6 Best European River Cruise Lines. Which One Is Right For You?

[@colleenwilson7798]

I notice I commented on here 11 months ago on cruises and forgot to mention a very important thing. We were in Egypt on a river cruise with Saga at the time of the massacre in Hatsheputs temple. No hesitation, Saga got us out immediately. A plane was diverted from Rome . We were flown to Cairo and then a plane had been diverted to pick us up. We were the first to arrive at Heathrow with all the reporters waiting. Duty of care second to none.

[@markp2827]

I just discovered this channel.. I was surprised not to see Tauck here. I chose them because of the all inclusive nature. Absolutely everything was included. Even token to use restrooms on land excursions. Beautiful ships and cabins. The service impeccable. One day I wasn't feeling well , and one of the tour guides brought me back a gift and snack from the days land tour.

[@kimr1967]

I recently cruised on Ama Waterways. It was terrible! Food was awful, and they cater to mostly very senior cruisers. Friends who cruised with Tauck had a much better experience.

[@Kryptokeeper9]

Probably out of price range for these viewing

[@fmmaj9noname332]

​@@Kryptokeeper9That's not it. Some of these are priced higher.

[@gumbycat5226]

My only river cruise was with Croisieurope, down the Moselle and up the Rhine. The food was fantastic. We were seated with a French food critic and he was impressed. We had an absolutely delightful time and I highly recommend it. It certainly helped that I speak French.

[@conniesanginesi4676]

We will be cruising in SEPTEMBER 2023 on CrusiEurope. Looking for way to it.

[@anthonymark3771]

We chose Viking for one main reason, so many boats meant if the river was low, it was more likely to swap boats rather than getting stuck in motels and on buses. Service was brilliant and staff fantastic. In fact Viking were so good that we found the staff and service were significantly better and far more friendly than on the Orient Express Train we did two weeks later. Thats how good Viking is.

[@puluke1953]

Because Viking ships have higher passenger (and baggage) capacity, they also tend to have greater draft. This means they are more prone to have to change itineraries or bus passengers or.... I base this on experience on an AmaWaterways cruise on the Danube in 2018. Low water levels did not impact our itinerary except that Viking and others were making unscheduled stops and were tying up along side of our boat. Some of the passengers on the other boats were NOT HAPPY.

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

you chose wrong. You should have chosen the last one, with the French Food.

[@mdavis8093]

My choice is Vantage. They have solo cabins and low or now single supplement on most of their cruises.

[@scallopohare9431]

Thank you! I will look for that on line.

[@sandynwlv]

I was very interested watching this video presentation, and eagerly awaited your review of Scenic -- but it never came! In my experience, Scenic (mostly Australian guests, some English, and a few Americans) is in a class all by itself. Scenic "Space Ships" have far fewer passengers than other river cruise ships and all suites have Butler Service Every suite has a spacious outside deck (no "French Balconies"), with an automatic glass cover which can be engaged to protect you during inclement weather. Scenic dining has choices! There is the Cafe Rive, which is open all day, the Portabello restaurant is the main dining room, and Table la Rive is a small, intimate restaurant (your Butler will reserve a table for you) for that special romantic, celebratory dinner. Service is absolutely without parallel. The lounges are comfortable and serene. A piano bar is a pleasant accompaniment to a beautifully presented English tea, and the bar staff will go above and beyond to make that special drink. Electric bicycles are available for those who would like to ride the towpath, and the guests and entertainers are interesting and first rate. One tip, though: if you are planning to cruise on Scenic you should think about booking at least two years ahead, especially if you would like a Junior Suite, a Panorama Suite or an Owner's Suite. They book up fast! I can't say enough positive things about Scenic so, Gary, may I respectfully suggest you take a cruise on one of their many European river options and try this outstanding experience. The Scenic company also has a small ocean-going ship (about 250 guests) that travels around the world, and one can book a short trip or a series of trips. I have not sailed on this ship yet (Covid got in the way of my plans!) but it is definitely in my future. Scenic is most probably not the cheapest option on the river but to my mind it is worth every penny! To be honest, Scenic was my first experience when it came to river cruising and I was so impressed I have never bothered to check what the opposition cruise lines are charging. I want the very best experience and I have found it. If I could award more than 5 stars, I would. FYI: I am not a travel agent and have absolutely nothing to do with the travel business. I am a lady in her 70s who loves to travel, and this review is totally my own opinion -- and Scenic has no idea I have posted it. (BTW - when it comes to ocean cruising: nothing beats Regent Seven Seas cruises, in my opinion; and for the South Pacific: it's Paul Gauguin all the way!)

[@maryhurst4663]

Scenic is one I’ve considered because it would be fun to travel with a group from Australia or another country. Plus, even though I’m in my early 70s, I don’t want to travel with a group of geriatric people.

[@lesleyheneberry6905]

Absolutely a very big omission, not including scenic up there with uniworld

[@trishandrew9909]

10:24 AAPT were our choice. We took our elderly parents with us, and we were disadvantaged because of that. They couldn't do much walking and their shore excursions were limited. Despite it probably being 4 star, the food, service, and Budapest-Amsterdam route fitted perfectly as the start to our rest of France, UK trip. Probably the only downside for us, we're the size the balcony suites. Otherwise, an excellent choice. ❤❤

[@50Street21]

Hi Gary, Another informative video focusing on river cruises. You obviously do a lot of homework which enables you to share this information with your viewers. I appreciate the wonderful balance of comparisons and then elaborating on the specifics that would showcase each cruise line. Thanks, Darryl

[@pattiagnew4778]

yesit m m

[@janejackson6430]

We did a Viking cruise and it was amazing, superb quality all round. Service was wonderful and staff were very helpful. Food was excellent and shore excursions were also excellent, would definitely book another cruise with Viking.

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

NO it was NOT amazing. NOT if they feed you god damned SANDWICHES for lunch. I eat 10 times BETTER cooking by myself, at home. You should have chosen the one that gives you that wonderful FRENCH CUISINE.

