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The Best Luxury River Cruises

Thought ocean liners were the only option? Think again.

By Elite Traveler

While country-hopping ocean cruises have become the favorable option for many, there are still a wealth of luxury river cruises traversing along the world’s most famous waterways. And thanks to the limited room, you’ll often find that river cruise ships are far smaller meaning that there are fewer people onboard and more intimate experiences to be had. 

The more intimate feel extends to the ports of call too. While most ocean cruise liners will have similar stopping points (meaning all but guaranteed crowds when you embark) river cruises have the luxury of calling at lesser-visited cities and destinations along their route.

Read on to discover the world’s best luxury river cruises, from expeditions along the Nile to meanders down the Seine.

[See also: The Top Cruises for an Adventure in 2023]

Crystal River Cruises

No matter what voyage you embark on with Crystal Cruises , be it ocean or river, you’re in for a five-star experience, think: butler service, a one-to-one (or more) guest to staff ratio, in-room technology, world-class wine and champagne and Michelin-inspired dining. Its five fleet sail through Vienna, Amsterdam, Budapest and Basel, all varying in duration of trip. On any cruise, you will sail the Rhine, Main and Danube and get up close and personal with the quaint villages in Germany, Belgium, Slovakia, Hungary, Austria and the Netherlands. crystalcruises.com

Tauck River Cruises

Tauck offers European river cruises, small-ship cruises, land journeys, group trips and special events. The river cruises in particular are focused on cultural immersion in smaller medieval villages and quaint towns along the way with a strong focus on art and culture along the way. While Tauck hosts trips on the Danube, through Budapest and Amsterdam, through the Douro River Valley and the Seine and through the Swiss Alps, the Savoring France: Paris, Lyon and Provence excursion is perfect for food and wine lovers.

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AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways has debuted three new ships:  AmaMagna , twice the width of traditional cruise ships;  AmaMora , a twin balcony ship; and AmaDouro , sailing exclusively on the Douro River. There are plenty of exciting additions to each ship, including a Zen Wellness Center and more spacious staterooms and full-balcony suites. AmaWaterways sails on rivers worldwide, including the Mekong in Cambodia and Vietnam, Botswana; Chobe River in Africa; and rivers in Europe, including the Rhine, Danube, Douro, Seine, Moselle and more. There are specific wine tours, speciality tours and Christmas tours to book, too.

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Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Uniworld’s Boutique River Cruise collection offers some of the most luxurious amenities in the world paired with custom itineraries you’d be hard pressed to find anywhere else. It’s one of the most sought-after river cruise lines for its boutique-hotel-like aesthetic, bespoke shore excursions, wellness programming and gastronomy. Travel to India on the sacred Ganges River or on the Yangtze in China. There are also Russian excursions; Italian journeys and themed cruises that allow you to connect with your heritage, learn more about local cuisine and wine or focus on culture through a Uniworld Signature Lecture Series. Floating Art Workshops are also a unique offering.

uniworld.com

[See also: Orient Express to Launch World’s Largest Sailing Ship]

Aqua Expeditions

Boutique luxury river and yacht cruise line, Aqua Expeditions, sails the Peruvian Amazon, Mekong River and East Indonesia, offering something different than your traditional European cruises. There is a one-to-one guest to staff ratio on each ship and the line has a strong focus on sustainable practices. A sleek, modern design feels like you’re in a five-star boutique hotel or on a yacht, and with Aqua Blu, you actually are on a yacht. Aqua Blu will launch in November 2019 and is Aqua Expeditions’ first ocean explorer yacht. Every inch of all the cruise ships and yacht are ultra-luxe, with a private cinema, sun deck and spa.

aquaexpeditions.com

[See also: Ship Mates: Cruise Lines Joining Forces with Celebrity Partners]

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Scenic Space-Ships in Europe

It’s more than a river cruise... it’s an ultra-luxury Scenic Space-Ship, designed to offer maximum space and comfort for up to 163 guests. 

