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Mini river cruises.

Mini river cruises typically last for four or five nights, although three-night sailings are sometimes available too. Typically, a four-night river cruise will give you three full days in which to explore three different European ports of call, although on some itineraries you may visit more than one destination per day. A short river cruise is a great way to explore several destinations during a short break or weekend away.   If you’re new to river cruising, a mini river cruise can be the perfect way to dip your toe in the water, so to speak, and see if a river cruise holiday is for you, without the commitment of a longer holiday. It’s also a great way to spend a few hours exploring new cities to see which ones you would like to return to for city breaks or holidays in the future. Make sure to take advantage of our river cruise deals .

Mini Cruises In Europe

Be enchanted by the cities of Germany on a Germany river cruise as you drift along the Rhine; explore Vienna and Budapest during a trip down the Danube on a river cruise in Hungary , or indulge in rich cultural heritage while sailing the Moselle.

There is so much to explore along the waterways of Europe, a short flight or Eurostar journey away. Explore beautiful cities on city breaks and enjoy the beauty of Amsterdam and all it has to offer on an Amsterdam river cruise . On a mini cruise in Europe, you’ll see some of the most beautiful sights Europe has to offer.

Find Your Mini River Cruise At RiverVoyages.com

Our mini river cruises are the perfect way to experience multiple amazing cities in a short period. Get the full cruise experience packed into a few days. If you’re looking for a mini cruise in Europe, then why not take a look at our European river cruise deals and see if you can snag a great cruise? 

Get In Touch

If you are looking for a short river cruise and need some help with your booking or just need some travel advice , then be sure to get in touch with us and call our freephone service at 0800 1970854 or email us at [email protected] , and one of our friendly and helpful staff will be on hand to assist you with any queries.

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Showing 25 out of 128 cruises.

featured cruise

Danube Symphony (Eastbound)

Sailing Date : 07 Jul 2024

Call now for the best flight inclusive prices!

Gratuities and a choice of daily excursions are included

Avalon Panorama Suites are thirty percent larger than the industry standard

Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise - MS Geoffrey Chaucer

Sailing Date : 10 Dec 2024

FREE Superior drinks package worth £400pp per week - Available on all 2024 and 2025 European river cruises!

Award-winning European river cruises include everything you need for an exceptional experience.

Delicious full board dining, plus Captain's Dinner

Was £1449pp

Fly Cruise From £1391pp

The Danube's Imperial Cities and Yuletide Markets River Cruise - MS Thomas Hardy

Sailing Date : 16 Dec 2024

Was £1499pp

Fly Cruise From £1439pp

Majestic Capitals of the Danube (Christmas)

Award-Winning Included Dining Experiences

Up to £1,500 cruise savings per person PLUS Complimentary Stateroom Upgrade PLUS up to €50 Onboard Credit per person

Was £2162pp

Fly Cruise From £2076pp

Danube Symphony (Westbound)

Sailing Date : 19 Jun 2024

Was £1800pp

Cruise Only From £1728pp

Sailing Date : 02 Jul 2024

Was £1600pp

Cruise Only From £1536pp

Highlights of the Douro Valley & Salamanca River Cruise - MS Porto Mirante

Sailing Date : 11 Jul 2024

Was £2499pp

Fly Cruise From £2399pp

Sailing Date : 18 Jul 2024

Sailing Date : 25 Jul 2024

Sailing Date : 01 Aug 2024

Was £2399pp

Fly Cruise From £2303pp

Sailing Date : 08 Aug 2024

A Taste of the Danube (Westbound)

Sailing Date : 10 Sep 2024

Was £1271pp

Cruise Only From £1220pp

Sailing Date : 12 Sep 2024

Was £3249pp

Fly Cruise From £3119pp

A Taste of the Danube (Eastbound)

Sailing Date : 13 Sep 2024

Sailing Date : 19 Sep 2024

Was £3949pp

Fly Cruise From £3791pp

Sailing Date : 26 Sep 2024

Was £3849pp

Fly Cruise From £3695pp

Sailing Date : 24 Oct 2024

Sailing Date : 31 Oct 2024

Was £2199pp

Fly Cruise From £2111pp

Christmas time on the Danube

Sailing Date : 27 Nov 2024

World-class fleet of contemporary floating boutique hotels

Save up to 35% on 2024 Europe River Cruises

Was £2124pp

Fly Cruise From £2039pp

Christmastime from Vienna to Budapest

Sailing Date : 29 Nov 2024

Was £2107pp

Cruise Only From £2023pp

Sailing Date : 01 Dec 2024

Was £1849pp

Fly Cruise From £1775pp

Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise - MS Oscar Wilde

Was £1409pp

Fly Cruise From £1353pp

Christmastime from Budapest to Vienna

Sailing Date : 02 Dec 2024

Was £2403pp

Cruise Only From £2307pp

The Danube's Imperial Cities and Yuletide Markets River Cruise - MS William Wordsworth

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Short Cruises & Mini Cruise Deals

Short cruises with A-ROSA

A river cruises offer rest & relaxation together with varied and exciting experiences. You often only need a few days to switch off from the stress of everyday life.

For this very reason, A-ROSA offers short cruises on the most beautiful waterways in Europe. Be it the Rhine, Danube, Rhône and Saône or the Seine – you will experience a new city every day on your trip. As soon as you pull into the harbour, you are welcomed by the atmosphere and characteristic flair of each city. Explore modern cities or stroll through narrow alleyways lined with colourful house fronts. Every place tells its own unique story worth discovering.

Historical buildings, palaces and castles are testimonies to their respective eras and can be found in every small town or village. As well as diverse cities, you will get the chance to experience a variety of natural landscapes on your mini cruise, from lavender fields in the South of France or ancient fortresses and castles in Normandy. Pass by the vineyards and historical towns on the Rhine, Moselle and Main, or through multiple countries to the Danube Delta. Every day, a new region and new discoveries await you. An exciting trip packed into a few relaxing days.

Mini cruise, but a great journey

Guests of the A-ROSA mini cruises enjoy all the advantages of a larger cruise: Every day is different, there are many activities on board for the whole family and you can explore the surrounding area during excursions. This is an adventure for nature lovers and city enthusiasts alike.

Would you like to try out the world of cruises or simply take some time off? The A-ROSA mini cruises make it possible. Let yourself be carried away into another world. Yesterday you were still stuck in the daily grind, but you’ll start relaxing as soon as you depart and enjoy the magnificent views and sunrises and sunsets from the river. Or combine a longer trip with a mini cruise and get more of an insight into your holiday region. A short city trip is also possible in the form of a mini cruise. Our A-ROSA ships are equipped with all the amenities for a cruise. Come on board and enjoy a mini cruise on Europe’s most beautiful rivers.

Discover Europe with A-ROSA

• River Cruises in Germany
• River Cruises in France
• River Cruises on the Main
• River Cruises on the Moselle
• Belgium and Netherlands
• River Cruises in Portugal
• River Cruises to the Danube Delta

A-ROSA mini cruises in 2024

Rhine Metropolises 2024

From Cologne to Willemstad, Antwerp, Amsterdam and Düsseldorf to Cologne.

from  € 969  pp

Rhine Legends 2024

From Cologne to Rüdesheim, Germersheim (Speyer), Strasbourg (Kehl), Mainz and Koblenz to Cologne.

Rhine City Experiences 2024

From Cologne to Rotterdam, Amsterdam and Utrecht to Cologne.

from  € 1,169  pp

Rhine Mini Cruise Netherlands 2024

From Cologne to Rotterdam, Amsterdam and Emmerich to Cologne.

from  € 599  pp

Rhine Mini Cruise Main & Lorelei 2024

From Cologne to Rüdesheim, Frankfurt and Koblenz to Cologne.

Moselle Discovery 2024

From Cologne to Cochem, Trier-Mehring, Bernkastel-Kues and Koblenz to Cologne.

from  € 1,119  pp

Danube Discovery 2024

From Engelhartszell (Passau) to Vienna, Bratislava, Krems, Melk and Linz to Engelhartszell (Passau).

from  € 899  pp

Danube Mini Cruise Cities & Nature 2024

From Engelhartszell (Passau) to Wachau, Vienna, Bratislava and Linz to Engelhartszell (Passau).

Seine Rendez-vous with Paris 2024

From Paris to Rouen and Vernon to Paris.

from  € 1,419  pp

Rhône Route Rendez-Vous 2024

From Lyon to Viviers, Arles, Avignon and Vienne to Lyon.

• European Vacations

Loire cruises France

Loire river cruises in France

Cruise the  Loire river  on board a paddle rivership along some of  France's most beautiful landscapes . Discover the  Loire Valley châteaux  and stroll through the famous gardens of the  Villandry Château  and visit the  Ussé Château .

Explore  Nantes  for an authentic journey through one of the major cities in Brittany, and pay a visit to the  Saint-Nazaire shipyard . Famous for its rich cultural, hisoric and natural heritage, a Loire Valley cruise is also ideal to discover  Angers , the capital of historic Anjou, and situated along the flowered coast. Our exclusive itinerary will also take you to the heart of France's culinary heritage with a tour of the  Muscadet region  known for the  wines of the Loire .

The MS Loire Princesse is a specially designed vessel for the river Loire, a particular waterway, an invitation to explore beautiful scenic France.

The Loire Valley, a Royal legacy

NANTES - SAINT-NAZAIRE - NANTES - ANCENIS - CHALONNES-SUR-LOIRE - The Châteaux of the Loire Valley - ANCENIS - NANTES

Embark on a cruise on the Royal Loire River whose beauty is legendary. Visit Nantes and The Machines of the Isle of Nantes, a gallery that recreates the imaginary world of the famous writer Jules Verne. Discover Saint-Nazaire and admire its shipyard and the Escal'Atlantic which immerses you in the world of steamships from the beginnings of their  gigantic construction to life on board. Soak up the magical castles of the Loire such as Brissac, the highest castle in France whose monumental facades rise up from its large landscaped park.

Embark on a cruise on the Royal Loire River whose beauty is legendary. Discover Saint-Nazaire and admire its shipyard and the Escal'Atlantic which immerses you in the world of steamships from the beginnings of their  gigantic construction to life on board. Soak up the magical castles of the Loire.

From the Châteaux of Chambord and Chenonceau to the Loire Valley

Paris - NANTES - SAINT-NAZAIRE - NANTES - ANCENIS - CHALONNES-SUR-LOIRE - The Châteaux of the Loire Valley - ANCENIS - NANTES - Paris

A taste of Paris linked with the history of France: discover the castles of the Loire between Chambord and Chenonceau before boarding the river boat for a cruise on the Royal Loire river whose beautiful landscapes are legendary. Visit Nantes and The Machines of the Isle of Nantes, a gallery that recreates the imaginary world of the famous writer Jules Verne. Discover Saint-Nazaire and admire its shipyard and the Escal'Atlantic which immerses you in the world of steamships from the beginnings of their gigantic construction to life on board. Soak up the magical castles of the Loire such as Brissac, the highest castle in France whose monumental facades rise up from its large landscaped park.