[@collierladdie]

Brilliant! Only having traveled with Viking until now, your perspective of that line gives me confidence in your perspective of the other lines as well. Thank you for touching upon some of the major considerations my wife and I use as a selection guide. We will definitely be exploring the idea of one of your selections in a future holiday.

[@Watercrake]

My wife is a very savvy traveller and, after careful research, decided Scenic was our best choice. They have many of the pluses you have listed here; including the power window/balcony combo, bikes, true all-inclusive, included tips, a choice of 2 excursions per day, chef's table, spa and gorgeous staterooms. Everybody is assigned to a butler who will do their utmost to make you happy. It was just a delight. It was mostly Australians; a few Brits and Canadians.

[@cherifurr3935]

Just wonder how much more expensive this was.

[@owensmith7530]

@@cherifurr3935 Scenic is expensive. I've been on Scenic and it was great (Soane/Rhone cruise) but my word you can better value elsewhere.

[@happytraveller2122]

Scenic IS expensive but their EMERALD RC are excellent with a reduced price point. ( drinks with meals / some activities only). But everything else the same

[@sissyrayself7508]

I have never gone on nor do I plan to go on any cruises...River or otherwise. However, I am a historian and Biographer/ ghost writer looking at making a glossy photo coffee table book documenting the insights and ideas of savvy cruisers and am here gathering material and finding contacts to interview and feature in the book. My goal is to shine a light on a time period in history..that time is 2019 through 2030. I plan to document travel in the time of Covid..and compare and contrast travel in this time to travel in the recent past. I hope by focusing on the travelers themselves..by honing in on the people, on their inner thoughts, secret contemplations, their still alive dreams, schemes, aspirations and hopes to snow a " picture" of the " typical" cruisers themselves..not as a " demographic", not as a Panorama..but more of an innocent and intimate snapshot. Reflections of The Golden Years Travelers. I desire to know how the scenery, culture, places and faces they encounter on these cruises compare to the rest of their life..and how traveling both makes them long for a time now passed by..and also inspires them to embrace the moment. So much is changing in the world around us now. We have to capture what is...now. We are in a pivotal time. That is an understatement. I am interested in showing the cruisers themselves as vivid and complex.. stories within themselves.through shining a light on..their inner lives....much more interesting than just labeling them, " merely boomers spending money in their last hoo- rah." I wish to document their fleeting reverie As they sail through ancient lands..some of these lands they traverse are areas of their of their own ancestry.. What must they be contemplating..after giving their youth, vigor labor and love to jobs..to decades of monontony and mundane..all for his..all for a time..such as this..where they sail away..for a day..in the fringes..in the wings of foreign mystery...these foreign lands they sail past and whisk through..ring bells inside them..fir these places are really a part of their own DNA. Maybe some merely eat, drink, walk, talk and take pictures. For some it is just well earned entertainment. For others it is the desire to stop time, freeze time..and walk into a tiny town on the bank of some remote Eastern European enclave..and just be absorbed into that life .....the secret wish to sneak away from the group without anyone noticing..and just stay behind....making bread and sewing..perhaps owning a cat there, sleeping by the fireside within the walls of a local home.for a whole year.... One of them..as natural part of their scenery.. sigh... Of course it is only an impulse. Realty could not allow such a thing. But let us tell this dream aloud. Because once told, once written down then..the dream has its own life...in the book.forever. Many thoughts pass on a cruise. I only wish to immortalize them

[@808pacifica]

@@sissyrayself7508 Loved your comments...Hope to hear more and read your book and writings. Aloha.

[@ruthhofland7744]

We've done several cruises on Viking & would highly recommend them.

[@bridgetbrecheen3726]

I, myself, find Crystal to be the number one River cruise company in Europe. They truly are all inclusive. Butler service comes with each cabin. No need to purchase an alcohol package as it truly is included. The shore excursions are second to none. The ships are beautifully appointed and very elegant. The food is Michelin star quality and the service is impeccable. They are my number one choice when I sail and that I recommend to my clients who are looking for a truly exceptional cruising experience. AmaWaterways would be #2. If you are considering river cruising, do not immediately discount a cruise line based on price. Companies like Viking charge for things that are included in the more upscale lines making Crystal and AMAWaterways much more price competitive than people realize. There truly is something for everyone.

[@bambinaforever1402]

What da f “the shore excursions are second to none”????

[@Teressa-sy5sl]

I have done two cruises on CroisiEurope, and both were delightful. The food is extraordinary and the service impeccable. The four of us were the only Americans on-board. There was one couple from Australia, but otherwise, mainly French people. Everyone was delightful. I'd much rather meet other nationalities than just hang out with Americans...when in France...

[@anastassiosperakis2869]

there you go again. What in the world was 'extraodinary' about the food? Have you ever had a decent, healthy meal in your life?????? God damned sandwiches for lunch is NOT even DECENT food, let alone 'extraordinary'

[@bambinaforever1402]

O my god, does it mean the crew does not speak any english? I live in France - am so sick of french language

[@janetpartyka5968]

You are American and you don't want to hang with other Americans? O.k.

[@suemann5142]

8:26 ​@@janetpartyka5968 I understand that, if you have travelled to Europe it is more interesting to meet and mix with people from other countries. I'm Australian, and my husband and I prefer not to book on anything that will be predominantly Australian. You might as well travel in your own country if that ends up being your experience.

[@stuartcarefoot4804]

Love the correct use of “permutations “ rather than “combination”, cudos

[@richardong5267]

Fantastic and educational video as always, than you so much! I wish that all KZbin informational videos are as good as yours.

[@robertm3335]

We've done three on Viking. The service is amazing. Loyal fan for life.

[@penelopepitstop762]

I am at the beginning of planning our first river cruise (maybe in 2023). I keep seeing comments just like yours! Viking is my top pick so far.

[@DavidHukill]

We’ve done 2 on Viking, and have a third booked for next year. Definitely big fans!

