AARP Smart Guide to River Cruises

These 27 tips will make your next river cruise a once-in-a-lifetime trip

David Swanson,

AARP

Published August 15, 2025

While ocean cruises are well established, river cruising has blossomed only in the last 25 years or so. River cruises are very different from those that sail on the ocean. They’re more intimate and operate at a more leisurely pace. They’re also booming, growing 10 to 15 percent annually for the last decade, according to the Cruise Lines International Association, a cruise industry trade group. That growth is evidenced by the announcement that Celebrity Cruises will launch a fleet of 10 new river cruise ships in 2027.

Boomers have traditionally been the target demographic for river cruises, as they tend to have the time and the resources. Today, Generation X is also going on river cruises. Tauck, a river cruise tour company, reports that its guests are typically 55 and older.

Before you book your own river cruise, check out our Smart Guide’s 27 helpful tips, strategies and resources for memorable travel.

PLANNING YOUR CRUISE

When planning a cruise, you need to consider which river you want to cruise on. Here, an aerial view of a ship traveling through the Danube River’s Iron Gates, between Serbia and Romania.

Getty Images

1. Understand the differences between ocean and river cruises

By the very nature of where they sail, river ships are considerably smaller than oceangoing ships. While mainstream ocean cruisers carry up to 7,000 passengers, river ships in Europe carry fewer than 200 guests. “Ocean cruises … are essentially floating resorts,” says Gene Sloan, cruise editor at The Points Guy. “River cruises, by contrast, are much more heavily focused on the destination.” Tours are included; therefore, a river cruise will cost more per night than most ocean cruises, but you’ll have a better idea of the final price tag. Mary Jo Manzanares, founder of travel blog Traveling with MJ, notes that the smaller size means fewer entertainment options aboard. “Much of your time needs to be self-directed,” says Manzanares. “It’s a slower pace, so if you don’t like your own company or have trouble going for an hour without outside entertainment, river cruising may not be for you.”

2. Tap into trusted resources

Among the best-known resources is Cruise Critic, which features comprehensive ship reviews along with reader forums with more individualized advice. Cruiseline.com and Cruise Hive also provide user forums. Colleen McDaniel, editor in chief of Cruise Critic, is a fan of River Cruise Advisor, which specializes in European river cruising. “I especially like their city guides, which focus on all the places river cruise ships visit,” she says. Toby Saltzman, a Toronto-based cruise writer, looks at cruise reviews and destination websites. She researched France’s Seine River and knew she wanted a cruise that maximized time in Paris and allowed her to visit Monet’s gardens in Giverny, plus Normandy and the beaches of World War II. “Viking fit my needs … [and] included excursions to these sites … and also offered a convenient pre-cruise package to extend my time in Paris,” Saltzman says.

3. Choose a river

The majority of river cruise ships operate in Europe. The Rhine and the Danube rivers are both popular. “For a first-time river cruiser, I recommend a classic seven-night Danube cruise between Budapest [Hungary] and Passau, Germany,” says Sloan, for the mix of lovely scenery and wonderful European cities such as Vienna and Bratislava. “The Wachau Valley, in Austria, to me, is one of the most beautiful stretches of river in Europe,” Sloan says. But don’t overlook Europe’s other major rivers, including Portugal and Spain’s Douro; the Rhône, in France and Switzerland; and the canals of Belgium and the Netherlands. Other rivers to consider are the Nile, in Egypt; the Mekong, in Cambodia and Vietnam; the Amazon, in Brazil, Peru and Ecuador; and American rivers such as the Mississippi, the Columbia and the Snake.

4. Compare cruise lines

Cruise operators sail all the major rivers in Europe. However, cabins, service, food, activities and inclusions vary from one to the next. Some lines emphasize dining, others offer more in-depth tours off the ships, and a few cater to more active travelers. Saltzman suggests researching cruise lines that fit your style and budget, then contacting a travel adviser who specializes in cruises. Betsy Patton, a travel adviser with Naples, Florida-based Direct Travel, works directly cruise companies. “I really like Tauck [a cruise operator and tour company for first-time river cruisers], as they provide an all-inclusive experience,” including the services of four tour directors and excellent accommodations, says Patton. Sloan says some lines target an older, more sedentary clientele, with fewer active options. He says his favorite is Avalon Waterways, which offers hiking, biking and more traditional tours, like walking, wineries and tastings, and cultural outings, Sloan says. Viking, which will have 98 river ships operating by the end of 2026, offers the greatest variety of destinations, itineraries and departure dates.

