If you’re looking for a new type of cruise experience ahead of your next holiday, then you should consider river cruising; offering you a more immersive and elegant way to explore some of the world’s most stunning destinations, river cruises are a fantastic option for all types of traveller. And, with river cruises now available through Iglu Cruise again, you’ll be able to enjoy our incredible customer service, taking advantage of our knowledgeable cruise agents and sensational cruise deals, while booking yourself onto an unforgettable river cruise itinerary.
While river cruises are similar to ocean cruises in many ways, they might feel somewhat foreign to those who haven’t experienced them before – and even more unfamiliar to those who are completely new to cruising in any capacity. If you’re looking at an interesting river cruise itinerary and feeling a little like this, fear not, for we have put together this comprehensive beginner’s guide to river cruises for you!
Below, you’ll find an overview of river cruising and some of the most popular destinations river cruises travel to alongside details on what to expect when you’re onboard, what sort of shore excursions you’ll be able to enjoy, and answers to some of the most popular questions people have regarding this remarkable travel experience.
Sounds good? Well, without further ado, let’s get stuck into all things river cruising…
Contents:
- What is a River Cruise?
- Where do River Cruises Go?
- Shore Excursions and Activities to Expect on River Cruises
- What’s Included on a River Cruise, and What’s Extra?
- Best River Cruises for First-Timers
- Top Tips for Your First River Cruise
- Why Choose River Cruising over Ocean Cruises?
- Popular River Cruise FAQs Answered
What is a River Cruise?
So, what is a river cruise? It’s an important question, and one query you can answer in a few ways. At a very basic level, a river cruise is like an ocean cruise, except the itineraries available feature destinations along some of the world’s major rivers and waterways, rather than coastline destinations primarily accessible on the open ocean.
However, river cruises are so much more than that.
A river cruise is an immersive travel experience where cultural immersion and exploration is just as valued as sightseeing. A river cruise is an inclusive holiday where you’ll enjoy sensational cuisine, exclusive shore excursions, and additional extras you would traditionally have to pay extra for. A river cruise is something that will afford you a new appreciation of the world around you, whether you’re spending your days exploring major cities or small riverside settlements.
We don’t say this lightly, but river cruises really are exceptional travel experiences, offering something completely different to ocean cruises – despite, on a basic level, feeling familiar to those who have enjoyed ocean cruises before.
Types of River Cruise
Much like ocean cruises, it’s important to think about the type of holiday experience you’re after when booking a river cruise; not all river cruises are the same.
Some river cruises boast itineraries and shore excursions that focus much more on exploring the history and culture of the destinations you visit, while others include experiences revolving around the cuisine – with food-focused shore excursions and wine tasting experiences often on offer. You’ll also find some river cruises offer a wider range of active shore excursions, while others feature a selection of shore excursions with a more laid-back pace.
When it comes to the river cruise supplier you sail with, you’ll also find some offer more luxury experiences – like Scenic River Cruises, APT Touring, and AmaWaterways – while others offer a more affordable option – like Emerald River Cruises and Travelmarvel River Cruises. So, no matter what type of cruise you’re after, or your holiday budget, there’s something for everyone to enjoy when it comes to river cruising.
Where do River Cruises Go?
As the name ‘river cruise’ suggests, river cruises are cruise adventures that navigate some of the world’s most important – and most picturesque – waterways, giving you the chance to explore vibrant major cities and charming small towns while cruising through breathtaking landscapes. Visiting a variety of places you simply won’t find on any ocean-going cruise itineraries, river cruising is an excellent way to explore bucket-list destinations you might otherwise never get around to visiting – be those major Central European cities miles away from any coastline, quaint historic towns littering the Rhine Valley, ancient wonders across Southeast Asia, and so much more.
Wherever you want to go, whatever type of holiday you’re after, river cruising is a wonderful way to escape and see the world; and, when you take a moment to look at some of the most popular river cruise destinations out there, it’s easy to see why you should consider this option for your next getaway.
Popular River Cruise Destination
European river cruises are proving the most popular river cruise destination right now, and there are numerous reasons why. Often relatively close to home, while still delivering fresh cultural experiences and exciting shore excursions, river cruises in Europe are perfect for every type of traveller – whether you’re a history buff, a culture vulture, just here for the fantastic food, or someone hoping to spend most of their time ashore embracing the great outdoors. On top of that, the weather is often temperate and not far from what you’ll experience in the United Kingdom, and you’ll often only have to deal with flights that are a handful of hours long before you’re able to embark on your adventure.