[@grayghost4705]

We LOVE Viking cruises! We've done 2 river cruises and are looking forward to an ocean cruise in the spring.

[@smgl9538]

I would suggest you try other cruise lines to compare. Or, just stay happy with Viking.

[@marylopez6173]

My favorite river cruise was AmaWaterway, it had an extremely large room, and the bathroom was phenomenal! Love the balcony perfect for having a glass of wine in the evening!

[@LinnyaRichardson]

I just returned from a AMA cruise on the Danube to all the Christmas markets. Fantastic experience

[@Divasuzyq]

Have gone on two Scenic River Cruises. In summer 2016 we cruised the Danube, from Budapest to Munich. In December 2019 we cruised the Rhine and visited the European Christmas Markets from Basel to Amsterdam. Scenic advertises as all-inclusive and they aren’t kidding! Our roundtrip airfare from NY-Budapest and NY-Zurich was included. We didn’t have to reach in our wallets once, except for shopping at the wonderful, very European Christmas markets. We had our personal butler, each who cares for the needs of a few cabins of travelers. Room service, laundry service, etc. Food was wonderful, ship was beautiful, everyone working with us was fabulous. I would go with Scenic again without a second thought.

[@diane39istockphoto]

Which cruise line was this? Thanks.

[@triarb5790]

@@diane39istockphoto Scenic.

[@heatherbell1140]

Scenic is Australian owned and also APT is another cruise ship in Europe. I have travelled with both companies and can highly recommend. All inclusive with both. Five star…….

[@barbaracronin4164]

Your tips are always right on the money. Thank you.

[@tipsfortravellers]

Thanks for watching. Great to hear you found it interesting :-)

[@keithstewart4464]

Went with Riviera Travel (cruise the heart of europe) last year. Could not fault anything.

[@chrismoule7242]

Agreed - we have been with Riviera Travel twice now and they are really good. We are going with a different company next year [because we can't fly, so we have to choose cruises that we can get to by coach or rail] so we will have more of a comparison after that!

[@fcalenda1]

We have taken 6 of these river cruises. One warning with this video is tat I fear he shows you the highly upgraded rooms and doesn’t mention the costs. We have exclusively traveled on Grand Circle Cruise Lines, a company out of Boston. We usually book the upper level rooms with a balcony. They can range from $200 to $500 additional to the basic costs. The rooms are not spacious as you see on this video but they are comfortable and we figure we only spend our sleeping hours and maybe an extra one or two hours a day in them. Viking might be a bit more upscale but many of their cruises are 8 days whereas most Grand Circle cruises are 14 days or longer for the same costs. We would rate Grand Circle trips in the 4 star category. Do yourself a favor when you plan a river cruise and check out Grand Circle Cruise lines and compare. No….we are not employees of this company, we just know that they completely satisfy our needs for an economical and fun relaxing trip.

[@AdvancedUSA]

My wife and I took the AMA Magna cruise in the summer of 2019. The Magna is nearly double the width of the typical river cruise ship so it is limited to large rivers like the Rhine. We looked at the other mentioned premium line but found them too glitzy for our taste. The AMA Magna get a solid SIX STARS from us. We travel a lot and stay in very nice places. AMA's service, staff and ship are definitely a SIX STAR. I was very pleasantly surprised by how good this cruise was. I highly recommend them.

[@deborahpatterson4878]

We were on the Ama Lea in 2019 and passed the Ama Magna as it was approaching Budapest on it's maiden voyage down the Danube. Quite the vessel. We loved Ama Waterways!

[@Jetlag10]

Actually, the Magna only cruises on the Danube, NOT the Rhine. (it's too wide for the locks on the Rhine)

[@AdvancedUSA]

@@Jetlag10 you are right. Got my rivers mixed up. We boarded in Vilshofen Germany with s stops at Passau Germany, Linz-Krebs-Vienna (Austria), Bratislava and Budapest.

[@sarahjane9512]

I thought AMA Magna was awesome. I thoroughly enjoyed my cruise... No complaints at all.

[@marienspisichkaifesh2353]

Stay away from the AMA Kristina! Lots of food and crew issues. Someone needs to look into that we had problems starting on Day 1. A terrible experience.

[@bobbolitho2554]

APT (Asia Pacific Travel) was the company we used and were very pleased with them. All inclusive, as in all excursions and drinks at any time along with the Chefs Table restaurant at the rear of the ship,

[@maureeneverson383]

We cruised with APT, the ship didn’t look as luxurious as some shown on this post, but it was really friendly, we met lots of Australian families, the food and drinks were brilliant. We went from Budapest to Amsterdam visiting lots of amazing cities and towns. My only disappointment was some days were were cruising for half a day or more and because the river was high due to heavy rain we couldn’t use the upper deck.

[@coralgwyn-williams9933]

completely love Viking...great food and service

[@kathysquared]

We love everything about AMA Waterways! In addition to everything the offer, the have the best crews and they attract the nicest passengers! Great combination.

[@rosemarieclimaco2705]

Agree 100%. Just returned from AMALEA’S Danube river cruise May 22,2022. Great crew and service. We had a very nice gentleman & knowledgeable cruise director, Dejanz- the best! Will recommend AMAwaterways anytime & plan another AMAwaterways European river cruise next year!

[@karenritchie4127]

Been twice with Riviera, they were fantastic.

[@Hollis_has_questions]

Window-facing beds, panoramic windows, excellent food, comfy furnishings and accoutrements, and WiFi are my best friends. Local cuisine, museums, bookstores and yarn shops are all the lagniappe I ask. I don’t care about the other guests, they’re not why I’m there. I’m looking for ambiance, culture, and history. And my #1 requirement is a room with a view. For knitting. Now all I need is the wherewithal to do it. But poor as I am, I have it (mostly) right here - “Here is where the birds sing! Here is where the sky is blue!”