5. Consider seasonal and niche-interest cruises

Beyond the standard itineraries, river cruise lines offer special-interest cruises that zero in on specific themes or activities. For example, Christmas market cruises are popular. They are concentrated on the Rhine and Danube and generally run from late November until Christmas. Tulip-themed itineraries through the Dutch Low Country run during the short blooming season, mid-March through April. AmaWaterways offers a “Soulful Experiences” collection of departures designed to shed light on a region’s Black history and culture. Other themed cruises include a wine or beer focus, fall foliage and cruises honoring D-Day and Jewish heritage.

6. Book a multigenerational family trip

Viking requires its guests to be at least 18, while other lines welcome younger ages. Tauck offers a collection of family-oriented river cruises, using ships with oversized cabins, some of which can sleep four. Sister companies Emerald Cruises and Scenic allow guests age 12 and up; Avalon stipulates 8 and older; AmaWaterways and Uniworld require guests to be at least 4 years old. Another option that can work for families is chartering a hotel barge, a smaller boat with accommodations for eight to 20 guests, which travels canals and smaller waterways, particularly in France and Britain.

7. Try a solo cruise

Single travelers will find river cruise lines welcoming. “A smile goes a long way at the sail-away party,” says Saltzman, who regularly travels solo. “Most ships have a dedicated social to meet other solo travelers, and people can connect at trivia and other games.” The only obstacle: Customarily, river cruises charged a single supplement of up to 100 percent of the per-person cruise fare. In recent years, however, the industry has begun to embrace solo travelers with reduced or no-supplement offers. Tauck and Avalon waive the single supplement for many cabins. American Cruise Lines, which has single cabins on its ships, provides accommodations without a single supplement.

8. Accessible river cruise options

River cruises in Europe are not always the best option for someone with limited mobility, says Sloan: “Getting on and off a river ship can be difficult for someone in a wheelchair or with other mobility issues.” Gangways rise and fall with the river, creating sometimes sharp inclines or declines; touring beyond a motor coach can also present challenges. In busier ports, river ships may be stacked against each other side by side, requiring guests to walk through two or three other ships to reach the pier, which can involve stairs or high thresholds. A wheelchair user might look at U.S. options: American Cruise Lines, for example, has river and coastal ships with ADA-accessible cabins and mobility-friendly features. The 386-passenger Viking Mississippi features nine ADA-accessible cabins.

9. Is a river cruise your best bet?

Before signing on the dotted line, consider whether a river cruise is the ideal way for you to tour a destination. On an ocean cruise, even if the destination doesn’t appeal, the ship has plenty of diversions to keep guests busy. “River cruises appeal mostly to older travelers who are looking to explore places like Europe in comfort and ease, with all the little pain points of individual travel taken away,” Sloan says. “River ships may not be the best choice for travelers who like to make all of the touring arrangements independently and control the flow of their daily touring.” McDaniel adds that river cruises can be walking-intensive, given that they stop in historic towns with hills and cobblestones. If you have significant medical issues, “consider your options closely,” she says.

a person looking at a boarding pass and flight information on their smartphone

Most cruise lines can package your cruise and airfare into one price. Sometimes, arranging your own air travel may save you some money.

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GET A DEAL

10. Turn to a travel adviser

A quality travel adviser (travel agent) who is well-versed in destinations you are considering and has a handle on the range of river cruise lines available can be invaluable. They can present options or locate deals or price drops that may not be obvious. Booking your cruise with an adviser costs you nothing (their commission is built into the fare). Granted, they don’t usually receive a commission from airlines, hotels and other components you may need, and so a small fee for those services might be charged. But it is generally worth it to have a travel adviser pull the various pieces together. That way, if disruptions occur — flight cancellations due to weather, or a rail strike that hobbles transfers — they can proactively assist with resolutions while you are traveling.