Beautiful Brittany and Royal Opulence in the Loire

Nantes - Vannes - Quiberon - Carnac - Auray - Vannes - NANTES - SAINT-NAZAIRE - NANTES - ANCENIS - CHALONNES-SUR-LOIRE - The Châteaux of the Loire Valley - ANCENIS - NANTES

Begin your vacation with an exclusive three-day trip through Brittany, a proud French region with a more-than-thousand-year-old heritage that has spread its influence across the area. From the prehistoric megaliths in Carnac to the wave-beaten coasts of the Quiberon Peninsula, set off on a journey through a stunning region shaped by humans and nature alike. Top off your Breton experience with breakfast in a local crêperie and a visit to Auray, a charming village on the Gulf of Morbihan. Then climb aboard for a cruise on the Loire, the royal river with legendary scenery.

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France River Cruises

Inspiring with a rich procession of cultural, artistic and historic treasures, our France river cruises evoke a sense of place around every bend. In Paris, the River Seine bridges images of life past and present in the iconic sites that line its banks while the Rhône River takes you to timeless landscapes where you're welcomed in cities, towns, villages and vineyards along the way.

• ITINERARIES
• FEATURED TOURS

River Cruising Along The Rivers of France

Whether the Seine, the Saône or the Rhône, on a river cruise with Tauck you'll feel it the moment you step ashore in village and towns – that palpable realization of the true meaning of joie de vivre , enjoyment of life. And that is the very essence of our France river cruises...

See it light up painted Impressionist landscapes during visits to the famed museums of Paris, checking out their real-life counterparts in the gardens at Giverny and the villages of Provence. Discover it in culinary treats chef prepared at cooking demonstrations and during exclusive dinners at elegant châteaux open just for Tauck. Savor it in award-winning wines locally produced at vineyards and wine estates family owned for centuries. And indulge in personal discoveries authentically French, uniquely irresistible and all included as you experience the joys of France firsthand onboard and ashore.

The Seine River

The River Seine is born in Burgundy and runs through the heart of Paris before flowing onward to the Normandy Coast where it meets the English Channel. On a French river cruise on the Seine, you'll discover the treasures along its banks in destinations that include Paris, Duclair, Caudebec-en-Caux in the Normandy region, Monet's Giverny, Versailles and more. You'll see how the changing light of day inspired artists, giving them a dynamic sense of movement to their masterpieces and the settings behind their work as you cruise to places immortalized in art… the medieval streets and oft-painted cathedrals and churches of Rouen… the palace of Versailles… during an exclusive dinner at a regal château… as you sip cider and Calvados at a country farm… on D-Day Beaches steeped in history… and on walking tours rich with culture.

The Rhône RIver

The Rhône River is an Alpine beauty, beginning in the Swiss Alps, passing through Lake Geneva, southeastern France, and sun-kissed Provençal villages, until it reaches the mesmerizing Mediterranean Sea. Experience the stuff of dreams in Paris, Lyon, Viviers, Avignon and beyond as you savor local specialties on a private ranch in la Camargue with Provençal cowboys… discover France's epicurean heart in a famous market in Lyon… explore the gilded playground for jet setters in Monte-Carlo… walk through the picturesque and vibrantly colored town of Arles – where Van Gogh found inspiration… taste chocolate, pastries and Côtes du Rhône vintages at the source, in one of the greatest wine-growing regions on Earth… what river cruising on the Rhône is all about.

Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine country

In avignon along the rhône, a professional sommelier guides you through a tasting and pairing of châteauneuf-du-pape wines.

The popes who reigned over the Roman Catholic Church in Avignon during the 14th century enjoyed not only their formidable lodgings in the fortress-like Palais des Papes, but also the fruit of the vine; they are credited with cultivating the local wine industry widely recognized today by the appellation, Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Today the life of this region still centers around growing, producing and enjoying wine – as you'll see for yourself when a professional sommelier guides you through a tasting and pairing of fine Rhône Valley wines that go perfectly with the unforgettable midday meal you helped prepare… truly an experience to remember!

Les Halles de Lyon

Tasting your way through a culinary icon in lyon.

Lyon is considered the "culinary capital of France" – quite a compliment in a country famed for its cuisine and fine vintages. You'll discover why during a tasting at the famous Les Halles de Lyon, the celebrated indoor food market that's been a fixture in Lyon since 1850. It offers an unbelievable array of breads, cheeses, fresh fruits and vegetables, sausages, wines, chocolates... the list goes on. Everything is fresh and delicious, and it's said that the best chefs in Lyon shop here… so enjoy!

Truffle hunting in the Rhône Valley

Trained dogs and "black diamonds" – truffles – in grignan along the rhône.

The Italians call them tartufo, but to the French and much of the rest of the world, they're known as truffles. But whatever you call it, this rare, pungent (and highly perishable) fungus that grows under the ground in certain parts of Europe is one of the most expensive foods on Earth, highly prized by chefs and gourmets around the globe. Centuries ago, early truffle-hunters used pigs, with their keen sense of smell, to root these treasures out of the ground… but the piggies usually ate the truffles as soon as they found them! So they began training dogs to sniff them out... like the pooches you'll meet and go truffle-hunting with today at a truffle farm in Grignan… followed by a tasting of products made with this precious ingredient.

Tauck Exclusive – Evening at the Duché d'Uzès

Our exclusive gala evening at the duché d'uzès.

The Duke of Uzès kindly requests your presence at his family castle for dinner. Expect to be wined and dined at a grand château that architecturally chronicles its history, from its foundation on the site of a Roman governor's home in the first millennium to its role as the medieval residence of an exiled 9th-century Duchess, the first woman in the Occident to write a book, to its Renaissance renovation, its languish in the Revolution, its 19th- and 20th-century reincarnation as a school to its meticulous renovation in 1954 by the influential Marchioness of Crussol who reacquired the family home. Her vision comes to life in treasured keepsakes and a resplendent décor that provide a stunning setting for Tauck's exclusive gala evening.

Experiencing Paris

Paris is....

Its unique arrondissements, brimming with character, like the Marais – home to trendy cafés, galleries and boutiques… the River Seine, winding its way through the city… the Eiffel Tower, one of the world's most recognizable icons… the Cathedral of Notre-Dame, needing no introduction… Rue Montorgueil, lined with produce stands, boulangeries, cheese shops, wine stores, and fishmongers… Les Invalides, the palatial complex housing the monumental tomb of Napoleon… Place de la Bastille, site of the infamous fortress where the French Revolution began… And that's just the beginning…

Ranch life in la Camargue

An exclusive provençal experience on a family owned ranch in la camargue.

Drive past marshy fields of grazing bulls and white horses to a privately owned ranch in la Camargue, where the Rhône meets the sea, and experience a different taste of Provençal life for Tauck guests only. It begins with a horseback welcome by the warm-hearted family who lives here, continues with a farm-fresh feast of locally produced fare and a heartfelt guitar serenade, and culminates in a display of skill by Provençal cowboys (known as gardians) that will have your heart racing at every turn.

Tauck Exclusive – Early-opening visit to Monet's Giverny

Our exclusive early-opening visit to claude monet's home and gardens in giverny.

In springtime, the famous villa and gardens in the village of Giverny is awash in pink and green, adorned in wisteria, azalea and water lilies, and basked in dappled sunlight reminiscent of the works of its 43-year resident, painter Claude Monet. Our exclusive early-opening visit to the pioneer Impressionist's retreat shows you the artist's home as he lived it and painted it. Monet's pink stucco house gives the impression that his family of 10 still lives there; its rooms showcase private furnishings, and his collection of Japanese prints adorn walls throughout. Walk along pathways bordered with nasturtiums, hollyhocks, hybrid lilies or snapdragons, and go through the tunnel that leads to the Water Garden and the Japanese Bridge.

Journey Collection

France River Cruises with Tauck

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Featured River, Small Ship and Land Journeys

Inspired by the destination.

For 90+ years, the Tauck family has had a passion for sailing — aboard small ships and yachts at sea, riverboats along great inland waterways, and at home on the rivers and lakes of Connecticut and New York. When we began blending our land experience with our strong passion for cruising in our first European river cruise back in 1992, we knew that no "ordinary" river cruise experience would do for our guests. We wanted them to travel Europe's rivers in the same beyond-the-ordinary Tauck style they experienced on our land trips. With that in mind, we searched to find a company to partner with that would share our values and our commitment to "do the right thing" by our guests... and found it in another family-owned company, Scylla. Together, we crafted a river cruise experience that was ahead of its time and inspired by the destinations we explore.

Guest Favorite France River Cruises

"This was our first Tauck river cruise; we were truly overwhelmed with the Tauck experience. We write this letter to express our deep appreciation for the outstanding Tauck experience on our French river cruise. The ship staff, Cruise Director, and Tour Directors were wonderful. Our excursions and special events went off seamlessly, and the 'extras' throughout the itinerary made our travels that much more memorable. The local guides throughout France were all extremely knowledgeable, personable, and very accommodating. Many thanks for our wonderful Tauck adventures… we were made to feel like we were part of a big, happy family." Peter and Sandra B., LA

Savoring france: paris, lyon & provence, bon voyage france family river cruise, traveling with tauck, uncommon access.

Unmatched destination knowledge and land expertise maximize your time ashore, connecting & inspiring

Travel In Good Company

3 Tauck Directors and 1 Tauck Cruise director onboard every cruise – highest director-to-guest ratio in the industry

Sophisticated, Intimate Atmosphere

Tauck's Destination Fleet is custom-designed for comfort – guests enjoy a relaxed, congenial atmosphere

Distinctively Inclusive

No options sold; all gratuities to Tauck Directors & Cruise Director, ship staff local guides included

Book Today... And Travel Dreams Begin

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Call us, or call your travel advisor, to book your preferred departure date today – and explore our beautiful brochures to find your inspiration for your next journey.

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France River Cruises

Experience a truly all-inclusive journey of a lifetime through the historic and iconic culinary regions of France. 

• Destinations
• Previous page

Discover   the North and South of France and Bordeaux regions

From witnessing the beauty of Bordeaux and the dazzling delights of Paris, to winding through the French gastronomic city of Lyon - revel in the magnificence of this amazing country, in truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury. 

Soak in the historic monuments and charming villages

Be fascinated by the diverse regions of France, each possessing its own natural charm. Enjoy delectable food and wine, exquisite architecture and the history that France is famous for, as you embark on your all-inclusive river cruise.

Discover France

• Experiences

Spectacular landscapes, enriching history and gastronomic delights 

Why travel on a Scenic France river cruise

Our ultra-luxury river cruises cater for only up to 147 guests. Each journey is designed to take you into the heart of extraordinary regions while you relax and unwind as you explore multiple magical towns and cities with ease. 

Innovative Scenic Space-Ships

Enjoy an abundance of premium experiences and luxurious outdoor, dining and wellness areas and spacious suites. Our Space-Ships can also dock in the heart of towns and cruise further upstream in Northern France, so you can be immersed further afield, such as picturesque Honfleur.

Find out more

Luxurious Suites

Our generously sized suites are elegantly appointed with premium amenities including a queen-size Scenic Slumber bed, a pillow menu and luxurious bath products. The Balcony, Junior and Royal Suites feature your very own window to the world with our signature Scenic Sun Lounges – some of the largest balconies offered on European waterways. 

