What to Look for in a River Cruise

Thinking about a river cruise but not sure where to start? You’re not alone. With so many cruise lines and even more itineraries, it can feel like alphabet soup trying to figure out which one is right for you. That’s exactly why I put together a simple River Cruise Cheat Sheet (you can download it at the end of this blog). But first—let’s walk through the major things you’ll want to consider.

1. Inclusions (aka: what’s really included in the price)

Some lines are more “all-inclusive” than others. Things like airport transfers, gratuities, wine/beer with meals, WiFi, and even laundry might be included on one line and charged separately on another. This can really affect your budget—and your onboard experience.

2. Excursions

Daily sightseeing is the heart of a river cruise. Ask: are excursions included? Are there options for different activity levels (walking vs biking vs bus)? Some lines include one per day, others give you a menu to choose from, and some charge extra for specialty tours.

3. Cabin Size & Style

River ships are smaller than ocean liners, so space is at a premium. Staterooms can range from cozy lower-deck windows to spacious suites with French balconies. If you know you’ll spend a lot of time in your room, cabin style matters more than you’d think.

4. Atmosphere Onboard

Each line has its own personality. Viking is sleek and Scandinavian, Uniworld feels like a boutique hotel, Tauck is highly curated and luxury, Emerald is modern and value-driven. Think about whether you want “casual and comfy” or “boutique and elegant.”

5. Food & Drink

All lines feed you well, but the approach varies. Some emphasize local specialties from the regions you’re sailing through, others have global menus. A few include unlimited drinks, others just wine/beer with meals. If dining is important to you, check this carefully.

6. Solo Travelers & Families

Not every line is equally welcoming to solo travelers or kids. Some offer reduced or waived single supplements, and others have dedicated family itineraries. If you’re traveling with kids or on your own, this can be a game changer.

7. Fleet Size & Itineraries

Some companies have dozens of ships across Europe, Asia, and beyond, while others focus on just a few rivers. Larger fleets = more flexibility in dates and itineraries. Smaller fleets = more boutique feel.

8. Special Touches

This is where brands really set themselves apart: bicycles onboard, themed sailings (like wine or Christmas markets), butler service, or included gratuities. The little things often become the big memories.

Wrap-Up + Call-to-Action

Choosing the right river cruise is about matching your travel style to the right line—not just picking the one you’ve heard of most.

👉 That’s why I created a one-page River Cruise Cheat Sheet that compares 10 major lines side by side. You’ll see inclusions, perks, and policies all in one glance—no endless Googling required.

Adventure Smarter,
We’ve been there.