[@Sabby899-qp1dw]

Lol. I agree. I want to go somewhere but my quesrion is where are the yarn shops. .... only fellow knitters and crocheters understand

[@wwkropp]

Tauck would be the 5 star player, just take off 1 star for all the others and it would be about correct. They contract with Scylla, have a great fleet. You get what you pay for///expensive but great.

[@Kerwonderful]

Totally agree. We went down the Danube River with Tauck and it was first class all the way. Ship, hotels, excursions and service were all first class. They are less well known as they do not advertise, it’s only by word of mouth, and they have been in business for over 70 years. We have already signed up for the French Escapade River boat tour in 2022.

[@territhompson2120]

Agree! We’ve cruised Viking, AMA, Uniworld, and Tauck and Tauck blows them all out of the water for service !! Plus it’s all inclusive (incl unlimited top shelf alcohol)- we won’t cruise with anyone else again. I’m shocked he didn’t mention them

[@jerryforrest7635]

We’ve taken several Tauck tours and they have exceptional service. Many years ago we met a couple from Texas describing their experience with Tauck. They were a group of 6 who enjoyed drinking wine. They booked a Tauck River boat in France to visit the vineyards the year the volcano in Iceland erupted. They were the only ones to make it to the starting point before all the airports in France were shut down. Tauck decided to run the trip with just the 6 of them making all the help happy because they would be paid.

[@zoemartin02]

We went on a Viking river cruise for our 50th wedding anniversary. Two days before, we got an email from Viking informing us the the river was low but expected to be high enough to sail in a day or two. Upon arrival we learned the river had been low for months. We were bussed to every location taking hours to get to the tour. Since the time to get there and then return back to the ship was so long, the tour was rushed and not enjoyable. For the entire cruise the ship was docked in Germany. We had to rise very early with very little time for breakfast to spend hours on the bus to get to the next tour and then after the tour more hours to get back to the ship for dinner. For lunches we had a brown bag lunch which included a half a sandwich, apple and bottle of water. Not quite the cuisine we expected. Several days we spent 8-10 hours on the bus with our legs swelling and other hazardous health difficulties. Viking knew the river was too low for cruising and should have cancelled the trip. This was the worst cruise we have ever experienced and the passengers were furious. Upon return, Viking offered us $1,500 toward another cruise which is a drop in the bucket of the over $10,000 we spent. I would never go on another Viking cruise because of the deceitful way they handled this cruise. Buyer beware . . . make sure the water is high enough to sail before going.

[@johnhoward6132]

What year and month did you go? This is what I worry about the most, the water levels. it must have been so disappointing to be bused after paying a lot of money.

[@zoemartin02]

@@johnhoward6132 This terrible experience happened in September of 2018. Do independent research on water levels because Viking does not give accurate information. Good Luck!

[@philipgerry5228]

We’re going on a Viking River cruise this fall. We had to pay in full a year or longer in advance. River levels are unknown that far in advance..I guess it’s a roll of the dice.

[@janehoward5245]

@@philipgerry5228 yes you are right. I will be so upset if I have to go by bus.

[@janehoward5245]

@@zoemartin02 Thanks.

[@kellywellington7122]

I've been on three trips with Grand Circle and enjoyed them immensely. We did Amsterdam to Vienna via the Rhine, Main, the locks, and the Danube. Then, we did Constanta to Budapest, aka Black Sea to Hungary. But the first tour we stumbled across was through their overseas adventure travel derivative OAT; a canal boat trip through the Canal du Midi. The tour included Sarlat, Carcassone, Bordeaux, the Loire, and Paris, but the core of the trip was the canal boat from Agen to Bordeaux along the Canal du Midi....with exquisite cuisine aboard and a grand tour guide. A total of twenty two tourists with seven crew members, including the guide who was with us the entire tour. We were readying to do the Paris to Lyon and thence down the Rhone to Provence when the pandemic hit. I recommend Grand Circle, but it is not nearly as fancy as all that. I think I've gotten excellent value for my money.

[@loonpond]

I have done three cruises with Grand Circle: Belgium & The Netherlands, Ireland in Depth, and The Great Rivers of Europe (the reverse of your trip. I started in Vienna and went to Amsterdam.) I think Grand circle is a terrific value for the money and the whole corporate culture on the ships is fantastic. Our tour guides have been fantastic - so informative and personable, Since I'm focused on the places that the ship goes to, the fancier amenities are less important. I had a wonderful room-mate on the Great Rivers trip and we have become good friends following the cruise. We may decide to take another cruise together (she has been on ~28 or 29 cruises with O.A.T./ Grand Circle Cruise Line.) I would recommend GCCL to anyone. (BTW, everywhere we went on the Great Rivers cruise, we were cheek-by-jowl with Viking tour groups, so I know they all go to the same places.)

[@davidbartolo2411]

I realise that this is somewhat later, but currently on a Douro cruise with Emerald waterways whom I would not have considered before watching this assessment of the better river cruise lines. Thank you Gary! Okay the river is too high for the cruise to continue up river, but all the stops are being pulled out to ensure that we still have a fulfilling and exciting journey. As such I would highly recommend Emerald Waterways as a cruise line. Would definitely book with them again. Food is excellent (too good 😂), cabins really comfortable and staff cheerful and welcoming

[@patl3013]

I loved my river cruise on CroisiEurope. I did a back to back in France and have been from the Mediterranean to the English Chanel. I will definitely go on a Croisi river cruise again.

[@Sheba62000]

I cruised the Danube with AMA WATERWAYS. I would highly recommend.

[@Tensquaremetreworkshop]

CroisiErope also do barge cruising- around 20 people on smaller waterways. Worth looking at.

[@authunhx3129]

Really enjoyed this, for me, informative introduction to river cruising. I followed the links to some of the Croisi cruise vids. Opened a new range of options for me. Thanks.

[@randywolfinger1496]

We loved our cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest on GateOne. Couldn’t have been better.

[@canzhao8076]

I am going to take gate 1 cruise in this month, along Rhine. Very excited!