On a Danube river cruise, which is one of the most popular European rivers to cruise on, you’ll have the chance to explore the heart of Europe, visiting breathtaking destinations like Budapest, Vienna, Bratislava, and Belgrade; these remarkable cities are overflowing with incredible cultural experiences, intriguing histories, sensational cuisines, and awe-inspiring architecture. Couple these places with lesser-known destinations like Linz, Weissenkirchen, and Ruse, and you’re in for a true treat – a cruise adventure full of discovery and excitement.
In a similar fashion, Rhine river cruises boast an incredible variety of destinations and experiences in each available itinerary; you’ll have the chance to visit a variety of major cities and quaint riverside towns throughout Germany, France, Austria, the Netherlands, and Switzerland, on a Rhine river cruise. So, whether you’re looking to fully embrace authentic traditions, learn more about the local history of these unique destinations, or explore the stunning countryside of the Rhine Valley region, endless unforgettable experiences await.
There’s also a lot to look forward to when embarking on a Seine river cruise, another popular river cruise destination, despite the fact that these itineraries only include places in Northern France. With these river cruises, you’ll have the chance to explore the ever-beautiful Paris alongside charming French cities like Rouen, quaint towns like Vernon, and the idyllic Honfleur. With flights to France almost always less than two hours, you’ll be relaxing on your river cruise ship before you can blink with these itineraries – and that’s not even mentioning how incredible authentic French cuisine can be.
When it comes to river cruises, Europe isn’t the only continent where you can expect an array of incredible itineraries to choose from. River cruises along the Mekong River, and through the Mekong River Delta, in Southeast Asia are increasingly popular among river cruisers looking for a new adventure – and when you look at the itineraries available, it’s clear to see why. While this part of the world is a little further afield, meaning you will need to travel more to meet your river cruise ship, the experiences you’ll enjoy when you embark on your adventure are jaw-dropping. Mekong river cruise itineraries include dazzling major cities like Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and Phnom Penh alongside genuine wonders of the world like Angkor Wat. Couple these places with the fascinating cultural experiences and sensational cuisines you’ll encounter, it’s safe to say that cruising the Mekong River is a memorable experience.
Shore Excursions and Activities to Expect on River Cruises
When it comes to the shore excursions available on river cruises, there are often several options to choose from – though, these do somewhat depend on your destination, much like they would on an ocean cruise itinerary.
In almost every destination, you’ll find some sort of guided tour available; these can include walking tours of a city’s most iconic landmarks, visits to intriguing historical sites, riverside cycling tours, and more. Travellers of all activity levels will have the chance to explore each destination, admire the surrounding scenery, and immerse themselves in the local communities of these fascinating places. In ports of call where canals cut through cities, you may also find yourself with the option to kayak or paddleboard, offering the more active travellers an exciting way to see somewhere from a new perspective. Similarly, with river cruises often adventuring through world-renowned wine regions, you may also find wine tasting experiences and vineyard visits on the agenda; the connoisseurs among you won’t want to miss out on these excursions!
Beyond this, the shore excursions and activities available on a river cruise can vary dramatically; depending on the destination, and the river cruise supplier you’re sailing with, you’ll find everything from intimate concert performances and extravagant dinners in elegant palaces to local brewery tours and hilltop hikes to breathtaking vantage points. Whatever shore excursions you do find available on your river cruise itinerary, though, will only enhance your onshore experience and add to the depth of your exploration of these destinations.
What’s Included on a River Cruise, and What’s Extra?
Like any ocean cruise itinerary, the details of what’s included in your river cruise fare depends entirely on the supplier you choose to sail with and – in some cases – the stateroom you’re staying in onboard. Typically, you’ll find all your meals are included in your cruise fare alongside complimentary Wi-Fi internet access, port fees, and a selection of specific shore excursions available throughout your itinerary. On river cruise ships where rentable e-bikes are available, this is also something that is often included in your cruise fare.
