River Cruising - Luxury Cruising

How Much Are River Cruises, And Why Are They (Usually) More Expensive Than Ocean Cruises?

January 21, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News River Cruising

River cruises have a reputation for being expensive. But before you write them off as being out of your price range, you might be interested to know how much river cruises actually cost, and what you get for your money.

Just like ocean cruises, there’s a whole spectrum of river cruises out there – from budget-friendly to ultra-luxury.

In this guide, I’ll show you how much the average river cruise costs, how this compares to an ocean cruise. We’ll also consider what’s included and what you’ll need to budget extra for.

The average cost of a river cruise

The prices of river cruises range from £70 ($90) per night for a European river cruise in a basic cabin with a cruise line like A-Rosa or CroisiEurope to over £1,000 ($1,300) per night for an exotic cruise in one of the top suites of an ultra-luxury cruise ship from the likes of Scenic or Tauck.

On average, you can expect a river cruise to cost you around £150 to £300 ($200 to $400) per person, per night. That works out at around £2,800 ($3,700) for a seven-night cruise for two people.

The best way to book a river cruise

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If you pay towards the lower end of the scale, you should expect to pay extra for things like flights, excursions and drinks, whereas with luxury river cruises these are all included. The most luxurious all-inclusive river cruise lines include absolutely everything in the cruise fare, whereas the budget ones tend to add things on later.

The price of a river cruise depends on many factors, such as:

Ship
Duration
Destination
Time of year
Cabin type
Number of people in the cabin
Whether drinks are included
Whether gratuities are included
Whether flights and transfers are included
Whether excursions are included
Whether taxes and port charges are included
Discount

Everything included with river cruises

One of the most important things that you should consider when looking at the cost of a river cruise is what’s included. A cruise that seems expensive can actually work out to be very reasonable if it includes flights, transfers, drinks, gratuities, and excursions.

On the other hand, you may think that you’ve found a cheap deal, but the price could double once you add on all of the essential extras.

Here’s what’s included in a river cruise…

Meals and snacks	Always
Entertainment	Always
Drinks with meals	Almost always
Drinks outside of mealtimes	Sometimes
Shore excursions	Often
WiFi	Almost always
Flights	Rarely
Airport transfers	Almost always
Gratuities	Sometimes
Minibar	Sometimes
Spa facilities	Sometimes
Bike hire	Often

River cruises vs ocean cruises – are river cruises more expensive?

While the price of river cruises appears to be higher than the price of ocean cruises at first glance, the ticket price usually includes more. The average river cruise costing £1400 will include a lot more amenities than an average ocean cruise that costs £875.

Almost all river cruises include wine and beer with meals, WiFi and airport transfers as standards. It’s rare that you’ll find these things included with an ocean cruise.

Just like river cruises, ocean cruises vary hugely in price. If you have upwards of £1,000 per person, per day to spend, you’ll find some great options with both. However, if you’re a budget traveller who looks to spend under £100 per person, per day, you’ll come across many more ocean cruises than river cruises in your price range.

On the whole, you get what you pay for, and the value for money with a river cruise is comparable to an ocean cruise. Once you add up everything that you spend on the trip, including drinks, flights, excursions, taxes and gratuities, the prices of ocean and river cruises are quite similar.

For more information about what you get for your money on a river cruise, check out this post by Emma Cruises – Why Are River Cruises Expensive?

River cruise costs by cruise line

To guide you towards the best river cruise for your budget, I’ve listed all of the major river cruise lines sailing in Europe in price order, from the cheapest to the most expensive.

The price listed below is the lead-in price based on two adults sharing the lowest-grade cabin. Of course, this isn’t a like-for-like comparison for the cost of river cruises, as the more expensive cruises tend to have more included.

River Cruise Line	Price From (Per person for 7 nights)
CroisiEurope	£888
A-Rosa	£1,000
Amadeus	£1,062
TUI	£1,249
Arena Travel	£1,499
Emerald Cruises	£1,595
Viking	£1,695
Riviera Travel	£1,699
Avalon Waterways	£1,700
Saga	£1,855
AmaWaterways	£1,908
Scenic	£1,995
Uniworld	£2,239
Titan	£2,295
Tauck	£2,920
APT	£3,580

The cheapest river cruises

The cost of river cruises does vary throughout the year. You can find some great European river cruise deals in March and April as this is the start of the season and the weather isn’t always great. Choosing a cabin on the lowest deck with windows rather than a French balcony can give you a considerable saving.

The cheapest river cruise lines to consider are A-Rosa, Arena Travel, TUI and CroisiEurope. Arena Travel and TUI are adults-only, whereas A-Rosa and CroisiEurope also accept children.

Reasons to choose a river cruise

If you’re trying to decide between an ocean cruise and a river cruise, then here are some of the reasons why a river cruise might be the best option for you…

1. Kids sail free

A-Rosa and CriosiEurope both have ‘kids cruise free’ offers. A-Rosa’s offer is the best, as it means that children aged 15 and under cruise for free all of the time and on almost every ship. Families can even book two interconnecting cabins and pay for just one.

You won’t find a deal that good with ocean cruises. Check out my guide to learn more about why I recommend A-Rosa for families: 10 Reasons To Love A-ROSA Family Cruises.

You can learn more about CroisiEurope’s offer here: Kids Sail Free with CroisiEurope River Cruises.

kids on river cruise — Children on an A-Rosa river cruise

2. See more of each destination

River cruise ships dock right in the heart of each city, rather than on the outskirts. So you can step off the ship and begin exploring immediately without the need for a coach or taxi.

As you cruise from port to port, you’ll see the most beautiful scenery, rather than just water. Plus, as many river cruise ships have bicycles that you can use for free, you can see more of each place by bike, or even cycle along the river bank and meet the ship at the next port of call.

Many river cruises include evenings in port so that you can experience each city by night as well as in the daytime.

3. Enjoy a personalised service

As river cruise ships cater for around 150 guests, you’ll enjoy a personalised service and get to know the crew members. You’ll never have to queue at guest services, or anywhere at all.

The sun deck of each river cruise ship is incredibly spacious, with enough loungers for everyone, and you can arrive at the restaurant whenever you want to, without having to wait for a table. All in all, it’s a much more relaxed affair.

Times when a river cruise might not suit you

1. If you have a baby or toddler

River cruises aren’t great for very small children, and most family river cruise lines don’t accept under fours. There’s no space to store a pushchair, yet you’d need one when you head ashore to explore.

The top deck of a river cruise ship would be a dangerous place for any child who you don’t trust 100% not to climb on the railings. While ocean cruise ships usually have railings that are at least shoulder height and often made of glass to be climb-proof, on a river ship they’re waist height at most.

river cruise ship railings — The railings on a river cruise ship could be tempting for a child to climb

2. If you have limited mobility

Most river cruise ships aren’t wheelchair accessible. You won’t find accessible cabins and many ships don’t have a lift, so being able to climb stairs is a must.

Those who need to use a scooter to get around in port will likely find that there’s nowhere to store it on a river ship. On ocean cruises, you’ll see lots of people who use scooters or wheelchairs, but sadly river cruise ships just don’t have enough space to accommodate them.

3. If you want constant entertainment

If cruising is all whizzing down waterslides, climbing rock walls, bouncing on virtual-reality trampolines and watching Broadway-style shows in the theatre, then a river cruise probably isn’t for you.

Of course, you can be very active on a river cruise, and there’ll be plenty of opportunities for cycling and hiking. But if you like to sit in a sunlounger while your teenagers are off having fun doing the activities without you, then you simply won’t be able to do that on a river cruise.

For families who enjoy taking walking tours together, learning about history and culture, sampling local foods and playing a board game or two before bed, a river cruise can be a really great bonding activity. But it’s not for everyone.

giant chess — Giant chess sets are frequently found on river cruise ships

To conclude

I hope that this guide has given you some insight into how much a river cruise costs. Yes, many of them are expensive – most river cruises are on par with five-star luxury hotels but with a lot more included.

There are some good cheap river cruise options, even for families and solo travellers. But a river cruise isn’t for everyone, so it’s wise to do your research before you go ahead and book one.

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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.

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The 5 Best European River Cruises for Families

January 21, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial A-ROSA Cruise News River Cruising

Years ago, cruising had a bit of a reputation as being ‘just for old people’. But boy, how times have changed!

But what about river cruising? Are river cruises good for families? The answer is a resounding YES! Sort of. There are some caveats. As with any cruise holiday, you need to pick your river cruise carefully to find one that suits your family.

First, let’s make sure we’re all on the same page when it comes to knowing what to expect from family river cruises in Europe.

Family river cruising – what’s it like?

River cruise ships are pretty small, at least compared to ocean ships, anyway! Whilst an ocean ship might have anywhere from 2,000 to 6,000 passengers on board, river cruise ships tend to accommodate about 150 to 200 people.

The relatively small size of river cruise ships means that there’s obviously no room for things like water slides, rock climbing walls or any of the activities your kids would go crazy for on an ocean cruise.

However, there are some things they’ll like, such as small swimming pools, Jacuzzis, cinemas, games consoles and giant chess or noughts and crosses. Onboard A-ROSA SENA, each cabin will have a toy chest filled with toys that are tailored to the ages of your kids.

Each day, you’ll stop at a different port of call. Your ship will often dock right in the heart of the city, so you can get off and explore on foot, on a coach or maybe on bikes if your ship has those to borrow.

The child-friendly river cruise lines

There are about 20 river cruise lines, but only five of them are really kid-friendly so these are the ones you should consider.

The family-friendly river cruise lines are:

A-ROSA
AmaWaterways
CroisiEurope
Tauck
Uniworld

Each option for a river cruise with kids has its own merits, and which to choose depends very much on what kind of family you are.

Let’s take a closer look at each of the river cruise lines so you can decide which is the best for your family…

1. A-ROSA

German-owned river cruise line A-ROSA is my number one choice for families looking to take a river cruise in Europe. The ships are highly recognisable, with a smiling mouth on the front.

Youngsters can enjoy activities like treasure hunts, a pirate day and arts and crafts workshops. The whole crew get involved in entertaining children – they can make pizzas in the ship’s kitchen or visit the captain on the bridge.

There’s a specially-designed children’s menu so you can be sure that even the pickiest of eaters are well catered for. Family shore excursions are available too, visiting local theme parks and animal attractions.

Here’s my video review, showing why I think it’s possibly the best river cruise for families:

While most A-ROSA ships are great for families, one of the best is the A-ROSA SENA. The first river cruise ship designed with families in mind, A-ROSA SENA has cabins that sleep up to five, a dedicated kids’ club and a children’s pool.

A-ROSA is also one of the cheapest river cruise lines, making it a great option for those on a budget.

Minimum age to cruise with A-ROSA: Children must be two years old or over to sail and four years old or over to use the kids’ club. Cabins with French balconies are not recommended for children under seven years old.

Accommodation: Family cabins sleep up to five. Connecting cabins are also available.

Child fares: Children under 15 travel free of charge, except on the Douro where they receive a discount of 25%.

