Uncover 2020's top river cruise lines, chosen by our discerning readers. These river cruises offer unparalleled experiences, from luxurious amenities to immersive itineraries. Explore Europe's waterways with exceptional service, gourmet dining, and enriching shore excursions. Find the perfect river cruise line for your next unforgettable adventure, whether it's a romantic getaway or a cultural exploration, voted by the readers!
Why Choose a River Cruise?
River cruises offer a more intimate and immersive travel experience compared to ocean cruises. They navigate scenic waterways, allowing you to explore charming towns and vibrant cities with ease. Unpack once and wake up in a new destination each day! River cruises often include shore excursions, onboard entertainment, and gourmet dining, making them a hassle-free way to see the world. Plus, the smaller size of river cruise ships allows for a more personalized and attentive service, catering to your individual needs and preferences.
Our Readers' Top 10 River Cruise Lines in 2020
Here's a breakdown of our readers' favorite river cruise lines from 2020, highlighting what makes each one special:
Cruise Line |
Overall Rating |
Destinations |
Highlights |
|---|
Viking River Cruises |
4.7/5 |
Europe, Russia, Southeast Asia, Egypt |
Consistent quality, inclusive pricing, diverse itineraries, Scandinavian design, exceptional service. |
Avalon Waterways |
4.6/5 |
Europe, Southeast Asia, South America, Egypt |
Unique Open-Air Balcony concept, panoramic views, active discovery excursions, contemporary design. |
AmaWaterways |
4.5/5 |
Europe, Africa, Southeast Asia, South America |
Luxury experience, gourmet dining, included excursions, twin-balcony staterooms, wellness activities. |
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection |
4.4/5 |
Europe, Russia, Southeast Asia, India, Egypt |
All-inclusive luxury, opulent decor, personalized service, unique and immersive itineraries, gourmet cuisine. |
Tauck River Cruising |
4.3/5 |
Europe, North America |
All-inclusive pricing, land tours included, in-depth itineraries, knowledgeable guides, higher price point. |
Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours |
4.2/5 |
Europe, Southeast Asia, Russia, South America, Egypt |
All-inclusive luxury, private butler service, Scenic Freechoice activities, Scenic Enrich experiences, innovative ship design. |
Emerald Waterways |
4.1/5 |
Europe, Southeast Asia |
Active excursions, EmeraldACTIVE program, affordable luxury, included excursions, innovative ship design. |
Crystal River Cruises |
4.0/5 |
Europe |
All-inclusive luxury, gourmet dining, spacious suites, Michelin-inspired cuisine, personalized service. Crystal's parent company filed for bankruptcy in 2022; future offerings may differ. |
APT River Cruises |
3.9/5 |
Europe, Southeast Asia |
Australian-owned, inclusive pricing, immersive experiences, land tours included, variety of itineraries. |
Grand Circle Cruise Line |
3.8/5 |
Europe, Russia |
Value-focused pricing, longer itineraries, focus on cultural immersion, active discovery, for experienced travelers. |
Note: Ratings are based on a scale of 1 to 5, with 5 being the highest. Destinations and highlights may vary depending on the specific itinerary. Crystal River Cruises' future is uncertain due to the bankruptcy of its parent company.
Choosing the Right River Cruise Line for You
Selecting the best river cruise line depends on your personal preferences, budget, and travel style. Consider the following factors:
Budget: River cruises range from affordable to luxurious. Determine how much you're willing to spend before you start your search.
Destination: Where do you want to go? Some river cruise lines specialize in specific regions, while others offer global itineraries.
Inclusions: What's included in the price? Some river cruises are all-inclusive, while others offer à la carte options.
Activity Level: Are you looking for active excursions or more relaxed sightseeing? Choose a river cruise line that aligns with your fitness level and interests.
Travel Style: Do you prefer a formal or casual atmosphere? Consider the dress code and onboard amenities offered by different river cruise lines.
The Lasting Appeal of River Cruising
Even though this data reflects preferences from 2020, the core reasons people love river cruising remain unchanged. The convenience of unpacking once, the opportunity to see multiple destinations with ease, and the immersive cultural experiences are timeless advantages. While the specific offerings of each river cruise line evolve, the fundamental appeal of this style of travel continues to resonate with travelers seeking a relaxed, enriching, and unforgettable vacation.
Researching different river cruise lines, reading reviews, and comparing itineraries is key to finding the perfect fit. Use this list as a starting point and explore the websites of each company to learn more about their offerings. Happy river cruising!