Up to Five Dining Options

Whether you prefer a fine dining experience with a six-course degustation, a relaxed café setting offering a delicious à la carte menu or dining in the privacy of your suite, you’ll find delectable options to suit your tastes and mood on board your Scenic Space-Ship. Premium international beverages + – wine, beer, cocktails, spirits – are included and available all day, every day. It’s more than outstanding food and wine – it’s the fresh flavours of each region prepared by our innovative chefs.

Scenic Freechoice  

Personalise your river cruise and pursue your own interests as you set off on unique excursions in France. Our extensive Scenic Freechoice excursions provide Active, Moderate or Relaxed ways to explore so you can choose activities best suited to you. Whether it’s a full dafull-day excursion to the D-Day landing beaches of Normandy or shopping with a chef at a local market in Bordeaux before cooking up a storm in our Scenic Culinaire cooking class, the choice is yours.

Scenic Enrich

Our exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences place you at the heart of the world’s most refined art, music and architecture. You’ll go behind the scenes to enjoy moments inaccessible to the ordinary traveller. From an immersive digital art installation show at Les Bassins des Lumières in Bordeaux, to a private concert at the prestigious Palais des Papes in Avignon, these carefully curated experiences are destined to be the highlights of your journey.

Salt Therapy Lounge

We are the first and only river cruise company to feature a therapeutic Salt Therapy Lounge* on board our Scenic Space-Ships cruising the Bordeaux waterways and the Rhône and Saône Rivers. Mimicking the environment of a salt cave, our Salt Therapy Lounge can assist with healing, improving respiration and boosting the immune system. 

Featured Itineraries

Spectacular South of France

Awaken your senses in the South of France

Beautiful Bordeaux

Savour the beauty and romance

Normandy & Gems of the Seine

Take a journey down the river of dreams

Where we Travel in

  france .

• Europe River Cruising 2025
• Your Guide to Europe River Cruising

Your guide to Europe river cruising

Your guide to cruising France

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The 8 best river cruises in Paris

There’s no better way to explore the City of Light than by water

In a city full of magical things to see and do, few activities can be more enchanting than a trip along the Seine. To sail down the river in the City of Love is to dip under narrow bridges, pass tree-lined boulevards and spot iconic  landmark after iconic landmark. The trips on offer don’t stop at the Seine either, and there are plenty of other canals and lakes to explore either as part of an organised tour or on your own steam. Ready to hit the water? Here’s our pick of Paris’s best river-based tours, trips and activities. Bon voyage!

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

RECOMMENDED: 🎭  See the best attractions in Paris 🏡Enjoy a stay at the best Airbnbs in Paris 🏨 Or head to the best hotels in Paris

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Best Paris river cruises

1.  City and River Seine Tour on Amphibious Bus

This unique river cruise in Paris includes some of the Paris favourites you see in the movies. You know, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame... so you can stop for an iconic picture and you'll also get a 60-minute cruise along the Seine thrown in. You'll also see more of the city’s famous bridges and other historical landmarks on the cruise, making for a fun-packed but truly relaxing day out.

Time Out tip: Since there's no food aboard the boat, we'd recommend dining at L'Escudella, an elegant bistro with a lunch menu starting from €36. 

2.  Night Aperitif Cruise on the Seine River with Music

Ah, the city of love. Sure, Paris is great during the day, but it’s at night when its real romantic side comes to the fore. This tour gets things off to a fairy-tale start with a lamp-lit river cruise, before moving on to a coach or minivan tour that stops by landmarks like the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe. 

Time Out tip:  Enjoy a glass of champagne, wine or beer while aboard. Just make sure to cheers the French way. 

3.  Seine Cruise and Crepe Tasting near the Eiffel Tower

Some tours can leave you feeling a little bit deflated – you traipse around after someone with an umbrella for two hours and the schedule is so tight you don't actually get to take in your surroundings. Fortunately, this isn't the case on this Vedettes du Pont Neuf tour, where the only thing flat is the pancakes (or crepes, as they are known en français ). The two-hour cruise along the Seine and Canal St Martin passes landmarks including Notre-Dame, the Louvre, Assemblée Nationale and the Eiffel Tower, while three crepes and a drink (cider, mulled wine, hot chocolate or lemonade) are included in the price.

Time Out tip: The cruise is more frequent in summer (departing every 30 minutes), which comes in handy if you're visiting for the weekend. 

4.  Seine River Cruise and Champagne Brunch with Panoramic Views

At this 90-minute Seine river ride courtesy of Capitaine Fracasse, you'll be treated to brunch while you cruise on, seeing sites like Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower. There are both hot and cold brunch options, so you can take your pick depending on how you're feeling that day, and you can even upgrade your package to enjoy a half-bottle of champagne if you're feeling fancy! Experience a super relaxed atmosphere in comfy armchairs as you take in the views.

5.  Cruise on the Saint-Martin Canal and the Seine River

This tour doesn’t just take you meandering down the Seine, but also incorporates a journey up Paris’s idyllic, tree-lined Canal Saint Martin, with a guide sharing stories and facts along the way. Plus, there are some great stops on the way if you’re looking to inject some French style into your wardrobe.

Time Out tip: Can't decide on where to head next? This cruise offers you the perfect vantage point for your next destination. if in doubt, Cafe A is a good food stop - enjoy brunch out on the terrace.

6.  Marne River Loop Day Cruise with Lunch on Board

Seen the Seine? It's time to get off the beaten track and explore the outskirts of Paris via the River Marne instead. Marvel at Chinagora, a Chinese-inspired hotel complex, and stop for a spot of lunch on board – with 100% homemade recipes to try as you cruise around the outskirts of Paris.

Time Out tip: For this cruise, you're required to arrive 15 minutes before as the boat will leave at 10.25 am sharp. 

7.  Champagne at the Moulin Rouge and Seine River Cruise

Sure, this is on the pricier end of tours on offer, but it will definitely be a night you remember. The evening starts with a Seine river cruise past some of Paris’s biggest sights by night as they’re lit up in all their illuminated glory. The final destination is the world-renowned Moulin Rouge, where you’ll get to enjoy one of its legendary Féerie shows as well as a glass of bubbly.

Time Out tip: Since this late evening cruise  (starting at 8.45 pm) is jamp-packed enough, we'd  recommend light activity during the day. 

8.  Sail yourself around

Following a scheduled tour is fun and all, but nothing beats exploring for yourself. Marin d’Eau Douce allows you to do just that, taking to the open waters on your very own rental boat. Short hires are restricted to the Bassin de la Villette – Paris’ largest artificial lake – but opt for a longer session and you can explore the various canals that are connected to it. Boats fit five to 11 people and no sailing experience is required.

Time Out tip: Make it extra special and throw in an aperitif hamper for an extra €7 per person.  

More Paris tours and activities

Other tours and activities in Paris

Take a look through our complete list of trips, tours, activities and other sources of distraction in the French capital.

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France river cruises

Sail the awe-inspiring Rhône and Saône rivers through France and experience a world of elegant culture. 

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Sail the rivers of Southern France

Discover the sensations of Southern France during a Rhône and Saône river cruise. Historic cities, sleepy villages, and sun-soaked vineyards await you as sail along these waterways on board our innovative Star-Ship, Emerald Liberté.

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Your guide to Europe river cruising

A world of experiences

Enlightening experiences await on your France river cruise. Sample fine wines while exploring the delights of Burgundy, indulge in the culinary sensations of Lyon, and follow in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh as you amble the charms of Arles. 

Discover France

Discover the waterways of southern france, why cruise with emerald cruises.

At Emerald Cruises, your enjoyment comes first. Sail with the small cruise ship experts and benefit from our attentive service, as we bring you closer to some of Central Europe’s most exciting destinations.

Small ship river cruising expertise

Emerald Cruises specialise in providing a small cruise ship experience . You’ll notice how measured guest numbers, an excellent staff-to-guest ratio, and the purpose-driven design and layout of Emerald Liberté offers you a comfortable and luxurious France river cruise experience.

Emerald Liberté

Our Star-Ship, Emerald Liberté , is your home away from home, a boutique floating hotel that provides guests with luxurious surrounds, a wealth of amenities, and unique innovations such as our indoor pool that transforms into a cinema space on selected evenings. 

Contemporary suites & staterooms

Escape to your private sanctuary of serenity. With our range of suites and staterooms , there’s an option to suit all preferences and budgets, whether you need plenty of space to stretch out, you’re longing for cosier accommodation, or if you’re looking for a single cabin to sail solo. 

EmeraldDISCOVERY

Emerald DISCOVERY is designed to take you far beyond the standard tourist experience, with an array of exciting excursions . You’ll enjoy an included excursion nearly every day and have the option to join our Emerald PLUS , Emerald ACTIVE , and extra-special Discover MORE excursions^ to explore each destination in even greater depth ^Optional and available at an additional cost.

A wealth of generous inclusions

Your France cruise should also provide complete peace of mind. This is why we cover all port charges, provide all meals on board and with accompanying beverages, offer complimentary Wi-Fi, and cover all gratuities on board and onshore. You’ll also benefit from a first-class English-speaking crew, and enjoy tours led by knowledgeable, local guides.

A closer look at Emerald Liberté

Emerald Liberté is designed to sail the waterways of France, guiding you through the twists and turns of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Revel in your sanctuary, where every touch and elegant flourish has been chosen to reflect French beauty and style. 

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Book One of These Types of Cruises That Aren't Ocean Liners

Becky Hart | Jun 4, 2024

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Regular cruisers know how it works. You make your way to Miami or Barcelona and join the throngs of other travelers aboard a massive ocean liner. Over the course of the next few days or weeks, you move from one port to the next, see the tourist hotspots, indulge in decadent meals, maybe play a game of pickleball on deck.

But what if you want more than the average cruise ? If you’re looking for something different, these lesser-known types of cruises will give you a fresh outlook on sailing.

Repositioning Cruises

Perhaps the closest on our list to a typical ocean cruise is the repositioning cruise. If you have the extra time and think the best thing about sailing is the days at sea, this could be for you.

What is a repositioning cruise?

This usually happens at the end or beginning of the season as the cruise line moves the ship toward warmer weather. The sailings are longer — usually two weeks or more — and they’re one-way journeys.

A repositioning cruise usually follows a transatlantic route. Don’t expect a typical itinerary, though. Most of your days will be filled with on-ship activities rather than exploring at ports. This is a big positive for some cruisers; it gives you more time to relax, unwind, and spend quality time with family.

While the cruise line will do everything it can to make your trip incredible, the company's ultimate goal really is to get the ship from Point A to Point B.

Transatlantic repositioning cruise

These routes are typically between Europe and the U.S., following either a northern route or southern route. They vary by cruise line and where that company’s ports of embarkation are.

Common transatlantic repositioning cruises go from Florida to Europe (Portugal, Spain, or France, for example) and vice versa. The usual ports of call on these routes include Bermuda and other points in the Caribbean.

Alternatively, you could find a repositioning cruise between Europe and New York. These sometimes make stops at less common ports farther north like Greenland.

