If you have been following Vacations256 for a while, then you know river cruising is one of our favorite types of vacation and the clients we send absolutely love them! In my opinion, it's one of the best vacations that you can take. You only have to unpack once, spend your evenings on a beautiful ship, and then experience a new destination every day. You're right in the heart of towns, villages, and cities, and get to experience all their charm. There's no running for a train or rushing to catch buses- your travel time is built in while you sleep. River cruising is a great trip for multiple generations. From active pursuits like biking tours, castle hikes, food and wine experiences, to cultural immersions, there's something for everyone. It's a more intimate experience than ocean cruising and is truly a vacation to remember. If you have yet to try a river cruise, read on and maybe we can convince you. Here are our recommendations for the best of the best in river cruising.
AmaWaterways
Christmas in Europe is a very magical time and AmaWaterways’ "Christmas on the Rhine" sailings are amazing.You will sail from Amsterdam to Basel or the reverse and stop in iconic cities along the way where they really know how to celebrate the season. In addition to the regular excursions offered, you will have a chance to visit the world famous European Christmas markets. The Christmas Markets in Strasbourg, Cologne, and Heidelberg have sights, sounds and tastes that must be experienced at least once in a lifetime. Cruising in a new and modern AmaWaterways ship like the AmaLucia or AmaSienna is the cherry on the top. All ships come with heated pools, complimentary wifi, award winning dining, and daily entertainment.
Uniworld
If you’re looking for a new and enriching way to tour Italy, then a Uniworld river cruise just might be perfect for you. They have 8 and 10 day cruises that explore the gems of Northern Italy. You can choose from a round trip Venice cruise or a one way cruise from Milan to Venice. You will explore the waterfront shops of smaller towns like Burano, Mazzorbo, and Torcello and get the chance to make pasta in Polesella. In the majestic city of Venice, you can take a tour that includes a private evening opening and lighting ceremony at St. Mark’s Basilica. While you’re in northern Italy you should try to visit Lake Como. Uniworld makes it easy by offering a fabulous 3 day extension that includes sailing the lake, walking the picturesque towns of Lugano and Bellagio, and includes a two night stay in the 5-star Hotel Splendide Royal. For added value, selected sailings are waiving the single supplement fee, so gather your group of single friends and visit the beautiful country of Italy.
Avalon Waterways
Egypt should be on everyone’s bucket list. Seeing the magnificence of the pyramids, the sphinx, valley of the kings, and so much more is an experience that is unforgettable. Why not let your first visit there be on a luxury Nile River cruise? With Avalon Waterways, embark on an exceptional 10 day adventure that starts and stops in Cairo. You enjoy 3 nights pre cruise in Cairo where you get the chance to visit all the ancient, magical sights. You start the cruise by flying to Luxor, visiting the Luxor temple, and then embarking the ship. You sail from Luxor to Aswan in a cozy ship that holds just 120 guests. Panoramic windows, comfortable beds, and satellite tv and wifi are all included in the ship experience, as well as gourmet cuisine and impeccable service. Instead of sailing back down the Nile, you fly from Aswan back to Cairo (included) where you enjoy 2 overnights with included tours to more amazing sights like the Khan al Khali Souk and mosques. They also offer an optional extension to Jordan for an additional 4 nights.
American Cruise Lines
You don’t have to leave the country in order to enjoy an amazing river cruise. With American Cruise Lines you can cruise along US rivers like the Mississippi and Columbia. They boast sophisticated travel to the most amazing destinations across the United States. If you’re looking to cruise in an elegant and modern ship, then the American Melody is the way to go. The Melody sails the Mississippi River on voyages ranging from 8 to 22 nights. Imagine visiting the lively cities of New Orleans, Baton Rouge and Memphis in just one cruise and not having to worry about booking a new hotel each time. You can enjoy fun excursions such as visiting Elvis Presley’s Graceland home, listening to a private classical piano concert in Natchez, and touring the colorful French Quarter. You will taste everything from delicious Cajun cuisine to smokey BBQ and top it off with a refreshing mint julep. American Cruise lines is a great option to experience the USA in a new way.
As in ocean cruising, there is a cruise line for everyone. We specialize in river cruising, and would love to help you pick the perfect river cruise for you!