News

We bring you the latest news on all the latest happenings in the world of river cruising. River Cruise Passenger provides Australian travellers with up-to-date news articles on new cruise ships, exciting destinations, shore excursions, and more. Check our news section regularly to get the scoop on recently launched river cruise ships. Discover details and images of new vessels from lines like Viking, Avalon Waterways, APT and Scenic. Additionally, learn about innovative ship designs and amenities for an unparalleled on-water experience. Moreover, get inspired for your next river cruise vacation by reading our destination spotlights. We cover trending and emerging river ports across the globe – from marquee European cities to lesser-known gems in Asia and South America. In addition, peruse sample itineraries to help plan your perfect cruise. Gain insider tips by browsing our latest excursion features. Read about active walking tours, immersive cultural experiences, once-in-a-lifetime special excursions and more ways to experience ports. Also, see reviews of new shore tour offerings for cruise lines. Furthermore, this site also reports on important industry news like new safety protocols, travel restrictions, deals and more to help you cruise with confidence. Want to stay current on all aspects of river cruising? Bookmark our site for a frequently updated mix of news articles, ship profiles, destination guides and insider advice tailored for Australian travellers. Whether you’re dreaming of a Danube Waltz cruise, sailing the Mekong, or charting the Nile, River Cruise Passenger puts the world of river cruising at your fingertips. Discover the newest ships, itineraries and excursions for an extraordinary river journey.

The Elbe River

Rains save Europe’s rivers as heatwave abates

Despite Europe’s scorching heatwave, which caused nervousness amongst travellers and cruise lines alike, most river cruise itineraries have so far escaped largely unscathed this year. A weekend of rain brought relief, with operators now saying […]

WORDS BY Bernadette Chua . Aug 7 2019
Viking Delling Avignon

Why Australians are surging onto the rivers of France with Viking

Demand for food and wine experiences and historic sites is driving a big jump in Australian passenger on the rivers of France, according to Viking River Cruises. Australian guests are up 20% this year, and […]

WORDS BY Peter Lynch . Aug 6 2019
Scenic azure Douro

Only 24 days to save up to $6,000 per couple

The clock is ticking – many lines are closing their early bird discounts for 2020 itineraries this month, so you only have 24 days to save up to $6,000 per couple. Take your pick from […]

WORDS BY Vanessa Wu . Aug 6 2019
Viking Sigyn in Budapest

Viking Sigyn captain back in custody on suspicion of evidence tampering

A Budapest court has ordered the Ukrainian captain of the Viking Sigyn to be remanded back into custody, the captain’s attorney told reporters last week. Earlier in May, the Viking Sigyn and a local sightseeing […]

WORDS BY Bernadette Chua . Aug 6 2019
Pandaw Indian itineraries

Solo supplements slashed on Pandaw Indian itineraries

Asian river cruise line Pandaw, known for their shallow draft ships, is waiving the single supplement fees on several of its Indian cruises. They have also tailored the expeditions for independent explorers who want to […]

WORDS BY Bernadette Chua . Aug 6 2019
Emerald Waterways

Emerald Waterways to launch its first ship outside of Europe

The countdown is on until the new Emerald Waterways’ ship, Emerald Harmony, makes her debut on the Mekong River. It’s a momentous occasion for Scenic’s sister brand, as it is the first vessel from the […]

WORDS BY Bernadette Chua . Aug 6 2019
Classes on deck

River cruise lines hire “activities managers” as guests demand more action

While river cruising might be perceived as a style of holidaying for older generations, baby boomers and beyond are fitter, healthier and stronger than ever. They’re climbing mountains, going on long hikes and embarking on […]

WORDS BY Vanessa Wu . Jul 24 2019
Dry rivers in Europe

Heatwave and low water levels in Europe may force river cruise itinerary changes

The heatwave in Europe has hit record breaking highs, with countries like France reaching temperatures of up to 41C in Lyon, 33C in Budapest in Hungary and 33C in parts of Germany. The heatwave has […]

WORDS BY Bernadette Chua . Jul 24 2019
New Yangtze River electric ship

The Yangtze River goes green – the first electric ship to debut

The first electric ship is expected to debut on the mighty Yangtze, China’s longest river, by the end of the year. The 100-metre, electric-powered vessel, scheduled for sightseeing cruises on the Yangtze, will provide a […]

WORDS BY Teresa Ooi . Jul 24 2019
AmaMora launches on the Rhine River

AmaMora launches on the Rhine River

APT with AmaWaterways’ newest ship, AmaMora, was christened on the Rhine River this week, the third addition to the line’s fleet this year. AmaMora joins AmaDouro (which debuted on the Douro) and AmaMagna (which debuted […]

WORDS BY Vanessa Wu . Jul 23 2019
American Cruise Lines debuts new ship in New Orleans

American Cruise Lines debuts new ship in New Orleans

The line known for its classic paddlewheel riverboats is launching a second modern vessel, American Harmony, on the Mississippi River.

WORDS BY Vanessa Wu . Jul 23 2019
Budapest parliament house lit up at night

River lines split over night sailings in Budapest

The ban on sailing past Budapest’s iconic illuminated Parliament House by night, has been lifted. But not all river cruise lines are rushing to get back on the water. The government ban was imposed after […]

WORDS BY Bernadette Chua . Jul 23 2019