ROL Cruise: River cruise calendar

Welcome to 2026! This year, you might decide that it’s the perfect time to treat yourself to a river cruise. There are plenty of remarkable river cruises to choose from, each designed to impress, delight and inspire. From elegant escapes through France and festive sailings featuring Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets to far-flung adventures in Vietnam and Cambodia and immersive discoveries of India or Egypt, there is something for everyone. Here, we’ve curated a collection of unmissable itineraries from some of our top river cruise line partners. 

Start the year as you mean to go on with an unforgettable bucket-list adventure. Witness the wonders of the majestic Mekong River as you step aboard Emerald Harmony and set sail on this seven-night fly river cruise. Departing from Phnom Penh, the capital of Cambodia, on 24th January 2026, you’ll pass through Oudong, Tan Chau, My An Hung, Sa Dec, and My Tho, before disembarking in the vibrant Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam.

January is usually one of the most popular months to visit both Cambodia and Vietnam. Cambodia benefits from warm weather and sunny skies during the day, with cooler nights and more comfortable temperatures. It’s widely considered to be an ideal time to explore and immerse yourself in all that Cambodia has to offer. Similarly, Southern Vietnam enjoys warm, sunny, and dry days in January, making it the perfect time to unwind on the beach, visit popular tourist attractions, and wander through markets. Emerald Cruises offers guests the chance to fully immerse themselves in their surroundings, see iconic and historic sites up close, and delve deeper into local cultures, thanks to their wide range of shore excursions. 

After a day spent exploring and venturing out on exciting shore excursions, Emerald Harmony offers a stylish and serene retreat to unwind in comfort. This bespoke Star-Ship was specially designed for navigating the Mekong River and docking in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Onboard, you’ll find a stylish sun & pool deck, a wellness area, and exquisite Asian-inspired dining. 

Experience the splendour of Egypt and the legendary Nile on this luxury Uniworld river cruise, departing 14th February 2026. This indulgent 11-night trip begins on Valentine’s Day, and what could be more romantic than setting off on an adventure and exploring ancient wonders with your significant other? Or perhaps you’ll be celebrating friendship with those closest to you. And because self-love is essential too, a solo escape could be exactly what you need. 

Enjoy a two-night hotel stay in Cairo before transferring to the airport for your flight to Luxor, where you’ll board the impressive S.S. Sphinx. Cruise the legendary Nile River and discover highlights including Dendera, Kom Ombo, Aswan, Edfu, and Esna. You’ll disembark in Luxor and fly back to Cairo for another two-night hotel stay, providing ample time to explore.  

February is widely considered one of the best times to visit Egypt, with cooler temperatures ideal for sightseeing. With Uniworld River Cruises, guests can enjoy a selection of unique shore excursions, designed to bring Egypt’s history and culture to life. Prepare to spend your days marvelling at temples and ancient monuments, and experiencing legendary landmarks such as the Pyramids at Giza and the Great Sphinx, and so much more. 

Life onboard S.S. Sphinx promises to be authentically immersive, with bespoke decor made by local artists and materials sourced regionally, including Egyptian cotton linens, marble and hand-carved wood. You can bask in the sun on a plush lounger on deck, take a dip in the sparkling swimming pool, or relax in the lounge. There are two gourmet dining venues aboard, too, where you can savour delicious dishes. 

A fairytale escape awaits as Scenic transports you along Europe’s most storied waterway, the Rhine, on this incredible seven-night voyage. On 16th March 2026, arrive in picturesque Basel, Switzerland, transfer to the port and step aboard the award-winning Scenic Space-Ship, Scenic Amber. Ports of call on this itinerary include Kehl, Germany; Strasbourg, France; Rastatt, Germany; Mannheim, Germany; Rhine Gorge, Koblenz, Germany; Cologne, Germany; and Amsterdam, Netherlands. 