11. When to book

“River cruises in general book up very far in advance,” Sloan says. “Departures can be almost completely sold out as much as six months in advance. … The types of people who river-cruise — a group that includes lots of retirees — plan their vacations very far in advance.” McDaniel says this is especially true of unusual or popular itineraries. “Christmas market cruises tend to sell out well in advance, for example,” she says. As a rule, the more flexible you are — with the itinerary, the cruise line, the dates — the more deals you will find.

12. Last-minute river cruise deals

As with airline seats, unsold cabins have no value once a cruise departs, so prices fluctuate on cruises that have not sold to capacity. Texas-based online travel agency Vacations To Go specializes in last-minute cruises. While you may not end up on the phone with an adviser with experience on the river cruise line you want to book, its website is a good resource for identifying deeply discounted cruises by river, by cruise line and by date. Another option is Cruise Compete, which lists the cruise you want and has travel advisers bidding to provide you with the best deal.

13. Know what’s included in the fare

Nickel-and-dime pricing found with mainstream ocean cruise lines is uncommon among river cruise companies. They’ll consist of one or more shore excursions at each port, and wine and beer are usually offered at mealtime. Gratuities are one area with substantial variance across the industry. Avalon suggests 18 euros (about $21) per day for crew tips but sometimes offers “complimentary prepaid gratuity” promotions; Viking adds a 20 euro (about $23) per-day service charge for gratuities onboard the ship or recommends $20 per guest per day, with additional gratuities suggested for local guides. American Cruise Lines, Emerald and Scenic, Tauck and Uniworld include gratuities in the cruise fare.

14. Arrange your own air travel

Most cruise lines can package your cruise and airfare into one price, but it pays to do your own research. “The biggest advantage of having your river cruise line book airfare is the convenience,” McDaniel says. In addition to taking care of the booking, they also keep an eye on delays or cancellations and will take care of any rebooking. Oftentimes a cruise line will have relationships with preferred carriers and will be limited to certain fares and routings, which may not be the cheapest or most convenient. “If the line isn’t running any special airfare-related deals, you might end up paying more for your flight than you would if you were comparison-shopping on your own,” says McDaniel. Do your research to see how much you could potentially save by booking independently, then weigh the convenience versus savings.

15. Consider your cabin options

Added cost aside, who doesn’t want a balcony? “The reality is that you will spend very little time on your balcony on a river ship,” Sloan says. River ships are compact, yet have open-air top decks and glass-walled lounges where you can sit and watch the water go by. Teijo Niemelä, editor and publisher of CruiseBusiness.com, notes that the number of river ships in port could limit your view at times if you don’t get off the ship. “Especially in peak season, river cruise ships could be docked side by side, so you may end up right next to [another] ship’s balcony cabin.” Manzanares says it’s a personal preference. “I love having my morning coffee or evening glass of wine and looking out at the world,” she says. “But remember, what constitutes a balcony on a river ship … may be full, step-out balconies, French or Juliet balconies” or infinity balconies, which create balcony space in the cabin by lowering the top half of the window. To save money, consider a cabin on the lowest deck, with a fixed window at shoulder height (just above water level). The cabin may be a bit smaller, but it’s an excellent option for singles or couples on a budget.

16. Invest in travel insurance

Insurance comes in a variety of plans, from simple trip disruption, which might cover a hotel night or airline change fees, to comprehensive cancel-for-any-reason coverage. Retiree Joe Timko purchased full coverage for a Viking cruise that, with airfare, pre- and post-tours and insurance, was upward of $25,000 for him and his partner. When his partner became unable to travel five days before the trip, the $2,000 spent on insurance was a bargain — the trip was fully refunded.

