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Luxury River Cruising

Life-enriching, relaxing and unique – an APT river cruise is the ultimate holiday experience. Discover unforgettable destinations as you travel in comfort and style. From Europe   to Egypt  and Southeast Asia's Mekong  to India's  Lower Ganges, APT has a diverse range of river cruises, and you’ll wake up most mornings in a new location, ready to explore fresh and exciting sights.

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Cruise along the Rhine, Main and Danube river  on APT's ultra luxurious, new-generation river ships in 2025, APT Solara and APT Ostara. Or wind through the scenery of the Douro Valley on the brand-new MS Estrela. There's no finer way to discover the charming landscapes of Europe than aboard one of our luxury river cruises.

Vietnam & Cambodia

Explore APT's range of all-inclusive luxury Asia  river cruises throughout Vietnam and Cambodia . Experience the beauty of Asia as you visit must-see sights and hidden wonders along the Mekong River.

South America Amazon

Cruise through the Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve and visit the local communities dotted along the river bank. Accompanied by naturalists, uncover the incredible flora and fauna of the Peruvian Amazon rainforest.

Murray River

Traverse Australia's majestic Murray River aboard our brand-new luxury paddlesteamer the PS Australian Star, launched in 2025. Throughout your journey, experience a thoughtfully designed itinerary blending adventure and relaxation as you discover culinary and cultural delights along the Murray River.

Custom-designed to cruise the Lower Ganges, the Ganges Voyager  is the most luxurious ship of its kind. Its boutique size ensures you’ll receive the finest in personalised service, you’ll get to know your fellow guests, and you’ll enjoy a genuinely relaxed atmosphere on board.

Featured River Cruises

Magnificent Europe

Amsterdam → Budapest

Western Front Explorer

Amsterdam Return

Vietnam and Cambodia Discovery

Hanoi → Siem Reap

Best of Vietnam and Cambodia

Ho Chi Minh City Return

Kolkata and Lower Ganges Cruise

Kolkata Return

Egypt Discovery

Cairo Return

Explore More

Land Journeys

4WD Adventures

Aboard a privately chartered aircraft, take to the skies to experience bird's-eye views of iconic natural wonders, and have more time to explore on the ground.

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Monday to Saturday: 9am to 7pm

Let’s find your dream river cruise.

Choose a river, apt travelmarvel polaris.

• Ship Overview
• River Cruises

Travelmarvel Polaris, and her sister ships Vega and Capella, offer stylish contemporary design and a host of modern facilities and amenities to make your journey truly memorable.

Multiple dining styles are available on your trip.  Choose from a more formal Dining experience in the Constellations Restaurant, where regional specialties are always featured. For more relaxed dining, lighter, buffet options are available in the True North Lounge, or head to McGeary’s Bar, an Irish pub serving traditional pub fare. Wherever you dine, lunch and dinner is always accompanied with complimentary local wine and beer, as well as soft drinks.

The large Sun Deck offers space to relax and unwind whilst enjoying the passing scenery.  Perhaps take a dip in the whirlpool, practice your putting or take a drink at the outdoor Bar.  One great new feature of these ships is the large Sky Deck Terrace.  At half a deck lower than the rear Sun Deck this area is accessible even when passing through locks and under bridges – particularity useful on cruises that pass along the Main river and Main Danube Canal.

Staterooms and suites on the middle and upper decks feature floor to ceiling windows, that drop down to create a French (Juliette) balcony at the touch of a button.  All have personal climate control, en-suite bathrooms, double or twin beds and TV, safe and mini-fridge.

Onboard Features & Facilities

• Comfortable outside cabins and  suites, most with opening floor to ceiling windows and french Balcony
• Sun deck with 360-degree views, shaded sitting area, putting green & whirlpool
• Lower level Sky Deck Terrace & Bar
• Open seating Constellation Restaurant with tables for 4 to 8 guests
• Panoramic views from the True North Lounge and open-air Alfresco Lounge
• McGeary’s Bar offering drinks and pub style meals
• Lift to all internal decks
• Fitness room, walking track & bicycles for use on shore
• Air conditioned throughout
• Onboard shop *
• Laundry service*

* Payable locally.

Accommodation & Amenities

91 spacious, elegantly appointed staterooms and suites range in size from 153 – 258 ft² .

Most accommodations featuring floor to ceiling glass sliding doors opening to a French Balcony, so you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery however you wish.

Such is the attention to detail on this vessel that all guest accommodation has specially designed blackout curtains and blinds to keep out the light until you choose to open them.

