Famous River Cruise Around The World for First Cruiser

If you never ever been on a cruise and you are ready for an adventure beyond the shore, this blog is for you.

Hello Travel Lovers, 

My name is Sofia, I am a travel lover who has never considered to go on a cruise until I became a travel agent. I feel very ashamed to say this but I've always felt that cruise is for seniors. I looked down on taking cruise because I thought it was boring.

As I earned my way to be a travel agent, I learnt that traveling on a cruise offers a complete different experience. It can equally fun and exciting as the land tours I did.

Cruise holiday is for everyone - of any age and lifestyle. Cruise tour is chic. Cruise tour is fun. There is something for everyone and I am here to share what I've learned from my intense training about holiday on a cruise.

There are two types of cruise - river and ocean cruise.

River cruise are cruises that sail along the river, while ocean cruise are cruises that sail across the deep blue waters.

As there are a lot of information to share, I split this information into several blog posts starting with river cruises available in different continents. Note, my notes may be not complete but I've got the big names out to keep you excited. 

Famous River Cruises Around the World.

Famous River Cruise in Europe.

I will start by introducing river cruises in Europe. 

Bateau Mouche, Seine River, Paris, France.

The Rhine River, Danube, Douro, and Seine Rivers are some popular rivers in Europe. Each offering unique landscapes and cultural experiences.

Rhine River:
An 800-mile-long waterway from the Swiss Alps to Amsterdam, the Rhine is rich with fairytale scenery and major cities, making it popular for museum lovers and wine lovers.

 
Danube River:
This iconic river flows through Germany, Austria, Hungary, and other countries, offering itineraries that include Vienna, Munich, Prague, and Budapest. 

Douro River:

The Douro River is the third-longest on the Iberian Peninsula. it starts in the Sierra de Urbión mountains in the Spanish province of Soria,t flows westward across northern Spain, then forms part of the border between Spain and Portugal, and continues through northern Portugal. The Douro River cruises are renowned for their stunning scenery, including terraced vineyards and picturesque villages, as well as for the opportunity to experience the region's rich culture, including Port wine and authentic Portuguese cuisine.

Seine River:
The Seine is a great option for exploring Paris and the surrounding region, and spring and fall offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds.

Other popular rivers cruise in Europe

Rhône River, a major river in France and Switzerland, offers a relaxing cruise experience with the chance to try some of the world's best food and wine.

Elbe River, a major water way in central Europe, offers varied landscapes and destinations like Prague, Dresden, and Berlin.

Best Time To Go

The best time for a European river cruise is during the shoulder seasons of late spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October). Spring brings blooming landscapes and milder temperatures. While fall offers beautiful foliage, lower temperatures, and fewer crowds than the summer. 

While the weather is warm, summers (June-August) are peak season with higher prices and larger crowds. If you're interested in experiencing Christmas markets, late November and December can be a magical time for a river cruise, particularly on the Rhine and Danube.

Note of caution 

Be aware that water levels can fluctuate, especially in spring and fall, and can impact certain itineraries. Check water level forecasts before booking, especially for rivers like the Rhine and Danube.

Popular Cruise Company

Here are some popular cruise companies that can take you there. 

• Viking Cruises
• AmaWaterways
• Avalon Waterways
• Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

If you're curious about river cruises in Europe, feel free to reach out to Book With Sofia, and I’d be happy to help! 

Famous River Cruises in Scandinavia

Popular river cruises in Scandinavia often focus on the Göta Canal in Sweden and the fjords of Norway. From Viking ruins to medieval castles, world-class museums, and glacial panoramas, a Scandinavian cruise will tour you through ancient cities and epic landscapes with all of the modern luxuries you could hope for on your next ocean escape.

Architecture, Stockholm, Sweden.

Best Time To Go

The best time to go is typically during the shoulder seasons of late spring (May-June) or early fall (September-October), offering pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and potentially lower prices than the peak summer months.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Spring (May-June):
Pros: Longer daylight hours, milder temperatures, and the chance to see nature come back to life with blooming flowers and wildlife.

Considerations: Weather can still be unpredictable, with potential for rain or cooler temperatures, and some attractions may be opening for the season.

Summer (July-August):
Pros: Warmest weather, ideal for outdoor activities, and the chance to experience the midnight sun in northern regions.

Cons: Peak season with higher prices, larger crowds, and potentially more rain.

Fall (September-October):
Pros: Pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and the chance to see the fall foliage, with some areas experiencing the start of the Northern Lights season.

