed interiors reflecting the destinations they sail through. The experience is one of the most luxurious and all-inclusive on the rivers, covering everything from premium spirits and wines to all gratuities and curated excursions.
S.S. La Venezia
A floating Venetian masterpiece, this ship was completely redesigned to capture the artistic flair of its home port. Sailing exclusively in the Venice Lagoon, its interiors are adorned with exquisite Fortuny fabrics and Murano glass, offering guests an incredibly immersive and opulent Italian experience.
S.S. Maria Theresa:
An opulent "Super Ship" sailing the Rhine, Main, and Danube, named after the influential Habsburg ruler. The vessel features grand 18th-century-inspired baroque décor, with royal crown-topped mirrors, a grand staircase, and a collection of fine art that makes guests feel as though they are cruising in a floating palace.
Mekong Jewel
An all-suite "Super Ship" built with sustainable and eco-friendly materials, offering the utmost luxury on the Mekong River. The ship is constructed from materials sourced from local, renewable resources and its spacious suites, two dining venues, and sparkling swimming pool provide a truly five-star way to explore Vietnam and Cambodia.
AMA Waterways
A family-owned and operated company, AmaWaterways is known for its spacious, premium ships and a strong emphasis on active, wellness-oriented travel. Most staterooms feature their signature "twin-balcony" design (a French balcony and a full outside balcony). The line has a partnership with the prestigious La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary society, ensuring a high standard of cuisine.
AmaMagna
A revolutionary, double-width vessel on the Danube that offers a new dimension in river cruising. Its immense space allows for enormous suites (most over 355 sq ft), four distinct restaurants, a full-size cinema, and an expansive wellness studio with a juice bar, providing an unparalleled and spacious experience.
AmaLucia
A classic and elegant example of the AmaWaterways fleet, sailing the Rhine, Moselle, and Dutch & Belgian Waterways. This beautiful ship features the line's signature twin-balcony staterooms, a heated sun-deck pool with a swim-up bar, and multiple dining venues, including the intimate Chef's Table restaurant.
Zambezi Queen
A truly unique and eco-friendly vessel designed for safari cruising on the Chobe River in Africa. This intimate 28-passenger ship allows for incredible, up-close wildlife viewing right from your private balcony, offering a boutique hotel experience in the heart of the wilderness with all the comforts of a luxury cruise.
Scenic
Scenic offers a truly "all-inclusive" ultra-luxury experience where everything is covered, from the top-shelf drinks to every excursion and all tips. Their European vessels are known as "Space-Ships" for their generous passenger-to-space ratio. Every suite features a "Scenic Sun Lounge"—a private all-weather balcony that converts from an open-air space to a glass-enclosed lounge at the touch of a button. All guests, regardless of suite category, enjoy the services of a butler.
Scenic Jasper
A popular "Space-Ship" sailing the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers, showcasing the line's classic ultra-luxury. The ship features a choice of dining venues, from the main Crystal Dining restaurant to the exclusive Portobello's Italian, and a vitality pool on the Sun Deck, embodying the high standards of the Scenic fleet.
Scenic Spirit
A smaller, all-suite ship on the Mekong designed to offer an incredibly luxurious and intimate journey with only 68 guests. The ship feels like a five-star boutique hotel, with a resort-style pool and bar, an open-air cinema, and one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios on the river, ensuring impeccable service.
Scenic Azure
A custom-built ship for Portugal's Douro river, accommodating just 96 guests for a very personal and intimate experience. Its smaller size is perfect for navigating the Douro's locks, while still featuring a spacious Sun Deck with a vitality pool and a range of luxurious suites.
Emerald
Known for exceptional value, Emerald offers a "premium all-inclusive" experience that is stylish, contemporary, and active. Their modern European "Star-Ships" have a signature feature: an indoor heated pool with a retractable roof that transforms into a cinema on select evenings. Included daily excursions offer "EmeraldACTIVE" choices like guided bike tours and hikes.
Emerald Luna
One of the newest "Star-Ships" on the Rhine, Main, and Danube, this vessel features all of the line's signature innovations. Guests can enjoy the three-tiered atrium, the transformative indoor pool and cinema, and spacious suites, all while experiencing Emerald's contemporary and active cruising style.
Emerald Radiance
Purpose-built for the sun-drenched Douro River, this ship is smaller to navigate the waterway's locks. It differs from its European sisters by featuring an open-air Serenity Pool on the Sun Deck, perfect for relaxing and taking in the stunning Portuguese landscapes after a day of exploration.
