Looking for the ultimate river cruise getaway? We’ve curated a selection of itineraries from our trusted partners at the River Cruise Collective, giving Cruise Passenger readers an insight into the very best deals on unforgettable river journeys.
With savings of up to $9600 per couple, Avalon Waterways is leading the way with its variety of discounted European river cruises. Their 15-day Timeless Rivers of Europe: The Rhine and Seine itinerary journeys from Switzerland to France, with a stop in incomparable Paris thanks to a seamless transfer aboard a high-speed train. Their Magnificent Rivers of Europe itinerary also offers savings of up to $9600 per couple, and takes guests through the best of Central Europe, from Budapest to Amsterdam, exploring each unique city’s culture, history and cuisine.
APT’s Best of Vietnam and Cambodia itinerary offers an incredible journey aboard the stunning Mekong Serenity, with immersive stops in Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Ha Long Bay and Angkor Wat. From a three-day luxury cruise through the world-heritage listed Ha Long Bay to a hands-on Vietnamese cooking class at Hoi An’s Red Bridge Cooking School, this itinerary delivers a rich tapestry of authentic experiences. The best part? They’re currently offering savings of up to $8400 per couple.
AmaWaterways Anniversary Sale continues, with savings of up to $1875 per person on their Christmas Markets Cruises and Festive Delights Cruises. Their Colours of Provence (Festive Delights) offers a stunning journey through the South of France, blending nostalgic holiday traditions with the elegance and charm of a seasonal escape.
All-inclusive cruises with Tauck are perfect for stress-free travel, with no hidden costs and no single supplement in select cabins. Their Douro Discovery: A Family River Cruise in Portugal plus Madrid itinerary gives guests an authentic taste of the seldom-visited wine-making region of the Douro River Valley, with included shore excursions in every location.
A&K are inviting guests to venture off the beaten path on their Ultimate Egypt: Pharaohs, Pyramids and a Nile Cruise itinerary, with an intimate journey through Egypt’s striking archaeological and historical sites. With only 34 guests on board Sun Boat III, this exclusive adventure is the pinnacle of luxury exploration. Book this journey before October 31, and you’ll get a reduced deposit and $1500 credit per person — an exceptional offer for this elevated adventure.
1. APT: Best of Vietnam and Cambodia
- This 20-night river cruise completes a round-trip from Ho Chi Minh City.
- Guests will sail aboard the luxurious Mekong Serenity.
- Save $4200 per person ($8400 per couple).
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Best of Vietnam and Cambodia, where timeless culture and rich history unfold along storied shores and riverbanks. Uncover the vibrant pulse of Ho Chi Minh City, wander the lantern-lit streets of charming Hoi An and marvel at the centuries-old architecture in Hanoi. Guests will also spend three incredible days sailing the world-heritage listed Ha Long Bay, one of nature’s most inspiring displays, made up of over 1600 limestone pillars.
Other Signature Experiences include a culinary masterclass at Red Bridge Cooking School, where guests can discover Hoi An’s colourful market and find local ingredients to use, before attending the exclusive class and making local dishes. For a glimpse into local life, join the Hoi An Eco Tour, where you’ll visit a local garden and meet the farmers who work there. You’ll have the opportunity to take part in several different farming activities, guided by expert locals, before setting out on an exploration of the water coconut palm jungle by basket boat.
What’s included:
- Experiences in 17 destinations.
- Freedom of Choice inclusions in four locations.
- Locally inspired dining – a total of 49 meals and a wide range of onboard beverages.
- Seven-night cruise aboard APT’s boutique luxury river ship, the Mekong Serenity.
- Witness the sun rising above Cambodia’s Angkor Wat.
- Dine on a specially selected multi-course fusion meal at the highly awarded Vietnam House in Ho Chi Minh City.
- Discover the beauty of Ha Long Bay during a three-day luxury cruise.
- Attend Hoi An’s Red Bridge Cooking School for a fun and interactive class.
Price:
WAS: $15,495, NOW: $11,295
Book your river cruise here.
2. Avalon Waterways: Timeless Rivers of Europe: The Rhine and Seine
- Explore Switzerland, Germany, France and the Netherlands on this 15-day sailing.
- Journey from Basel to Paris aboard one of Avalon’s award-winning Suite Ships.
- Save up to $9600 per couple.