Transpacific repositioning cruise

You might need to block off a month on your calendar for a transpacific repositioning cruise, but you won’t regret the time spent on board. One common route takes you between Australia and Hawaii, visiting ports in New Zealand or Polynesian islands like Tahiti along the way.

You’ll often find transpacific repositioning cruises between Japan and the U.S. West Coast as well.

U.S. West Coast repositioning cruise

Less common although possibly more accessible to travelers who don’t have several weeks to dedicate to a single vacation is an Alaskan repositioning cruise.

These tend to be just a few days with an itinerary that takes you between Southern California and Vancouver (heading north toward Alaska in the spring and south toward warmer weather in the fall).

Expedition Cruises

An expedition cruise is more about the destination and less about just cruising. If you’re someone who thinks lounging on the deck and stuffing yourself at the buffet is a boring way to spend a vacation, you might consider an expedition cruise.

Ships are smaller and outfitted to take passengers to more remote places. You’ll have highly trained guides at your disposal, helping you on kayaking excursions or hiking through mountains at a port of call.

Some consider this type of cruise the answer for those who want to sail in luxury but with more adventure.

Alaska expedition cruises

Itineraries for the Inside Passage might take you to see glaciers and whales, through hidden coves, and deep into national park land.

Other routes might keep you more along the coast where you have more towns to explore. These often focus on Native Alaskan culture and heritage, while also giving you a chance to meander through fjords full of wildlife.

Yet another option is a one-way cruise starting in Alaska and ending in Japan. Your itinerary is filled with natural wonders and national parks on either end, and in between are several days at sea where you can take advantage of activities like naturalist talks and photography workshops, or relax on your own.

Because you’re so far north for these trips, the season for an expedition cruise in Alaska is somewhat short. Aim to go in the spring or early summer. The weather is warmest — and sunniest — in July and August. This is peak travel season for Alaska, but your smaller expedition ship might be able to get you away from the worst of the crowds.

The biggest player in expedition cruises, especially in this region, is Linblad Expeditions . The cruise line has combined with National Geographic to offer memorable adventures off the main tourist path.

Antarctica expedition cruises

Antarctica is another popular expedition cruise destination for many of the same reasons they’re popular in Alaska. You can get in amongst glaciers and over terrain that’s not easily accessible over land.

Antarctic expedition cruises might be combined with other locales like Patagonia or the Falkland Islands. Not surprisingly, these routes are all about frozen landscapes and wildlife you’re unlikely to find anywhere else. Think penguins, whales, and seals in their natural habitat.

It’s important (at least for us) to note that many travel insurance plans do not cover you in Antarctica. So while this is an exceptional destination, it does come with higher risk than many other locations. Consider that in your plans.

Pacific islands expedition cruises

Not all expedition cruises are cold. One on our bucket list takes you to the Pacific islands like French Polynesia, Samoa, and Fiji.

These routes typically include multiple island groups. You’ll snorkel, visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites that protect the cultural heritage of the islands, and enjoy all things marine.

European River Cruises

Many companies have updated their offerings, adding themed cruises and land excursions to appeal to younger passengers as well as combining itineraries to create longer journeys that allow travelers to see more on a single sailing.

With these updated offerings, you have more opportunity to experience Europe on a low-key cruise, letting others handle the travel logistics while you enjoy a home away from home aboard a ship.

River cruise ships are smaller than ocean liners, often accommodating 100 to 300 passengers. They tend to be about 400 feet long, give or take a few depending on the cruise line, which is about the length of an American football field. They’re also much narrower.

The compactness of a river cruise ship allows it to navigate smaller waterways and make its way through locks that ocean liners can’t even begin to attempt.

Whereas amenities such as a spa or fitness facility are a given on ocean liners, you can’t make the same assumption on a river cruise ship. Your river cruise ship will have restaurants, but perhaps only one or two compared to multiple on large ships.

While there are slightly fewer options, the tradeoff is that you can visit different locales and do it amongst fewer crowds.

Viking River Cruises

One of pros of taking a river cruise with Viking is its many itineraries throughout Europe. In addition to popular French routes on the Seine or Central European sailings on the Danube, you’ll also find itineraries that include Switzerland, Portugal, and more.

If you want to combine your river cruise with an ocean cruise , you can do that, too. This incredible two-week trip takes you from Switzerland and north through Germany and the Netherlands until you reach the North Sea. From there, you continue on your northward route toward Scandinavia.

Viking is hardly the only river cruise line out there. It does set a high standard for other companies, but you’ll also pay for that high standard. If you’re traveling on a budget, keep an eye out for special deals, as that’s probably your best bet for saving money on a Viking River Cruise.

Seine River cruises

If you’re less particular about the cruise line and want a classic river cruise destination, look no farther than the Seine. Running through Paris , a cruise on the Seine River shows off some of the highlights of the City of Light.

This is one of the more crowded itineraries for a river cruise, but only because it’s popular. And for good reason. You get all the benefits of a river cruise with excursions to the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, and more iconic sites.

If you’re looking for a river cruise in France but want to get away from the busy capital, try Burgundy and Provence (especially if you love wine) or one of many Rhine river cruises.

Danube River cruises

At 2,000 miles, the Danube is one of the longest rivers in Europe, so cruises along this waterway take many forms. Some of the best Danube river cruises include Budapest. The Hungarian city is steeped in history that’s on display through its architecture, food, and museums.

Also on many Danube itineraries are the Black Forest in Germany, where the river begins, Vienna, and Prague. In between visiting these metropolitan gems, you can take in plenty of natural scenic beauty along the riverbanks.

U.S. River Cruises

With our love of driving and the ease of flying, Americans often forget that rivers used to be a main mode of transportation. Our massive network of rivers gives us a wide range of cruising options and a different perspective from which to see the U.S.

What is the best river cruise in the USA?

U.S. cruise lines know how to do a themed trip, and some of the best river cruises in the USA cater to specific interests. You’ll find bourbon cruises on the Mississippi River, music cruises to Nashville , culinary cruises around New Orleans, and wine cruises in Napa Valley.

Other lines focus on the character of the location. Cruises in Martha’s Vineyard and the Northeast showcase postcard-worthy scenes of lighthouses and plates full of lobster. Itineraries throughout the Midwest highlight the region’s history where early settlers explored.

The best cruise is one that piques your own interests.

Mississippi River cruises

The Mississippi River is the second-longest in the U.S. (it’s true; the Missouri River is a teensy bit longer), but it’s also the most famous.

Most Mississippi River cruises explore only a portion of the river, either the upper or the lower. Upper Mississippi itineraries typically run between Minneapolis, Minnesota, and Memphis, Tennessee. You’ll find several departures in St. Louis, too.

Stops on these routes include historic towns filled with legends of pioneer days. Don’t be surprised if there’s a port of call at Hannibal, Missouri, too. It’s the hometown of Mark Twain after all.

Lower Mississippi river cruise routes typically run between Memphis and New Orleans. These really double down on Southern culture. Itineraries tend to focus on food — po'boys, soul food, beignets — Black history, Civil War battlefields, and music.

Hudson River cruises

Combine your dreams of cruising with leaf peeping by taking a cruise on the Hudson River in the fall. It’s typically an out-and-back route, sailing between New York City or New Jersey and upstate New York.

You’ll travel through the Hudson River Valley by West Point, home of the U.S. Military Academy; Hyde Park, once the residence of Franklin D. Roosevelt; and further north toward Albany. It’s an area not only renowned for its natural beauty, but also as the seat of countless industrialists, politicians, and others on the list of who’s who for shaping our nation.

For a fall foliage cruise, book your trip for September or October (although some cruise lines run as late as November). Just remember that it’s hard to predict exactly when the leaves will be at their brightest. Even if you miss peak season, you’re sure to enjoy a beautiful journey.

Barge Cruises

Don’t let this fool you into thinking they’re dull, though. Because of the barge’s slower speeds, you have more opportunity to hop on and hop off. While your barge is going through one lock — and depending on where you’re cruising, there could be a lot of them — you can go on shore, walk around, and even ride a bike to the next lock where you’ll meet up with your vessel again.

Whereas a typical ocean liner is usually described as a “floating city,” barge cruises are more of a “floating hotel.” They’re smaller, allowing them to fit through narrow waterways. That means there are also fewer people aboard, sometimes as few as four passengers and rarely more than 30. All of this might appeal to you if you aren’t a fan of crowds, either on the ship or on shore.

Luxury barging

You’ll still get fine dining, including buffets, which is always a perk of taking a cruise. One of the upsides of a luxury barge compared to a more traditional river cruise, however, is that more meals are taken on shore. This gives you the opportunity to sample local cuisine at the source.

What you won’t find are some of the entertainment and amenities common on large ships. Some barges might have laundry service, but that tends to be the exception rather than the rule. You also won’t find water parks, bowling alleys, and large theaters.

Rather than extravagant floor shows, you’re more likely to be entertained by intimate gatherings about the local culture, wine and cheese tastings from local businesses, and daytime excursions to remote villages.

You’ll have a dedicated crew on board with cruise directors and cabin stewards. You might even find that there are as many crew members as there are passengers, giving you personalized service.

Who should take a barge cruise?

Because of their small size, barge cruises are a unique way to travel with a family or small group and make it feel like a private or charter cruise. Imagine booking a six-passenger luxury barge cruise with a few friends for the week. Or maybe you’re part of a couples group looking for an easy, relaxing getaway together.

Barge cruises may also be ideal for someone who doesn’t want to feel trapped by crowds and the overrun ports visited by typical cruises.

Barge cruises in France

Yes, you can take a river cruise on the Seine. Or you can get away from Paris and explore France’s other rivers and canals. Passengers often say a French barge cruise is the perfect way to see the countryside at a leisurely pace.

Barge cruises in France can take you to regions most famous for their scenic countryside. This includes places like Burgundy, the Loire Valley, and Canal du Midi. Or head to the Champagne region or Alsace and Lorraine instead.

Being in the French countryside puts you in a prime location for exploring chateaux, visiting vineyards and sampling local wines, discovering cheeses you’ve never heard of, and cycling along canals where the towpath was carved by livestock during an earlier era.

Barge cruises in Europe

France doesn’t have a monopoly on luxury barging. Scotland has some stunning routes through lochs and mountains. The Netherlands , known for its canals, is another great option.

Although less common, you’ll find some barge cruise itineraries in Italy and Germany as well.

Travel Insurance for Cruises

These types of cruises might be unique, but you still need to protect your trip just like any other vacation. Seven Corners Cruise Insurance covers medical and trip expenses, whether you’re on a repositioning cruise on the Pacific Ocean or drifting along a Dutch canal on a luxury barge.

Our cruise insurance includes protection for trip cancellation, interruption, and delay as well as missed tour or cruise connection benefits. It can also pay your medical expenses if you get sick or hurt during your trip, something your domestic health insurance typically won’t do when you’re abroad.

Get a quick quote for Seven Corners Cruise Insurance or talk to one of our licensed agents about protecting your unique getaway.

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9 Best Cruise Lines for Solo Travelers [2024]

Updated : May 29, 2024

AAA Travel Editor, SMS

Table of contents.

• Holland America Cruise Line
• Silversea Cruise Line
• Royal Caribbean
• Azamara Cruise Line
• Cunard Cruise Line
• Viking River Cruises
• Seabourn Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruise Line 
• Celebrity Cruises

How To Avoid Single Supplements 

Book your solo cruise with aaa.