Emerald Harmony
A custom-built Star-Ship on the Mekong that is cleverly designed to be smaller than most, allowing it to sail right into the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. This avoids a lengthy coach transfer, giving guests more time to explore and enjoy the ship's pool, Asian-inspired dining, and modern comfort.
Riviera Travel
A British company that has been voted "Best-value River Cruise Line" by Which? for many years. Riviera offers an outstanding premium experience with a focus on spacious cabins and suites, fascinating excursions, and superb dining, but at a lower price point. This is achieved by not automatically including drinks or gratuities, allowing guests the flexibility to add a drinks package or not. There are no hidden fees, and the line is known for its transparent pricing and excellent, knowledgeable tour managers.
MS Geoffrey Chaucer
A beautiful and elegant all-suite ship that represents the best of Riviera's modern, five-star fleet. Sailing on the Danube, Rhine & Moselle, it features a panoramic observation lounge, a small pool on the sun deck, and a second, more intimate dining venue, The Bistro, for a special culinary experience.
MS Emily Brontë
A sister ship to Geoffrey Chaucer, known for its spacious, five-star feel and classic, refined decor. Guests appreciate the ship's light and airy public areas, the high quality of the onboard dining, and the exceptionally spacious suites, which are among the largest on any European river cruise ship.
MS Douro Elegance
A smaller, purpose-built ship designed specifically to navigate Portugal's stunning Douro river. The ship offers a more intimate experience for just 121 guests and features a sun deck with a pool, a stylish bar and lounge, and cabins with floor-to-ceiling windows to enjoy the beautiful scenery.
APT(Australian Pacific Touring)
APT is a premium, all-inclusive Australian tour operator with a long history. Their river cruises offer a high level of comfort and inclusions, with a focus on unique cultural experiences. A key feature is their "Signature Experiences"—exclusive or unique events, such as a private concert in a palace, that are included in the fare. They also offer a choice of "Freedom of Choice" excursions in many ports.
Mekong Serenity
APT's newest and most luxurious ship sailing the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. This all-balcony suite ship offers a truly indulgent experience with a private swimming pool, an onboard spa, and multiple dining options, all while exploring the wonders of Southeast Asia.
Travelmarvel Polaris/Vega/Capella
A trio of identical, contemporary ships sailing in Europe under the 4-star Travelmarvel brand. These modern vessels offer a more relaxed atmosphere and great value, with a beautiful sun deck, a bistro for casual dining, and a lounge and bar that's perfect for socialising.
Lady Eleganza
While not a river ship, this private yacht is used for APT's popular small-ship coastal cruises in Croatia, showcasing their diverse fleet. Accommodating just 34 guests, it offers an incredibly intimate and port-intensive way to explore the stunning islands and coastlines of the Adriatic Sea.
Riverside Luxury Cruises
A newer entrant into the market, Riverside has quickly established itself as a top-tier luxury operator by acquiring and relaunching the former fleet of Crystal Cruises. The experience is defined by true luxury, with an exceptional staff-to-guest ratio, extraordinary cuisine, and some of the most spacious all-suite accommodations on the rivers. Service is highly personalised, with butlers attending to every suite.
Riverside Mozart
An iconic double-width ship on the Danube, offering unparalleled space that other river vessels can't match. This allows for four incredible restaurants, a wraparound promenade deck, an expansive spa and wellness area, and some of the largest suites afloat, creating a truly five-star resort experience.
Riverside Ravel
An elegant and sophisticated all-suite, all-balcony ship sailing the Rhône and Saône in France. Every suite comes with butler service, and the ship is known for its exceptional farm-to-table cuisine, a sparkling indoor pool, and a refined atmosphere perfect for exploring the culinary heart of France.
Riverside Debussy
A sister ship to Ravel, offering the same high level of luxury, personalised butler service, and gourmet dining on the Rhine. Its sleek design and all-suite accommodations provide the perfect sanctuary after a day exploring Germany's historic castles and charming riverside towns.
Avalon Waterways
Avalon's key innovation is its "Panorama Suite" design. On two full decks of their "Suite Ships," the beds are angled to face the river, so guests wake up to the view. Instead of a small balcony, they feature a wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling window that opens up 7-feet wide to create a unique "Open-Air Balcony." This design makes the entire suite a spacious viewing area.
