River Cruise Lines Everyone Is Raving About RIGHT NOW (And Why)

Top 8 River Cruise Lines People Are Talking About Right Now

River cruising continues to rise in popularity, especially among travelers looking for a more intimate, immersive way to explore Europe and beyond. With luxurious ships, destination-focused itineraries, and personalized service, these river cruise lines are winning over travelers of all ages—especially those looking for something more refined than your typical ocean cruise. Here’s a rundown of the top river cruise lines that are getting the most buzz right now.

CroisiEurope

A European favorite, CroisiEurope offers excellent value and a wide variety of itineraries throughout Europe. Known for its French flair and family-owned hospitality, this line focuses on cultural immersion with multilingual guides and unique routes, including lesser-known rivers like the Guadalquivir in Spain and the Po in Italy. It's a great choice for travelers looking for authentic European experiences without the premium price tag.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Uniworld is famous for its opulent décor and highly personalized service. Each ship is uniquely designed to reflect the culture of the region it sails, and the line consistently receives praise for its gourmet cuisine and artfully crafted excursions. If you love elegant travel and want a truly boutique hotel vibe on the water, Uniworld is a must.

Scenic River Cruises

Scenic brings all-inclusive to a new level with luxurious ships, private butlers, and immersive Scenic Enrich experiences that offer exclusive cultural moments. With everything included—from top-shelf drinks to shore excursions—Scenic appeals to travelers who want to cruise in ultimate comfort and ease.

Emerald Cruises

A sister brand to Scenic, Emerald offers a more modern, relaxed take on luxury river cruising. It’s popular with younger retirees and active travelers thanks to its onboard wellness programs, stylish design, and value-packed itineraries. Guests love the casual elegance and innovative touches like the onboard pool that transforms into a cinema at night.

AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways continues to wow travelers with its blend of sophistication and warmth. Known for excellent cuisine, active shore excursions (including biking and hiking), and beautifully appointed ships, Ama strikes a balance between luxury and approachability. It’s a great fit for solo travelers, couples, and multi-generational groups looking for customizable experiences.

Riverside Luxury Cruises

Rising quickly in popularity, Riverside is turning heads with its stunning ships and elevated service. With a focus on culinary artistry and stylish design, this newer player in the river cruise space is earning high marks from seasoned cruisers looking for something fresh and refined.

Viking River Cruises

Viking remains a giant in the river cruise world for good reason. With its signature Scandinavian design, consistent service, and extensive fleet, Viking is a go-to for first-timers and experienced cruisers alike. Their destination-focused approach, knowledgeable guides, and excellent value make Viking a perennial favorite.

Avalon Waterways

Topping the list is Avalon Waterways, known for its innovative “Suite Ships” with beds facing floor-to-ceiling windows and a relaxed luxury feel. Travelers love Avalon’s flexible excursion options, wellness-focused experiences, and inclusive pricing. Whether you're wine tasting in the Rhine Valley or exploring ancient castles along the Danube, Avalon delivers an effortless, elegant way to cruise.

Ready to cruise?Each of these cruise lines offers something special, from French charm and boutique luxury to active excursions and all-inclusive elegance. Whether you’re planning your first river cruise or your tenth, there’s a perfect match waiting for you on the water.

Want help picking the right cruise line for your next adventure? Let’s chat! 🌍🚢✨