Owners Suite

258 ft² – upper deck.

• Floor to ceiling window dropping down to a French balcony with two chairs and a table
• Enhanced sitting area with sofa and armchair
• Larger private bathroom with WC, wash basin & glass shower enclosure with quality bath products and fluffy bathrobes
• Hotel Queen size beds, the best mattresses and fine cotton bed linen
• In room safe, mini-bar, hair dryer, plenty of storage space & telephone
• Flat-screen HD television
• Individually controlled air-conditioning

Cat P, A & A+

167 ft² – upper deck.

• Floor to ceiling window dropping down to a French balcony
• Private marble bathroom with WC, wash basin & glass shower enclosure with quality bath products

Cat B+, B & C

167 ft² – middle deck.

• Floor to ceiling glass doors opening to a French balcony

Cat D & E

153 ft² –  lower deck.

• High-level fixed twin windows

Travelmarvel Polaris – Deck Plan

River Cruises on APT Travelmarvel Polaris

European Gems

From £1,995 pp

River Cruise Europe - The Danube from Budapest to Amsterdam, visiting 5 European Countries along the way.

Reflections of the Rhine & Main

From £1,795 pp

Delightful Danube

Balkans adventure.

From £1,945 pp

Explore the Balkans with this inclusive 14 night round trip Danube River Cruise from Budapest through Hungary, Serbia, Croatia, Bulgaria and Romania.

Legend of the Balkans

Best of the balkans.

From £2,995 pp

Rhine & Moselle Christmas Markets

From please call pp

River Cruise Europe - Beautiful Christmas markets along the Rhine & Moselle

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All the holidays we sell with flights from the UK are ATOL protected.

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The 7 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2024

T he more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days

Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days

Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days

Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days

Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

360 Kiosk Email : Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Viking River Cruises

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days

Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

FAQ Module : Travel - Top Mississippi River Cruises FAQs

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

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Copyright 2024 U.S. News & World Report

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APT partners with Seabourn in Alaska in 2025

New 20-day land and sea itinerary includes voyage aboard Seabourn Quest

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APT has partnered with Seabourn to introduce a new itinerary through western Canada and Alaska in 2025. The 20-day Splendid Rockies and Alaskan Voyage will explore western Canada, including breakfast at Capilano Suspension Bridge Park in Vancouver, meeting a Mountie in Banff and a winery lunch at Kelowna’s Quail’s Gate.

Also included is a GoldLeaf Service Rocky Mountaineer adventure before guests board Seabourn Quest for a seven-night cruise to the Inside Passage’s remote natural wonders. David Cox, CEO, APT Travel Group says the new partnership with Seabourn elevates APT’s offerings to a new level of luxury and adventure.

Earlier this year, APT and Seabourn struck a new expedition partnership that encompasses sailing aboard Seabourn Pursuit in the Kimberley in 2026.

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“We are thrilled to partner with Seabourn to bring our guests an unparalleled journey through some of North America’s most breathtaking landscapes and vibrant communities,” Cox said. “This new Inside Passage cruise allows us to offer a luxurious experience that combines the best of land and sea.”

Among the highlights are scenic cruising at the Seymour Narrows, Inian Islands and Hubbard Glacier, plus visits to Ketchikan, Haines and Sitka. The tour is on sale from $21,195 per person, twin share, including savings up to $2,600 per person.

The 22-day Rockies Odyssey and Alaska Cruise continues to be APT’s most popular Canada and Alaska tour. Following an in-depth exploration of Vancouver, guests hop aboard the iconic Rocky Mountaineer for a two-day journey to Banff in GoldLeaf Service, soaking in the views from a bi-level glass-dome carriage.

Highlights in the Rockies include meeting a Mountie in Banff, a two-night stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and explorations of Jasper, Sun Peaks and Whistler, where an enlightening visit to the Squamish Lil-wat Cultural Centre awaits.

Also included is a before-hours visit to The Butchart Gardens on Vancouver Island, not far from Victoria B.C., before boarding Holland America Line’s Koningsdam or Zaandam for a seven-night Inside Passage cruise.

The 19-day Rockies Explorer and Alaska Cruise follows the same route at an accelerated pace, while the Rockies with Alaska by Sea and Land features additional exploration of Alaska.

To the east, the 17-day Eastern Canada and New England Cruise includes in-depth explorations of key cities including Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal and Québec City, plus a stay overlooking Niagara Falls before a seven-night St Lawrence River and east coast cruise with Holland America Line to Boston.

See aptouring.com.au .

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