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9 best river cruises in Europe

River cruising in Europe is one of those delightfully slow and easy modes of travel. You're in a small floating hotel, gliding past castles, vineyards and scenery that changes by the hour as you explore calm inland waters.

Daily guided walking tours and other excursions provided by the river line take you to key UNESCO World Heritage Sites and other city and village attractions you've come to see. Or, you can choose to explore on your own, which is easy since your ship often will dock right in town.

Lazy afternoons on the ship afford the time to sit in a lounge chair and watch the world go by — kids swimming from the riverbanks, farmers tending their crops, river birds flapping their wings — as you glide to your next destination.

Which European river should you explore? The choices are broader than you might expect.

The main rivers in Europe are the Danube and the Rhine and their tributaries. They are, by far, the most popular, doable either on one-week segments or longer itineraries that combine areas and sometimes combine rivers. Even if your cruise is only a week, don't underestimate the allure of relaxing for seven days on a river in France or on the dreamy Douro in Portugal.

Here are the best river cruises in Europe.

Upper Danube

When it comes to Europe river cruises, the Upper Danube is a perfect seven-night starter sailing. It takes you through centuries of history as you explore Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary.

Ships visit such cultural hubs as Vienna, with its opera house, art museums and elaborate royal palaces, and Budapest, Hungary, with its magnificent architecture and modern vibe. If your ship passes the Hungarian Parliament Building at night, you're in for a treat; magnificently lit, it's one of the most photographed sights on the river.

Along the route between Melk and Krems in Austria, you cruise through the Wachau Valley, a key wine-growing region producing rieslings and gruner veltliners, with sipping opportunities available. It's also a great place to bike, which is why it's nice to sail with lines such as AmaWaterways that carry bikes on board for passengers to use.

You might also have the option of a side trip to Salzburg, Austria, the birthplace of Mozart — and also where several scenes for the movie "The Sound of Music" were filmed. A surprise for many is Old Town Bratislava, Slovakia, which might not have been on your must-do list but charms with its beer culture and castles.

Related: Best river cruise lines around the world

Lower Danube

For a deep dive into Eastern Europe's past and present, the fascinating Lower Danube route between Budapest and Bucharest, Romania, explores history from the medieval times and Victorian era of Dracula to the rise of communism and the Bosnian War.

The seven-night river cruise takes you through Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania. The most beautiful stretch of the river is a 62-mile passage through a gorge between the Balkan and Carpathian Mountains. It's also one of the deepest stretches of river in the world.

Other sights accessed during shore excursions via bus include Bulgaria's Belogradchik Rocks, which are naturally carved towering red rock pinnacles that appear to take forms such as "Madonna with child," and Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria's stunning medieval capital.

Related: I thought river cruises were just for retirees, but a Disney river cruise proved me wrong

When it comes to top cruising rivers in Europe, the Rhine wins for natural beauty and fairy-tale landscapes. A cruise on the river between Amsterdam and Basel, Switzerland — a typical one-week route — takes you past expanses of slope-side vineyards, forests and mountains; historic cities; and medieval half-timbered villages.

That's even before you get to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 40-mile stretch of river, between Rudesheim am Rhein and Koblenz, Germany, has castles galore — you might imagine Rapunzel letting down her hair — and Lorelei, the legendary slate rock said to distract sailors with the mesmerizing song of a maiden.

The French city of Strasbourg, with its famous Gothic cathedral and robust Alsatian culinary scene, is often a favorite stop on Rhine itineraries. Other highlights include Heidelberg, Germany, and its imposing castle.

Related: Christmas market river cruises: What to expect on a holiday sailing

Sure, you can catch sight of the Eiffel Tower when boarding a river ship in Paris, but you can do that while staying in a hotel, too. The real highlights of a Seine cruise are sailing on the river outside the city toward the English Channel and a visit to the beaches in Normandy, France, for a perspective on World War II.

Your visit there and to the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, as well as other memorials and monuments to the fallen, is a poignant experience (one that requires a two-hour bus ride from your ship, however). Avalon Waterways brings a World War II expert on board to add insight on select sailings.