Avalon Panorama
The revolutionary first "Suite Ship" that introduced the line's signature bed-facing-the-view concept. Its success set the standard for the entire fleet, offering guests a more spacious and view-oriented stateroom experience on the great rivers of Europe.
Avalon Imagery II
A popular and modern Suite Ship that plies the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers. In addition to the innovative Panorama Suites, it offers a fitness centre, an Adventure Centre with bikes and activity gear, and a spacious Sky Deck with a whirlpool and premium lounge chairs.
Avalon Tranquility II
Another classic Suite Ship offering the signature Open-Air Balcony experience on Europe's key waterways. The ship embodies Avalon's relaxed luxury, with flexible dining options and a wide variety of included shore excursions to suit every taste, from classic sightseeing to active adventures.
Tui river cruises
TUI brings its popular, relaxed, and friendly holiday style to the rivers. The cruises are exclusively for adults, creating a laid-back atmosphere onboard. The pricing is Full Board Plus, meaning breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, as are tea and coffee, plus beer, soft drinks, and wine with your meals. A credit for shore excursions is also included, which you can put towards a range of options. With UK flights and transfers included, it's a fantastic, easy-to-book option for those new to river cruising or who love the TUI style.
TUI Maya
A modern and stylish ship sailing the Rhine and Danube. It features two restaurants—a main dining room and a more casual bistro—as well as two bars, creating a sociable and varied onboard experience. The top deck is the perfect spot for relaxing and watching the scenery glide by.
TUI Skyla
A sister ship to Maya, offering the same friendly and relaxed, adults-only atmosphere. Guests can enjoy the nightly entertainment in the observatory lounge, indulge in a treatment at the wellness area, or simply relax with a drink on the spacious sun deck with its shaded awnings and comfortable seating.
TUI Isla
The third sister ship in the European fleet, offering the same great-value, adults-only holiday. The ship is modern and light-filled, with floor-to-ceiling windows in the main lounge, ensuring you never miss a moment of the passing views as you sail through the heart of Europe.
VIVA Cruises
VIVA Cruises offers a contemporary, flexible, and all-inclusive river cruise experience with a fresh, modern feel. The onboard atmosphere is casual and relaxed, appealing to a younger demographic and seasoned cruisers looking for a less formal journey. Their "VIVA All-Inclusive" concept is comprehensive, covering all meals, snacks, premium drinks, gratuities, and Wi-Fi. With a focus on "enjoying the moment," it's a line for those who want a hassle-free, stylish, and sociable holiday.
VIVA ONE
The line's first new-build ship, featuring a modern, light-filled design and a focus on sustainability with GTL fuel technology. The ship has a spacious sun deck, a fitness and wellness area, and two restaurants, offering a fresh and contemporary way to cruise Europe's rivers.
VIVA TWO
The second new-build, which introduced an innovative split-level main restaurant and a separate bistro. This design creates a more varied and spacious dining experience, while the ship maintains the brand's vibrant and all-inclusive atmosphere on the Rhine and Danube.
VIVA TIARA
A classic and fully refurbished ship offering a very comfortable and intimate experience for guests. With its warm and inviting interiors, a cosy lounge, and a spacious sun deck with a whirlpool, it's perfect for those who enjoy a more traditional river cruise feel with all the benefits of VIVA's inclusive pricing.
A-rosa
A-ROSA stands out for its relaxed, flexible, and family-friendly approach, which is rare in the river cruise world. Many of its ships have facilities for children, and on certain sailings, kids can travel for free. Their "Premium All-Inclusive" tariff covers all meals (which are served buffet-style for maximum flexibility), as well as drinks from the bar all day long.
A-ROSA SENA
A revolutionary and eco-friendly new E-Motion ship on the Rhine. Its innovative design provides extra-large family cabins, a dedicated kids' club, and two swimming pools (one for adults, one for children), making it arguably the most family-friendly river cruise ship in Europe.
A-ROSA FLORA
A popular and spacious ship sailing the Rhine, which embodies the classic A-ROSA experience. It features a large sun deck with a heated outdoor pool and a putting green, a generous buffet dining area, and the signature SPA-ROSA, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and activity.
A-ROSA ALVA
A purpose-built ship designed specifically for the Douro in Portugal. It offers stunning views of the vine-clad hillsides from its sun deck pool and comfortable lounge, providing a relaxed and scenic way to explore one of Europe's most beautiful wine regions.