Considerations: Days are shorter, and temperatures can drop, but the weather is generally still mild.

Winter (November-April):
Pros: The opportunity to see the Northern Lights in the far north, and experience a unique winter landscape with snow and ice.

Cons: Cold temperatures, shorter daylight hours, and potential for harsh weather conditions.

Popular Cruise Company

For popular cruise companies offering Scandinavia river cruises, consider Viking,  AmaWaterways, and  Avalon Waterways.

Interested in river cruises in Scandinavia? Contact me at Book With Sofia, and I'll be glad to help you out!

Famous River Cruise in the Balkans

The Balkans, also known as the Balkan Peninsula, is a region in southeastern Europe, generally bordered by Italy to the northwest, Hungary to the north, and Greece and Turkey (or the Aegean Sea) to the south.

 
Many cruises focus on the Danube River, which flows through several Balkan countries.

Hungarian Parliament and Danube River, Budapest, Hungary 

Cruises often include visits to historical sites, cultural attractions, and charming towns along the river such as Budapest, Belgrade, and Bucharest, and offering itineraries to explore countries like Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania. 

Best Time To Go

The best time for a Danube River cruise is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October), offering pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and potentially lower prices compared to the peak summer months.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Spring (April-May):
Offers milder weather, blooming landscapes, and fewer tourists than the summer months. However, be aware that spring can be a bit rainy and water levels might be high due to snowmelt, potentially causing some disruptions to river travel.

Summer (June-August):
Is the peak season for Danube cruises, with warm and sunny weather, making it ideal for outdoor excursions. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices.

Fall (September-October):
Brings a special charm to Danube River cruises with pleasant weather, stunning fall foliage, and fewer tourists than the summer months.

Winter (November-March):
While winter is the least popular time for Danube cruises due to colder temperatures, some cruise lines offer special Christmas market cruises in December, allowing you to explore festive stalls in cities along the Danube.

Other factors to consider:

Water Levels: Spring and early summer can see higher water levels due to snowmelt, potentially causing some disruptions to river travel.

Crowds: Summer is the busiest time, while spring and fall offer a more relaxed experience.

Budget: Shoulder seasons (spring and fall) often offer better deals than peak summer.

Personal Preferences: Consider whether you prefer warm weather and longer daylight hours (summer) or cooler, more relaxed conditions (spring/fall).

Popular Cruise Company

• AmaWaterways.
• Viking River Cruises.
• Adventures by Disney.
• Avalon Waterways.
• Scenic River Cruises.
• Emerald Cruises.

Feel free to reach out to me at Book With Sofia to learn more to these places.

Famous River Cruise in North America (USA and Canada)

Moving to the next continent - North America. 

Three most popular river cruises in North America are the Hudson River, the Mississippi River, and the Columbia and Snake Rivers. They offer diverse experiences from historic plantations to Pacific Northwest.

Northeast America River Cruise

The Hudson River Valley is one of the famous river cruise in Northeast America. It is renowned for its vibrant fall colors.

 

Best Time To Go

Peak foliage season is the most popular time to go. It usually runs from mid-October through early November in the mid-Hudson Valley, but the exact timing can vary each year depending on factors like rainfall.

Other Seasons:

While fall is a popular time, spring, summer, and even winter can offer unique experiences.

 
Spring: Offers the chance to see new blooms and milder temperatures.
Summer: Features long, sunny days and balmy evenings, with the chance to enjoy the river and surrounding areas.
Winter: Some companies may interrupt service in January and February, but most continue operating and only cancel trips in case of extreme weather conditions.

Other cruises that are equally popular are

• Cruise through New England, exploring maritime history from Providence to Newport.
• Cruise along Maine's coast.
• Cruise from Boston to New York.
• Cruise from Portland, New England to Toronto, Canada.

Interested to visit these places? You can reach out to me at bookwithsofia.com I can help answer any questions you may have. 

Travel Considerations

Check for specific cruise schedules and itineraries, and be aware that fall foliage cruises can be popular, so booking in advance is recommended

Popular Cruise Companies:

American Cruise Lines is the primary river cruise line offering Hudson River cruises, including fall foliage itineraries.

The Southeast of America River Cruise

Mississippi River Cruises is a famous river cruise in the southeastern United States. Starting from the  Lower Mississippi River from New Orleans, the cruise offering a journey through the heart of the South with stops in Louisiana and Mississippi.

Architecture in New Orleans, USA. 

