Which River Cruise Line is Right for You?

(212 Reviews)
100% Recommended
Missy Skoog
Maple Grove, MN
The Best of the World in Luxury!
I am a certified Luxury Specialist Travel by Travel leaders! Being a travel adviser for over 30 years has many years of traveling myself to experience and enjoy the world firsthand so I can help guide you in the perfect vacation! My wonder lust ...
I am a certified Luxury Specialist Travel by Travel leaders! Being a travel adviser for over 30 years has many years of traveling myself to experience and enjoy the world firsthand so I can help guide you in the perfect vacation! My wonder lust is limitless.
I have sailed all of the rivers in Europe including on Viking, AMA waterways, Avalon Waterways and Uniworld to name a few. However, Some of my favorite memories are from cruising are the incredible excursions.
- Tasting the best Waffles in Belgium, biking thru tulip fields and enjoying the windmills and the smell of chocolate walking thru the many villages. Rhine river, Tulip time cruise.
- Exploring the Christmas markets on the Danube.
- Shopping the local market and going back to the chef's kitchen to make Ratatouille. Also enjoying the many wineries of the Rhone River.
- Visiting Monet's home in Giverny and the Beaches of Normandy on the Seine river
I have traveled throughout most of the countries in the EU and United Kingdom. Some of favorites include:
- Italy stole my heart! I loved the beautiful rolling hills of Tuscany, It’s the people, the history, the food and of course the wine! It’s a country that calls me back for more. 5 times in not enough.
- Greece is just STUNNING! It's crystal blue waters, white domed buildings, incredible Mediterranean food and the warm sun make for a perfect setting for a honeymoon, cruise or island hopping.
Tailor made vacations are one of my many specialties. The devil is in the details, from the perfect accommodations, tours, guides, trains, transfers and airfare are all things that are needed to create an unforgettable experience. I curate incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience that also include my team and remove all your stress out of planning.But wait, there's more!!!
Some of my more exotic travels include doing a back street culinary tour in Istanbul, getting lost Grand Bazar in Turkey and riding elephants in Thailand!
I also am Aussie specialist and have experienced firsthand the wonders of Australia and New Zealand multiple times. I have snorkeled in “thee Great Barrier Reef”,spent time in the heart of Australia's Red Centre. I was pampered at the exclusive Lizard Island Resort, Thala Beach resort, Richard Brandson's resort and the exclusive Great Ocean Lodge. I have visited the Twelve Apostles, a UNESCO world heritage site, watched on Kangaroo Island. These are just a few of the incredible experiences Australia has to offer. Not to mention the Hobbiton Farm, Sailing America's cup sailboat in New Zealand.
The South Pacific is a DREAM!! Did you say overwater bungalow?? YES!!! I have explored and toured most of the properties in Papeete, Moorea and Bora Bora one of the many educational trips. The bluest waters in the world. It's just spectacular and I am not finished with the many islands, I have yet to visit.
Did I mention Mexico and the Caribbean. Over 70 times to the Riviera Maya along with multiple visits to the Caribbean islands and other destinations in Mexico. I known as the office hotel snob.
There are so many details about your journey. Details they are countless, It’s more than getting there and where you will sleep. It’s all about the experience and creating memories.
“Life is about the adventures you take and the memories you make. So, travel often and live life with open eyes and an open heart.”
I am awaiting your travel request! Your Travelista Missy
Can Be Reached At
1-763-231-8878
River cruising offers an intimate, immersive way to explore some of the world’s most breathtaking destinations. But with so many cruise lines out there—each with its own personality and perks—how do you choose the one that fits your travel style?
As a travel advisor who's experienced the magic of river cruising firsthand, I often get asked this very question. Whether you're dreaming of vineyard visits in Bordeaux, fairytale towns along the Rhine, or Christmas markets in Austria, the right cruise line can elevate your journey from great to unforgettable.
Let’s break down what sets some of the most popular river cruise lines apart:
AmaWaterways
Perfect for: Active travelers, food and wine lovers, and families
AmaWaterways blends luxury with wellness and cultural immersion. You'll find complimentary shore excursions, fine dining (with wine and beer included at lunch and dinner), and a wellness host onboard many ships offering yoga and fitness classes. Their Sip & Sail happy hours and specialty wine cruises make them a favorite for those who enjoy good food and great company.
Avalon Waterways
Perfect for: Independent-minded travelers who still enjoy comfort
Avalon is known for its innovative Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall windows and beds that face the river. Their Active & Discovery cruises offer options like hiking, kayaking, and painting classes. It's a great fit for travelers who like to mix classic sightseeing with something a bit more adventurous.
Viking River Cruises
Perfect for: First-time cruisers, history buffs, and value-focused travelers
Viking is perhaps the most well-known name in river cruising, and for good reason. Their Scandinavian-inspired ships, all-inclusive pricing, and enriching excursions make them a great entry point. Onboard, expect cultural lectures, destination-focused cuisine, and a calm atmosphere.
Scenic and Emerald Cruises
Perfect for: Travelers who love modern luxury or are curious about yachting
Scenic offers an ultra-luxury, all-inclusive experience with butler service and exclusive excursions. Their sister line, Emerald Cruises, is more contemporary and budget-friendly but still offers strong value, especially for younger couples or first-time river cruisers. Both lines have strong reputations for sleek ship design and top-tier service.
Tauck River Cruises
Perfect for: Travelers who want everything handled
Tauck focuses on worry-free luxury. Their cruises are fully inclusive—even gratuities and airport transfers are covered. What makes Tauck unique is their access to exclusive experiences, like private tours of castles or after-hours visits to museums. With fewer guests onboard and a higher staff-to-guest ratio, personal attention is a given.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
Perfect for: Luxury travelers and art & design lovers
Uniworld stands out with its lavish, individually designed ships that feel more like boutique hotels than traditional cruise vessels. Every ship reflects the region it sails in, offering an immersive experience that starts the moment you step onboard. With top-tier service, farm-to-table cuisine, and curated excursions, Uniworld is ideal for those who want to cruise in style.
So, Which Cruise Line is Best for You?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer—and that’s exactly where I come in. With so many unique river cruise lines to choose from, finding the right fit can feel overwhelming. That’s why I take the time to get to know your travel style, interests, and preferences. Whether you’re drawn to laid-back luxury, active adventures, or rich cultural immersion, I’ll match you with the cruise line that fits your vision perfectly.
Let me take the guesswork out of planning. I’m here to guide you every step of the way and create a river cruise experience you’ll never forget. Ready to start your journey? Let’s chat!