Other treasures exist along the Seine, not the least of which is Giverny, France, the home and gardens of impressionist artist Claude Monet. If you are a fan of his art, much of the property might seem familiar.

In historic Rouen, France, where Joan of Arc was martyred in the Middle Ages, stop by Rouen Cathedral (another subject of Monet) before losing yourself on cobblestone streets with wonderful cafes.

Related: River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat

Bordeaux river cruises are different from other water routes because you explore two short waterways — the Dordogne and Garonne rivers — and the Gironde estuary in southwest France.

You'll spend more time ashore than floating down the river on this itinerary, with your ship docked for two nights in the city of Bordeaux, France, a miniature Paris with grand 18th-century buildings. Who cares when you are in the epicenter of French culture in one of the most celebrated wine regions in the world?

Bordeaux serves up the opportunity to sip Medoc, Margaux, Saint Emilion, Pomerol and Sauternes wines as you expand your wine education. You'll visit vineyards and gorgeous chateaus. Your cruise line might even host a dinner at a wine estate one evening. If you plan your cruise for September or October, you'll be able to admire the grape harvest.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for solo travelers

Rhone and Saone

Another must for wine lovers is exploring the interior of France, sipping Cotes du Rhone in famous wine-making regions such as Hermitage and Chateauneuf-du-Pape in Provence and Beaune in Burgundy.

Rhone and Saone river cruises typically sail between Lyon and Arles or Avignon, and they're top-loaded with such nonwine attractions as the Roman aqueduct Pont du Gard and the Roman Arles Amphitheater, as well as the massive Palais des Papes (Papal Palace) in Avignon. You'll also be able to take in the lavender fields, haystacks and other scenes that inspired painters like Paul Cézanne and Vincent van Gogh.

Related: 4 luxury river cruises on wow-worthy itineraries

For a lazy, dreamy, wonderful river cruise experience, nothing quite beats exploring the wine regions of Portugal on the Douro, one of the major rivers through the Iberian Peninsula. The home base for these river cruises is Porto, Portugal, with its historic city center, spectacular bridges and port houses.

On one-week cruises, you'll follow the river 130 miles past green hillside vineyards in the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO-recognized destination, before turning around at the Spanish border. The river cruises typically include a visit to the university town of Salamanca in northern Spain. Viticulture is very much the lesson en route, as you learn about port production on the "River of Gold."

Related: My latest river cruise adventure included kayaking, biking and hiking — here's how yours can, too

Due to fluctuating water levels and narrow passages, the Elbe is a challenging river that runs 680 miles between the Czech Republic and Germany. Historically, it formed part of the border between East Germany and West Germany.

River cruising here is a rare experience. Viking is one of the few lines that visits (another is the French line CroisiEurope), offering 10-day itineraries that combine hotel stays in the cities of Berlin and Prague with a stretch of river between Prague and Wittenburg, Germany.

The cruises are on ships built specifically for the Elbe route. They stop in places such as resurgent Dresden, heavily bombed during World War II but expertly rebuilt; the Saxon Switzerland region of Germany with its striking sandstone rock formations; and the spa town of Bad Schandau.

Related: Are European river cruises right for families? Here are the pros, cons and best options for kids

The Po in northern Italy is tidal, making it another challenging waterway. But where else can you easily combine a visit to Venice, Italy, with a river cruise? Uniworld Boutique River Cruises does the Po in high style with its 126-passenger S.S. La Venezia, completely decked out with a sense of place, from Fortuny fabrics and Murano glass to its gilded accents.

The one-week route doesn't take you far but does include the walled city of Padua, the charming fishing village of Chioggia and Murano, home of renowned glassblowing artisans.

For those looking for a longer experience, Uniworld cleverly combines a Po cruise with luxury rail journeys to countries like Turkey and Switzerland.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

• The River Experience

Discover a truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury river cruise, in a class of its own.