[@yukiefromoz2573]

My first and only river cruise so far was Viking and it was AMAAA~ZING!! Beautiful modern cabins and furniture, delicious fine dining food (with 3 choices of each course), well organised excursions, loved everything about it to the colour scheme. We had a lovely friendly organiser, the day before an bus excursion up the mountains I let her know I was prone to motion sickness and she reserved the front seats for my husband and I. The only negative comment I have was that one excursion was quite rushed, we had only an hour there and our tour guide took up the whole hour explaining things which didn't leave us any time for us to visit the souvenir shop but that's just minor. Incidentally hubby and I were 40yrs old at the time, probably one of the youngest ppl on the cruise lol but we are childless and don't particularly like kids so it was nice and peaceful for us hehe.. :)

[@jopetmagracia1544]

thank you so much for your appreciation. looking forward to see you back soon on one of our ship. 🙏

[@chrispalmer6781]

We are older and researching different river cruises in Europe. Question? Do the buses have restrooms on them? i'm usually very nervous to travel in general if I don't know where bathrooms are etc. for medical reasons. Thank you for any info!

[@yukiefromoz2573]

@@chrispalmer6781 Yes I am the same with restrooms as I suffer from anxiety which makes me pee often, especially in unfamiliar situations. The Viking buses usually do have one toilet which is on the side of the rear steps, however I've never seen anyone need to use it and they may be locked but I think if you are desperate they will allow you to use it. Even I have never needed to use them thankfully. But I would let the organiser know beforehand so that they will keep it unlocked for you and you should sit near the rear steps.

[@alexbaker7871]

Thank you for providing these videos with great advice. I think I’ve watched them all, some more than once, pre my river cruise booked for August 2023. I choose Avalon mainly because they offered a fare for singles. I was getting annoyed with other cruise lines quoting pp price then doubling it for just one person. I understood I was taking up the whole cabin which could otherwise be used by a couple. But I won’t be eating double nor drinking for two. I am happy to pay a little more for the privilege of having a cabin to myself. I’m getting excited for my very first river cruise, I’ve chosen the Rhine from Amsterdam to Basel Switzerland. 🌈💜

[@rubychurch3466]

Exciting Alex, enjoy!

[@alexbaker7871]

⁠@@rubychurch3466hi there @rubychurch3466. Here we are August 2024 and a year further on. I absolutely loved my Avalon Cruise. Everything suited me from the ratio of staff to guests, dining choices, my beautiful cabin, wine for lunch and dinner included, gratuities and the excellent excursions. This year I’m about to embark on an ocean cruise on a huge ship carrying almost 3,000 passengers. Casino not something which will interest me, lots of entertainment, only a few ports and possibly lots of kids, 🫤. I agreed to accompany a friend, the cabin would have cost for an extra passenger anyway. I’ll go with an open mind and probably enjoy myself no matter what. My Avalon river cruise with the lovely European scenery will be hard to beat…..a totally different experience I expect.

[@Tsamane]

I am 30, and have done two cruises with Emerald. Both were great.

[@happytraveller2122]

Yes they are excellent in my opinion

[@claudegorley2687]

I would add 1 more ... Scenic the only ALL inclusive that I am aware of 😊

[@flydye45]

Well, as a cruiser, my primary interests are destinations, cost, language onboard, rooms, food and destinations. What is not in my top ten interests are 'wellness coaches', activities and bicycle availability, which seemed to be more the focus of this video. Take this for what it is worth.

[@LisaMonique]

So excited, we just booked our first river cruise on the Amawaterways Magna ship for next spring!

[@tipsfortravellers]

Nice, I am sure you will have a great time

[@Dangic23]

Always the best river cruise reviews on YT. Thanks for covering the more youthful ones....I'm 45 and kind of at the point where I'm too young for the old, and too old for the young....lol

[@hurstma59]

Same here. I’m approaching 70, in great health (right now) active and young in mind and spirit. I’ve already experienced being on some tours with “old” people and the entire energy of the trip was a bummer.

[@happytraveller2122]

On my 4 river cruises. The ages were from 20 - 80's with many many active people of all ages and many in the 40/50 age bracket. Our cruises were always fairly lively with many folk staying up in the bar ( not near sleeping facilities) until quite late each night. Always plenty to do and if you dock over night..the local pubs etc were well patronised by our guests.

[@maryhurst4663]

I’m early 70s and am interested in more active excursions and interesting (younger) passengers on the ships. From my research and what this man has to say, sounds like Avalon, Scenic, and AMA are best options. Viking sounds like a snooze fest.

[@gbpf57]

I was surprised that you spoke more highly of Viking than Avalon. We have gone on multiple cruises with both and have found Avalon to be a notch above Viking in all areas. Just my opinion. Thanks, Tim

[@adeljimroberts6016]

I agree we have done 3 cruises. Could not have been happier. Consistent

[@sorellman]

Something not mentioned in the video, what is the engine noise level on these river cruises? Thanks.

[@gbpf57]

@@sorellman , both my wife and I tend to be sound sleepers so it was never a problem. If you think engine rumble would bother you take a more expensive room on the 2nd or 3rd deck.

[@sorellman]

@@gbpf57 Good to know. Thank you.

[@susanr5546]

I was on a Croisi cruise about four years ago and so enjoyed it. Thanks for speaking about Emerald cruise lines, too. I will look them up. Wonderful video by the way. Thanks very much.

[@recoveringliberal1689]

having done Viking and Avalon, I gotta say I was much most impressed over all with Avalon. he says that they do much more active excursions, but when I'm on holiday the last thing I want to do is be active lol. I didn't feel at all that the excursions were very intimidating even when proclaimed to be active. this guy has some really great reviews though...

[@susanswanson7154]

Thank you for commenting this! I’m not a hiker and I guess that’s what I think when someone says active. I’m more about walking through the cities/museums. Did Avalon have a lot of food choices? I’m a picky eater, might have to bring some boxes of Kraft Mac and cheese in my suitcase!

