River Cruises
What Are River Cruises?
River cruises offer an intimate and scenic way to travel through the heart of some of the world’s most iconic destinations. Unlike large ocean ships, river cruise vessels are smaller, more personal, and designed to dock directly in historic city centers. This style of travel is perfect for guests who want culture, comfort, and convenience without crowds or long transfers.
Why Choose a River Cruise?
- Small and elegant ships
- Easy access to historic cities
- Relaxed and comfortable pace
- Personalized service
- Included shore excursions
- Scenic cruising through beautiful landscapes
- All-inclusive or premium-style experiences
- Ideal for couples and mature travelers
- River cruises are known for being stress-free, culturally enriching, and highly enjoyable.
Popular River Cruise Destinations
Some of the most famous rivers and regions include:
- The Danube
- The Rhine
- The Seine
- The Rhône
- The Douro
- The Nile
- The Mekong
- The Mississippi
- The Amazon
Each river offers a completely unique experience, from European castles to Asian temples and African wildlife.
Who Are River Cruises Perfect For?
River cruises are ideal for:
- Couples
- Mature travelers
- Culture and history lovers
- First-time cruisers
- Travelers seeking relaxation
- Small groups and celebrations
AmaWaterways
AmaWaterways is a premium river cruise line known for elegant ships, personalized service, and included cultural experiences. Their modern vessels feature innovative twin-balcony staterooms, gourmet dining, and wellness programs. AmaWaterways sails primarily in Europe (Danube, Rhine, Seine, Douro, Rhône), as well as on the Mekong River in Asia, the Nile in Egypt, and the Chobe River in Africa. It is ideal for couples, mature travelers, and guests seeking a high-quality, comfortable, and enriching travel experience with included excursions and excellent service. When booking with Kairo Travel guests will enjoy $75 USD shipboard credit per person; limit $150 USD per stateroom on all voyages less than 14-nights or $125 USD shipboard credit per person; limit $250 USD per stateroom on all voyages 14-nights or more. * Terms and conditions apply.
Avalon Waterways
Avalon Waterways is a premium river cruise line famous for its modern “Panorama Suites,” featuring wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows. Avalon sails throughout Europe, Southeast Asia, and South America, offering itineraries on the Danube, Rhine, Mekong, and Amazon rivers. The cruise experience is relaxed, stylish, and flexible, appealing to couples and active travelers who appreciate scenic cruising, comfortable ships, and excellent included tours. When booking with Kairo Travel guests will enjoy free prepaid gratuities on select Avalon Waterways Europe vacations. * Terms and conditions apply.
Book a select 2026 Avalon Europe river cruise (excluding Egypt and Douro) and receive the standard prepaid gratuities included for the full length of the cruise portion of the vacation. * Terms and conditions apply.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
Uniworld is an ultra-luxury river cruise line offering beautifully designed boutique-style ships with an all-inclusive experience. Each vessel is uniquely decorated, providing a floating luxury hotel atmosphere. Uniworld sails throughout Europe, Asia, India, Egypt, and Peru. It is best for upscale travelers, honeymooners, and guests who enjoy gourmet dining, luxury service, and highly curated cultural experiences.

Scenic Luxury River Cruises
Scenic is a truly all-inclusive luxury river cruise line offering high-end service, spacious suites, and exclusive experiences. Their ships sail Europe’s major rivers as well as the Mekong and Nile. Scenic cruises include butler service, premium beverages, private shore excursions, and luxury amenities. Ideal for discerning travelers who want a five-star experience with everything included and no hidden costs.

Emerald River Cruises
Emerald Cruises is the sister brand to Scenic, offering a more affordable but still premium river cruise experience. Emerald ships are modern and comfortable, sailing the Danube, Rhine, Rhône, and Douro rivers. This line is perfect for travelers who want a high-quality river cruise at a more accessible price point, with included excursions and a relaxed onboard atmosphere.

Amadeus River Cruises
Amadeus River Cruises is a European-based river cruise line known for elegant ships and classic cruising style. Sailing mainly on the Danube, Rhine, and Rhône rivers, Amadeus offers refined service, comfortable accommodations, and excellent itineraries. It is a great option for experienced travelers who appreciate a traditional European approach to river cruising. When booking with Kairo Travel guests will enjoy onboard credit of €25 per person (€50 per cabin) on all bookings.

American Cruise Lines
American Cruise Lines operates river and coastal cruises exclusively within the United States. Their ships sail the Mississippi, Columbia, Snake, and Hudson rivers, as well as Alaska and New England waterways. This line is perfect for travelers who prefer domestic travel, small ships, and American history and culture-focused itineraries.

Riviera River Cruises
Riviera River Cruises is a business operated in North America, owned by Riviera Travel, the UK's biggest river cruise and tour operator. For 40 years our experts have been bringing to life the world’s most fascinating destinations. Like you, we love to travel, and we are passionate about what we do.

Riviera Travel
With cruises on the Rhine, Danube, Seine, and Douro, Riviera provides high-quality experiences without luxury-level pricing. Ideal for budget-conscious travelers, couples, and first-time river cruisers who want a solid and reliable experience.

Tauck River Cruises
Premium river cruising known for expertly guided land excursions, seamless service, and culturally rich itineraries across Europe and select global rivers.





