FAQ Part 2: Which River Cruise Company Should I Sail With?

Once you've decided on an itinerary, the next big question is naturally: "Which river cruise line should I book?" While there are many great options out there, navigating the differences in style, inclusions, and budget can quickly get confusing.

To help make your decision easier, let’s categorize the most popular lines based on what they do best and what you can expect on board.

The "Core Four" Comparable Lines

If you are looking for a classic, high-quality European river cruise, four main lines lead the market: AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Viking River Cruises, and Emerald River Cruises. These companies are highly comparable and offer very similar base inclusions:

• What's Included: Your accommodations, transit, all onboard meals, beer and wine during lunch and dinner, and at least one structured excursion at every port of call.

How do you pick between them? It comes down to your personal travel style:

• Choose AmaWaterways if you consider yourself a bit of a foodie and enjoy staying active while traveling.

• Choose Avalon Waterways if you prioritize freedom of choice and want plenty of variety in your daily excursion options.

• Choose Viking River Cruises if you love a deep dive into art, culture, local history, and regional architecture.

• Choose Emerald River Cruises if you are looking for exceptional overall value for your money.

The Ultra-Luxury Tier

If you are looking for an over-the-top, deeply premium experience where absolutely everything is taken care of, look toward the ultra-luxury brands:

• The Lines: Scenic River Cruises, Uniworld River Cruises, or Tauck River Cruises.

• The Perks: These lines elevate the traditional inclusive structure by adding premium perks such as dedicated butler service, complimentary laundry service, and open-bar privileges where all drinks are included around the clock.

The Budget-Conscious Tier

If you are hunting for a true budget alternative to standard river cruising, consider lines like CroisiEurope, A-ROSA, or Pier 1.

• The Catch: The onboard service, dining structure, and overall style are significantly stripped back compared to the other lines mentioned.

• Who it’s for: For travelers who are strictly focused on finding the lowest price point to get onto the water, these lines can provide a solid baseline option.

Have you taken a river cruise before? I'd love to hear which line you chose and what your experience was like! Drop a comment down below to share your thoughts, and keep an eye out for the next part of our FAQ series.

I'm Melissa Baum, the River Cruise Queen, and I help Canadians and Americans book the most amazing river cruise vacations. Connect with me today to find the perfect cruise line for your travel style!