Although, this isn’t always the case and it’s important not to assume anything in situations like this. Where a supplier like Scenic River Cruises is essentially offering an all-inclusive experience – with unlimited premium beverages available onboard, complimentary shore excursions at each port of call, and gratuities all included in your fare – a supplier like AmaWaterways is less-so. When cruising with AmaWaterways, you’ll only enjoy complimentary beverages during lunch and dinner, one complimentary shore excursion at each port, and you’ll need to pay gratuities in addition to your river cruise fare.
So, while it’s hard to give a definitive catch-all list of everything included with river cruise fares – beyond the basics like travel, accommodation, and meals – you should expect drinks to cost extra outside of meal times, some shore excursions to be available at an additional price, and that you’ll need to pay gratuities on top of your fare. Although, it’s always worth checking the inclusions available with your chosen river cruise supplier ahead of time, if you’re looking to stay on top of a tight budget and work out how much a river cruise will cost in total.
Best River Cruises for First-Timers
If you’re someone who traditionally spends their holidays travelling the world on ocean cruises to the Caribbean, Mediterranean, and more – or, you’re someone who has never cruised in any capacity before – picking the right river cruise for you can be a daunting experience; there are a lot of incredible options out there already, and more interesting itineraries being introduced all the time.
Don’t worry, though, for this variety means that there’s something for everyone to enjoy – experienced river cruisers and newcomers alike. Every type of traveller will find a river cruise to suit their tastes, and how you enjoy your time exploring the incredible destinations on each itinerary is entirely up to you.
Top River Cruise Deals
For first-timers and experienced travellers alike, these are some of the best river cruise deals available right now:
- Emerald Sky - Jewels of the Rhine from Basel (7 nights), Sep 2025
- AmaCello - Essence of Burgundy & Provence from Arles (7 nights), Oct 2025
- AmaVida - Flavours of Portugal & Spain from Porto (7 nights), Nov 2025
- AmaStella - Tulip Time from Amsterdam (7 nights), Mar 2026
- Emerald Radiance - Secrets of the Douro from Porto (7 nights), Jul 2026
- Scenic Azure - Unforgettable Douro from Porto (10 nights), Aug 2026
- Scenic Gem - Highlights of Normandy & the Seine from Paris (7 nights), Oct 2026
- AmaVerde - Gems of Southeast Europe from Giurgiu (7 nights), Nov 2026
Top Tips for Your First River Cruise
Choosing an itinerary you’re interested in is an important part of preparing for an upcoming river cruise adventure, but there are a few more things worth keeping in mind when it comes to enjoying this kind of getaway. Here’s a few top tips for those of you new to river cruising, which also serve as a helpful reminder to everyone preparing for their next adventure:
- Make sure you think about your cabin’s position onboard
With river cruise ships being, typically, quite a bit smaller than ocean-going cruise vessels, you’ll find that every cabin onboard is generally in a decent position. However, it’s worth keeping in mind that cabins on the upper decks are going to be better for avoiding any potential mechanical sounds and engine noises. Similarly, or rather inversely, if you want to avoid noise from the public spaces onboard, you may want to consider a cabin on the lower decks and away from them. River cruise ships aren’t large, though, so you’ll only be able to stay so far away from these onboard venues.
- Enjoy the included excursions, but don’t be afraid to explore on your own
While many of the included shore excursions on your river cruise will feature guided tours, which are a fantastic way of getting your bearings in new places, learning about the locale you’re visiting, and accessing some of the top attractions, there’s so much value in taking some time to explore these destinations on your own; so, be sure to use your free time in each river cruise destination wisely. Whether you decide to spend that free time soaking up the atmosphere in a charming riverside cafe, lingering in an interesting museum you passed on your tour of the town, or venturing further afield to see what else the region has to offer, these impromptu experiences will add so much value to your river cruise experience and only further your enjoyment of each incredible destination. If you’re looking for inspiration, though, don’t be afraid to talk to your tour guides and river cruise staff; they’re going to have plenty of recommendations for you, with authentic experiences and intriguing points of interest worth checking out.