Must-See & Must-Do Delights on Your River Cruise!
Step Directly into History
Unlike ocean cruises that often dock far from city centers, river cruise ships typically pull right up to the heart of a town. This means you can disembark and immediately begin exploring ancient cathedrals, historic squares, and local markets, often within a short walk from your ship.
Sip and Savour Local Flavours
River cruises are a foodie's paradise! Many itineraries feature included excursions to local vineyards for wine tastings, cooking demonstrations of regional specialties, and opportunities to sample fresh produce at bustling markets. Prepare your palate for a delightful culinary adventure.
Enrich Your Mind, Effortlessly
Forget constant sales pitches. River cruise entertainment is typically more refined and culturally focused. Expect engaging lectures on local history, art, and customs, live performances by regional musicians, and perhaps even language lessons to help you connect with the places you visit.
Bask in the Ever-Changing Scenery
The ship itself is often the best view! With continuous sailing along picturesque riverbanks, you're constantly treated to stunning vistas. Grab a drink, settle into a comfortable lounge chair on the sun deck, and watch medieval castles, rolling hills, and charming villages glide by – it's truly a living postcard.
Top Tips for First-Time River Cruisers (with a Splash of Wisdom!)
(01)
This isn't a race! River cruising is about savouring the journey. While you'll visit a new port most days, there's ample time to relax on board, soak in the scenery, or even enjoy a quiet moment with a book. Don't feel pressured to do every single excursion; sometimes the best memories are made just watching the world drift by.
Embrace the "Slow Travel" Vibe
(02)
Think layers and comfort! You'll be doing a fair amount of walking on cobblestone streets, so comfortable shoes are non-negotiable. Days are usually casual, but having a few smarter outfits for evening dinners is a good idea, though formal wear is rarely required. And here's the twist: a lightweight, versatile scarf or shawl is your secret weapon – perfect for chilly evenings, adding a touch of flair, or modestly covering shoulders when visiting religious sites.
Pack Like a Clever Chameleon
(03)
With stunning scenery and daily new discoveries, your camera roll will be working overtime. Pack extra battery packs and European adapters if you're cruising overseas. And while Wi-Fi is usually available, remember that sometimes the best way to connect with your destination is to disconnect from the digital world and simply immerse yourself in the present moment.
Charge Your Gadgets (and Your Spirit!)
(04)
The smaller ship size means a more intimate atmosphere, and the crew often plays a more personal role. They are a treasure trove of local knowledge and can offer fantastic tips on hidden gems, the best place for a coffee, or where to find that perfect souvenir. A friendly chat can lead to some of your most memorable holiday moments!
Befriend the Crew – They're Your Local Legends
Your Serene Journey Through History and Beauty Awaits!
River cruising offers a truly unique and enriching way to experience the world. It combines the comfort and luxury of a floating boutique hotel with unparalleled access to the cultural heart of each destination. Unpack once, and let the gentle rhythm of the river carry you through breathtaking landscapes, past ancient landmarks, and into the vibrant tapestry of local life.
Whether you dream of castles and vineyards, imperial cities, or exotic ancient cultures, a river cruise provides an intimate and effortless way to explore. It's an invitation to slow down, connect with history, savour exquisite cuisine, and create memories that will flow through your heart long after you've disembarked. The waterways are calling – are you ready to answer?
Why River Cruise With Auria Travel
Tailored river cruise Experiences Just for You
Travelling with us means embarking on unforgettable and luxurious adventures by river cruise, tailored to your unique interests and desires. Unlike ocean voyages, river cruises offer an intimate perspective, gliding along picturesque waterways that lead directly into the heart of historic cities and charming towns. Our expert guides are dedicated to providing insider knowledge and local experiences at each port of call, taking you beyond the usual tourist paths to discover hidden gems and immerse yourself in diverse cultures.
Expert Guidance
We offer knowledgeable travel experts who can provide personalised itinerary planning and recommendations
Financial Security
Safe in the knowledge that all of our holidays are ATOL bonded and all your monies are secure in a PTS Trust account.
Connect with Auria Travel
Ready to start planning your dream getaway? Our dedicated team at Auria Travel is here to provide personalised travel advice tailored just for you.
Whether you have a specific destination in mind or need help deciding, we’re excited to assist you every step of the way.
Reach out to us today for expert guidance and seamless booking. You call us at 0333 210 2250. Let’s make your travel dreams a reality!