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Europe and South East Asia with Scenic

Enjoy an unrivalled experience on an ultra-luxury river cruise. Our custom-designed ships offer you space to relax and indulge, knowing everything is taken care of – including exclusive Scenic Enrich  experiences and personalised Scenic Freechoice  excursions for you to explore even further.

The Scenic Difference

The difference is in the detail.

With over 38 years of experience creating unforgettable itineraries in Europe and South East Asia, Scenic places you, our guest, at the heart of every decision we make. From our fleet of award-winning 5-star river ships and an exceptional crew trained to anticipate your every need, to every handcrafted itinerary affording you the finest experiences, this is more than a 5-star river cruise, it’s truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury in a class of its own.

Everything included

We set the standard for 5-star all-inclusive luxury river cruising, where all you would expect to pay extra for is included in the price. We are best in class and every trip is our opportunity to raise the bar even higher.

World-class custom-designed ships

Take the small ship experience to the next level and immerse yourself in the heart of every destination. Dock centrally and, after a day of exploration, return to spacious surrounds complemented by  world-class amenities.

The most luxurious suites

We set the benchmark for luxurious suites on river cruise ships. Elegantly appointed with premium amenities, they are some of the largest suites in Europe and Asia, and home to a collection of technological innovations 

Immersive, handpicked excursions

You can expect unforgettable exclusive concerts in palatial settings and decadent dinners at  ancient fortresses, while wonderful daily excursions are expertly crafted to suit  your pace and preferences – each provide a multi-dimensional exploration of  every destination.

Culinary expertise designed to delight

Your expert chefs craft delectable dishes using fresh, local ingredients. Inspired by the waterways of Europe and Asia, your epicurean journey will be world-class and complemented by sommelier-paired wines.

Incomparable service

Our guests are at the heart of everything we do, and every minute you spend with us promises to be truly spectacular. Exceptional service on board and onshore enables you to seamlessly enjoy each wonderful destination.

The Ultra-Luxury   Ship Experience

Why   travel on a Scenic river cruise?

Designed to be the ultimate ultra-luxury river cruise experience of a lifetime, our custom-designed ships cater for smaller guest numbers. Taking you to extraordinary regions and offering you space to relax and unwind as you explore multiple magic towns and cities, on a Scenic river cruise you'll create stories for life.

Ultra-Luxury Suites

The spacious suites are elegantly appointed and are your private sanctuary. They include premium amenities including a Queen-size Scenic Slumber Bed, a pillow menu, luxurious bathroom and advanced air circulation systems. Discover your very own all-weather window to the world with our signature Scenic Sun Lounges – available in all suites on our Mekong River cruise and in Royal, Junior and Balcony Suites on our Europe Space-Ships.

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Dining & Beverages

Whether you prefer a fine dining experience, a relaxed café setting or dining in the privacy of your suite, you’ll find delectable options to suit your tastes and mood. Premium international beverages^ – wine, beer, cocktails, spirits – are included and available all day, every day. It’s more than outstanding food and wine – it’s the fresh flavours of each region prepared by our innovative chefs.

Fitness & Wellness

Keep up your fitness in the fully equipped gym or unwind with a spa treatment* or dip in the Vitality Pool+. Choose from a range of wellness facilities available on board to nourish your mind, body and soul, your way.

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Premium All-Inclusive Europe River Cruises

Redefine luxury travel with ultra lux river cruises – exclusive to luxury escapes.

Set sail on an unparalleled journey with Riverside Luxury Cruises, where celebrated elegance intertwines with impressive refinement and opulent luxury will change the way you travel forever.

With picture-perfect itineraries and our exclusive Ultra LUX offers, there’s never been a better reason to indulge in the epitome of luxury on board Riverside Luxury Cruises.

An unrivalled two-staff-to-four-guest ratio and dedicated butler service guarantees a world-class experience and undivided attention to your every need. All-inclusive dining showcasing regional menus is a given, and sprawling staterooms promise more space than you’ll know what to do with.

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Experience an, unique luxury river cruises in europe.