- Take time to get to know everyone onboard
River cruises are a fantastic way to meet new people and connect with like-minded travellers while making unforgettable memories. Offering a more intimate onboard experience than ocean-going cruise vessels, with river cruise ships often only having room for fewer than 200 guests at any one time, spending your time getting to know the people you’re travelling with will prove invaluable; you’ll be seeing a lot of the same faces onboard after each day ashore, either way. And, with river cruise ships often operating on an open seating dining experience, you’ll be able to share meals with new people and make new friends while enjoying some sensational cuisine. The crew aboard each river cruise ship are also extremely knowledgeable about each destination, meaning they can make personal recommendations and offer useful advice for when you disembark – which is certainly far from a bad thing.
- Prepare for unexpected changes
In an ideal world, every part of a river cruise goes according to plan; that does happen most of the time, but sometimes the unexpected can occur. Where you dock on a river cruise can be dependent on weather conditions and water levels, something that might mean you’re a little further away from where you thought you were disembarking initially. Similarly, if the weather conditions or water levels are too impactful, your itinerary may be modified and your route along the river might change. You may also find you’re delayed in leaving the destination you’re currently in, for a whole multitude of reasons. While unlikely, if anything like this does happen during your river cruise, it’s important to embrace these unexpected changes – to take advantage of having a little extra time somewhere exciting, or the chance to discover somewhere completely new.
What to Pack for a River Cruise
One of the most important things to think about when preparing for a river cruise, though, is what you should pack for your adventure. Generally speaking, what you pack and wear on a river cruise will be similar to what you would pack and wear on an ocean cruise; so, you don’t need to worry too much about missing things if you’re a veteran ocean cruiser.
However, it’s still worth taking some time to consider where you’re travelling to, the weather conditions during your cruise itinerary, and what activities you plan to get involved with in each destination. It’s always a good idea to pack a waterproof jacket or coat and something warm, just in case, but this will dictate the bulk of the clothing you’ll need to bring. On top of that, though, here's a list of all the things you need to think about packing ahead of your next river cruise:
- Destination/weather appropriate clothing
- Waterproof coat/jacket
- Sun protection (ie. hats, sunscreen, sunglasses)
- Comfortable walking shoes/boots
- Essential travel documents (inc. passport &boarding pass)
- Toiletries (inc. toothbrush & toothpaste)
- Phone chargers, plug socket adapters & portable battery packs (for shore excursions)
- Reusable water bottle & small bag (for shore excursions)
Beyond this, you may want to think about packing a book or two for those mornings and evenings you’ll be onboard. While river cruises are equipped with ample social spaces and some evening entertainment to enjoy, they’re much smaller than ocean-going cruise vessels – meaning the entertainment options are limited in comparison. So, having a good book to tuck into when you’re not in the mood to socialise is never a bad idea. You'll also find more on the top cruise items to pack and must-have cruise gear right here; all of these things are useful, whether you're on a river cruise or an ocean cruise.
It’s also worth packing a smart-casual outfit or two for evening meals and select shore excursions. While river cruises rarely host formal nights or onboard events that require formal attire, you may find that a smart-casual dress code is observed during evening meals. That, and you may find some of the available shore excursions ask that you adopt a smarter attire, too! So, having a couple of options ready to go for when these situations arise is never a bad thing.
Why Choose River Cruising over Ocean Cruises?
Opting to embark on a river cruise adventure over an ocean cruise can be a fantastic idea for travellers hoping to explore exciting destinations around the world, with river cruising boasting a unique travel experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Firstly, and perhaps most significantly, river cruises are more intimate experiences than ocean cruises. The shore excursions you’ll have the chance to enjoy on a river cruise often focus much more on cultural immersion than those available on an ocean cruise, with these experiences often offering you a deeper connection with the destination you’re visiting. On a river cruise, you’re not just sightseeing when you step off the ship, but experiencing these remarkable destinations – which are places you won’t find on ocean cruise itineraries, either.
The social scene on a river cruise is also far more intimate and relaxed than what you would typically encounter on an ocean cruise, on account of river cruise ships often being significantly smaller than ocean cruise vessels. This reduced capacity makes it easier to meet new people and make lasting friendships with other like-minded travellers onboard, and helps to foster a genuine sense of community among the cruisers onboard. Sharing the experience of a river cruise will enhance your enjoyment of this adventure, but you’ll never be forced into socialising if you don’t want to; river cruises are still your holidays to enjoy as you see fit.