[@PamelaBloomquist]

Uniworld La Venezia was the one that I picked they do a full Venetian cruise.

[@ginacrusco234]

Fantastic breakdown of perks, downsides, and cultures. I'll seek a river cruise accordingly!

[@rrl4245]

We've cruised with both Viking and Avalon, and both are great. We prefer Avalon for their cabins, and their slightly smaller, more intimate ships.

[@chriswilliams6568]

Thanks Gary, always useful. We have been on the Danube with Uniworld, fabulous, and the Rhine with Emerald, also great. I would try Croisieurope as agree, found some good pricing. They even do rivers that no one else does, i.e in southern Spain.

[@hettytravels]

Thanks Gary....have you even cruised with Tauck? I’m a real lover of their land tours, 9 so far and going on another next week. I’m booked with them for 2020 on The Rhône river to the Provence. Expensive as a solo traveler but hopefully won’t be disappointed.

[@tipsfortravellers]

I have only toured their ships and not sailed with them. But those that have are very favourable..

[@juderussocaserta5291]

I’m sure you did not have a chance to do this Tauck River Cruise. I’m so sad for you. I hope you rebooked for 2021. The Rhône was my first river, too and I cruised with Tauck. They are wonderful. I have since done three more and am booked on the Douro in 2021. I became a travel agent because of the experience and now own my own agency. You will LOVE Tauck.

[@territhompson2120]

@@juderussocaserta5291 yep! We’ve cruised with Viking, AMA, Uniworld, and Tauck - and Tauck is, by far, the best-- I’m disappointed he didn’t even mention them

[@fancynancymacy]

We were on viking, and the beds are absolutely the most uncomfortable anywhere in the world

[@edegidijuskas4030]

Regarding gratuities, it is 20 + eur/ day, or 300 eur per couple, 7 day cruuse. A norm. Cabin steward another 300.

[@williamelgin6873]

I have traveled with both Uniworld and AmaWaterways. Both were excellent in their own ways.

[@tinplater]

Multiple cruises on Viking and found their staff and service to be fabulous. And no kids on this primarily geriatric cruise is a blessing.

[@susanknight183]

I have a disabled husband who would want to stay on board, whilst I go on tours. Do any of the river boats have lifts ? 🌍🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧🌍

[@Bobrogers99]

I did my European river cruising 30 - 35 years ago on KD Lines when the boats were smaller with fewer amenities - and easily affordable on my schoolteacher salary. The emphasis was on the cities where we stopped every day, with excellent tour guides and lots of flexibility. We lucked out on two trips with only half the passengers (once because of the bankruptcy of a tour company and once because of warfare in Yugoslavia). We did the Danube with only 45 passengers, and with so few people on tours we could go anywhere in a city. I believe Viking took over most of their routes, and I would not be able to afford their elegant cruises. Nor would I be able to see the little, private places with too many people in a tour group. There may still be some smaller boats on the rivers, and if the tours are more important to you than shipboard life I would suggest them.

[@susanr5546]

I was also on a KD cruise about 30 years ago when I worked for one of the airlines. A wonderful experience, quite European with excellent food, service and excursion. I'd not realized they had shut down, so about four years ago, I started researching river cruises again and took a Croisi river cruise in and out of Paris, including stops in Normandy and the lovely town of Rouen. You might give them a try in future. I was very pleased.

[@Bobrogers99]

@@susanr5546 With KD, we did the Rhine (on the Deutchland), the Danube (on the Theodor Koerner) and the Elbe (on the Clara Schumann), and as you say, wonderful experiences, and all with German efficiency!

[@jenniferparry8709]

Just come back from a Danube cruise with AmaWaerways. It was fantastic. The owner came on board for a few days and spoke to us all and went on excursions as well

[@ljclauson]

Thanks so much for your important information I really enjoy how you presented and it’s so easy to sort out what my personal taste would be because of how well you present the cruising information.

[@ridwan-ketaren]

Try tauck bro..u won't regret it...

[@Bahala_Nah]

Never been river cruising, I'll try CroisiEurope!!! reminds me of the riverboats that used the paddle here in the US.

[@jeannem8682]

I love you videos! Thank you so much for the information. I am hoping you will do a video with recommendations for US/Canada river and ship cruise lines. I would love to cruise up the New England coast for the fall colors.

[@bambangaja9071]

How to apply on river cruise in Us

[@happytraveller2122]

Uniworld is 5+ but far from stuffy. Don’t be put off by that. Ours was fun, and boisterous at time. Great time

[@tipsfortravellers]

Agree. I had great time on my cruises

[@owensmith7530]

The furnishing on Uniworld looked ridiculously chintzy and over the top. It looks like being in a madam's boudoir not a river cruise ship. It certainly puts me off entirely.

[@happytraveller2122]

Don’t be put of the decorations..our ship was beige and creams, very pleasant. But the river cruise isn’t about that.

[@izengolf1]

I love how each Uniworld ship is different and styled to the region they sail. So many all look the same, like a floating Marriott or Hilton and I could be anywhere on those ships.

[@inyobill]

Note that country centric vessels, where the focus may be on the local language, it may not be 100%. For instance, we often travel with Niko Cruises, a German-based line,. The serving staff often ask that we speak English, as their German was even worse than ours. Germans are very frugal, and we find great bang for the buck, but it is not a "luxury" service, which are largely priced out of our budget.

[@usatennisproff]

Gary, glad I discovered your blog. I'm enjoying learning about River cruises from you, very detailed information. 👌

[@tipsfortravellers]

Welcome aboard!

[@Chainyanker007]

Food is great on Uniworld. Only river cruise line I’d go with, been on three of their cruises.

[@rrr1063]

I agree. A cut above.

[@stephenwint3937]

I also agree. Have done 3. Also did a Tauck on the Danube. Don’t understand why it is not included in the Video. If it’s possible, they are even better than Uniworld. Gave us $ for lunch and restrooms on land and when we returned, there was a souvenir on our doorknob! I could go on and on about the extra perks!