2. CroisiEurope

CroisiEurope is a French-owned, family-run river cruise line. These child-friendly river cruises are popular with families all year round, but particularly in the summer holidays.

Summer cruises with CroisiEurope have a kids’ club on board so that children can have fun with new friends and parents can enjoy some quality time on their own. As well as the activities, sports and pool games, the children put on a show at the end of the cruise for parents to watch.

Whilst river cruises, on the whole, tend to be quite expensive, CroisiEurope’s prices are very reasonable, so this river cruise line would make a great choice for families on a budget.

Minimum age to cruise with CroisiEurope: CroisiEurope has no minimum age to sail in Europe. For cruises in Russia, Asia and South Africa, the minimum age is seven years old.

Accommodation: One child can share with two adults. Or children can have the cabin next door from age five.

Child fares: In an odd twist to the norm, kids sail free during the school holidays in July and August on a selection of cruises in Spain, Portugal and France. At other times they receive a discount of 20%. For single parents, the single supplement is waived when travelling with children.

3. Uniworld

Uniworld offers a boutique river cruising experience. Travel + Leisure magazine has named Uniworld as the ‘World’s Best River Cruise Line’ year after year. But this luxury river cruise line isn’t just for adults.

Onboard Uniworld’s opulent river ships, families can enjoy activities together, such as local language classes, craft workshops or making desserts with the help of the ship’s pastry chef. There’s even a Soda Sommelier serving soft drinks from local regions.

Parents can enjoy romantic meals together as children are entertained at the Young Travellers Table along with their newfound friends and Uniworld’s dedicated Family Hosts.

There are lots of organised activities for children on-board, so parents get a break too. A lovely touch is that young travellers receive a surprise gift on their pillow each night of the cruise.

Minimum age to cruise with Uniworld: Children must be four years old or over.

Accommodation: Interconnecting
rooms are available.

Child fares: Children aged 4 to 17 get a 25% discount when travelling with an adult (except in suites).

4. AmaWaterways

Another luxury option for families is AmaWaterways’ ship AmaMagna which launched in May 2019.

This double-width ship, which sails on the Danube, has a whole host of facilities that kids will love. When the theatre isn’t in use, it becomes a cinema showing the latest kids’ movies. There are also Playstations and Nintendo Switches as well as board games and, importantly, a decent-sized swimming pool.

Whilst most of AmaWaterways’ river ships have bicycles that guests can use ashore, AmaMagna also has child-sized bikes so that the whole family can explore together.

The cruise line has a partnership with Disney, offering ‘Adventures by Disney cruises’. Here, you can visit the French villages that inspired the tale Beauty and the Beast, enjoy a magical carriage ride in Budapest and eat breakfast doughnuts shaped like Mickey ears.

You can read more about AmaMagna from Cruise Lifestyle here.

AmaWaterways family river cruise in Austria

Minimum age to cruise with AmaWaterways: Children must be four years old or over to cruise, but this river cruise line isn’t recommended for children under eight years old.

Accommodation: Adjoining
cabins provide accommodation for up to five people. Cabins with sofa beds are available
for families of four. If you prefer, children under 11 are allowed to share a
bed with two adults.

Child fares: Children pay the full adult fare.

5. Tauck

Luxury river cruise line Tauck was one of the first river cruise lines to offer family-friendly cruises and has done so since 2010.

The ‘Tauck Bridges’ range is available during the summer holidays in July and August each year. These river cruises include a variety of shore excursions that the whole family will love, such as walking in the footsteps of gladiators at the Colosseum, riding an ancient Ferris wheel in Vienna or learning how to make marzipan in Germany.

Tauck is an all-inclusive river cruise line. Holidays with
this company include everything, from flights, hotels and airport transfers, to
unlimited food and drinks, as well as gratuities. Shore excursions are also
included, which makes deciding what to do in each port really easy.

Minimum age to cruise with Tauck: Children must be three years old or over to cruise. Shore excursions also have minimum ages assigned to them.

Accommodation: Cabins with sofa beds accommodate families of up to four people.

Child fares: Children pay the full adult fare.

The best European river cruises for families

Europe is the ideal destination for family-friendly river cruises. Whilst you may be tempted by exotic river cruises on the Amazon in South America, or a Nile cruise with kids, the waterways of Europe offer a much more child-friendly experience.

Those living in the United States might also want to consider US river cruises on the Mississippi.

If you’re looking for the best river cruises in Europe for families, the most important thing to think about is the river cruise line you choose.

My recommendation is A-ROSA river cruises, particularly the A-ROSA SENA, which has been designed with families in mind. A-ROSA has a fantastic family offering and, best of all, kids aged 15 and under cruise for free all-year round!

You can choose a family cabin that sleeps up to five or have two interconnecting rooms and pay for just one. That’s amazing value!

It’s undoubtedly one of the best river cruises Europe has to offer for families.

What to know before booking a river cruise with children

On most river cruises, there will be much more for children to do during the school holidays – they’ll find other children to play with and organised activities.

However, the school holiday periods are often different in other European countries, so check with your chosen river cruise line to find out when’s the best time to travel.

River cruise cabins can be quite compact, especially if you have children in with you. Packing light can be a good idea to save space. Plan ahead with a river cruise packing list to ensure you only bring the essentials.

Whilst some river cruises allow young children on board, a river cruise probably isn’t the best holiday for babies or toddlers. For one, babies come with a lot of stuff, and there isn’t much room for things like pushchairs on board. Also, it’s much easier to climb railings on a river cruise ship, so you would need to watch toddlers like a hawk at all times.

Suggested read: What is a French Balcony on a Ship?

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10 Reasons To Love A-ROSA Family Cruises

January 7, 2025

by Luxury Cruising Editorial A-ROSA Cruise News River Cruising

A-ROSA river cruises offer a fantastic option for families who love to explore interesting European cities on holiday. Each luxury A-ROSA river ship is like a floating hotel, transporting you from one exciting destination to the next.

Whilst most other river cruise holidays are aimed at adults, A-ROSA cruises are specially designed with families in mind.

I took my kids on the A-ROSA Sena for a week and we had the best time! I wish that more families, especially British families, knew what a good option this is. Because it really is, and it’s such a shame that more people don’t think of a river cruise when planning a family holiday.

So, read on to find out why you should consider A-ROSA family cruises for your next adventure…

1. The great choice of ships and destinations

A-ROSA has 16 river cruise ships, with two more having joined in 2024. Being a German-owned company, five of these ships have German as the only onboard language.

However, the rest are international ships. These have both English and German spoken on board and an international host on hand to help. A lot of A-ROSA reviews mention how helpful the crew are, too!

A-ROSA’s international ships sail on six European rivers:

The Douro: A-ROSA ALVA
The Danube: A-ROSA BELLA, A-ROSA DONNA, A-ROSA FLORA, A-ROSA MIA and A-ROSA RIVA
The Main: A-ROSA CLEA
The Rhine: A-ROSA ALEA, A-ROSA AQUA, A-ROSA BRAVA, A-ROSA CLEA, A-ROSA FLORA, A-ROSA SENA and A-ROSA SILVA
The Seine: A-ROSA VIVA
The Rhone / Saone: A-ROSA LUNA and A-ROSA STELLA

You can choose from short three- or four-night city break cruises or longer seven- and ten-night cruises for a memorable family holiday.

2. Kids cruise free

On A-ROSA cruises, you don’t pay anything for children aged 15 years and under! One child can cruise free for every paying adult.

Most other river cruise lines charge the full adult fare for children, which makes A-ROSA a great value option for families.

It’s important to note that the kids cruise free offer applies to the cruise only, you must still pay for flights or trains to get to the ship. Also, it doesn’t apply to Douro river cruises as this ship is much smaller. On this river, a 25% discount is offered for children.

3. Family Cabins are available

Depending on the ship, you’ll find a great choice of cabins, such as cabins with an extra bed, family cabins that sleep four or five people or interconnecting cabins.

Plus, as kids cruise for free, a family of four will only pay for one cabin but could be allocated two!

Every cabin is spacious and river-facing. Some cabins also have French balconies, although these aren’t recommended for children under seven years old.

Suggested read: What is a French balcony on a ship?

On our cruise on A-ROSA SENA, we had an actual step-out balcony, which is pretty rare to get on a river ship.

For something special, you could opt for a suite and enjoy butler service plus lots of lovely little extras like welcome champagne, fresh flowers and fruit each day and free laundry.

4. The Kids’ Club

kids club on A-Rosa — Kids Club on A-ROSA SENA

During the school holidays, A-ROSA offers a free kids’ club for children aged four to fifteen.

Sessions run up to three times each day, with a variety of activities which are tailored to the children’s ages, interests and the weather.

Examples of A-ROSA kids’ club activities include:

Pirate Day
Treasure hunts
T-shirt making
Arts and crafts
Singing and dancing
Face painting
Board games
Mocktail workshop with the bartenders
Pizza making with the head chef
Question time with the captain
Look behind the scenes of the ship
Interviewing guests and crew and writing the onboard newspaper
Evening games for teenagers

My kids loved the kids club and every day they would ask if it was time to go yet. They liked how flexible it was – they could choose whether to join in with the activities or just play.

5. Family-friendly activities

As well as the organised activities of the kids’ club, there’s lots of things for families to enjoy together onboard A-ROSA’s ships.

Family-friendly activities on A-ROSA cruises include:

Swimming in the swimming pool or whirlpool
Outdoor games like shuffleboard, cornhole, boules, mini-golf or giant chess
Visiting the Bridge to meet the captain
Seeing the ship going through locks
Watching nightly shows in the lounge
Excursions are designed with families in mind

6. Family-friendly dining

family-friendly dining on A-Rosa river cruise — Family-friendly dining

A-ROSA offers flexible dining, which means that you can arrive at the onboard restaurants whenever you like and sit wherever you like.

Dinners are themed around the regions that are visited, with fresh local produce used to create local specialities. Special kids’ menus are available and there’s always a great choice of family favourites in the buffet restaurant.

7. Nobody will get lost!

A-ROSA river cruise ships each have a maximum of 240 guests. That means that kids can enjoy themselves on board without worrying about getting lost as they may do on a large ocean cruise ship.

8. Everything is included

All drinks are included on A-Rosa river cruise — All drinks are included

A-ROSA cruises for UK passengers are all-inclusive so everything is taken care of for you.

Here’s what’s included on an A-ROSA cruise:

Accommodation on the ship
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks
All drinks
Wifi
Bathrobe and toiletries
Onboard entertainment and activities

9. You can explore ashore in the evening

A-ROSA has cleverly designed its itineraries to include as much time as possible in each port of call. Many itineraries include overnight stays in port, meaning that you can go for an evening stroll after dinner.

Cities with overnight stays include:

Vienna
Budapest
Amsterdam
Avignon
Rouen
Antwerp
Belgrade
Porto
Paris

10. There’s an eco-friendly ship

Me with A-Rosa Sena — Me with the new A-ROSA ship

Sailing on the Northern Rhine, A-ROSA SENA has an ‘e-motion’ concept that allows it to switch to battery power when approaching cities and arrive emission-free.

