AAA The Extra Mile. Jan 2025
If you’re looking to explore hard-to-reach destinations in comfort and intimacy, a river cruise offers several benefits. First, these smaller ships can navigate some of the world’s narrowest rivers, accessing remote areas and docking you into the heart of charming towns and city centers. Second, you won’t have to worry about sea legs or seasickness, thanks to the calm river waters. Third, these ships are essentially floating all-inclusive hotels that remain close to shore, allowing you to disembark and explore a new port each day.
Whether you want to soak in natural scenery, dive into a new culture, sample local food, or shop at artisanal markets, here are some of the world’s best rivers to explore, offering unforgettable cruise vacation experiences provided by some of the top cruise lines on the planet.
Danube River
Europe is one the most popular destinations for river cruising, and the Danube River consistently ranks as its top river destination, according to the European River Cruise Association. You can visit up to seven countries along the Danube, which flows through the heart of Central Europe.
Viking’s 17-day Capital of Eastern Europe cruise, for example, is a journey through some of the most elegant and romantic cities, scenic landscapes, and important cultural and historic sites. During the winter holidays, embark on a festive Danube Christmas Delights cruise, where a wander through brightly lit town squares and bustling Christmas markets selling handmade crafts and unique regional treats will make you feel as if you’ve landed in a Hallmark movie set in Europe.
Douro River
While the Danube and other European rivers often steal the spotlight, the Douro River has been gaining popularity in recent years. Winding through Portugal and Spain, this lesser-known gem is famous for Mediterranean landscapes, ancient Phoenician history, and world-renowned port wine.
For a family affair, cruises like Tauck’s 10-day Douro Discovery: A Family River Cruise in Portugal plus Madrid ticks all the boxes. As you cruise along the Douro, you’ll discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including majestic palaces, historic churches, and beautiful gardens. Imagine cycling through Madrid’s historic Casa de Campo, taking a 4×4 safari in Foz Coa to see historic rock art, and learning about heroic legends in Salamanca and Guimaraes. You’ll also have the opportunity to kayak on the Douro River, take in Fado music, appreciate art at the Prado, and sample a taste of Spain at a historic food market.
Amazon River
While the Amazon River offers unparalleled biodiversity and adventure, it’s also considered one of the best river cruises for nature lovers looking to immerse themselves in the untamed wilderness of the world’s largest rainforest.
As part of its expedition collection, Seabourn’s nine-day Heart of the Amazon voyages delve deep into the Amazon on a “safari at sea.” Take Zodiac, kayak and pink dolphin tours; visit local communities to learn about their unique way of life; and witness an amazing array of wildlife, from squirrel monkeys, hyacinth macaws, and toco toucans, to Amazon river dolphins, spider monkeys, and hoatzin. Roundtrip from Manaus, Brazil, Seabourn’s Amazon River itineraries provide access to remote areas of the river for an exceptional experience at sea.
Mekong River
The Mekong River, Southeast Asia’s longest, flows through six countries—China, Myanmar (Burma), Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam—offering a rich tapestry of diverse cultures.
On cruises like AmaWaterways’ seven-night Charms of the Mekong cruise, you’ll explore Vietnam and Cambodia, immersing yourself in the region’s history and traditions. Disembark up to twice a day with expert guides for shore excursions that include visits to centuries-old temples, workshops producing silk, rice paper, and candy, and a local school. Aboard the AmaDara, specifically designed for the Mekong, you’ll enjoy the charm of its French Colonial decor, hardwood floors, and intricate wood carvings. Watch life along the river unfold from the comfort of your spacious balcony.
Nile River
The storied Nile River is often recognized as the world’s longest river meandering more than 4,000 miles through 11 countries. This bucket-list waterway was once the lifeline for ancient Egypt and greeted Egyptian royalty.
Uniworld’s 12-day Splendors of Egypt & The Nile cruise sails to some of the most ancient sites in the world along the Nile. While aboard the S.S. Sphinx, you’ll be dazzled by the ship’s Egyptian-style gold ceilings, marble-trimmed bathrooms, custom carpets, and bespoke decor sourced from local artisans—all designed to make you will feel like a queen or a pharaoh. Daily guided shore excursions include visits to the Great Pyramids of Giza and the Temples of Karnak, Luxor and Hatshepsut—just to name a few. With Uniworld’s Masterpiece Collection, a curated selection of optional excursions, guests can get exclusive access to the Grand Egyptian Museum, which houses the colossal statue of Pharaoh Ramses II.
Columbia and Snake Rivers
The breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Northwest is showcased like no other along the Columbia and Snake Rivers, the very waterways that Lewis and Clark plied on their historic expedition more than two centuries ago.
Cruising these legendary rivers in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, Lindblad Expeditions offers six to eight day voyages that combine stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife with the charm of historic American towns. Hike through lush, emerald forests, watch playful river otters dart through the water, and kayak along dramatic gorges. Savor exquisite wines at family-owned vineyards, or simply relax on expansive decks as you take in the sweeping views of majestic Mount Hood and Mount Adams.
River cruising offers travelers a chance to have an active vacation or to just sit back and watch the scenery unfold from the comfort of the balcony. No matter which river you choose to cruise, you’ll be treated to several storied destinations in an atmosphere of luxury, intimacy and adventure.
~Written for and published by AAA. All rights reserved.