The highlights:
From fairytale landscapes to cosmopolitan capitals, this memorable river cruise offers a seamless mix of romance, history and indulgence. Your adventure begins in Breisach, the gateway to Germany’s mystical Black Forest, known for its picturesque villages and dark, emerald trees. Next, you’ll explore Strasbourg, a stunning fusion of French elegance and German tradition, nestled at the cultural crossroads of Europe. Cruise through the Rhine Gorge, where vine-clad hills and dramatic cliffs crowned with medieval castles offer one of the most breathtaking river views in the world.
In Cologne, step into 2000 years of history on a guided walk through its charming old town and marvel at its magnificent twin-spired Gothic cathedral on a guided city walk. Continue to Amsterdam, where canals, contemporary flair, and historic beauty come together in one vibrant capital. From there, travel by high-speed train to Paris to begin your journey along the serene Seine River. Savour fine French wine and cheese, admire rolling countryside and explore charming, history-laden towns along the way, guided by your Adventure Host.
What’s included:
- Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favourites.
- Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients.
- Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés.
- Active shore excursions, both included and optional.
- Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director.
- Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day.
- Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges.
Price:
WAS: $14,480, NOW: $9680.
Book your river cruise here.
3. A&K: Ultimate Egypt: Pharaohs, Pyramids and a Nile Cruise
- Cruise the Nile for seven days aboard an exclusive charter of Sun Boat III, an A&K Sanctuary.
- Visit four extraordinary destinations over the thirteen-day trip.
- Book before October 31 for a reduced deposit and $1500 credit per person.
The highlights:
A&K’s incredible Ultimate Egypt: Pharaohs, Pyramids and a Nile Cruise takes guests on an intimate journey through Egypt’s striking archaeological and historical sites. With only 34 guests on board Sun Boat III, this exclusive adventure is the pinnacle of luxury exploration.
Highlights of this adventure include an exhilarating hot air balloon ride over the Nile and the temples that line its shores. Guests will see the storied land from new heights and enjoy the unique perspective after cruising the country’s shores. Alongside must-see activities, such as visiting the tomb of Tutankhamun and marvelling at ancient pyramids, A&K also offer guests exclusive access to stunning sites. Enjoy exclusive, private access to the iconic Great Sphinx of Giza, one of the world’s largest and most mysterious sculptures, alongside a rare opportunity to see the recently discovered Wahtye’s Tomb during a special, privately arranged opening in Sakkara.
What’s included:
- Cruise the Nile for seven nights aboard an exclusive charter of Sun Boat III, visiting less-frequented sites, tombs and temples along the way.
- Fly between destinations aboard aircraft chartered exclusively for A&K guests.
- Venture inside an ancient pyramid on the Giza Plateau.
- Gain insider access to a restricted area at the massive paws of the Great Sphinx.
- An early morning balloon flight over the Nile showcases the monuments of ancient Thebes at sunrise.
- Descend into the tomb of Tutankhamun and visit famed archaeologist Howard Carter’s home.
- In Sakkara, a private opening arranged by A&K affords access to the recently discovered Wahtye’s Tomb.
Price:
From $26,780 per person.
Book your river cruise here.
4. AmaWaterways: Colours of Provence (Festive Delights)
- Cruise from Lyon to Arles aboard the sleek AmaKristina.
- Enjoy tours in every destination as part of this seven-night cruise.
- Save $1875 per person as part of the AmaWaterways Anniversary Sale.
The highlights:
What better way to celebrate the festive season than sailing the stunning South of France? This Colours of Provence (Festive Delights) AmaWaterways itinerary combines romantic cities, food havens and artistic epicentres in an itinerary that enlivens all your senses.
Follow in the footsteps of legendary artists in Arles and Carrières des Lumières, admire the Christmas crèches in Lyon and Avignon, browse vibrant local handicrafts at Christmas Markets throughout the region, and immerse up in nostalgic traditions that the whole family will love, all while enjoying the comfort and effortless elegance of an AmaWaterways getaway.
From red wine and chocolate tasting to truffle farm visits and an array of walking and biking tours, every day brings a new adventure on this varied itinerary.
What’s included:
- 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with French balconies).
- Wellness Program with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes as well as discussions on healthy eating and relaxation techniques, both on board and on shore.
- Immersive tours in every destination.
- Bike tours and hikes.
- Special Interest Tours with knowledgeable guides.
- Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients.
- Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Dinner.
- La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs’ exclusive dining experience.
- Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner.
Price:
WAS: $6438, NOW $4563.
Book your river cruise here.
5. Tauck: All-inclusive savings
- All-inclusive covers all shore and onboard experiences.
- Pay one upfront price, with no additional options.
- No single supplement charges ever for all Category 1 staterooms.
Tauck stands out as the river cruise line that consistently delivers exceptional value through its all-inclusive pricing, offering extensive savings every time, not just during limited-time deals. As such, they proudly promote the benefits of an all-inclusive itinerary to a greater degree than almost any other cruise line, making luxury and comfort a standard, not an upgrade.
If it means a better travel experience, Tauck includes it – aboard and ashore. Exclusive cultural experiences ashore are found nowhere else. All shore excursions. Superb accommodations. All gratuities. Entertainment, admissions, tastings, on-tour transportation, and transfers upon arrival and departure are all covered in one upfront price. And no options are sold, ever.
In addition to the all-inclusive savings, Tauck guarantees that no single supplement is ever charged for all Category 1 staterooms on every itinerary offered. It’s a strong message for single travellers.
Douro Discovery: A Family River Cruise in Portugal plus Madrid
- Cruise for 10 days aboard Tauck’s ms Andorinha, designed especially for sailing the Douro.
- Sail through Madrid, Pinhão, Porto, Peso da Régua, Guimarães and Salamanca.
- From $10,290 per person.
The highlights:
This ten-day tour of Portugal and Spain gives guests an authentic taste of the seldom-visited wine-making region of the Douro River Valley. Tauck’s varied itinerary offers all-inclusive excursions in every city. In Madrid, visit the opulent royal palace, cycle through Madrid’s historic Casa de Campo and peruse art masterpieces at the Prado. Sail to the university town of Salamanca and marvel at its ornate sandstone architecture. Next, you’ll wind along Portugal’s Douro River Valley, the world’s oldest demarcated wine region, before finding miles of mountains and hills carved into vineyard terraces.
In Foz Coa, leave your riverboat for a 4×4 and explore prehistoric rock-art on an incredible safari. You’ll visit medieval towns, castle ruins and palaces as you’re immersed in local history and culture. Other exciting highlights include a kayaking trip down the Douro, a bicycle tour through Vinho Verde country and a three-wheeled taxi sightseeing tour of Porto’s winding streets and baroque churches.
What’s included:
- Seven nights on the Douro aboard a new riverboat designed for Tauck.
- Tauck’s private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions are valued at AUD $4,200.
- A bicycle tour of Porto’s colourful Ribeira district.
- Ride a 4×4 in search of prehistoric art at an archaeological site in Foz Coa.
- Visit to the Museu do Douro, a museum of local viniculture in Peso de Régua.
- Guided visits to the Royal Palace and the Museo del Prado in Madrid.
- Airport transfers upon arrival and departure as noted.
- Unlimited complimentary beverages aboard ship include regional wine, beer, and premium spirits, in addition to specialty coffee, water, and soft drinks.
- 23 meals; service charges, gratuities to local guides, mission fees, taxes and porterage.
Price:
From $10,209 per person.
Book your river cruise here.
6. APT: Western Front Explorer
- Join this deeply moving exploration of the Somme battlefields with APT.
- Sail for 15 days aboard APT Solara or APT Ostara.
- Save $3600 per person.
The highlights:
Your journey begins in the chic city of Amsterdam, where you’ll kick things off with an incredible included experience. Choose between a glass-top boat canal cruise, which will see you gliding through the city’s iconic maze of World Heritage-listed canals, or visit a local cheese store for a tasting of the renowned Dutch Edam and Gouda. Next on your cruise is the city of Arnem, where history buffs can enjoy a trip to the Airborne Museum, or those who wish to hone in their language skills can partake in a fun Dutch language lesson onboard.
The next stop on your journey is Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands, steeped in history and charm. From there, you’ll travel to the Kröller-Müller Museum, located in the heart of the Hoge Veluwe National Park. Here, you’ll enjoy an exclusive, private visit to the museum, exclusively for APT guests, where you’ll discover its sculptural art collection, featuring masterpieces by Claude Monet, Van Gogh, and Pablo Picasso.