This new ship is designed specifically for multi-generational families. The first ship on the Rhine to have five decks, A-ROSA SENA is larger than the other ships in the A-ROSA fleet.

The large size of this new river ship means that guests can enjoy spacious cabins that sleep up to five people. Each family cabin has a toy box filled with age-appropriate toys and bunk beds have curtains and round peepholes to make bedtime fun.

A-ROSA SENA has a dedicated kids’ club space and a children’s area in the restaurant where kids can eat with their friends. Plus, there will be two swimming pools – one for adults and one for kids.

Conclusion

A-ROSA family river cruises offer one of the very best options for UK families looking to enjoy a luxury river cruise on the waterways of Europe.

Designed with families in mind, A-ROSA river cruise ships have lots for children to enjoy. Plus, as children cruise for free and parents can enjoy all-inclusive drinks, they offer excellent value for money too.

I’ve cruised on A-ROSA DONNA (the oldest ship in the fleet) and A-ROSA SENA (one of the newest). While all A-ROSA ships are suitable for children, A-ROSA SENA is by far the best to choose.

It has the kids club, the shallow pool and the best choice when it comes to food as well.

How to book

You can book A-ROSA river cruises online at arosa-cruises.com. However, you may find it easier to get a quote from your local travel agent. They can also package your cruise with flights, so that you’ll benefit from ATOL protection.

The best way to book a river cruise

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What is a French Balcony on a Cruise Ship (And Which Ships Have Them)?

December 17, 2024

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News River Cruising

Cabins with French balconies are common on river cruise ships. Yet people who are used to sailing on ocean cruise ships may get a surprise when they see that the French balconies of river cruise ships are something quite different!

This post explains exactly what is a French balcony and helps you to decide whether you should book one or not.

French Balcony Cabins explained

A French balcony is a balcony that you cannot step out onto. It has floor-to-ceiling sliding doors that open to a railing, but no space for furniture. Also known as a Juliet balcony, a French balcony offers fresh air and the feel of a veranda, but with no outside space.

French balcony and window cabin on Uniworld river cruise

Other names for a French Balcony

When you book a river cruise, cabins with French balconies may be described with other words in the brochure or on the website. The exact names used vary depending on the cruise line.

Some other names for French Balcony include:

Juliet balcony
Open-air balcony
Panorama balcony
False balcony
Balconette

The best way to book a river cruise

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French Balcony vs. Juliet Balcony

A French balcony and a Juliet balcony mean exactly the same thing. Both terms refer to floor-to-ceiling doors that slide or open inwards to reveal a railing that you can lean out of.

The name ‘Juliet’ (sometimes spelled as Juliette) comes from the Shakespeare play ‘Romeo and Juliet’. Shakespeare’s writing doesn’t actually mention a balcony, but that Juliet looked out of her bedroom window. However, performances frequently feature French balconies, so the nickname caught on.

There’s a reason river cruise ships tend to have French Balconies…

River cruise ships are fairly small, especially when compared to ocean cruise ships, as they have to be narrow enough to fit through locks. Having a French balcony saves space, meaning that you can enjoy a larger cabin.

On the waterways of Europe, it’s often not warm enough to sit out on your balcony. A French balcony offers the advantages of great views and fresh air without wasting space on cruises where it’s simply too cold to sit out.

Walk-out balconies are rare!

Most river cruise ships don’t offer true balconies that you can step out onto, but some do. On a river cruise ship, a true balcony is known as a veranda, which is sometimes spelt as ‘verandah’.

There may be up to four cabin types on a river cruise ship:

Window – If your cabin is below the waterline, this may be a small window up near the ceiling
French balcony – Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors and a railing
Veranda – A true balcony that you can step out on to
Suite – Larger rooms, sometimes with a separate bedroom and living area

Unlike ocean cruise ships, you won’t find any inside cabins on a river cruise ship. This is because river cruise ships are narrow enough for everyone to get at least a window.

If you opt for a cabin with a window, be sure to check the size of it. Some cabins have standard windows, but others have very small windows that you may even have to stand on a chair to be able to see out of! Cabins that are below the waterline with a high-up window are sometimes affectionately known as ‘aquarium class’.

The difference between a French Balcony and a Veranda?

The main difference between a French balcony and a veranda on a river cruise ship is that you can step out onto a veranda but only lean out of a French balcony.

Verandas often have a small table and two chairs. However, many French balcony cabins have a table and chairs by the balcony, so that it gives a similar feeling to sitting outside and the view is just as good.

Suggested read: What is a Veranda on a Cruise Ship?

Some AmaWaterways ships actually have twin balconies, with a French balcony and a veranda within one cabin!

Different types of French Balconies

Not all French balconies are the same. Some have standard sized patio doors which slide across to open half of the space. Others have panoramic floor to ceiling glass that covers one wall of the cabin.

Dropdown French balconies don’t have sliding doors. Instead, the top half of the window can be lowered. These are the best kind of French balconies as the open section can be as wide as the cabin for the best views.

Crystal French Balcony Cabin — Photo credit: Crystal

Do you even need a balcony?

Given that most river cruise boat balconies are French balconies, you may be wondering if a balcony is worth it on a river cruise.

Whether to opt for a balcony or save money by booking a cabin with a window is a matter of personal preference. Think about how much time you are going to spend in your cabin when deciding if the upgrade to a French balcony or a veranda is worth it.

If you’re trying to decide between a French balcony and a window, I would say that the most important thing to consider is the size of the window, and whether you can actually see out of it, rather than the details of the French balcony.

To help you decide, here are some pros and cons of having a French balcony:

Advantages of a French Balcony

Fresh air – You can open up the balcony to let air into the cabin, unlike a window which probably won’t open
Admire the view from bed – Opening your curtains and admiring the view with a cup of tea before you get out of bed is very enjoyable
See the scenery from the warmth of your cabin– On winter cruises it can be very cold up on the top deck, so you may prefer to watch it from your room

Drop down French Balcony on Scenic Amber

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French Balconies on Viking River Cruises

French balcony cabins on Viking ships have floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors. Depending on the ship, they may be between 122 and 150 square feet in size and may be smaller or larger than standard staterooms which have half-height picture windows.

The following table shows the sizes of Viking French balcony staterooms compared to standard window staterooms and those with verandas.

River	Standard cabin	Cabin with French balcony	Cabin with veranda
Rhine	135 sq ft	150 sq ft	205 sq ft
Danube	135 sq ft	150 sq ft	205 sq ft
Main	135 sq ft	150 sq ft	205 sq ft
Elbe	135 sq ft	150 sq ft	205 sq ft
Douro	155 sq ft	150 sq ft	185 sq ft
Elbe	140 sq ft	122 sq ft	180 sq ft
Seine	150 sq ft	135 sq ft	205 sq ft
Volga	142-160 sq ft	n/a	225-240 sq ft

Many ships also have suites which will be larger and may have both French balconies and verandas.

Viking ships sailing exotic itineraries such as in Asia, Egypt and the Mississippi usually do not have the option of a French balcony.

To conclude

Step-out balconies are rare on river cruise ships, with French balconies being much more common. These offer many of the advantages of a true balcony, whilst saving valuable space on board.

Now you know the French balcony meaning, you can decide whether it’s right for you.

Whether to opt for a stateroom with a window, a French balcony or a verandah is a matter of personal preference. Whichever you choose, you’ll only ever see one side of the river. For the best views, you’ll want to head up to the sun deck where you can enjoy 360-degree views of the surrounding scenery.

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River cruise ship moored on a European river beside a historic town, the setting of an AmaWaterways vs Viking trip

AmaWaterways vs Viking River Cruises: Which Is Better for You?

November 5, 2026

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Cruise Tips River Cruising

AmaWaterways vs Viking comes down to style more than quality. Viking suits adults-only travelers who want a consistent, calm, culture-focused trip on a very large fleet of near-identical Longships. AmaWaterways suits active and food-focused travelers, families and solo cruisers, thanks to its twin-balcony cabins, free bikes, a wellness host and an included Chef’s Table dinner.

Both are premium lines with similar inclusions and broadly similar prices. Below we compare ships, cabins, routes, dining, what’s included, age rules, solo options, prices and loyalty perks so you can decide which line fits your trip.

AmaWaterways vs Viking at a glance

Feature	AmaWaterways	Viking
River fleet size	Around 30 ships, many with different layouts	Well over 80 river ships, most of them identical Longships
Typical Europe ship	About 150-170 guests; AmaMagna carries 196 on a double-width hull	Longship: 190 guests in 95 staterooms
Signature cabin	Twin balcony (French balcony plus step-out balcony)	French balcony or full veranda
Extra dining	The Chef’s Table tasting menu, included	Aquavit Terrace, casual outdoor dining at the bow
Drinks	Wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner; Sip & Sail hour	Wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Excursions	Included excursion in most ports, often with gentle, regular and active options	One included guided excursion per port
Bikes and fitness	Free bikes on European ships, wellness host	No onboard bikes or wellness host
Wi-Fi	Included	Included (connection speeds vary)
Age policy	Families welcome; family sailings and triple cabins on some ships	Adults only, 18+
Solo cabins	Single cabins on several ships	No dedicated solo cabins on Longships
Gratuities	Not included	Not included

Ships and fleet: Viking Longships vs AmaWaterways’ varied fleet

Viking runs the biggest river fleet in the world. Most of its European ships are Longships: 135 meters long, 190 guests, 95 staterooms and the same Scandinavian-style interiors from ship to ship. Viking keeps adding more. Viking Rota, the newest, was delivered in October 2026. Viking says it expects 18 more river ships by 2028. The upside of all this sameness is predictability. If you liked one Longship, you’ll find your way around the next one on day one.

Viking also sails beyond Europe with purpose-built ships. These include the 386-guest Viking Mississippi in the US and a growing fleet on the Nile. Viking recently added a tenth Nile river ship (Viking’s tenth Nile ship, Viking Sekhmet). It also has ships on the Mekong, and India’s Brahmaputra is planned for 2027.

AmaWaterways has a smaller fleet of around 30 ships, and they vary more from one to the next. Most of its European ships carry roughly 150-170 guests. That means a slightly lower guest count than a Longship and, in many categories, slightly bigger cabins. The standout is AmaMagna, a double-width ship on the Danube. It carries only 196 guests but has several dining venues and much more space per person. Ama keeps building too. AmaSofia joined on the Rhine and Danube in May 2026, and AmaKaia began sailing on the Mekong in August 2026.

Cabins compared

On most Ama ships the hallmark is the twin balcony. Each of these cabins has a French balcony (floor-to-ceiling sliding doors with a railing) next to a small step-out balcony where you can sit outside. Viking Longships mix French balcony cabins with true veranda cabins and suites. Its two-room Explorer Suites, at around 445 sq ft, are some of the best accommodation on any European river ship.

Families or groups of three: Several Ama ships, including AmaViola, AmaStella, AmaLea, AmaKristina and AmaMora, have cabins for three or four. Some also have connecting cabins.
Proper suites: Viking’s veranda suites and Explorer Suites are easy to book across a huge number of departures.
Riverview cabins: Both lines have lower-deck cabins with fixed windows at the cheapest fares. They’re fine if you’ll mostly be ashore.

