River cruising has become an increasingly popular way to travel in recent years, offering a unique and luxurious way to explore the world’s most beautiful waterways. With so many different river cruise companies to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which one is the best fit for your needs. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of the top river cruise companies and what sets them apart from one another.
Viking River Cruises
One of the most well-known names in the river cruise industry is Viking River Cruises. This company has been around since 1997 and offers a wide range of itineraries throughout Europe, Russia, Asia, and Egypt. Viking is known for its sleek and modern ships that offer spacious staterooms with balconies, as well as a variety of onboard amenities like fine dining restaurants and cultural enrichment programs.
Pros:
– Viking’s ships are some of the newest and most modern in the industry
– The company offers a wide range of itineraries that cover many different destinations
– Viking’s onboard amenities are top-notch
Cons:
– Prices can be higher than some other river cruise companies
– Some travelers may prefer smaller or more intimate ships
AmaWaterways
AmaWaterways is another popular choice for river cruises, offering trips throughout Europe, Asia, Africa, and even on the Amazon River. The company’s ships are designed with comfort in mind, featuring spacious staterooms with French balconies or full outdoor balconies. AmaWaterways also places a strong emphasis on food and wine experiences onboard their ships.
– AmaWaterways’ focus on food and wine makes it an excellent choice for foodies
– The company offers a wide range of itineraries that cover many different destinations
– Ships are spacious and comfortable, with many staterooms featuring balconies
– Prices can be higher than some other river cruise companies
– The company’s ships may not be as modern or sleek as some other options
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
Uniworld is a luxury river cruise company that offers trips throughout Europe, Russia, Asia, Egypt, and India. The company’s ships are designed to feel like floating boutique hotels, with each vessel featuring unique decor and amenities. Uniworld also offers a variety of themed cruises, such as wine-focused trips and Christmas market cruises.
– Uniworld’s ships are some of the most luxurious and well-designed in the industry
– The company offers a wide range of themed cruises that cater to different interests
– Uniworld’s all-inclusive pricing covers most onboard expenses
– Prices are among the highest in the industry
– Uniworld’s ships may not be as modern as some other options
Scenic River Cruises
Scenic River Cruises is a newer player in the river cruise industry but has quickly made a name for itself with its innovative and luxurious ships. Scenic offers trips throughout Europe, Russia, Southeast Asia, and Egypt. The company’s ships feature spacious suites with private balconies and even offer onboard swimming pools on select vessels.
– Scenic’s ships are some of the most innovative and luxurious in the industry
– The company offers a wide range of itineraries that cover many different destinations
– Scenic’s all-inclusive pricing covers most onboard expenses
The Verdict
So who is the best river cruise company? It ultimately depends on your individual preferences and priorities.
If you’re looking for a modern and comfortable ship with a variety of onboard amenities, Viking River Cruises may be the best choice for you. AmaWaterways is an excellent option for foodies or those who want to experience a wide range of destinations. Uniworld offers some of the most luxurious ships in the industry, while Scenic River Cruises is known for its innovative and cutting-edge vessels.
No matter which company you choose, a river cruise is sure to be a memorable and unique way to explore some of the world’s most beautiful waterways.