 
Other popular Southeast River Cruises:

• Cruises along the Chesapeake Bay.
• The sun-kissed treasures of the Florida Gulf Coast.
• The Tennessee River from Chattanooga to Nashville.
• The history of the American Revolution on a cruise along the East Coast.

Best Time To Go

There are three key seasons to cruise the Southeast: spring, fall, and winter. Springtime is great for mild weather, blooming flowers, and lighter crowds. Fall is the perfect time to see the magnificent leaves turn without the cold. Winter cruises offer a warm escape, festive holiday cheer, and serene coastal landscapes.

Popular Cruise Companies

• Viking River Cruises: Known for their "New Orleans & Southern Charms" itinerary.
• American Cruise Lines: Offers a variety of Mississippi River cruises and other East Coast itineraries.
• American Queen Voyages: Specializes in river cruises, particularly on the Mississippi.

Again, feel free to ask me any questions about these river cruises, at bookwithsofia.com. I am happy to help. 

The Pacific Northwest America

Popular river cruise in the Pacific Northwest of America is the Columbia and Snake Rivers cruise.

These cruises typically start in Portland, Oregon, and travel up the route of Lewis and Clark, offering scenic views of the Columbia River George, Hells Canyon, and potentially continuing into the Snake River, which forms part of the border between Oregon and Idaho.

Main Highlights

• Columbia River Gorge: A dramatic canyon landscape with towering cliffs and waterfalls, including Multnomah Falls.

• Hells Canyon: A deep gorge, known as the "Grand Canyon of the West," that's a popular spot for whitewater rafting and hiking.

• Astoria, Oregon: A historic port city at the mouth of the Columbia River, known for its maritime history and charming atmosphere.

• Lewis and Clark's Route: These cruises follow the path of the famous Lewis and Clark expedition, offering insight into the history of the region.

• Wine Tasting: Some cruises offer wine tastings, as the Columbia River region is known for its vineyards and wineries.

• Bonneville Dam: You can see the fish ladders at Bonneville Dam, a marvel of engineering. 

Best Time to Cruise:

The prime cruising months are from April to October, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are vibrant.

Popular Cruise Companies:

• American Cruise Lines
• AdventureSmith Explorations
• Lindblad Expeditions-National Geographic.

You can reach out to me at bookwithsofia.com for more details. 

Famous River Cruise in Asia

I now bring you to Asia. 

For a famous and popular river cruise experience in Asia, consider a Mekong River cruise through Vietnam and Cambodia, offering a journey through vibrant cultures, ancient temples, and stunning landscapes.

Ang Kor Wat, Cambodia, Unesco Heritage.

Highlights

During your cruise, you may the experience to explore the following : 

Cambodia: Explore ancient Angkor Wat and the vibrant city of Phnom Penh.

Vietnam: Discover the bustling markets of Ho Chi Minh City, the serene beauty of the Mekong Delta, and the historical sites of Hanoi.

Nature: Witness the lush landscapes, floating markets, and diverse wildlife along the river.

Other Notable Asian River Cruises

Yangtze River Cruises (China)
Cruise the Three Gorges and explore the historical sites along the Yangtze River, China's longest river.

Ganges River Cruises (India)
Experience the spiritual and cultural heart of India along the sacred Ganges River.

Kerala Backwaters Cruises (India)
Discover the serene beauty of Kerala's backwaters, a network of canals and lagoons.

Irrawaddy River Cruises (Myanmar)
Explore the exotic landscapes and culture of Myanmar along the Irrawaddy River.

Halong Bay Cruises (Vietnam)
While not a river, Halong Bay is a popular destination for cruises, offering stunning views of limestone karsts and caves.

Ha Long Bay, Vietnam

Best Time To Go

For an Asia river cruise, the best time to travel, especially for the Mekong River, is during the dry season (November to April), offering pleasant weather and calm river conditions.

Here's a more detailed breakdown

Mekong River

• Dry Season (November to April): This is the most popular time for Mekong River cruises, with sunny skies, dry conditions, and lower water levels, making navigation easier.

• Wet Season (May to October): While the wet season brings lush landscapes and potentially fewer crowds, it also means more rain, higher water levels, and potentially some itinerary adjustments.

• Specifics:November to January: Considered the optimal time with the wet season just passed and the sun not too hot.

• August to early October: If you want to experience the floating markets on Tonle Sap during the peak of the wet season, this is the time to go.

Other Asia River Cruises

• Yangtze River: Generally scheduled from April through October, with the most agreeable temperatures in spring and fall (April-May; September-October

Popular Cruise Companies 

• Avalon Waterways
• Emerald Cruises
• Viking asia

To learn more, you can reach out to me at bookwithsofia.com.

