River Cruising: Where can it take you?

Chances are, you’ve sailed many of the world’s oceans and seas. As an experienced traveler, you will certainly appreciate the opportunity to visit America’s heartland, delight in Europe’s holiday festivals, explore Asia’s quiet rural villages or view Africa’s wildlife from the intimate perspective of a river.

River cruising has boomed in popularity in the last several years for good reason: It offers an up-close, unhurried look at some of the most spectacular scenery on Earth – in a setting that is relaxed, intelligent and convivial.

Why Take a River Cruise?

• It’s an intimate mode of travel with a smaller guest roster, typically less than 200 people.
• River cruising attracts seasoned travelers interested in experiencing destinations.
• There are opportunities for solo travelers to cruise at reduced or no additional charge.
• Itineraries are destination-focused; many feature multiple UNESCO World Heritage sites. All with unpacking just once.
• Sleek river vessels can take you to off-the-beaten-path gems, gliding right into the center of town.
• Many ships provide complimentary bicycles for guided and independent touring ashore.
• Lounges and restaurants often offer views of both sides of the river so you never miss a thing.
• Local entertainment is often featured on board.
• All cabins are outside, most with a French balcony.
• Sample regional wines.
• Open seating dining, allowing for more flexibility in your evening.

Where in the World Do You Want to Go?

EUROPE
Cruising the rivers of Europe is a chance to get an insider’s glimpse of the polished and gilded paths of famed cities such as Paris, Budapest and Vienna; it’s also an opportunity to slow down and relish watching the countryside pass and landscapes transform. Your camera will be busy capturing the chateaus, cathedrals and monuments along the way.

ASIA
Visit floating markets, rural villages, Buddhist monasteries and ancient temples on a Mekong River voyage. Marvel at the towering Three Gorges on a Yangtze River cruise. Emerging Route: Explore one of the world’s top bucket-list destinations, exotic Myanmar, on an Irrawaddy River sailing.

SOUTH AMERICA
When crossing into the waters of the Amazon River, prepare to take a step back in time to a lush ecosystem and simpler lifestyle. The locals are gracious hosts and the exotic wildlife denizens are quick to make an appearance. Look for butterflies, rainbow colored frogs, monkeys, anacondas, lizards, parakeets, parrots, and the famed Bono dolphins.

NORTH AMERICA
Explore the world of Mark Twain or the antebellum south on the Mississippi. Travel from Montréal to Chicago via the St. Lawrence Seaway. Retrace the Lewis and Clark trail along the Columbia and Snake Rivers.

AFRICA
Go tiger fishing and ride in a mokoro (dugout canoe) on a wildlife safari cruise along the Chobe River. AmaWaterways offers a 17-day cruisetour, which includes a four-night cruise on the intimate Zambezi Queen, with phenomenal wildlife viewing opportunities, along with safari options and outback lodges.

INDIA
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection is the first major river cruise line to offer a luxury cruise on the Ganges. The company has crafted a beguiling journey that even includes a sunset visit to the Taj Mahal.