Destinations: where each line sails

In Europe both lines cover the Rhine, Main, Danube, Moselle, Rhône, Seine, Douro, Elbe and Garonne/Dordogne (Bordeaux). Both also sail the Nile and the Mekong. The differences are at the edges:

Only with AmaWaterways: the Chobe River in Botswana, as part of African safari packages, and Colombia’s Magdalena River.
Only with Viking: the Mississippi River in the US and the planned Brahmaputra sailings in India.

Because Viking has so many ships, it usually offers more departure dates on popular routes such as the Rhine and Danube. That helps if your dates are fixed. If you’re still choosing a river, our guide on how to choose the best river cruise in Europe compares the main routes.

Plated tasting-menu course and glass of white wine on a restaurant table by a window — Dining is where AmaWaterways and Viking differ most onboard. Photo: Mai In May on Pexels

Dining: Chef’s Table vs Aquavit Terrace

Both lines serve a breakfast and lunch buffet with made-to-order options, plus a served dinner with regional dishes. Many travelers notice the biggest difference in the extra dining venue.

AmaWaterways has The Chef’s Table, a separate small restaurant with a multi-course tasting menu and paired wines. It’s included, and most guests can book it once per cruise. Ama also has a strong reputation for dietary needs, especially gluten-free dining, and AmaMagna has several restaurants. Viking has the Aquavit Terrace, an indoor-outdoor area at the bow. You can eat a lighter, casual meal there while watching the river. Viking has no separate specialty restaurant on its Longships.

For drinks, both lines include house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. Ama adds a daily “Sip & Sail” happy hour before dinner. Viking sells an optional all-day drinks package. See our guide to the Viking Silver Spirits package to check whether it’s worth it for you.

What’s included on each line

The two lines include similar things, so compare the extras rather than the basics. Both include all meals, Wi-Fi, wine and beer with meals, and a guided excursion in most ports.

AmaWaterways inclusions

Included excursions, often in several versions (gentle walk, regular, active hike or bike tour)
Free bikes and helmets on European ships, plus guided bike tours
A wellness host running onboard fitness classes, stretching and guided walks
The Chef’s Table dinner and the Sip & Sail happy hour

Viking inclusions

One guided excursion per port, plus paid “Privileged Access” and specialty tours
Talks, cultural events and port talks on board
Specialty coffee, tea and bottled water around the clock
Frequent air offers, depending on the promotion running when you book

Neither line includes crew tips. Ama suggests around €100 per person for a seven-night cruise, though this can change. Viking suggests about €20 or $20 per person per night in Europe. Over a week, that gap can be worth more than $40 per person, so include it when you compare fares.

Two touring bicycles parked on a riverside path beside a European town — Free bikes are one of the clearest AmaWaterways extras. Photo: Vitali Adutskevich on Pexels

Viking vs AmaWaterways for families, solo travelers and active cruisers

Age policy

Viking is adults-only. Every guest must be 18 or older on the day they board. AmaWaterways accepts children and runs family-focused departures, including sailings through its Adventures by Disney partnership. That makes Ama one of the easier premium river lines for multigenerational trips. If you want a quiet adult atmosphere, Viking’s policy works in its favor.

Solo travelers

Several Ama ships have single cabins, and Ama sometimes runs reduced single supplements on selected dates. Viking Longships have no dedicated solo cabins. Viking does sometimes offer reduced or waived single supplements as a promotion, so check current offers.

Active travelers

Ama is the more active choice. Bikes, hikes, kayak outings on some routes and an onboard wellness host give you options well beyond walking tours. Viking’s excursions are mostly guided walking tours at a gentle pace, with optional paid tours that are more active.

Price per night and the true cost

Both lines are priced as premium, and their headline fares change a lot with season and promotions. At the time of writing, Viking’s 8-day Rhine Getaway is listed from around $2,000 per person for some early-spring 2027 dates. Many other dates start nearer $2,500. That works out to roughly $285-$360 per person per night for a riverview cabin, before tips. Ama’s seven-night European fares start in a similar range on promotion, and balcony cabins and peak summer or Christmas markets dates often run well above that. Ama often advertises discounts or free cabin upgrades instead of lower lead-in fares.

Here’s a fair way to compare quotes that many reviews skip: line up the same cabin type (French balcony vs twin balcony), the same month, and the full cost including tips, flights and any pre- or post-cruise hotel nights. Viking’s air offers can close the gap on a fare that looks higher. Ama’s bikes, Chef’s Table and loyalty discounts can do the same in the other direction. Promotions on both lines change often, so get quotes for the exact dates you want.

Loyalty perks

AmaWaterways’ loyalty program has Blue, Silver and Gold tiers, starting from your second cruise. Depending on your tier, benefits include a per-person discount on the fare, a category upgrade, airport transfers and a welcome amenity. Viking past guests join the Viking Explorer Society, which mainly offers occasional repeat-guest offers and early booking access rather than fixed tier perks; the details change, so check before booking. If you’ll sail many times on one line, it’s worth comparing the current terms on each line’s website.

Which is the best river cruise line for you?

Choose AmaWaterways if…

You want bike tours, hikes and a wellness host as part of the fare
Food matters a lot to you and you’d enjoy an included tasting-menu dinner
You’re traveling with children or grandchildren, or you want a solo cabin
You’d like routes Viking doesn’t offer, such as the Chobe in Africa or Colombia’s Magdalena River

Choose Viking if…

You want an adults-only ship with a calm, enrichment-focused feel
You need lots of departure dates on the Rhine, Danube or Nile
You’d like a true suite, such as an Explorer Suite, or an American river trip on the Mississippi
You like knowing exactly what the ship will be like before you board

Neither line is the best river cruise line for everyone. If neither one feels right, other premium lines such as Emerald, Avalon and Scenic are worth comparing too.

FAQs

Is AmaWaterways better than Viking?

Neither is better for everyone. AmaWaterways tends to suit active travelers, food lovers, families and solo cruisers. Viking suits adults who want a consistent, quieter trip with lots of departure dates.

Can children sail on Viking river cruises?

No. Viking is adults-only, and every guest must be 18 or older on the day they board. AmaWaterways welcomes children and runs family-friendly departures.

Does Viking have a specialty restaurant like Ama’s Chef’s Table?

Not on its Longships. Viking has one main restaurant plus the Aquavit Terrace for casual meals. AmaWaterways includes a Chef’s Table tasting menu dinner.

Are drinks included on AmaWaterways and Viking?

Both include house wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner. Viking sells an optional all-day drinks package. Ama adds a daily happy hour before dinner.

Which is cheaper, Viking or AmaWaterways?

Their prices are broadly similar. Viking’s lead-in fares are often a little lower and sometimes come with air offers, while Ama includes more extras. Compare the same cabin type and dates, including tips.

AmaWaterways Ships Comparison (With Photos)

November 30, 2024

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News River Cruising

AmaWaterways has a large fleet of 31 river cruise ships. But what are the differences between them and which is the best?

In this guide, we compare all of the ships in the AmaWaterways fleet. Take note of the different itineraries, the size of the ships, the age and the onboard facilities.

AmaWaterways has 31 ships. Most of these cruise on the waterways of Europe, while there are also three ships on Portugal’s Douro, two on the Mekong, one on the Chobe, two on the Nile and two on the Magdalena in Colombia.

Each ship is specifically designed for the river where it resides. The largest ships are found on European rivers such as the Danube. On the more exotic rivers in Southeast Asia, Africa and Latin America, the ships are much smaller, each accommodating fewer than 100 guests.

The newest ships

The newest AmaWaterways ships debuted in 2024, including the AmaLilia, sailing on the Nile, and the AmaMelodia, sailing on the Magdalena River in Colombia.

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List of AmaWaterways ships

The following table shows every ship in the AmaWaterways fleet, the year that it was built, the number of guests accommodated on board and the rivers on which the ship sails.

Ship	Entered service	Passengers	River
AmaBella	2010	160	Danube
AmaCello	2008	144	Rhone, Saone
AmaCerto	2012	162	Danube, Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Main, Moselle, Rhine,
AmaDahlia	2021	72	Nile
AmaDante	2008	144	Seine
AmaDara	2015	124	Mekong
AmaDolce	2009	144	Dordogne, Garonne
AmaDouro	2019	102	Douro
AmaKristina	2017	156	Rhone
AmaLea	2018	156	Danube
AmaLilia	2024	82	Nile
AmaLucia	2021	156	Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Moselle, Rhine
AmaLyra	2009	144	Seine
AmaMagdalena	2023	80	Magdalena
AmaMagna	2019	196	Danube
AmaMaya	2026	124	Mekong
AmaMelodia	2024	60	Magdalena
AmaMora	2019	156	Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Moselle, Rhine
AmaPrima	2013	162	Danube, Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Main, Moselle, Rhine
AmaReina	2014	162	Danube, Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Main, Moselle, Rhine
AmaSerena	2015	162	Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Rhine
AmaSiena	2021	162	Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Rhine
AmaSintra	2025	102	Douro
AmaSofia	2026	160	Danube
AmaSonata	2014	164	Danube
AmaStella	2016	156	Dutch & Belgian Waterways, Rhine
AmaVenita	2014	162	Danube, Main, Rhine
AmaVerde	2011	160	Danube
AmaVida	2013	102	Douro
AmaViola	2016	156	Danube
Zambezi Queen	2009	28	Chobe

Guide to AmaWaterways’ ships

Below, I’ve included more information about each vessel, along with some stats and photos to help you to decide which is the best ship for your next river cruise.

AmaBella

AmaBella is an elegant AmaWaterways river cruise ship that sails along the Danube from Budapest, Giurgiu and Vlshofen. The ship was recently refurbished in 2021 with the addition of the alfresco ‘Cafe Bistro’ where you can enjoy a light lunch or just relax and admire the views.

AmaBella Facts

Built: 2010
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 160
Crew: 49

AmaCello

The oldest ship in the AmaWaterways fleet, AmaCello was built in 2008. Cruising on the Rhone and Saone, this ship offers a luxurious way to explore France and Switzerland as she sails between Chalon-sur Saône and Arles.

AmaCello Facts

Built: 2008
Length: 360 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 144
Crew: 41

AmaCerto

Cruising from Amsterdam, Basel, Luxembourg and Nuremberg, AmaCerto offers a variety of river cruises in France, Germany, Switzerland, the Czech Republic and the Netherlands. With warm red and gold decor, this elegant river ship offers luxurious accommodation for every season.

AmaCerto Facts

Built: 2012
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 162
Crew: 49

AmaDahlia

AmaDahlia Facts

Built: 2021
Length: 236 feet
Width: 42.6 feet
Guests: 72
Crew: 62

AmaDante

One of the older ships in the AmaWaterways fleet, AmaDante offers romantic river cruises between Paris and the coast at Le Havre. Most cabins have a French balcony and there’s also a sauna and whirlpool to relax in your time between walking or cycling excursions.