A river cruise touches the senses. It combines space and time to create a contemplative experience. Sitting on the upper deck in an intimate atmosphere, watching unspoiled, beautiful scenery pass by – these are moments you will never forget.

Marvel at the engineering prowess of the locks. Immerse yourself in the culture of Europe's most beautiful cities. Enjoy the culinary specialties of the regions the ship passes through. And you only have to pack your suitcase once. Yes, a river cruise in Europe with Riverside Luxury Cruises also means setting out to find yourself.

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TRAVEL WITH RIVERSIDE LUXURY CRUISES

Luxury on water, three ships for your luck.

Do you enjoy personalized service? Do you appreciate the interplay of culture and nature as much as an uncompromising culinary experience? Do you love the fusion of space and time and are you looking for experiences that you will talk about for years to come? And yes, you like it sophisticated? Then there's a good chance that a river cruise in Europe with Riverside Luxury Cruises will be the trip of a lifetime. Our ships are second to none - and they make guests happy. Take a look at the Mozart - the first ship in our fleet, it's something special.

The Riverside Mozart is an exceptional vessel. As the largest and most luxurious river cruise ship on the Danube, she, like her famous namesake, knows how to captivate and surprise her guests.

He was considered meticulous and obsessed with detail. His famous Boléro is an idiosyncratic composition that nevertheless appeals to a wide range of tastes. The Riverside Ravel bears his name with good reason. Like the Boléro, it glides slowly along the Rhône and Saône rivers in a steady rhythm. Curious? Great! We work hard to put together the best trips for you.

He was a charmer. Poetry and charm characterized his work. His compositions were considered to be the beginning of a "new music" and the tours with the Riverside Debussy can also be seen as the beginning of a new kind of river cruise on the Rhine. Are you curious? Great! We are working at full speed to put together the most beautiful trips for you.

OUR SERVICE PROMISE

When you book a cruise with Riverside Luxury Cruises, you experience unparalleled luxury. Amazement in every suite. The finest fabrics and materials. Every guest enjoys butler service – and an incredible amount of space.

EXCEPTIONAL ENJOYMENT

Culinary on board.

Luxury means choice. On our river cruise ship, the choice is yours. Several restaurants offer culinary delights from all over Europe. You can feel where you are not only by the scenery, but also by the creations of our chefs. As the ship glides along, the specialties on board change, inspired by the different regions. Accompanied by exquisite wines.

ROUTES TO MARVEL AND RAVE

Our creative team has designed routes for all the rivers that will leave you amazed and raving long after your trip. There is so much to see, discover and experience. Immerse yourself with us in the life of the genius Van Gogh, visit Gothic cathedrals with us, taste exquisite wines with us. Sharpen your senses. Enjoy French esprit and Austrian humor - and above all the life aboard our floating jewels. With the Mozart as an example, you can already see the variety of possibilities that a river cruise on the Danube offers you.

Captivating Danube Capitals Westbound

Danube Quartet

Danube Highlights Westbound

The Blue Danube

Secrets of the Rhône New

Gems of Southern France New

French Fête in Saone and Rhône: From Lyon to Avignon New

Culture. spaces..

Their history and geographical location make the Danube, Rhine and Rhône rivers prime destinations for a river cruise in Europe. They became famous as trade routes. As natural landscapes, they are hard to beat for beauty. Here you can experience architecture, art and culinary delights in a very special way. No matter what ship or destination you choose, Riverside Luxury Cruises will make it right.

EXCLUSIVE EXCURSIONS BY LAND OR AIR

Special experiences.

Our excursions are special. They guarantee surprising and unforgettable experiences. Architecture lovers, art admirers, music enthusiasts, nature lovers and gourmet lovers will find new experiences during our excursions. Let yourself be inspired by the excursions we have created for the Mozart. And soon we'll be sailing the Rhône and Rhine.