March marks the beginning of spring, making this sailing the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in nature as the landscapes begin to bloom back to life. Expect early blossoms, budding trees and vibrant green scenery emerging after winter’s chill. During this season, pastel hues begin to appear along the banks of the Rhine River, offering a beautiful setting. It’s also a fantastic time to experience local life in storybook towns and charming cities before the summer rush. With Scenic, every detail of the journey has been carefully considered, including the wide range of shore excursions available. Guests have the opportunity to tailor their experience to best suit their needs and interests. 

Scenic Amber combines breathtaking destinations with luxurious onboard comfort. Guests can relax with state-of-the-art amenities, including a Salt Therapy Lounge, Wellness Area, Fitness Centre, and Vitality Pool, all designed for rejuvenation and balance. Dining is also a highlight, with delicious dishes served for breakfast, lunch and dinner. 

Discover the best of the Douro with this seven-night river cruise aboard MS Estrela. Setting sail from Porto, Portugal, on 9th April 2026, this itinerary visits Régua, Lamego, Pinhão, Vega de Terron, Castelo Rodrigo, Salamanca, Barca d'Alva, Mateus Palace, Entre-os-Rios, and Vila Nova de Gaia, before disembarking in Porto and flying home.

April is a popular month for a Douro River cruise, thanks to lush green landscapes, vibrant spring blooms and mild weather perfect for sightseeing. Travelmarvel’s excursions offer guests the opportunity to immerse themselves in the history and local culture of the destinations visited along the way. From savouring a delicious, traditional dinner at a scenic local quinta, a Portuguese winery, to sampling wines as you take in breathtaking views, there is plenty to be enjoyed. 

MS Estrela is a bespoke river ship designed to navigate the picturesque waters of the Douro River. The Sun Deck serves as the perfect spot to take a dip in the large swimming pool, unwind with a good book on the sun beds, or take in the idyllic passing landscapes as you sink into one of the plush lounge seats. Or, you might relish the opportunity to practice your putt at the Putting Green, or socialise with fellow guests. Onboard, you might also get the chance to enjoy Portuguese folk music and informative history lessons. 

Famed for stunning landscapes and popular landmarks, the Blue Danube River is a must-visit. On 27th May 2026, fly from your local airport to Budapest, where you’ll transfer to the port and embark on Riviera Travel’s MS Geoffrey Chaucer. Prepare for a journey that features stops at many scenic destinations, including Esztergom, Bratislava, Dürnstein, Melk, Salzburg/Linz, and Vienna, before arriving back in Budapest, where you’ll disembark and travel to the airport for your flight home. 

May usually benefits from comfortable temperatures and pleasant weather, making sightseeing even more enjoyable. Nature enthusiasts will rejoice at the sight of the vibrant riverbanks dotted with blossoming flowers and beautiful plants. As well as marvelling at nature and exploring cities and towns, there is so much more to be enjoyed with the wide range of shore excursions. You might discover the extraordinary Esztergom Basilica, visit St Stephen's Cathedral in Vienna, or venture out on a guided tour of Castle Hill in Budapest. A special highlight on this sailing includes a live classical quartet recital with views of Vienna and a Hungarian folklore show in Budapest, both on board the ship. 

Aboard MS Geoffrey Chaucer, there is a real focus on balance and relaxation. The Sun Deck features a refreshing splash pool, comfortable sun loungers, and a putting green. Elsewhere onboard, you can treat yourself to a massage or take a trip to the hairdresser's, where you can also opt for a manicure or pedicure. 

Set out on a spectacular seven-night journey of discovery with Emerald Cruises, departing from Frankfurt on 27th June 2026. Witness the beauty of destinations like Mainz, Rudesheim, Bernkastel, Trier, Cochem, and Koblenz before returning to Frankfurt and disembarking. From vineyard-lined valleys to historic riverside towns, every stop offers a chance to experience the region’s culture, scenery, and timeless charm. With Emerald Cruises, you can enhance your journey with an impressive range of shore excursions, from guided tours and scenic hikes to cycling trips. Highlights may include a Koblenz walking tour with a visit to a traditional beer garden, a guided walking tour of Bernkastel, and a hike to the ruins of Landshut Castle. You may also have the opportunity to visit the iconic Cochem Castle and enjoy onboard entertainment, adding even more memorable moments to your voyage.