AmaDante Facts

Built: 2008
Length: 360 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 144
Crew: 45

AmaDara

Built in 2015 to cruise along the Mekong, AmaWaterways’ AmaDara offers a luxurious way to explore Cambodia and Vietnam. With French Colonial decor and locally-carved wooden furniture, this ship provides an elegant atmosphere from which to admire the stunning scenery of Southeast Asia.

AmaDara Facts

Built: 2015
Length: 303 feet
Width: 46 feet
Guests: 124
Crew: 52

AmaDolce

For French waterways cruises along the Dordogne and Garonne, AmaDolce is ideal. Cruising on round-trips from Bordeaux, this elegant river cruise ship has spacious staterooms, most of which offer a French Balcony so that you won’t miss a moment of the stunning views.

AmaDolce Facts

Built: 2009
Length: 360 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 144
Crew: 45

AmaDouro

AmaDouro is the newer of the two AmaWaterways ships offering river cruises on the Douro. Launched in 2019, this spectacular vessel embarks on round-trips from Porto, affording guests the opportunity to experience the delights of Portugal and Northern Spain.

AmaDouro Facts

Built: 2019
Length: 260 feet
Width: 37 feet
Guests: 102
Crew: 38

AmaKristina

What better way to admire the ever-changing colours of Provence than a river cruise onboard the stunning AmaKristina? Sailing on the Rhone between Lyon and Avignon, this award-winning river cruise ship oozes French style.

AmaKristina Facts

Built: 2017
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 156
Crew: 51

AmaLea

AmaWaterway’s Danube river ship, AmaLea, offers cruises from Budapest, Nuremberg and Vilshofen. In just seven nights you can experience as many as five different countries on this elegant boat that will take you on a journey of discovery through Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Hungary and Slovakia.

AmaLea Facts

Built: 2018
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 156
Crew: 51

AmaLilia

AmaLilia is a new ship for AmaWaterways, sailing on the Nile. She’s one of the more luxurious and upscale ships in the fleet, with just 41 staterooms including 13 suites. Her 7 night cruises sail round-trip from Luxor.

AmaLilia Facts

Built: 2024
Length: 236 feet
Width: 43 feet
Guests: 82
Crew: 62

AmaLucia

Making her debut in 2021, AmaLucia is one of the newest ships in the AmaWaterways fleet. She’s also one of the largest, with 78 staterooms, many of which feature twin balconies. Up on the Sun Deck, the pool features a refreshing swim-up bar.

AmaLucia Facts

Built: 2021
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 156
Crew: 51

AmaLyra

One of the older ships in the AmaWayterways fleet, AmaLyra offers romantic week-long cruises along the Seine from Paris. Stylish and comfortable, this ship features an inviting whirlpool on the Sun Deck – the perfect place from which to admire the ever-changing French scenery.

AmaLyra Facts

Built: 2009
Length: 360 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 144
Crew: 45

AmaMagdalena

AmaMagdalena is one of the newest ships in the Ama Waterways fleet, offering river cruises along the beautiful Magdalena River in Colombia. Guests can expect an intimate style of cruising, with just 60 passengers onboard, and some stunning spaces where you can relax.

AmaMagdalena Facts

Built: 2023
Length: 223 feet
Width: 43 feet
Guests: 60
Crew: 30

AmaMagna

By far the largest ship in the AmaWaterways fleet, AmaMagna is double the width of most other ships on the Danube. The extra space affords room for four restaurants, a wellness studio and spacious suites of up to 710 square feet.

AmaMagna Facts

Built: 2019
Length: 443 feet
Width: 72 feet
Guests: 196
Crew: 70

AmaMaya

We don’t know a huge amount AmaMaya yet, but she’s expected to be a very similar ship to AmaDara, since both will be sailing the Mekong. Expect plenty of comfort on this smaller ship when she launches in 2026.

AmaMaya Facts

Built: 2026
Length: 303 feet
Width: 46 feet
Guests: 124
Crew: 52

AmaMelodia

The AmaMelodia is sister ship to the AmaMagdalena and will also offer cruises on the stunning Magdalena River in Colombia. Staterooms are spacious and all feature an outside balcony, so you can truly soak up the picturesque surroundings as you sail.

AmaMelodia Facts

Built: 2024
Length: 223 feet
Width: 43 feet
Guests: 60
Crew: 30

AmaMora

Launched in 2019, AmaMora is a sister ship to the award-winning AmaKristina and AmaLea. Spacious and luxurious, this ship offers an all-day tapas menu and a tempting afternoon tea. Choose a bed facing the river for the best views when you awake each morning.

AmaMora Facts

Built: 2019
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 156
Crew: 51

AmaPrima

Offering cruises from Basel, Amsterdam Luxembourg and Nuremberg, AmaPrima offers an authentic European river cruise experience. Offering award-winning regionally-inspired menus in the restaurant and plenty of places to relax, this AmaWaterways ship provides a fantastic way to experience the stunning landscapes of Northern Europe.

AmaPrima Facts

Built: 2013
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 162
Crew: 51

AmaReina

AmaReina is currently part of the APT fleet as one of its Concerto class river ships in partnership with AmaWaterways. This luxurious ship offers cruises through Europe from Budapest and Amsterdam.

AmaReina Facts

Built: 2014
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 162
Crew: 51

AmaSerena

Cruising from Amsterdam and Basel, AmaSerena is the perfect ship from which to explore the Rhine and Swiss Alps or to experience the windmills and tulips of Holland. This regal ship features a plethora of twin-balcony staterooms so that you can make the most of the spectacular river views.

AmaSerena Facts

Built: 2015
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 162
Crew: 51

AmaSiena

New for 2021, AmaWaterways’ AmaSiena is a stunningly luxurious sister ship to the award-winning AmaLea and AmaKristina. Offering river cruises from Amsterdam and Basel, this ship features an airy Sun Deck and a pool with a swim-up bar.

AmaSiena Facts

Built: 2021
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 162
Crew: 51

AmaSintra

New for 2025, AmaSintra will be a sister ship to the AmaDouro and AmaVida, offering picturesque cruises along the Douro. Expect a luxurious design, with plenty of relaxing spaces to unwind as you sip on local wines and enjoy the fine valley views.

AmaSintra Facts

Built: 2025
Length: 260 feet
Width: 37 feet
Guests: 102
Crew: 38

AmaSofia

Again, another ship we don’t know a huge amount about yet, but AmaSofia will be joining the fleet in 2026 to offer sailings on the upper Danube. She will boast the signature twin-balcony staterooms you’ve come to expect from other ships in the fleet.

AmaSofia Facts

Built: 2026
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 162
Crew: 51

AmaSonata

Cruising on the Danube from Budapest, Nuremberg and Vilshofen, AmaSonata offers a relaxing and welcoming atmosphere. As well as the Main Dining Room, be sure to try the Chef’s Table – a speciality restaurant with 5-star cuisine.

AmaSonata Facts

Built: 2014
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 162
Crew: 51

AmaStella

The award-winning AmaStella is one of the most stunning ships in the AmaWaterways fleet. On board, you can relax by the fireplace in the library and admire the sleek contemporary decor such as the glass elevator in the centre of the ship.

AmaStella Facts

Built: 2016
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 156
Crew: 51

AmaVenita

AmaVenita is currently part of the APT river cruise fleet in partnership with AmaWaterways. This elegant ship is akin to a small ocean yacht with inviting public spaces adorned with the most luxurious decor.

AmaVenita Facts

Built: 2015
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 162
Crew: 51

AmaVerde

AmaVerde was completely redesigned in 2021 and now showcases a vibrant, modern design. The twin balcony staterooms are spacious and welcoming, while on the top deck you can enjoy a putting green, heated swimming pool and walking track.

AmaVerde Facts

Built: 2011
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 160
Crew: 51

AmaVida

AmaVida offers exciting river cruises on the Douro through Spain and Portugal. On board, guests can enjoy the finest locally-sourced cuisine that’s expertly paired with local wines and the region’s signature drink – Port.

AmaVida Facts

Built: 2013
Length: 260 feet
Width: 37 feet
Guests: 102
Crew: 38

AmaViola

Embarking on seven-night Danube cruises from Budapest and Vilshofen, AmaViola is no ordinary river cruise ship with her vibrant and modern decor. On board, you can enjoy the finest cuisine worthy of the renowned gastronomic society, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs.

AmaViola Facts

Built: 2016
Length: 443 feet
Width: 38 feet
Guests: 156
Crew: 51

Zambezi Queen

The small and intimate Zambezi Queen was specially designed for viewing the wildlife along the banks of Africa’s legendary Chobe River. Accommodating just 28 guests plus 22 crew members, this eco-friendly ship has an open-air Sun Deck complete with a plunge pool.

Zambezi Queen Facts

Built: 2009
Length: 150 feet
Width: 25.6 feet
Guests: 28
Crew: 22

Final thoughts

AmaWaterways was founded over 20 years ago in 2002 with the goal of creating a river cruise company with the most elegantly-appointed ships and the best quality, locally-sourced food and wine. Nowadays, the company offers a huge range of river cruises on board a stunning selection of ships both in Europe and around the world.

The entire fleet is fantastic, but the newer additions are some of the best AmaWaterways ships, with stunning decor and spaces to relax. However, regardless of which one you choose, you can count on outstanding service and food.

The best way to book a river cruise

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6 Ways To Take Your Dog On A Cruise

November 22, 2024

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Cunard Dogs River Cruising

So, you want to go on a cruise but can’t bear to leave your furry friend behind?

Well, cruising with dogs isn’t easy, but there are a few ways to take a dog cruising. Here are your options…

A golden retriever wearing a captain's hat is seated on the deck of a cruise ship, with sun loungers and a swimming pool in the foreground and the open sea with other ships in the background. The scene is sunny with a clear blue sky, and an airplane is visible in the distance, suggesting a bustling vacation atmosphere.

1. Book a dog-friendly cruise (yes, they’re real!)

For a long time in this guide, I’ve had to explain that sailing with a dog on a proper ocean cruise hasn’t really been possible, especially if you want your pup in your cabin with you.

But in November 2024, Margaritaville at Sea announced a partnership with Cruise Tails to offer a proper dog-friendly cruise, set to sail in late 2025.

Places are set to be limited – only 250 dog-owners will be able to cruise with their pets, and demand is expected to be extremely high.

As such, it’s going to ballot – if you’re interested, you can sign up from early December 2024 and then the lucky winners will be notified.

Dogs will be permitted in their cabin and special ‘pet butlers’ will help to maintain room hygiene during your cruise (really, it’s probably to make sure it’s maintained at a decent level so it can be easily deep-cleaned once the cruise is finished).

There’s loads to learn about this cruise, so make sure you check out the 15 things you need to know if you’re in any way interested.

2. Choose a cruise ship that allows dogs

If you are hoping to give your canine friend the full-on cruise ship experience, then your options are pretty limited.

Before the launch of the dog-friendly cruises with Margaritaville at Sea, the only ocean cruise ship that would allow you to take your dog on board is the Queen Mary 2. This iconic ocean liner is run by Cunard and will happily host your pet for a transatlantic voyage.

They have even provided a New York fire hydrant and a lamppost from Liverpool so that your dog will feel at home no matter which side of the Atlantic they come from!