With plenty of ways to mingle with other passengers (or enjoy some quality alone time), going on a cruise alone is the perfect getaway for solo and single travelers .

However, you’ll need to do your research before booking since cruising solo can get expensive. Some cruise lines charge single supplements, which means you'll pay extra when traveling alone and staying in a room that's usually meant for two people.

Luckily, as solo cruising has become more popular, certain cruise lines have started to cater to the needs of guests traveling alone and even offer cabins specifically designed for solo cruisers. 

Read on to discover the best cruise lines for solo travelers. 

1. Holland America Cruise Line

Single cabins: Yes

Solo travel perks: Single Partners Program

AAA Member Benefit: 

• $50 onboard spending credit per person

AAA Vacations ® Benefit:

• 50 Denali Dollars per person on Alaska cruises for Verandah staterooms and above

Known for having some of the best customer service in the industry, it should come as no surprise that Holland America Line is dedicated to providing an exceptional experience to solo travelers onboard their fleet of ships. 

The line’s newest ships—Rotterdam, Koningsdam and Nieuw Statendam—have 12 single staterooms perfect for solo travelers. Each of these rooms is approximately 127-172 square feet and equipped with full-size and modern amenities. Plus, every single cabin boasts an ocean view, so you can enjoy the scenery during your voyage. 

Holland America Line also does a great job at creating an atmosphere of camaraderie on their ships. The Single Partners Program, offered on most voyages, puts on activities, cocktail parties and mixers for singles and solo travelers to mingle during the cruise. Whether you enjoy exercise classes, wine tastings or trivia, you’re sure to meet other travelers with similar interests through this program. 

2. Silversea Cruise Line

Single cabins: No

Solo travel perks : Low single supplements 

AAA Member Benefit:

• Up to $300 per person in onboard credit on select voyages

Smaller cruise lines are great for solo travelers since you’ll see familiar faces throughout your journey, which can make it easier to strike up conversations and form connections with fellow travelers. 

One of the best small cruise lines for solo travelers is Silversea Cruise Line. While they don’t offer single cabins, they have extremely low single supplements of just 25 percent on certain voyages. For reference, most cruise lines have single supplements that are 50 percent to 100 percent of the fare, so Silversea’s rate is very affordable in comparison. 

At the beginning of your voyage, there will be a champagne Welcome Reception which serves as the perfect opportunity to mingle with other solo travelers. During certain journeys, Gentlemen Hosts will be available aboard to welcome solo guests.

3. Royal Caribbean

Solo travel perks : Solo traveler meet-ups 

• Free 8x10 photo per stateroom on 7+ night balcony or suite bookings

AAA Vacations® Benefit :

• Complimentary sparkling wine and chocolate-covered strawberries 
• $25 onboard spending credit per stateroom for six nights or less voyages
• $50 onboard spending credit per stateroom for 7-10 night voyages
• $100 onboard spending credit per stateroom for 11+ night voyages 

Royal Caribbean offers studio staterooms on certain ships that are perfect for solo travelers and adult cruisers . When you book one of these rooms, you can avoid paying the typical single supplement fee. These rooms range from 101 square feet to 199 square feet, and you can choose from an inside stateroom, a virtual balcony stateroom or an ocean-view stateroom with a balcony. 

Studio staterooms are available on the following ships in their fleet: 

• Anthem of the Seas
• Brilliance of the Seas
• Quantum of the Seas 
• Harmony of the Seas 
• Spectrum of the Seas
• Ovation of the Seas

Once onboard, Royal Caribbean offers a ton of on-board activities, shows and dining experiences that make it ideal for solo travelers. Plus, they often have meet-ups for solo travelers looking to make friends while onboard. 

4. Azamara Cruise Line

Single cabins : No

Solo travel perks : Special rates as low as 25-50% off stateroom fares and gatherings for solo travelers 

AAA Member Benefit :

• $150 per stateroom onboard credit on select Club Ocean View or above sailings.
• Onboard spending credit of $200 per stateroom 

Azamara Cruise Line operates a fleet of mid-sized ships that journey to destinations all over the world. The cruise line is known for its Destination Immersion® experiences that feature intimate ships, access to smaller ports that other cruise ships can’t visit and longer stays at ports. 

Azamara provides special rates for solo travelers as low as 25-50 percent off stateroom fares. Additionally, they offer thoughtfully created activities and gatherings for solo travelers to socialize with each other onboard. 

5. Cunard Cruise Line

Solo travel perks : Group dining, coffee chats and cocktail parties for solo travelers

• Onboard credit for all voyages that are 7 nights and longer 

Cunard is among the best luxury cruise lines , and it’s a great option for solo travelers looking for upscale service, socialization opportunities and elegant staterooms. The cruise line offers single staterooms aboard their Queen Mary 2, Queen Victoria and Queen Elizabeth ships. During your time aboard, you’ll enjoy 24-hour room service, luxury toiletries and a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine. 

The cruise line is also known for its delicious culinary options and for going out of the way to ensure solo travelers have an enjoyable dining experience. While you can always choose to dine solo, they also provide the option to dine with fellow travelers at a shared table. Solo travelers can also attend coffee chats and cocktail parties to socialize with other guests. 

6. Viking River Cruises

Solo travel perks : Special solo traveler fares 

• $100 per person shipboard credit for cruises 8-11 days
• $200 per person shipboard credit for cruises 12+ days 

If you’re looking to embark on a solo river cruise in Europe , look no further than Viking River Cruises. The cruise line is known for its immersive journeys sailing through the world’s greatest rivers while offering world-class accommodation, incredible customer service and unique cultural events along the way. 

While Viking doesn’t have single cabins, they will occasionally offer special solo traveler fares. Plus, you can check for other discounts available for the cruises you’re interested in to save money on your travels.  

7. Seabourn Cruise Line

Solo travel perks : Special offers for solo travelers on select voyages 

• Singles receive $150 per suite onboarding spending credit on select sailings 

AAA Vacations® Benefit:

• $200 per suite onboard spending credit on select sailings 

Prefer to feel like you're on a private yacht instead of a cruise ship? The small-ship cruise line, Seabourn provides an intimate experience complete with personalized service, optional shore excursions and entertainment options. 

The cruise line offers a discounted single supplement, beginning at just 10% more than current fares for certain voyages and suite categories. The discount is available for cruises to Alaska , Greece, Iceland, Greenland and more. 

8. Oceania Cruise Line 

Single cabins : Yes

Solo travel perks : Social events and group dining tables

• $100 per person onboard spending credit on select sailings 
• Complimentary pre-paid gratuities
• Free group wine tasting with a sommelier

From friendly crew members to social events, The Oceania Cruise Line goes above and beyond to make solo travelers feel at home on their ships. Solo cruises can attend cocktail parties or opt into group dining to meet other guests onboard. The small ships are also easy to navigate and provide a relaxing atmosphere. 

With solo staterooms available aboard the Vista, Regatta, Insignia, Nautica and Sirena ships, you don’t have to worry about solo supplements driving the price up. The accommodations feature private verandas or ocean-view windows as well as many amenities to keep you comfortable during your voyage. 

9. Celebrity Cruises

Solo travel perks : Hosted social events

• Onboard credit based on the stateroom category booked

Celebrity Cruises is another popular cruise line for solo travelers, offering social events to help solo cruisers make new friends. Known for its inclusivity, Celebrity Cruises is also one of the most LGBTQ-friendly cruise lines in the industry. Their itineraries, such as their Bali, Malaysia and Thailand itineraries, are some of the best cruises for solo travelers looking for excitement and adventure. 

Celebrity’s solo cruise cabins are available on the Celebrity Edge®, Celebrity Apex®, Celebrity Beyond℠ and Celebrity Ascent℠ ships. Solo travelers can choose between an ocean-view room with a veranda and an inside stateroom. All of the solo rooms come with the same products and services as the regular staterooms. 

The easiest way to avoid single supplements is to opt for a cruise line that offers solo cabins. However, if your heart is set on a cruise line or ship that doesn’t have this perk, consider looking out for specials that waive or discount single supplements. You can also try using a roommate matching program that some cruise lines offer, which pairs you in a room with another solo traveler. 

Whether you're looking to book a quick getaway or an around-the-world cruise , embarking on a solo cruise is a rewarding experience offering adventure, relaxation and the freedom to cater your journey around your preferences. Not to mention, you can partake in the many things to do on a cruise and make life-long friends along the way.  

Book your solo cruises with AAA Travel and ensure you’ll have peace of mind during your once-in-a-lifetime trip. With your AAA Membership , you'll receive exclusive deals, onboard spending credits and other perks.

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I’ve Never Checked a Bag in My 16 Years of Cruising — Shop My 15 Fool-proof Carry-on Essentials

From Mexico to the Mediterranean, I never leave port without these sure-fire items.

Travel + Leisure / Francesca Fasciglione

Even as a longtime cruiser, one of my travel nightmares is meticulously planning outfits for a cruise — and spending the entire trip without my luggage. This can actually happen if your checked bag doesn’t arrive with you because options for delivering it to you are, well, slim. What sort of airline delivery service brings it to you on a sea day in the middle of the ocean, after all? Another logistical issue is that the ship’s only in port for a few hours and timing a luggage delivery to the closest airport would be impossible . 

Long story short: Your bag could follow you from airport to airport for an entire week and you’ll never see it. Instead of spending your trip in the clothes you traveled in (or dropping serious cash on a new wardrobe), take my advice and condense your gear to a simple carry-on so you can ensure that your belongings are always with you. 

Haven't mastered the art of carry-on-only packing yet?  Here are the 15 clothing and accessories I bring on every cruise, whether I’m going to Alaska, the Mediterranean in the shoulder season, the Caribbean, or Mexico during winter. Even better, each pick is available at Amazon and prices start at $14.

Havaianas Twist T-bar Sandals 

Choose sandals with ankle straps because, trust me, you do not want to wear thong-style flip-flops for the many hours you’ll explore the ship on a sea day. I used to own a pair of these and wore them until the soles wore out. I am already shopping for my next pair. With the sand gray pair, you could wear it with a flowy, long dress for casual dinners.

Merrell Alverstone 2 Waterproof Hiking Shoes

However, for shore excursion hikes to natural wonders like Denali National Park or Virgin Islands National Park, you need a pair of comfortable athletic shoes that won’t get ruined if it rains — and you won't want to wear open-toe shoes on these activities as sandals make you more susceptible to ticks and bug bites. My Merrell hiking shoes are sturdy enough that I won’t twist an ankle. I wear these on the plane as they’re my bulkiest shoes, and they come in handy if I have to sprint to my gate on a tight layover.

Lucky Brand Wimmie Ballet Flats

On the topic of shoes, it took me a long time to find a pair of comfy black flats without thick rubber soles (skewing into casual, ugh). Heels take up more space in your luggage and stretchy ballet flats don’t provide arch support. So, what's a cruisegoer to do? I own a pair of these Lucky Brand flats and wear them with dressy slacks, skirts, and dresses for when I’ll be walking a great distance. I can’t wait to pack these for my next cruise.