In June, the Rhine and Moselle come to life with sunlit landscapes, flourishing vineyards, and comfortable temperatures, making it one of the most enjoyable times of year for a river cruise in these areas. 

Back on board Emerald Sun, make the most of the incredible facilities, especially the Sun Deck. This panoramic outdoor space is the perfect area to bask in the summer sun, admire the fabulous views, and enjoy the Games Area and Putting Green.     

On this 10-night adventure, beginning on 30th July 2026, Uniworld perfectly blends the natural beauty of Slovenia with the romantic charm of Venice. Your journey starts in Ljubljana, the charming and historical capital of Slovenia, with a three-night hotel stay. Here, you might find yourself venturing out on a guided walking tour or visiting the stunning Lake Bled. From Ljubljana, transfer to Venice and prepare to step aboard the luxurious S.S. La Venezia. Since undergoing a complete renovation in 2020, S.S. La Venezia has been celebrated for delivering an enhanced luxury experience inspired by Northern Italy.

This itinerary features many beautiful destinations with plenty to see and do. In Venice, you could visit the Doge’s Palace, Saint Mark’s Basilica, and other incredibly popular tourist attractions. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit Burano, Mazzorbo, and Chioggia. 

June is widely considered an excellent time to visit Slovenia, with warm weather, lush greenery, and a lively atmosphere. Occasionally, there might be some rainfall, so it’s recommended to pack a light raincoat and an umbrella. Similarly, Italy benefits from warm, sunny weather, which makes it an ideal time to visit. 

Uncover ancient wonders, local traditions, and remarkable scenery on this 14-night APT adventure through Vietnam and Cambodia. Fly overnight from London to Siem Reap, where you’ll enjoy a three-night pre-cruise hotel stay providing ample time to explore the wonders of the second-largest city in Cambodia. From watching the sun rise over the famous Angkor Wat to tuk-tuk rides and cooking classes, many bucket-list experiences await. Next, you’ll transfer to Kampong Cham, where you’ll embark your luxury river ship, Mekong Serenity, for an unforgettable 7-night Cambodia and Vietnam river cruise. Your Cambodian journey includes calls at Angkor Ban, Oknha Tey, Phnom Penh, Oudong and Koh Chen, before crossing into Vietnam to visit Tan Chau, Evergreen Island, Sa Dec and Cai Be, ending with disembarkation in My Tho. From here, you’ll continue to Ho Chi Minh City, where you can enjoy a two-night post-cruise hotel stay, before flying back to London.

August is part of the rainy season in both Vietnam and Cambodia, which means you may experience afternoon rainfall and high humidity. For some guests, the lush green landscapes, wildlife spotting, and birdwatching opportunities make this an ideal month to travel. You might also find that it’s more affordable during this time, too. 

The Mekong Serenity is a luxurious vessel combining spacious suites, stylish spaces to relax or socialise, and exquisite dining options. The spacious Sun Deck features plenty of seating to sink into and admire the magnificent passing scenery. Alongside the fantastic onboard Horizon Bar & Grill, you’ll find a sparkling swimming pool, which is perfect for taking a dip. 

Set off on an exceptional 12-night once-in-a-lifetime experience with Uniworld River Cruises. Upon arrival in New Delhi, transfer to your hotel for your two-night stay. Enjoy an expert-led city tour that takes you to the best of New Delhi and introduces you to the fascinating history of this captivating and colourful capital. Next, you’ll check out of your hotel and transfer to Agra, home to the awe-inspiring Taj Mahal, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Uniworld guests often have the opportunity to witness the Taj Mahal at both sundown and sunrise, but it’s a good idea to check that this is included in your itinerary when booking. You’ll enjoy a two-night stay in Jaipur, known as the Pink City, where you might choose to explore a local bazaar, tour the Amber Palace and visit the Jantar Mantar. From Jaipur, you’ll fly to Kolkata, where you’ll embark on the Ganges Voyager II and begin your India river cruise. Along the way, you’ll make stops at unforgettable locations like Kalna, Matiari, Murshidabad, Mayapur, and sail the Ganges River, one of the world’s most sacred bodies of water. Arrive back in Kolkata, where you’ll disembark the ship.   

