River cruising is gaining in popularity. And for good reason. I think river cruising is one of the best ways to see Europe, hands down. But which European river cruise lines are the best fit for your family vacation? It can get confusing! Especially since there are so many amazing European river cruise lines. Today, I am sharing a little information about each one. This will help guide you, as you consider the best option for your family trip.
European River Cruise Lines: Which One is Best for Your Family Vacation?
European River Cruise Lines: Which One is Best for Your Family Vacation?
AmaWaterways – A Favorite European River Cruise Line
The quick sum-up: An intimate cruise line (European ships usually have just 148-164 passengers). It sails down the Rhine, the Danube, Mosel, Rhone, Saone, Seine, and Portugal’s Douro River.
Who it’s best for: Affluent, mature travelers who enjoy mingling. Thoughtfully designed public spaces on ships encourage conversation. Most of the other passengers will be fellow Americans, Brits, or Australians. This is a perfect option if your kids are grown up and you are still making memories together while on family vacations.
My favorite feature: Most ships have around 20 bikes on board. These are available free of charge to take for a spin in any city you dock in. It’s a great way to explore. And it’s easy on the knees!
Avalon Waterways
The quick sum-up: This European river cruise line is part of the Globus family of brands. Avalon Waterways operates 16 ships in Europe. Locally sourced wines and top-notch excursions are included in fares.
Who it’s best for: Well-traveled baby boomers who appreciate fine attention to detail. Don’t worry, your older children will love every minute they spend with you on this adventure.
My favorite feature: Well-designed rooms. Most of Avalon’s staterooms in its Suite class are 30 percent larger than the average river cruise stateroom. And this cruise line is serious about maximizing view. Nearly every bed faces a window, not a wall.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
The quick sum-up: An upscale river cruise line with top-notch cuisine, décor, personalized service, and classic itineraries.
Who it’s best for: Travelers who want to truly pamper themselves. Or celebrate a special occasion luxuriously. A Uniworld river cruise is a really special experience.
My favorite feature: Sumptuously decorated rooms, inspired by the locale. Think luxurious fabrics, gilded finishes, fine art, and antiques.
Scenic Cruises
The quick sum-up: A truly all-inclusive experience awaits you on Scenic’s river cruises. All drinks and meals, excursions, and gratuities are included. Plus, you get a private butler.
Who it’s best for: Well-traveled passengers who want an upscale experience. Plus, a modern feel (as opposed to Uniworld’s more traditional, sumptuous décor).
My favorite feature: The Scenic Tailormade program means you can create your own personalized tour. Enjoy a guided experience without the group feel. Scenic supplies you with a portable GPS device. Clip it onto an electric bike that shares highlights along your chosen route. Your GPS will then guide you back to the ship.
Tauck River Cruising
The quick sum-up: A smaller river cruise line from guided tour experts. Tauck provides elegant experiences for passengers who like to learn about the destinations they visit. Tauck provides onboard experts, exploratory excursions, and three cruise directors on board (more than most other cruise lines).
Who it’s best for: Many Tauck cruises are great for couples. However, the line also caters to less traditional river cruisers. Tauck has dedicated multigenerational family cruises and a special program for group travel. Plus, they offer special discounts for solo travelers.
My favorite feature: Tauck has exceptional themed cruises to choose from. Castles on the Rhine, Musical Magic along the Danube, and a gourmet cuisine-themed sailing through France are just a few.
Viking River Cruises – Most Known European River Cruise Line
The quick sum-up: The largest river cruise line in the world, Viking operates about 60 river cruise vessels. Plus, it perhaps has the best name recognition among river cruise companies.
Who it’s best for: This European river cruise line is considered more of a mass-market option. Viking River Cruises are best for more budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind larger ships (many ships have up to 190 passengers).
My favorite feature: Viking’s alfresco dining area, called Aquavit Terrace, is the ultimate place to relax. And not many other river cruise lines have an alfresco dining option.
Allow me to help you decide which river cruise line is best for your next family vacation. I can take all your family’s needs into consideration and then share which European river cruise lines all allow you to make the memories you desire.
So, are you ready to have me create a personalized itinerary for your next family trip on a European river cruise line?
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