Dokoto Elegant Casual Button-down Cover-up 

If you’re just bringing a carry-on, I recommend packing only one cover-up — and choosing it wisely. Polyester and rayon materials are only going to cause you to sweat on the Lido Deck. Cotton is preferred as it’s a more breathable fabric. Make sure to opt for a cover-up that can also double as a dress, like this one that's available in 15 solid shades. With the longer length, it'll provide excellent coverage to protect you from the sun and keep you looking put together when you're headed to lunch.

Cupshe Ruffled One-piece Swimsuit 

If you’re only packing one swimsuit, you can't go wrong with a one-piece. This way you can also swim with comfort, whether it’s laps at the pool or snorkeling in the ocean. At Amazon, this Cupshe bathing suit is super cute with supportive ruffled straps and flattering ruching. Its stylish design also allows it to double as a bodysuit under shorts, skirts, trousers, or jeans when you want to switch up your evening wear.

Automat Two-piece Matching Set 

If you’re like me, sea days are for roaming the ship, and logging a lot of steps at that. Instead of yoga pants and a T-shirt, a two-piece lounge set keeps the comfy vacation vibe going strong without looking too sloppy. Plus, the shirt doubles as an extra layer in air-conditioned dining rooms or when you need extra sun protection at the pool.

Zaful V-neck Ribbed Button-up Cardigan

The day before I was to board a river cruise in Burgundy, France, I realized I’d need a sweater for a temperature drop over the next few days. I popped into an H&M on the Champs-Elysées in Paris and bought a chunky-knit, cropped beige cardigan. It’s a near twin to this one from Zaful, which is $36 right now at Amazon. I pack this on cruises as cabins can get chilly. A knee-length cardigan takes up way too much room in your luggage, unless you wear it on the plane.

Zomake Ultra Lightweight Hiking Backpack

When I plan to walk while in port, I pack a bright-orange packable backpack (one that condenses to a small size) that’s different than my personal-item backpack I wore on the flight. This one is very similar to the one I own. It's stocked with plenty of pockets to hold your essentials while you explore, and it’s water-resistant in case you spill a bottle of water inside or it’s raining outside.

Kalidi Beach Mesh Tote Bag

As cute as they are, unless you plan to bring a woven straw beach bag as your purse or carry-on for the flight, it’s better to use a canvas tote bag or foldable beach bag like this one for taking a book, sunblock, sunglasses, and other items to the Lido Deck. Luckily, it's cute and functional enough to double as a beach bag once you're bag home, and you can even get away with using it as a purse while you're cruising.

Tronjori High-waist Wide-Leg Palazzo Pants

It’s nice to have a pair of black. loose-fitting, wide-leg dress slacks to wear to dinner with a tucked-in blouse or cropped top. Without drawstrings or spandex, the pants no longer look like slouchy yoga pants or loungewear. Here, the expandable waistline helps if you swell due to the heat or are indulging at the buffet. Bonus: these are wrinkle-free and easily roll up in your carry-on (but they're comfy enough to wear on the flight if you need to).

Sueani Loose V-neck Bell-sleeve Blouse

Two or three dressy tops are enough for me to mix and match with my not-so-formal pants and skirts. Instead of deciding between my short-sleeved and long-sleeved options, I like to bring three-quarter-length sleeved tops to get the best of both worlds. This top, which comes in 31 solid hues, won over Amazon shoppers with its flattering fit and versatile look. Remember: it's always solid, not patterned when only bringing a carry-on. Trust me, they'll go a long way with the rest of your cruise wardrobe. 

Lilbetter Short-sleeve V-neck Dress With Pockets

For cruises, I pack knee-length over floor-length dresses, even if they’re casual, as that extra fabric multiplied by however many dresses you bring takes up more packing room. This one — with its pockets, short sleeves, and V-neck — could easily segue from strolling in port to sitting down for dinner in a specialty restaurant on the ship. Navy blue would be a fun color to match the nautical surroundings, but it's also available in 29 other colors.

Bloggerlove Rain Jacket Hooded Trench Coat

You’re going to need a lightweight windbreaker for more than a rainstorm. The ship’s top deck can get windy at night, for example. Also, for excursions like viewing the Kenai Fjords in Seward, Alaska, it’s chilly while out on the water. Sadly, my beloved J.Crew windbreaker trench coat is now from several seasons ago, but I found one just like it on Amazon, with an elastic waist for a similar tailored look a hood, and lots of pockets. Plus, it's packable, so you don't have to wear it on the plane or worry about it hogging up space in your carry-on.

Back from Bali Women’s Sheer Shrug Cardigan

Air-conditioned dining rooms on cruise ships can get chilly, so it’s helpful to have a shrug or wrap that doesn’t bulk up your dressy outfit (or take away precious carry-on space). This lightweight cropped cardigan — particularly in the elegant beige hue — can adapt to formal and casual, while also matching with floral and neutral, dark-colored dresses.

Sungait Vintage Round Sunglasses

Don’t pack huge Jackie O-like sunglasses that require a case the size of a small lunchbox. Go for a slim, lightweight pair instead. These tortoise-shell frames would look good on anybody and are affordable enough that if you lose them while on a bumpy catamaran ride, you won’t be out a lot of money. What's more, they're polarized and block 100 percent of the sun's UVB and UVA rays.

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Short Break in Paris (port-to-port cruise)

• River Cruise
• Fully Guided
• Introduction
• Day 1 PARIS
• Day 2 PARIS, renowned sights and legendary attractions - LA DEFENSE
• Day 3 PARIS - The old Montmartre - Cruise through Paris by night
• Day 4 PARIS

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Where You'll Stay

Operated by croisieurope river cruises.

When river cruising was a privilege for the wealthy, CroisiEurope developed an affordable cruising concept offering the best value in river cruises at great prices, and appealing to every traveler. This was possible thanks to our involvement in all the steps: from the simple idea to the construction of our ships, the assembly of our crews, and the full integration of sales and logistical (purchasing, cuisine and maintenance) teams. Your pleasure is our priority, and we aim to provide just that in the comfort of our boats and the quality of the service you receive when dining. We call on all our expertise to better serve you, including working in partnership with some of the most renowned French chefs, such as Paul Bocuse and Marc Haeberlin. Owner and operator of 43 ships, the CroisiEurope river cruise company is proud to be the greatest river ship owners in Europe. Although the Rhine and its tributaries and the Danube remain the major river cruise destinations in Europe, we knew how to develop creative itineraries that appeal to everyone. But we also knew it was important to expand our cruises to unique destinations. These include the Seine and the Rhône, of course, but also the Tisza in Hungary, the Guadalquivir in Spain, the Douro in Portugal, the Dordogne and the Garonne in Bordeaux. Don’t forget our more exotic destinations as well: the Mekong in Vietnam and the Irrawaddy in Myanmar. Our founder’s pioneering spirit has been passed down through the generations. After having developed the novel concept of a coastal cruise on the Adriatic Sea aboard a 200-passenger, top-comfort and high-tech ship (La Belle de l’Adriatique), CroisiEurope revamped the feel of cruising the French canals in Alsace, Burgundy, Champagne, Provence, and Paris with a fleet of new, modern and comfortable hotel barges. With just 12 cabins, these barges bring you to the heart of each one of these regions to discover the hidden treasures awaiting you. As a French company, we are also proud to be launching a river cruise on the Loire. In a worldwide premier, our new revolutionary boat equipped with a paddle wheel will bring you into the interior of a mythical region like you have never experienced before. Alsatian, but French. French, but European. In 2014, we also launched the New MS Lafayette Class of intimate vessels with only 82 guests. CroisiEurope knew how to become global by providing cruises in some of the world’s most fabulous destinations. And it’s with this passion, friendliness, and professionalism that we welcome you aboard our fleet.

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Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Good 3.1
• Itinerary Good 3.4
• Guide Good 3.5
• Transport Good 4.0
• Accommodation Good 3.5
• Food Excellent 4.6
• Tour Operator CroisiEurope River Cruises 4.3
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• SK SACHIKO · 10th December 2021 Wifi doesn’t work at all. I have never experienced it before. And other ships of croisi Europe offered free drinks like wine, coffee and cocktail. This time I have to pay for all drinks. Sightseeing tour id excellent, especially guides for 2days. Trip date: November 2021

Dates & Availability

Pay-by-instalments

Take advantage of our 0% interest instalment plan on selected departures. Learn More

• Upcoming departures
• October 2024
• November 2024
• December 2024
• November 2025
• December 2025
• -30% Sunday 14 Jul, 2024 Wednesday 17 Jul, 2024 English Multiple Room Types MS Botticelli €695 €486 Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Tuesday 29 Oct, 2024 Friday 1 Nov, 2024 English Multiple Room Types MS Botticelli €435 Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Friday 1 Nov, 2024 Monday 4 Nov, 2024 English Multiple Room Types MS Botticelli €449 0% Interest Instalments Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Thursday 7 Nov, 2024 Sunday 10 Nov, 2024 English Multiple Room Types MS Botticelli €435 0% Interest Instalments Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Sunday 10 Nov, 2024 Wednesday 13 Nov, 2024 English Multiple Room Types MS Botticelli €435 0% Interest Instalments Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Saturday 16 Nov, 2024 Tuesday 19 Nov, 2024 English Multiple Room Types MS Botticelli €435 0% Interest Instalments Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Tuesday 19 Nov, 2024 Friday 22 Nov, 2024 English Multiple Room Types MS Botticelli €568 0% Interest Instalments Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Friday 22 Nov, 2024 Monday 25 Nov, 2024 English Filling Fast Multiple Room Types MS Botticelli €568 0% Interest Instalments Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Thursday 28 Nov, 2024 Sunday 1 Dec, 2024 English Multiple Room Types MS Botticelli €435 0% Interest Instalments Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Sunday 1 Dec, 2024 Wednesday 4 Dec, 2024 English Multiple Room Types MS Botticelli €519 0% Interest Instalments Book Online Hold space for 48h

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As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.

• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 3rd October 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 3rd October 2024, a minimum payment of 30% is required to confirm your booking with CroisiEurope River Cruises. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 120 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• The following cards are accepted for "CroisiEurope River Cruises" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• TourRadar can request CroisiEurope River Cruises to hold spaces for you for up to 48 hours without any credit card details.
• TourRadar is an authorised Agent of CroisiEurope River Cruises. Please familiarise yourself with the CroisiEurope River Cruises payment, cancellation and refund conditions .
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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More From Forbes

Thinking about trying a river cruise start in the u.s..

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American Cruise Lines operates small ship sailing on various waterways around the U.S.

It’s been argued that the U.S. is so diverse and offers so many varying vistas that you could spend a lifetime traveling from coast to coast and still not see it all. From the Rockies to the Smokies, from the desert to the tropics, from skiing to scuba diving, America really does deliver.

And that’s exactly what American Cruise Lines celebrates as it explores the history, heritage, and places behind all that makes America beautiful. The line offers over 50 itineraries ranging from six to 60 days and visits 35 states from Alaska to Florida. It is the only cruise line in the world with a 100 percent American-made fleet—that fleet consists of small ships that hold between 90 and 180 guests, classic paddlewheelers, and a brand new line of coastal catamarans.