On the deck of Cunard's Queen Mary 2, dogs are taking a leisurely stroll, one prominently in the foreground, with a bright red fire hydrant adding a touch of whimsy to the scene. A crew member in a red uniform and pillbox hat walks further back, creating a snapshot of life aboard a luxury liner that caters to canine companions and their owners.

There are other, even more practical features, like 24 kennels and lots of space for your dogs to play. They look after the owners, too, with a dedicated pet owner lounge.

The Queen Mary 2 has regular sailings between Southampton, England and New York, USA. Dogs, cats, and ferrets are allowed on these crossings but not on other sailing routes to places like Norway, the Caribbean, or Bruges. These transatlantic crossings take 7 or 8 days.

Of course, prices vary depending on the length of the cruise and the standard of your accommodation. As a guide, a week’s cruise from Southampton to New York will cost from £749 per person in an inside cabin to £3699 in the best room, the Queens Grill Suites.

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So, that’s the human prices covered but what about the dog?

Well, the bad news is that they cost about as much as a human. But the good news is that they are cheaper than cats!! (This is because cats need two kennels, one for the animal and one for their litter tray.)

The kennels currently cost £800 or £1000 depending on the size of kennel that you need. You will need to book quite far in advance to ensure that you can get a space for your furry friend.

In return for this fee, your pet will get a cage, bedding, regular feeding, and an exercise area (you can walk them, or the staff will if you are busy elsewhere).

A smiling bellman in a red Cunard uniform stands on the wooden deck of the Queen Mary 2, holding leashes for three dogs: a large black and white spotted dog wearing a jacket, a brown French bulldog, and a golden retriever. The ship's classic design, with white walls and wooden benches, provides a luxurious backdrop for the pet-friendly environment aboard the ocean liner.

If your pet needs a specific type of food, then you will need to provide enough for the entire journey. But they may be able to provide some if your dog isn’t fussy about the brand. If you want to treat them, it’s possible to order them a delicious steak or some chicken from the kitchens!

When you book, you will need to provide all the details about your pet, so if there are any medical conditions, feeding requirements, and dietary restrictions, you let them know upfront.

It’s worth noting that your pet will need to stay inside its kennel or the exercise areas next to it at all times. You can’t take it for walks around the ship or snuggle up with it in your bed!

A curious Labrador retriever leans over a wooden railing on the deck of a cruise ship, gazing directly at the camera with a gentle and attentive expression. The ocean stretches out to the horizon behind the dog, suggesting a serene maritime setting.

You can visit your dog, though, but you will need to stick to the official visiting hours (three times per day). There’s no need to worry about them, as there is a dedicated member of staff (kennel master) on hand to look after all the animals.

Your dog will even be looked after in the case of emergency and they will have their own life jacket and muster points should anything untoward happen.

3. Register your dog as a service dog

If you don’t like the sound of a Margaritaville at Sea cruise or a transatlantic trip on the Queen Mary 2, then your options are pretty limited since no other cruises offer the chance to take a pet with you.

But, there is a chance to take a dog with you on a cruise if it is a service dog and not a pet.

A man in a black shirt introduces a light-colored Labrador Retriever guide dog to my children and husband seated nearby, on a paved area with chairs and tables in the background. The dog attentively receives a treat from the man's hand.

In fact, in the USA, it is the law that service animals have to be allowed to travel with their owners, so all US cruise ships will have to let you take your service dog with you.

This is great if you have a service dog; you can take your pick from all the many and varied cruises that will allow you to take a service dog on board.

But what if you don’t have a service dog? Well, maybe you need one and could get your dog registered as a service dog?

These days, it’s possible to find service dog training online, so it might be worth speaking to someone to discuss your needs and whether your dog could be trained.

A jovial Labrador Retriever with a service dog vest lies on the wooden deck of a cruise ship, a red leash beside it. The dog's friendly demeanor and relaxed posture under the overcast sky create a welcoming atmosphere on the ship's deck.

Anyone who receives assistance from a dog that performs a task directly related to a physical or psychological condition may qualify for a service animal.

Conditions that might be helped by a service dog include visual and hearing impairments, PTSD, diabetes, mobility, seizures, or any physical or psychological disability.

Emotional support dogs that help with anxiety, depression, stress, ADHD and other mental health problems can also be registered as service dogs, although not all are.

If you have a service dog, it will be able to stay with you throughout the cruise, so you will be in charge of feeding, exercising, and taking your dog to the bathroom. Some areas of the ship may be off limits to your dog, but this is mainly areas like pools and spas, you will generally be able to take your dog to restaurants, shows etc.

Different cruise companies have slightly differing policies when it comes to service dogs onboard. Some will ask to see accreditation whilst others don’t.

Cruise Line Service Dog Policies

Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean defines a service animal as a dog providing assistance to a person with disabilities. They don’t ask for any proof that your dog is a service dog but say that it may be helpful.

Service dogs are welcome in public areas, including dining spaces, but they don’t supply food or care for service animals. Your service dog isn’t allowed in the pool, and you may need to get documentation to disembark with your dog.

Don’t even try leaving it with a member of staff when you get off the ship. Even if it’s really cute and well-behaved, they won’t look after it! The ship offers small relief areas with mulch.

Carnival

Carnival Cruises only allows working service dogs on their ships; this does not include service dogs in training, other service animals, or emotional support animals. If you take a Carnival cruise, be sure to have all the necessary documentation to hand as you board (not in your luggage) as they will check.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line “accepts service dogs that are trained to perform a specific task. A service dog may be needed for many different conditions, which would be acceptable under the American with Disabilities Act (ADA) guidelines.”

You’ll need to book your dog in at least 2 weeks in advance and will need to provide all documentation including vaccination record (including rabies). You’ll be glad to hear that they provide a relief sandbox for your dog.

Disney Cruise Line

Disney Cruise Lines permits service animals on board if they are under control and leashed at all times (and can’t be left alone in your room). Like with all the other cruise companies, guests must bring dog food, toys, and other necessities. You need to inform them at least 30 days in advance if you are bringing a service dog.

Disney cruise ships have relief areas for service dogs and the area on the Disney Wish even has its own fire hydrant for dogs to pee on.

"Pluto's Corner," a designated relief area for service dogs on the Disney Wish cruise ship, featuring synthetic grass and a bright red fire hydrant. The clean, white walls and modern design elements, combined with the practical outdoor setting, reflect a thoughtful consideration for the comfort of service animals on board.

It’s worth noting that while policies may vary slightly regarding permitted areas and required documentation, all cruise lines stress the need for advance notification if a service animal is on board. Guests are always responsible for bringing all necessary documentation not only for the ship but also for various ports of call.

Depending on where you are going, you will need to apply in advance for the necessary documents to allow your dog to get off with you when in port. Without this, you will not be able to go ashore with your dog and most likely won’t be able to leave your dog behind on the ship, so you won’t get the chance to explore your destination.

4. Take your dog on a ferry

One of the best ways to have a cruise-like experience with a non-service dog is to take them on a ferry.

Ok, so ferries aren’t the same as cruise ships, and it’s not quite the same experience. Ferries are smaller and lack the pools and entertainment you’ll enjoy on a cruise, but if you want to have your dog with you on a large ship, they are a good option.

A serene dog with a gleaming tan coat and a red collar enjoys a ferry ride, looking out over the blue water from the deck with white and blue railings, as passengers relax nearby. The calm sea and gentle motion of the ferry seem to have a soothing effect on the dog, reflecting a moment of peaceful travel.

Brittany Ferries is one of the best options for dog owners as they have ships with dog-friendly cabins and ferries with kennels (some have both). You can check the availability of kennels and cabins for dogs here.

Stena Line also offers pet-friendly cabins on Liverpool, Holyhead, Fishguard and Cherbourg routes. Unlike Brittany Ferries, Stena does not require dogs to wear a muzzle (unless they’re being aggressive).

Some routes with P&O ferries have dog kennels, and they have plans to introduce dog lounges.

Of course, whichever route you take, you will need to make sure that you have all the necessary documentation which has changed since Brexit.

5. Take a river cruise with your dog

One of the best ways to take your dog on a river cruise is on board the MS Normandie or MS Junker Joerg run by 1AVista Reisen.

The MS Normandie, a river cruise ship, glides gracefully along a calm river with a backdrop of lush green hills. Its white exterior with red and blue accents reflects a classic and elegant design, providing a leisurely cruising experience through scenic landscapes.

They offer dog-friendly cruises along the Rhine and Moselle, which gives you and your four-legged friend the chance to explore ancient castles, vineyards, and medieval villages.

During this cruise, your dog is welcome in common areas like the salon, restaurant, reception, and decks, provided they are on a leash. There is also a dog trainer on board.

Throughout these voyages, the ship docks several times a day, so there is plenty of time to take your dog for walks on land. There’s also a designated pet relief area available on the “Sonnendeck” if your furry friend needs a break between shore visits.

1AVista Reisen is a German company based in Cologne, and the trips are tailored to German speakers.

6. Take a day trip cruise

Day cruises will often allow you to take a dog onboard. Day cruises will generally be in smaller ships without cabins and a more limited range of entertainment.

You may even be able to join specific sailings for dog owners and their dogs like this one in San Diego Bay – dogs go free! Another great option is this river and lake cruise in Chicago.

In the UK, dogs are often welcome on river cruises like the beautiful trips along the River Dart.

A small, fluffy dog with a wind-swept cream coat and a blue bone-shaped tag enjoys a river cruise, with its fur tousled by the breeze and a serene water backdrop under a clear sky. The dog’s bright expression and the gentle waves suggest a delightful day out on the water.

Are small dogs allowed on cruise ships?

Size is not generally a factor when it comes to taking a dog on a cruise. The main criteria is that they must be a service dog to go on any cruise ship other than the transatlantic sailings of the Queen Mary 2 run by Cunard or the newer dog-friendly cruise from Cruise Tails and Margaritaville at Sea.

Having said that, larger dogs may also be banned from that dog-friendly cruise – we’re waiting for more information.

Small dogs are usually only allowed on cruise ships if they are a service dog.

All dogs are allowed to cruise on the Queen Mary 2. Small dogs will probably fit in the slightly cheaper lower kennels, which measure 27″ high, 35 1/2″ deep, and 30″ wide.

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The bottom line

So there you have it. If I’m honest, it’s a bit tricky to go on a cruise with your dog unless it is a service animal. It’s not impossible, though, and the introduction of dog-friendly cruises on Margaritaville at Sea might just be the start of a whole new trend!

If you aren’t able to sail from the US, though, then I think your best bet is to look at an overnight ferry trip with a dog-friendly cabin or to take an epic Transatlantic trip on the Queen Mary.

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Comparing River Cruise Companies Avalon Waterways and Viking River Cruises

September 23, 2024

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News River Cruising

Avalon Waterways and Viking River Cruises are two popular river cruise lines. Each offers a range of cruises along the waterways of Europe and Asia. But how do these two companies compare if you’re choosing between them?

At first glance, Viking and Avalon seem to offer a similar experience. However, there are some key differences that are likely to sway your decision.