RIDING SCHOOL

What an experience to watch the training of the “Lipizzaners”, the white stars in the imperial ambience of the baroque Spanish Riding School. Accompanied by classical Viennese music. With a bit of luck, the famous jumps performed by the horses can be seen as part of the morning training. A guided tour behind the scenes is also possible. It is not without merit that the Spanish Riding School is considered “the most beautiful riding stable in the world”. Book now or contact your Travel Advisor.

SALAS (TYPICAL SERBIAN FARMHOUSE)

Novi Sad is a little Serbian dream. Pastel-coloured houses in narrow streets. Museums and the Petrovaradin Fortress. And then there is the beautiful farm of the Matic family. The Matic family have been farmers for generations. For guests of the Riverside Mozart, they offer a Vojvodin breakfast with homemade delicacies like doughnuts – as well as Serbian music. Book now or contact your Travel Advisor.

WINE TASTING

Even the ancient Romans called Ilok a “delicium mundi”. This means as much as deliciousness of the world. Wine growing in the Croatian town of Ilok and its villages Bapska, Šarengrad, Radoš and Mohovo goes back to a 2000-year-old tradition. The drive there is like a picture book and the famous and award-winning wines are a pure delight. Book now or contact your Travel Advisor.

BALOON RIDE

Do it like Tom Sawyer in his adventurous balloon ride and enjoy the world from above. What an adventure to fly silently over Budapest – in a traditional hot-air balloon at a height of 150 metres. And afterwards, stroll through the city and discover fancy shops and stand in amazement in front of architectural jewels. Book now or contact your Travel Advisor.

What an estate! Château Béla in the south of Slovakia. Wine was already grown here in the time of the Roman Empire. Today, the team – led by the renowned Slovakian winemaker Miroslav Petrech – produces mainly Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon. Absolute top wines, recognised many times with numerous awards. The wine tasting with Miroslav Petrech will take place in the historic wine cellar. It is located under the castle and is not otherwise accessible to the public. And, of course, you get to see the castle as such. Book now or contact your Travel Advisor.

It is located south of Bratislava, directly on the banks of the Danube. Its modern architecture is impressive. Its collection and its exhibitions of world-renowned artists have already inspired personalities such as Queen Beatrix of the Netherlands or Prince Albert of Monaco. One particular bijou is the sculpture garden of the Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum with impressive sculptures by El Lissitzky, Magdalena Abakanowicz, Jim Dine or Hans van de Bovenkamp, to name but a few. Book now or contact your Travel Advisor.

ALPINE HELICOPTER FLIGHT

Ready to take off? Off you go on a private helicopter flight over the Austrian Alps. What a panorama. The flight also passes over the famous “Salzkammergut”, one of Austria’s most beautiful cultural areas with mountains, lakes and meadows. You first have to come down from this event, even if you have already landed. Perfect for all you adrenaline junkies out there. Book now or contact your Travel Advisor.

MEMORIAL SITE

What would a society be that hides its past? This 90-minute tour of the Mauthausen Memorial offers a glimpse into the history of the Second World War, its pogroms and the deaths of countless people. Afterwards, you can visit the exhibition, which deals, among other things, with the harsh prison conditions, the hierarchy in the camp and the horrific abuse of the prisoners for medical experiments. Book now or contact your Travel Advisor.

GARDEN GUIDE

He started 40 years ago with a small garden shop. Today, a botanical life’s work has emerged from this: the Kittenberger Gardens, named after its founder, Rainhard Kittenberger. In the midst of the vineyards, he and his family have created a lush flowering landscape with a total of 50 themed gardens. A natural source of magic at any time of year. And certainly an inspiration for your own garden. Book now or contact your Travel Advisor.

HELICOPTER FLIGHT IN THE VALLEY

The Wachau is a synthesis of nature’s arts: rugged mountains up to more than 900 metres high, terraces for winegrowing and, time and again, churches and castles from the Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque periods. During your cruise, you can transfer to the helicopter for a sightseeing flight. What a beauty. You don’t want to have your gaze clouded by a blink of an eye. If the term were not so overused in tourism these days, you’d say: A paradise! Book now or contact your Travel Advisor.