American Cruise Lines’ 19 riverboats and small cruise ships make up the largest domestic cruise line in the country, and travelers are flocking to its upscale, all-inclusive experiences.

River Boat Itineraries Keep It Interesting

The popular jet boat ride into Hell's Canyon is one of many excursions available on the Columbia & ... [+] Snake River cruise.

Itineraries within the continental U.S. highlight the Mississippi River, including the Ohio, Cumberland, and Tennessee Rivers; the Columbia and Snake Rivers; the Hudson River; and Florida Rivers (St. John’s and Tolomato). For Americans, ports of call are usually just a short flight away. For those traveling farther, it’s a fully-planned and coordinated way to visit some of the most beautiful parts of the country. And everything is taken care of for you from start to finish.

You might find yourself on a quaint city walking tour, kayaking with a guide who points out the wildlife, touring a fort, flightseeing over majestic landscapes, or exploring a museum.

Best High-Yield Savings Accounts Of 2024

Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, american cruise lines’ small ships are all-inclusive.

The all-inclusive experience here is a huge selling point. One of the reasons American Cruise Lines is booked out well in advance is because it makes traveling so easy. Everything, including food, beverages (yes, even the alcoholic kind), entertainment and educational presentations, most excursions, Wi-Fi, port taxes, and even gratuities is included. In fact, domestic flights, pre- and post-cruise hotel stays, and ground transportation are part of your package as well. In other words, you won’t be nickel-and-dimed with this line. Make a phone call to book, answer another call to arrange your flight, and that’s the extent of your effort.

The staterooms on American Cruise Lines' small ships are the largest in the industry, and all new ... [+] ships sport private balconies.

Once you arrive, you’ll be thrilled to see your stateroom. While cruise ships are known for making the most of tiny spaces, American Cruise Lines boasts the largest cabins in the industry and more space per passenger for moving around, securing a lounge chair, or selecting your seat at dinner. One hundred percent of cabins face outward, and all new ships have floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to private balconies. Views are unobstructed in rooms as well as dining areas, so these ships are especially appealing to those who have avoided cruises out of fear of claustrophobia. With so much space and light, those fears will be laid to rest.

Perhaps one of the most impressive selling points is that American Cruise Lines’ ships meet the highest emissions standards and have tiny carbon footprints. The line incorporates the latest technology, including a bow that opens like a drawbridge from which a powered passenger gangway emerges. This allows for bow landings and ensures the ship can navigate into areas most ships could never traverse.

Small Ship Dining Is Relaxed, Not Hurried Or Crowded

The dinner experience on a small ship in the American Cruise Line is intimate and tailored to your ... [+] dietary restrictions.

While small ships don’t offer casinos and grand productions, what they do have are talented musicians, a cocktail hour with a beautiful array of hors d'oeuvres, and educational speakers. Some of American Cruise Lines’ offerings include Mark Twain and literary experts on the Mississippi River cruise, biologists and ecologists on Florida cruises, and Lewis and Clark experts on the Columbia and Snake River cruises – sometimes the experts even accompany cruisers on excursions to further enhance those experiences. And you can expect dining to be more intimate, more gourmet-leaning, and adaptable for vegans, vegetarians, and so on. This attention to individual needs is one of the many benefits of the small ship experience.

American Cruise Lines is the only line in the U.S. that offers both river and coastal cruises, and the new addition of coastal cats provides adventure opportunities for cruisers who love the idea of getting some wave action. If you’ve only done ocean cruising, it may be a great way to dip your toes into river cruising. But if you’re brave enough to jump all the way in, river cruising can provide a totally different – and totally blissful – experience.

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Travelzoo  Second Guest Sails Free

Now available on select 2024 Central Europe, France and Portugal River Cruises*

Secure your Truly All-Inclusive Ultra-Luxury River Cruise and Save up to $8,756 per couple

Great stories come from unforgettable moments. Now creating new ones is more attainable than ever during our limited Travelzoo Sale with Scenic. Second Guest Sails Free with this special promotion across select sailings on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers and the rivers of France and Portugal. Set sail from just $3,120 per person or if you are a solo traveller, pay No Single Supplement fee*. Don't delay, this special promotion is strictly limited and will sell out fast. Call 1-844-200-2150, or contact your travel professional. Book by June 10, 2024 and reserve with code TVLZOO2NDFREE.

 Featured Central Europe Journeys

Jewels of Europe

River Cruise: STC

June 24 & 26, July 8, 10, 22 & 24, October 23≤ & 28≤, November 7≤ & 11, 2024

≤ Cruise operates in reverse.

Gems of the Danube

River Cruise: NBU

July 18≤ & 25, August 1≤ & 8, October 27, 2024

Gems of the Danube with Prague

River Cruise & Tour: PNB

July 18≤ & 22, August 1≤ & 5, October 24, 2024

Danube in Depth

River Cruise: GHNB

October 11, 2024

Black Sea Explorer with Bucharest

River Cruise & Tour: BUBU

June 2, 6≤ & 12, 2024

Black Sea Explorer with Bucharest & Budapest

River Cruise & Tour: BUBC

June 2, 4≤ & 12, 2024

Rhine Highlights

River Cruise: AMBC

June 5 & 12≤, July 31, 2024

Romantic Rhine & Moselle

River Cruise: AMBA

July 22≤, August 5≤≥, 7 & 19, 2024

≤ / ≥ Cruise operates in both directions. ≤ Cruise operates in reverse.

Danube Christmas Markets

River Cruise: XNBU

November 22, 2024

Featured France and Portugal Journeys

Beautiful Bordeaux

River Cruise: BOD

June 8 & 25, July 5 & 15, August 8, September 4 & 14, October 18, 2024

Bordeaux Affair

River Cruise: BORD

August 1 & 28, October 11,  2024

Idyllic Rhône

River Cruise: FCCC

June 8, July 15≤ & 22,  August 28≤, September 4, 2024

Spectacular South of France

River Cruise: FRAC

June 15 & 25, July 5 & 29, August 8 & 18, October 11 & 21, 2024

Normandy & Gems of the Seine

River Cruise: SEI

June 28, July 15 & 25, August 18, 2024

Highlights of Normandy & the Seine

River Cruise: SENE

August 4 & 11, 2024

Delightful Douro

River Cruise: DOUS

November 17 & 24, 2024

Unforgettable Douro

River Cruise: DOUR

June 8, November 7, 2024

Margins and Justified Text Example

Terms and conditions: *All prices advertised are in CAD dollars based on double occupancy and include all advertised discount savings including early payment discounts. Port charges and taxes are included in the price. Valid for new bookings only on select 2024 Europe River Cruises made between May 22 and June 10, 2024. Applicable to any available cabin on included sailings, except BS Single Suite. A non–refundable initial deposit of $500 per person is required at time of booking and must quote offer code TVLZOO2NDFREE when booking for both the Second Guest Sails Free offer and the No Single Supplement offer. Full payment is due within 7 days of booking. Strictly no retroactivity to existing bookings including engaging the Deposit Protection Plan or Flexible Booking Policy on an existing booking to avail these offers. When paying full fare for the first guest, receive the second guest fare free. Both guests must be in the same cabin for offer to be applicable. Savings are based on the cruise + upgrade element only, excludes airfare, port charges, land extensions, hotel stays or any other additional items. No Single Supplement Offer: Discount is fifty percent off room cost. Guest will still pay port charges, air/air taxes, and land (including any single supplements on land) as usual. Offer strictly not combinable with any other offer or promotion including Super Earlybird/Earlybird, regular solo offers, F&F offers and groups offers. Offer is combinable only with Scenic Club loyalty voucher. All offers are inventory controlled, strictly capacity limited, may be extended, cancelled, or withdrawn at any time without notice, and subject to availability until sold out. For the most up-to-date pricing, availability and offers, please call your Professional Travel Advisor or Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours Reservations. Scenic reserve the right to not honour any published prices that we determine were erroneous due to printing, electronic or clerical error. Very small number of rare, fine & vintage wines, champagnes and spirits not included. Airport transfers are only available on the first and last day of your tour and at times we designate. Salt Therapy Lounges and e-bikes not available on all ships. For full booking terms and conditions refer to the 2024 Scenic Europe River Cruising brochure available at scenic.ca/brochures or view here. Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours - A division of ST Touring Canada Ltd. Office: 19th Floor, 401 West Georgia Street, Vancouver, BC, V6B 5A1. Consumer Protection BC #40178.

• Europe River Cruising 2024
• Europe River Cruising 2025
• Your Guide to Europe River Cruising

Your guide to Europe river cruising

Don't delay, this special promotion is strictly limited and will sell out fast.

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Book by June 10, 2024 and reserve with code TVLZOO2NDFREE.

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Our luxurious Scenic Space-Ships have been purpose-built for Europe’s waterways and get you closer to shore to create a real sense of immersion. Let time stand still as you discover the limitless wonders of Europe and enjoy a premium all-inclusive experience.

Innovative Scenic Space-Ships

Our innovative ships feature an abundance of luxurious outdoor, dining and wellness areas, along with spacious suites. Low guest numbers of only up to 163 guests provide an intimate experience. These sleek ships are also able to dock in the heart of towns, so you can enjoy more time to explore.

Luxurious Suites

Each suite offers you the luxury of personal space. Our generously-sized suites are elegantly appointed with premium amenities including a queen-size Scenic Slumber Bed, a pillow menu and luxurious bath products. The Balcony, Junior and Royal Suites* feature your very own window to the world with our signature Scenic Sun Lounges – some of the largest balconies offered on European waterways. 

Up to Five Dining Options

Whether you prefer a fine dining experience with a six-course degustation, a relaxed café setting or dining in the privacy of your suite, you’ll find delectable options to suit your tastes and mood. Premium international beverages^ – wine, beer, cocktails, spirits – are included and available all day, every day. It’s more than outstanding food and wine – it’s the fresh flavours of each region prepared by our innovative chefs. 

Scenic Freechoice

Personalise your river cruise and pursue your own interests as you set off on curated excursions throughout Europe. Scenic’s extensive and diverse list of Freechoice excursions offer an Active, Moderate or Relaxed pace so you can choose activities best suited to you based on your passions. Whether it’s a guided hike up beautiful Buda Hill or delectable wine tastings in the French town of Châteauneuf du Pape, the choice is yours.

Scenic Enrich

Our Scenic Enrich experiences are exclusive to Scenic guests and place you at the heart of the world’s most refined art, music and architecture. You’ll go behind the scenes to enjoy moments inaccessible to the ordinary traveller, from a classical concert at the opulent Palais Liechtenstein in Vienna to after hours access at Bassins de Lumières, a former submarine base turned immersive digital art installation. These carefully curated experiences are destined to be the highlights of your journey. 

Salt Therapy Lounge

Scenic is the first and only river cruise company to feature a therapeutic Salt Therapy Lounge* on board its Scenic Space-Ships cruising Europe’s waterways. Mimicking the environment of a salt cave, the Salt Therapy Lounge can assist with healing, improving respiration and boosting the immune system.

^Spa treatments are an additional cost. 