Niemelä considers travel insurance a must. “What’s critical is understanding the difference between primary and secondary insurances,” Niemelä says. “If you need to file a claim, you start with your primary and then go to the travel insurer for any expenses left over.” Saltzman recommends carrying a card with the details at all times, even on shore excursions. “Print out the policy details and keep a copy in your carry-on,” she says. Most cruise lines offer travel insurance, but also check out cruise-specific plans through World Nomads, Allianz Travel and Travel Guard.

a person sorting pills into an organizer

Always pack medications and supplements you take regularly in your carry-on in case you are separated from your luggage.

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BEFORE YOU BOARD

17. Pack like an expert

“Casual is the name of the game,” says Patton, though she says jeans and sneakers are not common at dinner. “Do not overpack,” urges Saltzman, who uses packing cubes to keep clothes neat and orderly. “Color-coordinate clothes to mix and match for several outfits. Ladies can change the look of one T-shirt or blouse with a couple of scarves.” McDaniel suggests researching typical weather for the season and regions you’ll be traveling, as it can vary significantly during the time you’re aboard. “Layers can be especially helpful, as [they] offer options for a wide range of temperatures,” she says. “Packing a comfortable pair of sneakers is also key, as river cruises are port-intensive — you’ll likely be walking a good amount.” Check cruise line websites for their recommendations.

18. Stay healthy

Always pack medicines and supplements you take regularly in your carry-on in case you are separated from your luggage. River cruise ships are enclosed environments, and viruses can easily spread. Norovirus, a gastrointestinal illness, can knock you off your feet for a couple of days. Minimize the risk by washing your hands frequently, especially before meals and after touching doorknobs or elevator buttons. “Fill your own water bottle on the ship and carry it with you ashore,” suggests Saltzman. You’ll probably get your steps in on tours, which is good, since most river ships do not have a gym, or only offer limited facilities. If you feel ill, notify the cruise director immediately, as river ships do not have a doctor and arrangements must be made to reach a physician in town.

19. Book your shore excursions

For most river cruise lines, at least one included shore excursion is offered in each port. In general, tours will involve some walking and possibly stairs or uneven walkways such as unpaved paths or cobblestones; cruise lines indicate the level of stamina that’s required. Tours rarely fill to capacity, but if there’s one that’s important to you, book it. “Even when you choose in advance, you often can change your pick once you are onboard,” says Sloan. However, special tours to iconic sites may have space limitations. On a Mekong River cruise, AmaWaterways offered a tour through Vietnam’s Tra Su Forest bird sanctuary. Since space was limited to 40 guests, it filled up fast. It was an excursion passengers raved about. “Popular options will sell out ahead of the cruise,” McDaniel warns. “It’s not absolutely necessary to book shore excursions in advance, but I would highly recommend it so you’re able to secure reservations for your top choices.”

20. Plan your own land excursions — but don’t miss the boat

For private tour excursions, look to a trusted site like Viator. “You’re able to read reviews from fellow travelers and have a nice selection of options,” McDaniel says, adding that cruisers visit Cruise Critic’s community forums for recommendations from those who have visited before. But Sloan says it doesn’t make much sense to purchase independent tours. “You’ve already paid for the included tours through your upfront cruise fare. … You’d effectively be double paying for tours you arrange your own,” he explains. “That isn’t to say that I don’t sometimes go off … for a sightseeing walk or head to a local hiking trail.” The caveat, according to Saltzman: The ship will not wait for you if you are late, so verify its departure time. Finally, if a cruise you are considering does not include the tour or sights that are important to you, see if there’s another itinerary or cruise line that does.

21. Getting to and from your river cruise ship

Most cruise lines include transfers from and to a hotel and/or airport in the cruise fare; those that don’t will allow you to purchase it. Make sure you’re aware of the available connections. For instance, a seven-night cruise upriver on the Danube from Budapest usually terminates in Germany. It could be in Passau, Vilshofen, Regensburg or Nuremberg, but only Nuremberg has an international airport. Expect limited and/or indirect train or bus service from the other ports to your hotel or airport, or use an expensive private car shuttle. In general, plan to arrive at least one day before your departure date to allow for delays, especially if traveling internationally. Cruise ships rarely wait for late arrivals.