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20 Luxury River Cruise Lines To Sail With

Choosing the perfect river cruise can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. Yet, the secret to an unforgettable journey lies in selecting luxury river cruise lines that offer more than just a trip – they provide an experience.

This article shines a light on elite river cruises that redefine luxury travel, promising not just destinations but also unrivaled comfort and elegance.

With years of travel writing under our belt and countless rivers crossed, we’ve seen firsthand what sets apart the good from the truly exceptional in river cruising. From the serene beauty of Europe’s grand rivers to remote corners of Asia, get ready for adventure!

Top Luxury River Cruise Lines

The best river cruising companies set the benchmark for luxury and customer service. These cruise lines transform every trip into a journey of cultural enrichment. They are listed in no particular order, just numbered for your ease of reference.

1. Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises  blends modern Scandinavian design with traditional river cruising elements for a comfortable yet refined adventure across various destinations.

With its fleet of Nordic-inspired “Longships,” Viking sails along iconic rivers such as the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Elbe, Rhône, and Portugal’s Douro . They also have a fleet of Nile River ships, including the latest addition, the Viking Hathor.

The cruise line stands out for its emphasis on  destination-based entertainment  over traditional shipboard activities.

This approach has earned them recognition as one of the top river and ocean line cruises  and a premier choice for travelers seeking unique and well-curated experiences.

2. Riverside Luxury Cruises

Riverside Luxury Cruises  deliver an exceptional level of elegance on its vessels, acquired from Crystal Cruises. They are renowned for their crew to guest ratio and butler service. Each suite boasts a king-size bed.

The line prioritizes personalized experiences along Europe’s most scenic rivers such as the Danube, the Rhine and the Mosel. Their itineraries can be combined and extended in a variety of different ways.

Aiming to redefine river cruising and set itself apart from other river cruise lines, Riverside Luxury Cruises have open dining times and many tables for two. There are five dining options on board.

3. Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Going strong for 38 years, Scenic Luxury Cruises  are known for their all-inclusive offerings that leave nothing to chance. From butler service for every suite to complimentary beverages and included gratuities, it’s a five-star luxury experience.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours operates a  contemporary fleet  of river vessels and luxury ocean ships such as the Eclipse and Crystal.

Their state-of-the-art river cruise ships provide guests with technology-enhanced rooms and expansive viewing decks for breathtaking vistas.

Scenic’s ultra-luxury river cruises focus on the waterways of Europe and South-East Asia.

4. Amadeus River Cruises

This family-owned Austrian company has over 40 years of experience in river cruising. Also known as Lüftner Cruises, they sail along the Danube, Rhine, Main, Moselle, Elbe, and Seine rivers in Europe.

Amadeus offer gourmet dining in multiple venues and free flowing wines from the finest wine regions . There’s a gym open 24/7 and complimentary use of onboard bicycles.

Their river ships feature spacious, comfortable staterooms and suites, many with floor-to-ceiling windows and private balconies.

5. Heritage Line

Heritage Line is an award-winning luxury river cruise company that operates vessels along some of Asia’s most scenic and culturally-rich waterways. Their fleet of boutique river cruise ships provides an intimate and high-end experience for travelers.

Some of Heritage Line’s most popular destinations include:

• The Mekong River, spanning Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos
• The Irrawaddy River in Myanmar (Burma)
• Halong Bay in Vietnam

Heritage Line’s ships are designed with elegant, locally-inspired decor that captures the cultural essence of each region. Cabins are spacious and outfitted with private balconies, allowing guests to take in the stunning riverside landscapes.

Onboard, Heritage Line offers exceptional cuisine featuring fresh, regional ingredients. There are also spa facilities, a jacuzzi pool, and other upscale amenities for guests to enjoy. Experienced guides lead shore excursions that provide immersive cultural experiences.

6. AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways  is celebrated for its award-winning dining, wellness activities, and innovative ship designs, such as twin-balcony staterooms. This family-owned company has more than two decades of experience of river cruising.