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6 Regions Around the World Best Seen on a River Cruise

River cruising has experienced phenomenal growth over the past two decades in part because it’s a more convenient alternative to land-based bus tours. Your home-away-from-home moves with you over the course of a week or longer, meaning you unpack only once while exploring a variety of exciting cities and enchanting small towns. You’ll also enjoy superb onboard cuisine and get to know your fellow cruisers. Of course, this is only possible where rivers flow and cruise lines sail, so here’s a look at six regions around the world best seen on a river cruise.

Cambodia & Vietnam

Flowing for almost 3,000 miles through Southeast Asia, the mighty Mekong is a living mosaic of century-spanning sights, from lavish palaces and UNESCO World Heritage Site temples to ramshackle villages and surreally green rice paddies. Most Mekong River cruises sail between Siem Reap, Cambodia, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from August to April, since low river levels and hot weather make May to July difficult for travel.

Highlights of these cruises, which range from seven to 13 nights, include the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh, with its Silver Pagoda and sobering genocide museum detailing the “Killing Fields” era of the 1970s Pol Pot regime. Cambodia’s more mystical destination is Angkor Wat, the superbly carved stone temple complex outside of Siem Reap built as early as the 9th century. 

In Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, the country’s largest city, sometimes still referred to as Saigon, is a mix of French-colonial architecture, Parisian-style boulevards, stunning pagodas, and modern skyscrapers. Smaller villages along the Mekong’s Vietnamese side offer a look at the daily life of farmers, fishermen, and handicraft makers, complete with floating markets and rickshaws.

Which river lines cruise Cambodia & Vietnam?

AmaWaterways, Aqua Expeditions, Avalon Waterways, Emerald Waterways, Scenic, Uniworld, and Viking.

The allure of cruising the Nile River to see the temples of Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, and Abu Simbel in southern Egypt is undeniable. Add on a few nights in Cairo to visit the Pyramids of Giza and the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum before or after your seven-night cruise and it’s a truly bucket-list trip for anyone fascinated by ancient history.

There are just a handful of primary ports on most Nile River cruises. After arriving in Cairo, you’ll fly to Luxor to board your ship, which will be notably smaller than those sailing the major rivers of Europe. From Luxor, you’ll visit the riverfront temples of Karnak and Luxor and delve into the lore of King Tut and Queen Hatshepsut. More ancient treasures wait in Edfu and Qena. In Aswan, Egypt’s southernmost city, you’ll gaze out on mesmerizing desert landscapes that frame lush mid-river islands, visit the two-mile-wide Aswan High Dam, or enjoy an Abu Simbal excursion to see the two massive rock-cut temples.

Which river lines cruise Egypt?

AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Uniworld, and Viking.

Cruising the Amazon River is an altogether unique experience, more wildlife safari and rainforest immersion than history lesson. While small luxury cruise ships can explore the river’s larger sections from the Atlantic Ocean to Manaus, Brazil, it’s the Peruvian Amazon that takes center stage for luxury river cruises lasting three, four, or seven nights. Here, on meandering tributaries, these vessels, typically accommodating no more than 30 to 40 guests, get into the heart of the Amazon from the city of Iquitos.

Each day is an adventure as you explore with a guide in a motorized skiff. You’ll spy on monkeys and sloths in the treetops and watch pink-hued river dolphins swim through the greenish-brown water. Hiking along verdant trails, you’ll spot tiny poisonous tree frogs and later enjoy a Champagne toast amid a picturesque quilt of water lilies at sunset. You may also fish for carnivorous piranha by day and search for giant anacondas after dark. 

Which river lines cruise The Amazon?

Aqua Expeditions, Avalon Waterways, Lindblad Expeditions, and Uniworld.

The Mississippi

If cruising closer to home appeals, it doesn’t get any closer than this. The Mississippi River , which winds its way for 2,340 miles through 10 states, from Louisiana in the south to Minnesota in the north, is a terrific option that will immerse you in the history, music, food, and architecture of America’s Heartland. 

Some vessels are sleek river ships while others are retro-inspired paddle wheelers. If you have 15 days, you can cruise the river’s entire length, from New Orleans to St. Paul (or vice versa). You can also opt for a Lower Mississippi or Upper Mississippi sailing that lasts seven to nine days. With the former, you can do a New Orleans roundtrip and visit historic cities in Mississippi and Louisiana that include Natchez, Vicksburg, Baton Rouge, and St. Francisville, or add on Memphis, Tennessee, with a one-way itinerary to or from New Orleans. On an Upper Mississippi sailing, you’ll start in either St. Louis or St. Paul and visit riverfront cities such as Hannibal, Missouri; Davenport, Iowa; La Crosse, Wisconsin; and Red Wing, Minnesota. Which section you choose will dictate when you go, since Upper Mississippi and Full Mississippi sailings are only offered from June to October while Lower Mississippi itineraries are year-round.

Which river lines cruise the Mississippi?

American Cruise Lines and Viking.

Central Europe

No other region is home to as many navigable rivers and must-see historic cities, from Amsterdam, Antwerp, Vienna, and Cologne in the north to Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, and Porto in the west. In Germany, Switzerland, Slovakia, Austria, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Portugal rivers connect these vibrant cities with dozens of smaller towns featuring landmark castles, lavish cathedrals, and charming old towns. 

Central Europe’s top rivers include the Rhine, Rhone, Seine, Douro, and Danube. Dozens of cruise itineraries along these waterways immerse you in history, culinary traditions, wine-making, art, architecture, and natural beauty. Picture a living mosaic of tulips in April along the waterways of Belgium and Holland or gliding past the terraced vineyards of Portugal’s Douro Valley during the grape harvest in September. Mix history and art as you explore rogue papacies, Roman amphitheaters, and French wine along the Rhone in the South of France or tour the palaces and cathedrals of the Austro-Hungarian Empire on the Danube.

What can you expect on each river? Here’s an intro:

The  Danube , which flows through 10 countries from southern Germany to the Black Sea, is ideal for anyone with an interest in history, art, and architecture. On an Upper Danube itinerary, you’ll  visit capital cities  Budapest, Vienna, and Bratislava (Slovakia), as well as smaller Austrian cities and towns like Linz, Durnstein, and Melk. Day trips to lofty Salzburg or the picturesque Czech town of Cesky Krumlov are also possible. Most cruises begin or end in the Bavaria region of Germany, so a stay in Munich can cap off the trip.

The  Rhine , which begins in the Swiss Alps and runs to the North Sea near Rotterdam, offers views of storybook castles and vineyards set against a backdrop that is among the most stunning in river cruising. Cities on a Rhine itinerary can include Basel, Switzerland; Strasbourg, France; Cologne, Germany; and Amsterdam. In between are wine-making hamlets such as Rüdesheim am Rhein and Bamberg in Germany, plus scenic Kinderdijk in the Netherlands, home to centuries-old windmills.

The  Rhone , which meanders from food-centric Lyon all the way to the Mediterranean in the South of France, is chock full of delights. These include the Roman arena and medieval streets of Arles (also famous as the setting for some of Vincent Van Gogh’s most notable paintings), the papal intrigue of Avignon, the wine-making excellence around Tournon-sur-Rhône, and the truffle treasures of Viviers. 

The  Seine , which flows north through Paris to the English Channel, is equally intriguing, especially to history buffs and art lovers. On these cruises, you can explore the museums and landmarks of the French capital, wander Claude Monet’s gardens at Giverny, and see buildings and landscapes painted by Van Gogh in Auvers-sur-Oise (where he’s also buried). You can also walk the medieval streets of Rouen, where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake and Monet painted the Gothic cathedral, before visiting Honfleur, a seaside hamlet favored by Impressionists, as well as the D-Day beaches of Normandy and the American Cemetery, resting place of 9,387 fallen soldiers.

The  Dordogne and Garonne rivers , located in the Bordeaux wine-making region of France, offer a heady immersion for oenophiles — from the historic bustle of the city of Bordeaux to the bucolic ambiance of wine-making hamlets such as St.-Emilion, Pauillac, and Cadillac.

The  Douro River  in northern Portugal is another mecca for  wine lovers . Riverboats cruise from atmospheric Porto, home to historic port wine cellars, to small towns such as Pinhão and Régua, set amid pastoral hillside vineyards.

Central Europe also has two lesser-known rivers. The  Elbe River  flows through the former East Germany and offers access to Berlin, Potsdam, and Dresden, as well as nearby Prague in the Czech Republic. The waterways of  Holland and Belgium  attract garden lovers each spring with millions of tulips, historic windmills, and the chocolate and beer abundant in Belgian cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Bruges.

Which river lines cruise Central Europe?

Check out AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Emerald Waterways, Riverside, Scenic, Tauck, Uniworld, and Viking.

Eastern Europe

While exploring Central Europe is more popular, Eastern Europe has plenty to offer in the way of lesser-known but history-rich countries like Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania. The Danube River passes through all six and Lower Danube itineraries generally begin in Budapest, Hungary, and end in Bucharest, Romania (or vice versa). 

Here’s what you’ll see along the way:

In Hungary, the contrast between the stately architecture of Budapest and the port of Kalocsa couldn’t be greater. Known for paprika production and embroidered handicrafts, this city and its surrounding countryside are also the place to experience cowboy culture (the energetic but touristy Puszta Horse Show is a popular excursion) and the Hajós-Baja wine region (Hungarian wines are quite good, so wine-tasting is a commendable option).

Croatia, which most people know for its historic ports on the Adriatic coast, also has a port on the Danube. Vukovar is the gateway to Osijek, located about 45 minutes away. Both cities were heavily damaged during the Balkan wars of the 1990s, but many buildings in Osijek’s historic Baroque center were spared or have been restored. Here you can visit the Church of St. Peter and Paul with its 295-foot steeple and pedestrian-only Holy Trinity Square in the Old Town known as Tvrda.

Belgrade, the former capital of Yugoslavia and current capital of Serbia, is one of Europe’s oldest cities. Its architecture ranges from charming 17th-century buildings set on the cobblestone streets of Old Town (a short stroll from the port) to dour Communist block structures. Don’t miss the Belgrade Fortress (it was destroyed 40 times, and what remains is mainly from the Ottoman period), the Nikola Tesla Museum, and the massive Church of Saint Sava with its lavish gilded crypt. 

Bulgaria may offer up the most surprises. One of the region’s least wealthy countries, it is full of scenic beauty and unique sights. River ships call on Vidin, home to Fortress Bab Vida, for excursions to the striking, red-hued Belogradchick Rocks. You’ll also call on Ruse for an all-day scenic excursion to Veliko Tarnovo, a medieval town and fortress built into the cliffs of the Yantra River. Back on the Danube, you’ll marvel at the Iron Gates, a series of gorges that are one of Europe’s natural wonders, as you cruise through them.

You’ll board or disembark your cruise about an hour outside of the Romanian capital. Bucharest is a city of contrasts, known as the “Paris of the East” for its stately boulevards (it even has an Arc de Triomphe). It's also home to the massive Palace of the Parliament, built by notorious mid-20th-century dictator Nicolae Ceausescu. Many cruisers also add on pre- or post-cruise tour to the historic towns and castles of nearby Transylvania.

Which river lines cruise Eastern Europe?

AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Emerald Waterways, Scenic, Tauck, Uniworld, and Viking.

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