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 actually fits you.
That’s exactly why I created a River Cruise Cheat Sheet (you can download it below). But first, let’s walk through the key things that truly matter when choosing the right river cruise - because the differences are bigger than most people expect.
1. Inclusions (aka: what’s really included in the price)
Not all river cruises are created equal. Some are genuinely all-inclusive, while others look similar at first glance but charge extra for things like airport transfers, gratuities, wine or beer with meals, WiFi, or even laundry.
Those “little” differences add up quickly — both in cost and in how relaxed you feel onboard.
2. Excursions
Daily sightseeing is the heart of a river cruise. But here’s the catch: what’s included (and how flexible it is) varies widely by line.
Some include one excursion per day. Others offer multiple options at different activity levels — walking, biking, or panoramic tours. And some charge extra for specialty experiences. If excursions matter to you, this is a big one to get right.
3. Cabin Size & Style
River ships are smaller than ocean liners, which means space matters more than you might expect.
Cabins range from cozy lower-deck rooms with small windows to spacious suites with French balconies. If you value natural light, extra space, or simply a place to unwind after full days of exploring, cabin style can make or break your experience.
4. Atmosphere Onboard
Every river cruise line has a personality.
Some feel sleek and minimalist. Others feel like floating boutique hotels. Some are highly curated and polished, while others lean casual and relaxed. There’s no “best” — but there is a best fit for you. 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
You’ll eat well on any river cruise, but the approach varies.
Some lines focus heavily on regional cuisine from the places you’re sailing through. Others offer broader, international menus. Drink inclusions also vary — from unlimited beverages to wine and beer only at meals. If dining is part of why you travel, this deserves a closer look.
6. Solo Travelers & Families
Not all river cruise lines are equally friendly to solo travelers or families.
Some offer reduced or waived single supplements. Others run dedicated family sailings with more flexible activities. If you’re traveling solo or with kids, choosing the right line can save you money and frustration.
7. Fleet Size & Itineraries
Larger fleets mean more itinerary options and date flexibility. Smaller fleets often mean a more boutique, intimate feel.
Neither is better — it’s about what matters more to you.
8. Special Touches
This is where river cruise lines really differentiate themselves: bicycles onboard, themed sailings (like wine or Christmas markets), included gratuities, butler service, or elevated onboard amenities.
These small details are often what guests remember most.
So… How Do You Choose?
Here’s the honest truth:
Choosing the right river cruise isn’t about picking the most famous name — it’s about matching your travel style to the right line before you book.
And trying to keep all of this straight on your own? That’s where most people get stuck.
👉 Download the Free River Cruise Cheat Sheet
I put together a one-page River Cruise Cheat Sheet that compares 10 major river cruise lines side by side, so you can quickly see:
What’s actually included
Who each line is best for
Where you get the most value
Which lines you can rule out immediately
You’ll get the PDF instantly — no spam, no pressure. Just a clear, easy reference you can save or screenshot.
If you want help narrowing it down after you download? That’s where I come in.