September in India is known as a transitional season, marking the end of the monsoon. Although there may still be some rainfall, India typically enjoys comfortable temperatures and clear skies at this time of year. This makes it a great time to venture out on the many fantastic excursions hosted by Uniworld. 

Aboard Ganges Voyager II, you can expect lavishly appointed accommodation adorned with hand-painted murals and soft linens. The suites also boast cosy sitting areas, elegant bathrooms with spa-quality products, and a French balcony offering panoramic views. Elsewhere on board, you can spend time in the comfortable lounge, participate in cultural activities and enjoy immersive entertainment, and savour delicious dishes prepared with the freshest and finest ingredients. 

October is generally considered to be one of the best times to embark on a river cruise through the South of France. Bordeaux is a particularly popular starting point, especially for wine lovers, as the region’s harvest season takes place around this time. It’s the perfect opportunity to visit local vineyards and sample the exceptional wines that Bordeaux is famous for. Departing on 29th October 2026, Scenic offers a captivating river cruise filled with charming destinations and memorable excursions. Step aboard Scenic Diamond and journey through the heart of the South of France, calling at Saint-Émilion, Libourne, Pauillac, Médoc, Cadillac, Arcachon, Bourg, Cognac, and Blaye. You’ll then disembark and transfer to the train station or airport. 

Scenic offers plenty of fascinating excursions; you might have the opportunity to tour Bordeaux on a motorbike and sidecar, visit the historic town of Cognac with a tour of the Rémy Martin estate, or find yourself enjoying an exclusive classical concert in Château d’Agassac. No matter what you’re interested in, you’ll find that there’s something for everyone. 

Another French escape awaits in November, this time departing on a round-trip voyage from the capital. Arrive in Paris on 2nd November and transfer to the port where you’ll step aboard S.S. Joie de Vivre and set sail on your 7-night voyage. Your itinerary calls at La Roche, Guyon, Vernon (Giverny), Rouen (Normandy Beaches), Caudebec-en-Caux (Honfleur or Étretat), and Mantes-la-Jolie (Versailles), before arriving back in the ‘City of Light’. Along the way, there’s no shortage of enriching experiences. Whether you’re drawn to history, adventure, or gastronomy, you’ll find something to inspire you, from guided walking tours and scenic bike rides to cathedral visits and gourmet tastings. 

Back onboard S.S. Joie de Vivre, life is just as enchanting. Spend your days taking a dip in the enclosed heated pool, treating yourself to a moment of calm at Club L'Esprit, the onboard spa and wellness centre, or socialising in the brightly coloured lounge. In the evenings, the magic continues as Club L’Esprit transforms into Claude’s, a vibrant bar and entertainment venue with a glamorous atmosphere. It’s the perfect place to listen to local musicians, sip signature cocktails, or attend a cinema screening on select nights. You might even have the opportunity to attend an exclusive epicurean event in the onboard show kitchen, where, under the guidance of a chef, you will prepare an exquisite meal and have the chance to savour your creation. 

Embrace the festive season with a Christmas market river cruise, the perfect way to soak up the magic of Europe at the most wonderful time of year. Christmas markets offer a charming mix of seasonal treats, warming drinks, and beautifully crafted gifts. It’s ideal for last-minute present shopping for others, treating yourself, and simply unwinding as the year draws to an end. 

Arrive in Amsterdam and transfer to the port, where you’ll step aboard Emerald Destiny on 15th December 2026. Enjoy time to explore the city at your own pace, taking in its iconic canals, historic architecture and vibrant atmosphere. Over the following days, continue to Düsseldorf, Cologne, Koblenz, Germersheim, Kehl, Strasbourg, and Breisach. Disembark in Basel on 22nd December, perfectly timed to return home in time for Christmas. This river cruise is brimming with fun excursions; you may find yourself joining a walking tour of Düsseldorf, experiencing the Cologne Christmas markets with a beer experience, and enjoying plenty of guided visits to some of Europe’s most enchanting festive markets.