[@TheSCINRS]

Another difference you should address is those river cruise companies that are solo traveler friendly, with minimal or no single supplement or solo cabins. For example, Vantage and Ama offer both, but Viking does not offer either.

[@maggi0310]

Well surprised...not sometimes as single would love to try different holidays get fed up with companies ripping off singles ..expect u go on singles holidays prob with 99%women

[@WaterWorld1]

I rate Amadeus as very good quality, yet also good value.

[@bg588]

Best ever was on Scenic….lots of happy, cheerful Australians……best by miles

[@guernseyex3505]

I travelled on the Danube with CroisiEurope and was underwhelmed by the food quality. It describes it's cuisine as the best of French Cuisine. Well to be honest I have had better food at Motorway service stations. The weather was bad (not in their control I grant) the cabins were small (very small) and extremely tired. The front room staff were excellent which was it's only salvation. At €550 a day (once all additional charges are included, insurance etc.) I don't see them at the value end of the market. This experience took place in 2016, I hope they have improved since.

[@MrMousley]

I travelled with Croisi twice, both times to Venice and the Veneto on the same boat. First time tired, second time after a refit. Food OK (I live in France) home cooking, I wouldn't call it the best of French Cuisine. Lots of elderly with mobility and health issues. Three main groups, French, German and British. None of them mixed. Poor entertainment in the evenings. Excursions early starts, late finishes. I'm fit and active but, found both trips exhausting. My friends and I did our own thing mostly. Excursion guide very profane.

[@adoreslaurel]

In 2010 we did a cruise on the Amadogio, run by APT the Australian company.

[@davedoyon1792]

You forgot Scenic!?!? It's up there with Uniworld.

[@rldukes4]

We agree ! Just loved our cruise

[@mpb3481]

He did mention that Emerald is owned by Scenic and is a bit more affordable.

[@g.alistar7798]

AMA Waterways....a Matter of taste for sure but IMHO for Europe you cannot beat AMA!

[@pamjoseph4484]

Hi do you know anything about TUI Danube river cruises please?

[@kathyerickson9402]

Great information that definitely helps provide some direction when looking at which cruise line might be more appealing for me. Thank you!

[@andybrockbank3027]

Scenic. Can't go wrong.

[@patriciabodnar9636]

We loved our Scenic Cruise on the Rhine..would not chose anyone else..

[@chriswilliams6568]

yes Scenic is very good but at a huge amount of money more. Which I cannot justify.

[@davidroberts6123]

Enjoyable video, but although it shows a couple of shots of Riviera ships, I was surprised they were not mentioned in the commentary. I think their ships are superb and thoroughly enjoyed a good value Rhine cruise with them, with excellent excursions, including Luzern and the Swiss Alps!

[@dmt4941]

Gary, thank you for all the tips and other information. You keep everything clear and concise, which is so helpful. My husband and I are planning our first European river cruise, probably Danube though not sure yet. He is somewhat reluctant as he feels we are "too old " to take advantage of the excursions (ages 75 and 77). We neither of us have trouble with walking or balance, etc., so I say "go for it" (as do many of our younger relatives and friends, who know us well). We can sit out a day or two if we want/need to.

[@janetpartyka5968]

75 and 77? You are in the prime of your life! Let's go!!!

[@eileenwillms5025]

My first river cruise was on Grand Circle from Vienna to Amsterdam! Loved it! What I really liked is each group has an individual assigned to them that is on the ship and on the tours. We had the lowest price cabin, the beds were couches that became single beds. We are ready Togo again perhaps on one of the cruise lines you highlighted in this video. Bottom line is I am someone who enjoys ocean cruises and thought I would not like a river cruise. I was so wrong! I loved the relaxing travel, cruise members friendliness and the fantastic food.

[@barbaradixon8572]

We've used Grand Circle for all our river boat trips and love it. Would not consider anyone else. We also did many of the bus tours they offer.

[@scrapbookmom0818]

Have you ever done a river cruise with Tauck? I can't believe it didn't make your list - they are awesome!

[@williamwhitney565]

EXCELENT FILMS Can you make it clear if you want to stay on board all the time are you allowed to do so ,and also l know you are showing clips of wonderful food can you go nto more detail what all the meals are like are there tables for one or two people or are yo force to sit at tables with other people reason l ask is that l like my own company and getting over an illness l would love to just sit and chill each day watching the world go bye

[@Lynette0703]

Why don’t you mention Riviera? Quite surprising as I think they offer excellent value for money. I’ve done both Riviera and Viking and I thought Riviera were better??

[@Viperbob]

Did seven river cruises on the Grand Circle Line an have no complaints at all. Actually did the Nile River Cruise with them a few years ago. I’d go again with them no problem. Didn’t know there was so many cruise lines. However your video was typically first rate.

[@LindaHarward]

My husband and I are Grand Circle fans as well! 17 River and small ship cruises from 2009 thru 2018. They specialize in older travelers, 55+. Activities are always geared to active but older adults and I find it is exactly right for feeling pleasantly tired at bedtime, rather than trying to keep up with 20 somethings and feeling half dead! Best of all are the Program Directors. They are the best in the business and make every trip fantastic!

[@Viperbob]

@@LindaHarward love to do another river cruise, however the virus is putting this on hold. We loved the two weaker from the Netherlands to Vennia again. It was our favorite. Our next was the weeks on the Nile with GCT.

[@Uibleking]

We have been on many and think best value.

[@barbaradixon8572]

We are definitely GCT fans. We did Egypt on Nile river many years ago. We've done many bus tours and river boat with them. Don't even look at other companies anymore.

[@JeanineWoolet]

We are looking forward to our Amawaterways at the end of December, 2023. We did Viking back to back river cruises. I think Viking does a great job on excursions, but the food they serve is at best fair. I was very disappointed and would not sail with them ever. I have been on Uniworld and I will cruise them again. We are looking forward to traveling with Croisi in the near future. Love your tips on all the cruise lines. You give great tips know before you go.