Read on to find out which is the better choice for your next river cruise…

Ships

River cruising’s biggest difference from ocean cruising is the size of the cruise ships, which usually accommodate fewer than 200 passengers per ship. This allows for more intimate getaways with small groups in the dining venues and lounges, as well as attending shore excursions while in port.

But the different lines have some key differences in the design of their ships. Let’s take a look at how Avalon Waterways’ ships compare to Viking’s river ships.

Avalon Waterways’ Ships

Avalon Waterways has 20 ships to choose from in its portfolio, including 14 owned ‘Suite Ships’ which are based in Europe. There are also two ships that reside in Asia, alongside four ships chartered for use in South America and Africa.

Avalon Artistry II in Germany — Avalon Ship in Germany

Avalon Waterways’ European river cruise ships each have a guest capacity of either 128 or 166. They’re all fairly new, entering service between 2011 through 2019.

The Asia-based ships are much smaller, accommodating just 36 passengers and entering service between 2015 and 2017. The chartered ships vary in capacity, from 32 passengers to 392.

On European cruises, Avalon Waterways’ cabins offer spacious accommodations with 24/7 open-air access and bigger views than most. Beds are configured to be facing the windows for the best views.

Avalon’s ‘Suite Ships’ offer something very special indeed. These have the widest opening windows in river cruising, with the industry’s only ‘Open-Air Balcony’. Opening up to 11 feet (3.4 metres) wide, these huge windows make the room feel like a balcony.

Viking River Ships

Viking River Cruises has an incredible fleet of 77 ships in its 2024 portfolio, 55 of which are the iconic Viking Longships that sail in Europe. A further ten ships sail along the Elbe, Douro and Seine rivers, as well as Viking Saigon which sails on the Mekong River.

Six ships are chartered for use in Egypt. There’s also another ship that debuted in 2022 – Viking Mississippi – to sail along the renowned American river.

The Viking Longships carry 190 passengers. They include some of the largest suites on Europe’s rivers, as well as the most al fresco dining opportunities. Their patented design maximisises passenger capacity, with redesigned hallways and bow to increase space on board.

During a rapid expansion of this class of ship, Viking christened 16 ships over two days in 2014, making it into the Guinness Book of World Records.

There’s a choice of accommodation on board each Viking ship. These range from Scandinavian-designed staterooms to the luxurious Explorer Suites that afford 270-degree views.

Destinations

Avalon Waterways and Viking offer the majority of their river cruises in Europe. The most often cruised rivers include the Rhine, the Danube and the Douro. But both companies offer a wider selection for guests to choose from.

The best way to book a river cruise

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Avalon Waterways Destinations

Avalon Waterways covers the most popular European rivers such as the Rhine, Main and Danube. There are also sailings along the Mekong (through Cambodia and Vietnam), India’s Ganges River and the Amazon river, as well as the unique Galapagos Islands in Ecuador.

An outside view of Avalon Envision's dining room.

Viking River Cruise Destinations

Although Viking has fewer itineraries, it offers more choices of sailing dates thanks to the sheer size of the fleet, 55 of which are based in Europe alone!

Viking covers all of the most popular rivers, but doesn’t visit South America or India. However, Viking does feature itineraries along the Elbe and Douro rivers.

Food

Both Viking River Cruises and Avalon Waterways include a wide variety of dining options to cater to all tastes. Wine, soda and beer are included at lunch and dinner with both cruise lines. Avalon also includes the option of complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast!

As well as the main dining room, each line also offers alternative dining venues, so you have a choice of where to eat during your sailing.

Avalon Waterways Food

Avalon Waterways prides itself on offering fresh, local food on its menus. The cruise line has partnered with Austrian brothers Leo and Karl Wrenkh – leading chefs in the healthy-dining movement – to offer a programme named ‘Avalon Fresh’. The selections available on this option include wholesome yet satisfying dishes.

The cruise line also introduced the ‘FlexDining’ approach to onboard dining, removing the need for restrictive seating and limited settings.

Dining experiences include welcome and farewell cocktails and canapes, daily a la carte breakfast, and a lunch that includes regional specialities and Avalon Fresh options.

Dining options on Avalon Waterways ships include BBQ-style al fresco dining on the Sky Deck (weather permitting), lunch in the Panorama Lounge, four-course dinners in the Panorama Dining Room and daily afternoon tea. There’s also complimentary room service available for continental breakfast.

Viking Food

Viking focuses on pairing the destinations with the menus, providing an enriching culinary experience. There are two venues to dine on most Viking ships: The Restaurant is the main dining venue, and Aquavit Terrace is the alfresco venue.

The Restaurant offers regional cuisine with classic dishes featuring locally sourced ingredients. The Aquavit Terrace is a revolutionary venue that offers the most stunning views while dining al fresco on Europe’s rivers. You can enjoy breakfast or lunch in an inviting space that’s perfect for a sunny day.

Just like Avalon Waterways, Viking offers both welcome and farewell cocktails. Ships also feature an outdoor herb garden and a selection of regional wines.

Activities and Entertainment

As river cruises are generally focused on the destinations you visit, the onboard amenities are nothing compared to ocean cruise ships. However, both Viking and Avalon Waterways do offer a range of things to do on board.

Viking river cruises are strictly for adults only, and all guests must be aged 18 or older. As for Avalon Waterways, children aged eight and over are permitted on board, but there are no dedicated activities or facilities for kids. If you’re planning a river cruise with kids, I suggest you read this guide to the best river cruise lines for families.

Things to do on an Avalon River Cruise

Avalon Waterways includes a few activities on board its ships to enjoy in the daytime. There’s a state-of-the-art Fitness Centre to keep you active while sailing, as well as a Club Lounge Library with books, cards and board games. There’s also complimentary Wi-Fi provided throughout the ship and computer stations.

On the Sky Deck, you can find premium lounge chairs, a whirlpool and a game area. The Club Lounge offers 24-hour self-serve beverages including complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, hot chocolates, and a selection of teas and cookies throughout the day.

In the evenings, the Panorama Lounge offers cosy seating, panoramic windows and a dance floor. There’s also the Observation Lounge where you can enjoy premium spirits in an upscale bar setting.

Things to do on a Viking River Cruise

Viking also offers a selection of onboard activities to keep guests entertained while sailing or docked. There’s a walking track and sports deck, alongside a curated library featuring destination-focused reading.

Putting green on a Viking Longship. — Viking Longship putting green

There is a series of short films about each destination, which can be viewed in your stateroom at any time to suit you. There are also guest lectures and port talks, designed to shed light on the region’s culture and history. These provide information on must-sees and highlights for each port.

Viking invites local artisans onboard to demonstrate their crafts, such as glass-blowing or lace-making. There are also culinary demonstrations that present a collection of treats and drinks.

In the evenings, each Viking itinerary includes one or more Destination Performances, featuring cultural arts, local ensembles and acclaimed choirs from the region.

Price

Both Avalon Waterways and Viking river cruises are similar in terms of price and value, although this can depend on unique offers and sailing dates.

However, there is one important distinction: the price of Viking river cruises usually includes flights, transfers, taxes and fees. So while a Viking river cruise can look more expensive, the overall price once everything’s included may be lower than with Avalon Waterways.

The Price of Avalon Waterways River Cruises

An eight-day Rhine cruise sailing from Amsterdam to Basel with Avalon Waterways starts at £1,435pp, based on an Avalon Deluxe Stateroom at double occupancy.

Viking river cruises include:

Accommodation
All meals
Wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Excursions
Wifi
Shore excursions
Bicycles to use in selected ports
Onboard gratuities

Not included:

Flights
Overseas transfers
Taxes and fees

The Price of Viking River Cruises

An eight-day Rhine cruise sailing from Amsterdam to Basel with Viking starts at £1,845pp, based on Standard Stateroom at double occupancy.

Viking river cruises include:

Return flights from regional UK airports
Overseas transfers
Accommodation
All meals
Wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Wifi
Shore excursions
Onboard gratuities
Taxes and fees

Not included:

Bicycles (can hire locally)

You can see how the price of Viking and Avalon Waterways river cruises compare to other river cruise lines in this guide: How Much Are River Cruises?

The best way to book a river cruise

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Avalon Waterways Reviews Vs Viking River Cruises Reviews

One more thing to consider when looking at Avalon and Viking is the reviews from past guests. Although both companies are listed on Tripadvisor, the number of reviews is very low, so it’s hard to get an accurate reading of how good they are.

Instead, visit the Cruise Critic website to read through the Avalon Waterways reviews and Viking River Cruises reviews. Each cruise line has thousands of reviews on that site, and both have very good scores.

But which is better, Viking or Avalon river cruises?

As of September 2024, Viking River Cruises has a score of 4.5 out of 5, while Avalon Waterways just edges it with a score of 4.7 out of 5.

This might change by the time you read this! But at least you know both are considered excellent.

The Verdict

Although the differences between the two cruise lines aren’t huge, Avalon Waterways and Viking River Cruises do offer slightly different experiences.

Viking River Cruises is the most famous of all river cruise brands, with the most ships. You’re sure to pass a Viking Longship or two whenever you take a cruise on one of Europe’s waterways. While Avalon isn’t as well-known, the company has been in existence since 2004 and offers a good alternative for luxury travel lovers.

Avalon offers a wider range of destinations outside of Europe than Viking. It’s also a better choice for those with special diets. There are plenty of vegetarian and vegan options, something you may struggle with on a Viking river cruise.

Avalon Waterway’s ships are also more innovative, with floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows that open wide to give the feeling of a private balcony.

Before you get swayed by the luxury of Avalon Waterways, be sure to consider the price of the extras you’ll need. Flights and transfers aren’t included, so your cruise price will surely rise once you add these on.

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River cruise boats moored on the Nile in Egypt, a typical scene on the best Nile river cruise routes

The Best Nile River Cruise Companies Compared (2027 Guide)

October 26, 2026

by Luxury Cruising Editorial Cruise Lines Cruise News Destinations River Cruising

The best Nile river cruise for most travelers is a fully guided package that pairs Cairo and the pyramids with a Luxor to Aswan sailing, led by a qualified Egyptologist. Viking, AmaWaterways and Uniworld are the strongest all-in-one choices for US travelers, A&K Sanctuary and Oberoi lead at the top end, and TUI River Cruises and Riviera Travel are good value picks for UK guests.

Rather than repeat star ratings borrowed from elsewhere, this guide compares the main Nile river cruises on facts you can check: ship size, trip length, what is included, guiding and the typical price band. You will also find the classic Luxor to Aswan itinerary, the Lake Nasser alternative and when to go.

Best Nile River Cruise Companies Compared

Prices below are indicative “from” fares per person that the lines or trade press have published. They move with season, cabin grade and promotions, so treat them as a guide to the price band rather than a quote.