Your cruise will continue with stops in Antwerp, where you can visit the Battlefields of Fromelles and the Flanders Field Museum. A two-day stint in the city also gives you time to explore its incredible culinary scene, indulging in Belgium’s renowned waffles and chocolates. Itineraries in Ghent, Veere, Kinderdijk, and Rotterdam offer more opportunities to immerse yourself in history and learn about local architecture, art, and customs. You’ll finish your tour back in Amsterdam, with a serene visit to the Keukenhof Gardens, which encompasses more than 70 acres of renowned gardens and parklands.
What’s included:
- Experiences in 14 destinations.
- 14 nights on a brand-new luxury river ship, the APT Solara.
- Freedom of Choice inclusions.
- A total of 41 meals and a wide range of onboard beverages.
- In-suite dining and beverage service in all suites.
- The services of an expert Cruise Director.
- Transfers, port charges and gratuities.
- Visit the Kröller-Müller Museum, which is open privately for APT guests.
Price
From $11,295 per person.
Book your cruise here.
7. Avalon Waterways: Magnificent Rivers of Europe
- Experience Central Europe over 15 days, travelling through 5 countries.
- Sail aboard one of Avalon’s award-winning ships, either Avalon Illumination, Avalon Impression or Avalon Expression.
- Save $9600 per couple ($4800 per person) off select 2026 sailings.
The highlights
This timeless river cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam takes guests through the very best of Central Europe, exploring its rich culture, history and cuisine. You’ll visit vibrant, dynamic capitals like Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna, famed for their warm hospitality and incredible variety of museums, art galleries and eateries. With a local guide by your side, you’ll be taken to all the must-see spots in each destination, including the famous Heroes’ Square in Budapest, Bratislava’s captivating cobbled Old Town and quaint cafés in Vienna.
Next, you’ll continue through the Wachau Valley, past the dramatic Rhine Gorge, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Taste the local Wachau wines and explore tranquil yet thriving towns, like Dürnstein with its blue and white Baroque-style Stiftskirche; Passau, known for its narrow cobblestone streets and the stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral; and Bamberg, with its town hall straddling the River Regnitz.
Your cruise will wrap up in beautiful Amsterdam, where you can explore the canal-lined streets or join an Avalon Guided Walking Tour, which will take you off the beaten path for a captivating look at the legendary city.
What’s included
- Active shore excursions, both included and optional.
- Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favourites.
- Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients.
- Panoramic windows throughout the ship.
- Elegant, contemporary design & decor.
- Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director.
Price
From $8081 per person.
Book your cruise here.
8. AmaWaterways: Wonders of Colombia
- Embark on a seven-night cruise down the Magdalena River.
- Explore the beauty of Colombia aboard AmaMagdalena or AmaMelodia.
- Save up to $1125 per person on select sailings as part of AmaWaterway’s Anniversary sale.
The highlights
This exciting river cruise takes guests off the beaten path to experience Colombia’s rich culture and abundance of natural beauty. The cruise will begin in Cartagena, exploring the colourful Getsemaní district, known for its lively atmosphere, colourful street art and thriving, diverse cultural scene. You’ll continue to Palenque, an ancient Mayan city known for its well-preserved architecture and sculptures, before touring Calamar by paola (a bicycle taxi for two) and witnessing historic sites such as the Iglesia de la Inmaculada Conception.
Next in the journey includes Magangué, where guests can spot rare birds and colourful wildlife in the rich, biodiverse landscape, before heading to Mompoz, which will be buzzing with energy and sound as local musicians treat you to an exclusive swinging jazz performance. You’ll then cruise through the scenic La Mojana region, known to be one of the most breathtaking stretches of the Magdalena.
A private excursion awaits on the banks of the Mompox arm of the river, where a tour of Santa Barbara de Pinto will immerse guests in local culture. You’ll learn the craft of traditional net weaving and watch skilled artisans hand-roll tobacco. The cruise will wrap up in Barranquilla with an exclusive Carnaval celebration, just for AmaWaterways guests.
What’s included
- Immersive excursions in every destination.
- 7-night river cruise in elegantly appointed twin balcony stateroom.
- Exclusive year-round Carnaval Celebration in Barranquilla and a cumbia performance in El Banco.
- A knowledgeable guide who will accompany you along your river cruise journey.
- Airport transfers with the purchase of air from AmaWaterways.
- Nightly entertainment, including cultural performances.
- The services of one of AmaWaterways’ wonderful Cruise Managers throughout your river cruise and land journey.
Price
From $5281 per person.
Book your cruise here.