Famous River Cruises in the Middle East and Africa

We are not moving to the continent near the Saharas, Africa. 

The Nile River in Egypt, offering a journey through ancient wonders and vibrant culture, or the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers in southern Africa, combining game viewing and cruising.

Luxor Temple, Luxor, Egypt.

The Nile River Cruises in Egypt, allows you to experience ancient Egypt, from Luxor to Aswan, with visits to iconic sites like the Karnak and Luxor temples, the Valley of the Kings, and the temples of Edfu and Kom Ombo.

The Chobe and Zambezi River Cruises in Southern Africa, are known for their wildlife, including the opportunity to see Victoria Falls.

Victoria Falls, between Zimbawi and Zambezi Rivers

Best Time To Go

The best time to travel is generally during the dry season, from October to April, when temperatures are mild and comfortable for sightseeing.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Nile River Cruises (Egypt):

The ideal time is from October to April when temperatures are cooler (around 20-25°C or 68-77°F) and perfect for exploring ancient sites like the Valley of the Kings and the Pyramids.

African River Cruises (e.g., Chobe River, Zambezi River):

The dry season (May to October) is generally considered the best time for river cruises in these areas due to increased wildlife viewing opportunities and fewer mosquitos.

Specifics for Chobe River/Victoria Falls:

The later in the dry season you travel (September is ideal), the more animals you're likely to see, including elephants, buffalo, and predators.

Other Considerations

Wet Seasons

While the wet season (late November to early April) offers increased vegetation and opportunities to see migratory birds, wildlife spotting can be more challenging as animals are less likely to be near the river.

Shoulder Seasons:

The shoulder seasons (May and September) can also be a good time to travel, as the crowds are thinner and prices may be lower, while still enjoying pleasant weather.

Summer months:

If you don't mind the heat, the summer months (June to August) can also be a good time to take a Nile River cruise, as the crowds are thin and prices are low.

Popular Cruise Companies

• Silver Sea
• Viking
• Collette

Famous River Cruise in New Zealand

Moving into another part of the world, Australia and New Zealand. 

The Milford Sound, New Zealand.

Here is what I found. 

New Zealand Cruises - Going through Milford Sound, a stunning fiord in New Zealand's Fiordland National Park, are incredibly popular, offering breathtaking views of towering mountains, waterfalls, and wildlife.

Great Barrier Reef Cruises - Exploring the Great Barrier Reef off the coast of Queensland, Australia, is a must-do for many, with cruises offering opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and seeing the vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

Tasmania Cruises - Cruises to Tasmania, an island state of Australia, allow exploration of its natural beauty, including rugged coastlines, national parks, and unique wildlife like Tasmanian devils.

Sydney Harbor Cruises - Enjoying a cruise of Sydney Harbor, with views of the iconic Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, is a classic Australian experience.

Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge, Australia.

Best Time To Go

For river cruises in Australia and New Zealand, the best time to travel is during the Southern Hemisphere's spring (October-November) and summer (December-February), offering pleasant weather and fewer crowds than peak season.

Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Australia:

Spring (September-November): Mild, pleasant weather, ideal for exploring the Outback and coastal regions.

Summer (December-February): Hot and humid in the north, but warm and sunny in the south.

Shoulder Season (March-April): Good weather in the south, and the beginning of the end of the wet season in the north.

New Zealand:

Summer (December-February): Longest daylight hours, ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the islands.

Spring (October-November): Mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and blooming landscapes.

Shoulder Season (March-April): Still pleasant weather, particularly in the North Island, and the start of the fall season.

Other Considerations:

Cyclone Season: Be aware that the northern regions of Australia and some Pacific Islands experience cyclone season during the summer months (December-March).

Crowds: December and January are peak tourist seasons in both countries, so expect larger crowds and potentially higher prices.

Weather variability: Both countries can experience unpredictable weather, so be prepared for some changes, especially in the South Island of New Zealand.

Popular Cruise Companies

• Viking
• Silversea
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
• Celebrity Cruises
• Seabourn
• Kensington Tours
• Oceania
• Holland America
• Norwegian
• Princess
• Royal Carribbean

Conclusion

As you can see, there is so many rivers to expore each with its own uniqueness and charm. I really hope you find this blog useful. Next week, I will break down this even further into the profile for each cruise company, so you know what to look out for your next cruise.

Until next time. 

Safe Travel!

Sofia. xx