22. Manage your communications

Apps are becoming ubiquitous within the cruise industry. Before your trip, download any app provided by the river cruise line. Once you’re aboard, the app will allow you to see the daily schedule, which may or may not be delivered on paper to your cabin the night before. The app may also note your personal tour selections and any spa appointments you have booked, as well as weather forecasts, port maps and deck plans. Your cruise line should provide complimentary Wi-Fi access; check your cellphone carrier plan to make sure you have the best international plan while off the ship. All ships catering to the U.S. market have standard electrical outlets for Type A or Type B connections, but your hotel pre- or post-cruise may not, so consider buying an adapter for the country where you are traveling.

ON BOARD

A few ships still have just one dining room for all three meals, but a second dining option has become common on most ships. Here, AmaSintra’s main restaurant.

Courtesy AmaWaterways

23. What to expect in your cabin

River cruise cabins, on average, are slightly smaller than typical ocean cruise cabins. Whereas a standard ocean-view cabin at sea might be 175 square feet, comparable accommodations on the river might be 150 square feet. If a balcony is provided, it may be a French balcony, which offers a floor-to-ceiling glass door. Space is at a premium, so closet space is limited; beds are raised for suitcase storage, and there is usually a vanity or desk with a chair. A private bathroom will have a shower but rarely a tub. Outside Europe, where lock size and bridge height are less constrained, cabin sizes can be more generous. For example, Uniworld’s “classic” category cabins are about 150 square feet in Europe; accommodations on its Mekong Jewel in Cambodia and Vietnam start at 339 square feet.

24. What to expect with dining

River cruise dining used to be fairly rudimentary, but lines have diversified their offerings to feature healthier cuisine, usually including meatless and gluten-free items. Beer and wine are typically included with meals. A lounge is also available for cocktails, and top lines will have them. A few ships still have just one dining room for all three meals, but a second dining option has become common on most ships. For example, on Viking’s river ships there is a main restaurant offering full-service dining, while the Aquavit Terrace, on the bow of the ship, is an indoor-outdoor terrace for breakfast, lunch and dinner. On AmaWaterways, the main restaurant offers full-service dining, plus a chef’s table where a seven-course meal is prepared nightly by reservation. Note, there may not be food or snacks available between meals.

25. How will I do laundry?

Most river ships do not have self-service laundry options, and sending clothes out for cleaning can be expensive. Patton notes that a few companies offer laundry and pressing but not dry cleaning. For example, Scenic offers laundry service, while Uniworld offers laundry service to its repeat guests. A few river ships have complimentary self-service laundry rooms, including the ships of Riverside and the much larger river ship AmaMagna. “I do hand-washing in the cabin sink — super easy for socks, underwear and quick-drying T-shirts,” Manzanares says. “If I’m traveling for an extended time, I’ll find a wash-and-fold laundry and send out a bag.”

26. Water levels can alter your cruise

Just like hurricanes can change the itineraries of ships in the Caribbean, Europe’s seasonal water-level fluctuations can impact river itineraries. “When it happens, it can be very frustrating,” Sloan says. The biggest risk is high water early in the season, when snow melts and spring rains flood rivers, meaning ships may not be able to fit under bridges. In late summer and fall, water levels drop during periods without rain. “In both cases, it can cause river ships to get stuck,” he says. Neither situation happens every year, but when they do, ships make accommodations around “pinch points” where the lines know high or low water might prevent ships from passing. The lines operate identical vessels on both sides, so that if a stretch of river becomes temporarily unnavigable, they can swap passengers between the two ships. “It can be a very smooth operation,” Sloan notes. Cruise Critic provides a guide to European rivers that could be affected.

27. Book your next cruise as early as possible

River cruise lines like American Cruise Lines, AmaWaterways and Viking have loyalty programs that offer benefits for repeat guests, such as future cruise discounts, upgrades and added amenities. Avalon guests are eligible for a welcome-back credit of $100 to $250 per person on a future cruise; Viking offers a $100 to $200 per guest travel credit when travelers book a cruise within two years. AmaWaterways and Uniworld are among the lines that offer a referral program that provides guests a credit for referring friends who book a cruise.

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