Company	Ship(s)	Typical trip	Price band	Best for
Viking	82-guest purpose-built ships (Osiris, Aton, Hathor, Sobek, Amun, Thoth, Ptah, Sekhmet and more)	12 days: 3 nights Cairo + 8-night Nile cruise	Premium (about $6,000+)	First-timers wanting a seamless package
AmaWaterways	AmaLilia, AmaDahlia, new AmaNubia (76 guests)	Cairo stay + Luxor sailing (Secrets of Egypt & the Nile)	Premium	Travelers who like an all-inclusive feel and smaller ships
Uniworld	S.S. Sphinx (42 suites)	12 days (Splendors of Egypt & the Nile)	Luxury	Couples wanting boutique-hotel style
Avalon Waterways	MS Farah	9 nights (Taste of Egypt)	Mid to premium	A shorter, well-organized trip
A&K Sanctuary	Sun Boat III, Sun Boat IV, Zein Nile Chateau and others	10 to 13 days, small groups of 12 to 34	Ultra-luxury ($13,000 to $21,000)	Small-group or private travel
Oberoi	Oberoi Zahra (54 guests), Oberoi Philae	Cruise-only, often 7 days	Luxury	Spa lovers and independent planners
TUI River Cruises (UK)	TUI Bahareya, TUI Al Horeya	7 nights round trip from Luxor	Value (from about £1,500 with flights)	UK travelers wanting direct flights to Luxor
Riviera Travel (UK)	Land and river package	13 days (Classic Egypt)	Mid (from about £5,200)	UK guests, including solo departures

Viking: the biggest Nile fleet

Viking runs more ships on the Nile than any other Western cruise line. With the delivery of Viking Sekhmet, Viking’s tenth Nile river ship, in late September 2026, the line’s newest vessels are the identical 82-guest, 41-stateroom ships built at the Massara shipyard in Cairo, including Viking Ptah and Sekhmet. Each has Viking’s square bow and an indoor and outdoor Aquavit Terrace.

The main itinerary is the 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids: three nights in a first-class Cairo hotel with the Giza pyramids, Sakkara and the Grand Egyptian Museum, a flight to Luxor, then an eight-day round-trip cruise taking in Karnak, Luxor Temple, Tutankhamun’s tomb in the Valley of the Kings, Esna, Dendera, Aswan’s High Dam and a Nubian village. Viking also has a 12-day Total Eclipse on the Nile departure in 2027, timed for the August 2027 solar eclipse. Shore excursions in every port, wine and beer with meals and Wi-Fi are included, and each tour group is led by a program director with Egyptology expertise.

AmaWaterways: small ships, all-inclusive approach

AmaWaterways sails AmaLilia and the reimagined AmaDahlia, and adds AmaNubia, a 76-guest ship with 38 staterooms (15 of them suites), from November 2026. Its Secrets of Egypt & the Nile program combines a Cairo hotel stay with a Nile sailing from Luxor, with onboard Egyptologists leading visits to sites such as the Temple of Horus at Edfu and Philae.

Uniworld: boutique luxury

Uniworld’s S.S. Sphinx has 42 suites, all with French balconies, two dining venues and a pool. The 12-day Splendors of Egypt & the Nile pairs Cairo with a full Nile sailing. Uniworld’s style is ornate and highly inclusive, so it suits travelers who want the ship to feel like a five-star hotel.

A&K Sanctuary and Oberoi: the top tier

Abercrombie & Kent operates its own Sanctuary boats, including Sun Boat III, Sun Boat IV and the Zein Nile Chateau dahabiya, with resident Egyptologists. Its journeys run 10 to 13 days with group sizes as small as 12, and published fares start around $13,000 and go past $20,000 per person. Oberoi’s Zahra carries just 54 guests in 25 cabins and two suites, with a pool and spa; Oberoi also sells cruise-only sailings, which suits travelers building their own Egypt trip.

Best Nile cruises for UK travelers

TUI River Cruises sails seven-night round trips from Luxor on TUI Bahareya (136 guests) and TUI Al Horeya, calling at Edfu, Kom Ombo and Aswan, with all-inclusive drinks, Egyptologists on hand and direct winter flights from Gatwick and Manchester to Luxor. Riviera Travel’s 13-day Classic Egypt tour includes three nights in Cairo, flights to Luxor and a Nile cruise via Dendera, Aswan and Karnak, and it offers solo departures.

Massive carved stone columns at an ancient Egyptian temple visited on a Nile river cruise — Temple visits with an Egyptologist are the heart of every Nile cruise. Photo: Alina Zhabynska on Pexels

Typical Nile Cruise Itinerary: Luxor to Aswan

Almost every Nile cruise sails the 125-mile (about 200 km) stretch between Luxor and Aswan. Short local cruises take three or four nights; Western lines usually stretch this into a seven or eight-night round trip with extra stops. A typical pattern looks like this:

Luxor East Bank: Karnak Temple and Luxor Temple, often with an evening visit.
Luxor West Bank: Valley of the Kings, the Temple of Hatshepsut and the Colossi of Memnon.
Esna and Edfu: the Temple of Khnum at Esna and the well-preserved Temple of Horus at Edfu.
Kom Ombo: the double temple dedicated to Sobek and Horus, usually at sunset.
Aswan: Philae Temple, the High Dam, a felucca sail and a Nubian village, with an optional trip to Abu Simbel.
Return north: longer itineraries add Dendera Temple near Qena before returning to Luxor.

Most premium packages wrap the cruise with two to three nights in Cairo for the Giza pyramids and the Grand Egyptian Museum, connected by short domestic flights.

The Lake Nasser Option

For a quieter alternative, a Lake Nasser cruise sails the reservoir behind the Aswan High Dam between Aswan and Abu Simbel. Trips usually last three or four nights and run roughly October to April. Stops include Kalabsha, Wadi el-Seboua, Amada and Kasr Ibrim (viewed from the deck), ending with a visit to Abu Simbel. Ships here are few, such as the Mövenpick Prince Abbas and Steigenberger Omar El Khayam, so the sites are far less crowded than on the main Nile. It works best as an add-on to a Luxor to Aswan cruise rather than a replacement.

Best Time for a Nile River Cruise

October to April is the best time for most Nile river cruises. Winter days (December to February) are typically in the mid-60s to mid-70s °F, ideal for long temple visits, but Christmas and New Year are the busiest and most expensive weeks. October, November, March and April offer warm days with slightly fewer crowds, though late April and May can bring khamsin dust winds. From May to September temperatures in Luxor and Aswan regularly soar past 100°F; fares drop and sites are quieter, but excursions start very early. If you are tempted by the August 2027 total solar eclipse, book early, as eclipse sailings are limited.

Traditional sailboat silhouetted on a calm river at sunset, the classic view from a Nile cruise deck — Sunset on the river is a highlight of any Nile sailing. Photo: SERHII AVRAMENKO on Pexels

How to Choose the Best Nile River Cruise for You

Check what is included. Western lines usually bundle Cairo hotels, internal flights, guided excursions and transfers. Cheaper local cruises often sell the boat only, so add up the extras.
Look at group size. Ships of 50 to 82 guests feel very different from 130 to 150-guest boats, and dahabiyas carry as few as 12.
Ask about the guiding. A licensed Egyptologist who stays with your group for the whole trip makes a big difference at complex sites such as Karnak.
Mind the pace. Many tours start before 7am to beat heat and crowds. Longer, round-trip itineraries spread the sights more comfortably.
Plan for Abu Simbel. It is often an optional extra by road or air from Aswan, so check the price before you book.
Watch for offers. Lines regularly release free-air and early-booking deals; our roundup of cruise deals for 2027 is a good place to compare.

If you are weighing Egypt against a classic ocean voyage, it is worth comparing with our guide to the best Mediterranean cruises, as some lines let you combine both regions in one trip.

If Europe is on your list too, our port-by-port guide to the best Danube river cruise excursions covers Vienna, Budapest, Bratislava and more.

Heading to Europe after the Nile? Here is what to pack for a Viking river cruise, from layers to cobblestone-friendly shoes.

FAQs

What is the best Nile river cruise for first-timers?

A fully guided package such as Viking’s Pharaohs & Pyramids, AmaWaterways’ Secrets of Egypt & the Nile or Uniworld’s Splendors of Egypt & the Nile is easiest, because Cairo hotels, flights, guides and excursions are arranged for you.

Does Viking cruise to Egypt?

Yes. Viking operates the largest Western fleet on the Nile, with its tenth ship, Viking Sekhmet, delivered in 2026. Its 12-day Pharaohs & Pyramids itinerary combines three nights in Cairo with an eight-day Luxor round trip.

What is the best time of year to go on a Nile cruise?

October to April, when daytime temperatures are comfortable. December to February is coolest but busiest; summer is cheaper but very hot.

What are the best luxury Nile river cruises?

At the top end, look at A&K’s Sanctuary Sun Boats and Zein Nile Chateau dahabiya, the Oberoi Zahra and Philae, and Uniworld’s S.S. Sphinx, all with small guest numbers and expert Egyptologists.

How long is a Nile cruise from Luxor to Aswan?

A one-way sailing takes three to four nights. Most Western cruise lines offer seven or eight-night round trips, usually within a 9 to 13-day Egypt package.

Luxury Cruising

The average cost of a river cruise

The best way to book a river cruise

Everything included with river cruises

River cruises vs ocean cruises – are river cruises more expensive?

River cruise costs by cruise line

The cheapest river cruises

Reasons to choose a river cruise

1. Kids sail free

2. See more of each destination

3. Enjoy a personalised service

Times when a river cruise might not suit you

1. If you have a baby or toddler

2. If you have limited mobility

3. If you want constant entertainment

To conclude

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Family river cruising – what’s it like?

The child-friendly river cruise lines

1. A-ROSA

2. CroisiEurope

3. Uniworld

4. AmaWaterways

5. Tauck

The best European river cruises for families

What to know before booking a river cruise with children

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1. The great choice of ships and destinations

2. Kids cruise free

3. Family Cabins are available

4. The Kids’ Club

5. Family-friendly activities

6. Family-friendly dining

7. Nobody will get lost!

8. Everything is included

9. You can explore ashore in the evening

10. There’s an eco-friendly ship

Conclusion

How to book

The best way to book a river cruise

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French Balcony Cabins explained

Other names for a French Balcony

The best way to book a river cruise

French Balcony vs. Juliet Balcony

There’s a reason river cruise ships tend to have French Balconies…

Walk-out balconies are rare!

The difference between a French Balcony and a Veranda?

Different types of French Balconies

Do you even need a balcony?

Advantages of a French Balcony

The best way to book a river cruise

French Balconies on Viking River Cruises

To conclude

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AmaWaterways vs Viking at a glance

Ships and fleet: Viking Longships vs AmaWaterways’ varied fleet

Cabins compared

Destinations: where each line sails

Dining: Chef’s Table vs Aquavit Terrace

What’s included on each line

AmaWaterways inclusions

Viking inclusions

Viking vs AmaWaterways for families, solo travelers and active cruisers

Age policy

Solo travelers

Active travelers

Price per night and the true cost

Loyalty perks

Which is the best river cruise line for you?

Choose AmaWaterways if…

Choose Viking if…

FAQs

Is AmaWaterways better than Viking?

Can children sail on Viking river cruises?

Does Viking have a specialty restaurant like Ama’s Chef’s Table?