River cruising has become one of the most popular and inspiring ways to explore the world. Imagine gliding through breathtaking landscapes, docking in the heart of historic cities, and immersing yourself in the culture, cuisine, and character of every destination along the way. Whether you’re dreaming of Europe’s iconic waterways or the timeless rivers of Asia, today's river cruise lines have transformed the experience into something truly extraordinary. But with so many options, you might be wondering who to set sail with. From boutique luxury and innovative ship design to immersive excursions and all-inclusive comfort, each cruise line offers something unique. In this guide, we take a closer look at four standout names in river cruising – Uniworld, Scenic, Emerald Cruises, and APT.
Uniworld River Cruises
Boasting nearly 50 years of expertise, Uniworld River Cruises has earned a reputation for delivering elegant, all-inclusive river journeys that stay with guests long after they disembark. With a fleet of 19 boutique river ships, Uniworld takes guests to some of the world’s most captivating destinations, from gliding along the picturesque Danube to discovering the charm of Budapest and the musical heart of Vienna. Opulent surroundings, personalised service, and exceptional cuisine enhance each voyage.
Every Uniworld river cruise is thoughtfully designed to help guests fully relax and enjoy their time onboard. A wealth of amenities is included as standard, from award-winning farm-to-table dining and unlimited beverages – including fine wines and premium spirits – to a wide selection of enriching excursions that bring each destination to life. Guests can also enjoy onboard entertainment, daily fitness classes, 24-hour room service, ship-wide Wi-Fi, an onboard laundry room, and complimentary use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks. For those in the River Heritage Club loyalty programme, additional benefits may be available to enhance the experience further.
Scenic River Cruises
For over 38 years, Scenic River Cruises has been dedicated to delivering exceptional service, with their luxurious and innovative Space-Ships sailing along the most iconic rivers of Europe and Southeast Asia. Every itinerary is carefully crafted with guests at its heart, creating a seamless and enriching journey. Set sail along the majestic Rhine, the winding Douro, the spectacular Mekong, and the timeless Irrawaddy aboard one of Scenic’s custom-designed ships, where you’ll dock in the heart of incredible destinations, indulge in world-class amenities and unwind in luxurious, spacious surroundings.
Prepare to experience ‘the Scenic Difference’, where every detail is designed to elevate your journey. Enjoy immersive, handpicked excursions that let you discover each destination in new and engaging ways, experience exceptional service throughout your voyage, and savour outstanding cuisine crafted from fresh, local ingredients with menus inspired by the regions you explore. Scenic also prides itself on setting the benchmark for luxurious suites – elegantly appointed, spacious, and filled with premium amenities. With everything included, you can relax and enjoy true all-inclusive luxury from the moment you step aboard.
Emerald Cruises
Since 2013, Emerald Cruises has been creating unique cruising experiences aboard their modern, innovative Star-Ships, delivering exceptional journeys of outstanding value. Guests can choose from an extensive range of inclusive packages, including dining, gratuities, selected drinks, most shore excursions, and a host of extra touches to make the experience even more special. Emerald Cruises' itineraries feature an exciting array of destinations, from the vineyards of the Rhône and the castles of the Rhine to the timeless landscapes along the Mekong and Volga rivers.
For something truly special, EmeraldPLUS excursions offer unforgettable ways to dive deeper into local life and culture, with every cruise featuring at least one of these exclusive, carefully curated experiences. When you’re not out exploring, there’s plenty to enjoy onboard too – from a heated indoor pool with a retractable roof that transforms into a cinema by night, to the Horizon Bar & Lounge, the perfect spot to enjoy your tipple of choice as you take in live performances from local entertainers or unwind to the gentle sounds of the resident pianist. Dining on board is a real highlight, with expert chefs crafting seasonal menus inspired by the flavours and traditions of each region visited.
APT Cruising
With more than 25 years of experience, APT Cruising offers guests the chance to explore some of the world’s most beautiful waterways and iconic destinations. Sail along Europe’s legendary Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers, or venture further afield to Asia, where the Mekong and Lower Ganges promise unforgettable journeys. Every APT and Travelmarvel river cruise blends luxury, adventure, and discovery. For those seeking a truly luxurious experience, APT’s river cruises are an exceptional choice. If you’re looking for a premium journey with outstanding inclusions, Travelmarvel could be the perfect fit.
From elegant accommodation and expertly crafted fine dining to a welcoming crew who anticipate your every need, life on board is designed for complete comfort and enjoyment. As you glide through breathtaking landscapes, you’ll have the chance to fully immerse yourself in each destination, with insightful local guides bringing history, culture, and hidden gems to life. Whether you’re savouring a regional speciality, relaxing in stylish surroundings, or stepping ashore to explore vibrant towns and historic landmarks, every moment with APT is crafted to inspire.