Typically, river cruises are more inclusive than ocean cruises, too. With many river cruise suppliers, you’ll find additional extras like Wi-Fi internet access and select shore excursions are included with your base fare; most also offer premium beverages during lunch and dinner. While these inclusions will vary from river cruise supplier to river cruise supplier, much like they do with ocean cruise suppliers, the seamless integration of these (traditionally extra) costs in your river cruise fare will make your holiday experience even more enjoyable and stress-free.
You’ll also find the sailing experience aboard a river cruise much more enjoyable than an ocean cruise, with the conditions on the water often calmer and less disruptive than what you might experience on the open ocean. This should mean you won’t suffer from any motion sickness, even if you’re particularly prone to it, and you’ll be able to admire the stunning surrounding scenery without worry.
Popular River Cruise FAQs Answered
What is the best river cruise company to travel with?
This wholly depends on the type of cruise experience you want, and your budget. For a more luxurious and inclusive onboard experience, you may want to consider booking a river cruise with Scenic River Cruises – for example. However, river cruise suppliers like Emerald River Cruises offer a more affordable option. With many of the same destinations visited, you’ll still get to explore the same sorts of places – providing you’re looking at river cruises travelling along the same rivers, anyway. Although, you may find that a more expensive river cruise will include more exclusive shore excursions for you to enjoy. So, it’s important to do your research into everything included with your chosen river cruise itinerary before booking.
What is the average cost of a river cruise?
This, again, is something that depends on the river cruise supplier you sail with – and the duration of your river cruise itinerary. Longer itineraries will cost more than shorter ones, and more luxurious and inclusive cruise experiences will cost more than affordable options with fewer inclusions. You could be looking at spending anything from ~£250 per person per night to upwards of £1,000 per person per night; it all depends on who you cruise with and how long you’re cruising for. That, and whether you take advantage of any river cruise deals available – which can be an excellent way to enjoy a more luxurious river cruise experience on a tighter budget.
Is it worth getting a balcony on a river cruise?
Yes, there are always advantages to having a balcony on a river cruise. Not only will they offer you more unique views of the surrounding scenery, but you’ll also have your own slice of outdoor space to enjoy in privacy – should you want to spend some time soaking in the landscapes you’re sailing through without socialising. Cabins with balconies – whether they’re traditional balconies or French balconies – do cost more though, so it’s important to think about your budget when booking. However, in many cases, over 80% of cabins on river cruise ships feature some sort of balcony. So, if you want one, you shouldn’t have too much trouble booking accommodation with a balcony.
Can I river cruise from the UK?
While you will find shorter river cruise experiences available on the Thames and Severn, for example, you’re not going to be able to river cruise from the UK – not in the same way, anyway. A lot of the rivers in the UK just can’t support the style of river cruising we’re talking about here today, and river cruise ships aren’t always close to any sea-facing coastlines. So, if you want to embark on a river cruise, chances are you’ll need to fly out to meet your river cruise ship.
Can you wear jeans on a river cruise?
Yes, you should be fine to wear jeans on a river cruise – particularly during the daytime and for casual dining in the evening. River cruise lines often operate on a casual dress code, so jeans are acceptable. However, there may be some situations where you’re asked to adhere to a smart-casual dress code, during a formal night or a certain shore excursion. In these situations, you may be able to get away with wearing smart jeans, but we recommend wearing something a little smarter – just to be on the safe side. You’re not going to find formal nights appear often on a river cruise itinerary, but it’s important to double-check your sailing’s itinerary of events ahead of embarking; that way, you can make sure you’re prepared.
What is the best time of year to go on a river cruise?
This depends on where you’re travelling to in the world and the type of shore experiences you want to enjoy. Of course, December is the best month to go on a river cruise if you’re looking for Christmas markets and snowy festivities, and the summer months are better if you’re planning on picking up a tan. However, the shoulder seasons – through late spring and during early autumn – are the best time to embark on a river cruise. The weather will still be largely enjoyable, but you’ll miss the crowds that come with the summer months – and the increased cost of a river cruise that comes with this peak period.
How many passengers are on a typical river cruise?
While the specifics vary, river cruise ships typically have space for fewer than 300 passengers, though those on the upper end of this scale are rare. So, you’ll find most river cruise ships have a capacity of 150 to 200 passengers.
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