[@cliviag1602]

thank you for a very interesting video. Have you heard of Lüftner cruises ? We are looking for next year for a cruise Vienna - Bukarest - any idea of a cruise line is highly appreciated - thanks

[@JaJa-qt5sf]

Ama Waterways is the best. The best crew. Food is amazing. Hope Ama appreciate their crew because they do an amazing job.

[@susanswanson7154]

I definitely don’t need 6 star, couldn’t afford it and I’m not fancy like that. Thank you for including mid level prices with the 4s… or at least sound more mid level

[@yvescrepeau5955]

Care to comment on Tauck and the Ms Savor Danube cruise which I am booked on for next July

[@trailrunnerable]

Yes I wondered also why he didn't cover Tauck, hear so much about them

[@juderussocaserta5291]

I think Tauck should be considered in the upper category. The ships hold fewer guests and in addition to the cruise director there are three tour directors who are with you for the duration (including land). And, best of all, there is no up selling on the ship. Many tour choices and all included. You will love the ms Savor and hope you were able to rebook.

[@yvescrepeau5955]

Hi JUlio, Thanks for the heads up, last year my intro to river cruising was with Uniworld on the River Queen great ten days

[@jojobtrcook1808]

I have been on two different Tauck river cruises. Each time was wonderful! Very friendly personnel, very clean and comfortable. The food was always delicious and all of the drinks, including alcohol, are included. One other feature of Tauck that I like very much is the number of people/cabins on their ships. The number of cabins are usually no more than 64, I believe. Some of the ships are smaller for smaller groups. This is so nice. Never do you feel like you are in a crowd of people. Overall, Tauck is our choice. I would say this company would be a 5 or 6.

[@territhompson2120]

@@yvescrepeau5955 Agree! We’ve cruised Viking, AMA, Uniworld, and Tauck and Tauck blows them all out of the water for service !! Plus it’s all inclusive (incl unlimited top shelf alcohol)- we won’t cruise with anyone else again. I’m shocked he didn’t mention them

[@joannbanks9963]

We will take our first river cruise with Viking next week. My biggest complaint right now is when I asked my TA to see about getting the Anniversary promo manu on Cruise Critic said they were getting, I not only did not get the discount, but the Viking agent rebooked us and CHARGED! us more for excursions that were already paid for!! I hope the onboard staff is better than the land staff! So not happy with them.

[@clement2780]

Loire is also rarely offered by anyone other than croisi, seine and dutch belgian are quite common though non as much as rhine danube.

[@ed110967]

Sound like I should consider Amawaterways but kinda hard to pass up viking after a wonderful trip with them. Anybody done both?

[@flaviusgarmacea6238]

AMAwaterways is more white glove service than Viking. You also have 3 or 4 excursions options at every port. Check out AmaMagna

[@juderussocaserta5291]

You also have fewer people on the ship, which makes a HUGE difference.

[@ines3171]

Viking the "best"!.. We love it, the tour ship was wonderful. Next the river cruise in 2023. Can't wait. Love to all from New Orleans the city of jazz and the wonderful "cajun" food. USA.

[@tomyaniszewski9122]

They took my $21,000 for the cruise but said tuff for you when my son died they week of the trip. You should have purchased the insurance for $5,000.

[@ines3171]

@@tomyaniszewski9122. Mr. Tom. The death of your son it is so sad. The $21, 000 is a great deal of money! I am sorry for that too. For sure we purchased the "insurance" (just in case!). I hope you are okay now, cheers from New Orleans.USA.

[@tomyaniszewski9122]

@@ines3171 you never get over the death and all we asked for was a credit for another cruise at a later time. Avoid Viking at all costs. 👎

[@ines3171]

@@tomyaniszewski9122 I don't understand why they refused to give you "credit" for another cruise! that is horrible... a while ago I told my husband about you and he told me that he "made it his business" to get the insurance ($3,000 thousands). Tom we already booked this trip, in our first trip we also purchased the insurance, like I told you "just in case", we can't afford to lose our money we work to hard, am sure you too. Our best to you and your family.

[@tomyaniszewski9122]

@@ines3171 Our insurance would have been $5,000. To pay 25% for insurance should have been my 1st clue to move on. We were not in any shape for a fight. Had just spent 3 months ICU with our son.

[@bigbear22x]

QUESTION Hi Gary, have you ever done a Disney Cruise? Thx Richard

[@jimgilligan1167]

So what happened to Scenic. You mentioned them as owners of Emerald but not otherwise. We did the Rhone River north to south on them and certainly we found them to be excellent!

[@tonybains1530]

First time looking into river cruise & come across your video. Great insight and overall review. Thank you

[@peterlanglois65]

Gary, in your experience, do you have any recommendations for river cruise lines for travellers with Celiac Disease (must not eat wheat, barley, gluten)?

[@KarenRichardsonGroup]

I have heard scenic offers a wider range of excursions for different levels of mobility, and is also 6*...first timers here...what do you think?

[@htschultz]

Thanks Gary--great summary review! Have you done a deeper dive comparing Avalon/Emerald/Viking? Can't really afford Uniworld/Scenic, but we just did the Rhine with Viking in November (and enjoyed it quite much), but want to do the Danube next year and are trying to figure out if a step-up will be worth it to us. We're both around 50 and quite active (seemed like the average age on our Viking Rhine cruise was maybe closer to 70?), and are looking for a notch higher than what we experienced with Viking in terms of service, active excursions, cuisine, etc.--thanks!

[@RowYourBoatGently]

I'm seeking advice regarding the level of "stuffiness," formality, dress wear, etc., on the different river cruise lines. Some of the videos I've seen (Tauck, in particular) depict a very formal experience that seems to be 24/7. We are looking for a high-quality experience without the expectation of formality, if possible.