AmaWaterways provides a high-end, all-inclusive river cruise experience. Fares typically cover accommodations, dining, beverages, sightseeing activities, and other amenities. Guests on board AmaMagna have access to a full-sized pickleball court.

They offer complimentary bikes, The Chef’s Table and high-speed WiFi. This makes them an attractive option for travelers seeking a hassle-free, upscale river journey.

7. Les Bateaux Belmond

Les Bateaux Belmond is the river cruise division of the prestigious Belmond luxury travel brand. Their fleet of 7 floating villas operates in French regions like Burgundy, the Camargue, Champagne and Provence.

Belmond’s highly curated and exclusive itineraries focus on exclusive experiences, culinary delights, and scenic landscapes. Some of their barges have heated pools, and one has a grand piano.

You can also charter one of their luxury barges and enjoy a custom-made itinerary.

8. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Uniworld is recognized as one of the most luxurious and distinctive river cruise lines. They appeal to discerning travelers seeking an elevated, boutique-style experience on the rivers of the world.

They offer river cruises in Europe, Africa, Asia, and South America. Uniworld’s luxurious fleet boasts original artworks and antiques together with the latest technological innovations.

Their spacious suites feature marble bathrooms, Asprey toiletries, Savoir Beds of England and a fully stocked bar. Your butler will deliver fresh cookies and fruit daily.

Uniworld are known for their all-inclusive luxury travel experience. Guests enjoy unlimited premium wines and spirits, farm to table cuisine, wellness classes, WiFi, all gratuities onboard, shore excursions and airport transfers.

9. Adventures by Disney

Adventures by Disney is the family-focused river cruise brand operated in partnership with AmaWaterways.

Launched in 2016, Adventures by Disney river cruises sail along major European waterways like the Danube, Rhine and Seine rivers.

These cruises are designed to provide an engaging, hands-on travel experience for families, with activities, excursions, and programming specifically tailored for both adults and children.

Onboard, guests enjoy the services of two Disney-trained Adventure Guides who lead the family-oriented activities, excursions, and entertainment. There are onboard Disney sweet treats and fun activities such as Disney-themed karaoke and trivia.

10. Tauck River Cruises

Tauck River Cruises  earns its reputation through meticulously planned tours that cater to travelers looking for depth in their journey.

This American cruise operator stands out for its spacious ships that offer the  highest space per guest  on European waterways.

Guests enjoy a blend of casual elegance and  all-inclusive amenities , which cover a wide range of shore excursions and drinks with meals.

Exploring destinations along iconic rivers such as the Danube, Rhine, Rhône, Douro, and Seine allows travelers to immerse themselves in rich history and culture. Tauck have an interesting collection of themed river cruises, such as Christmas Market River Cruises and Musical Magic Along the Blue Danube.

11. Aqua Expeditions

Aqua Expeditions was founded in 2007 and operates small expedition-style river cruise ships that sail on the Amazon River in Peru, as well as the Mekong River in Southeast Asia.

The cruise line is known for its sustainability efforts, supporting local communities and utilizing eco-friendly practices.

Aqua Expeditions’ Amazon river cruises explore the remote Peruvian Amazon, with itineraries that allow deep immersion in the rainforest environment and local indigenous cultures.

On the Mekong River, Aqua Expeditions offers cruises that visit destinations in Vietnam and Cambodia, showcasing the river’s natural landscapes, historical sites, and vibrant local communities.

12. Croisi-Europe

CroisiEurope is a French river cruise line that operates cruises in Europe, Africa and Asia. It operates a fleet of 50 river cruise ships that sail on rivers like the Rhine, Danube, Seine, Rhône, and Douro in Europe, the Mekong river in Asia and Lake Kariba in Africa.

The company’s ships carry between 16-200 passengers. CroisiEurope owns its own shipyard and vessels, allowing them to customize ships for the shallow rivers of Europe. Each cabin has an exterior view.

Known for their French cuisine and hospitality onboard, CroisiEurope excels at multi-generational all-inclusive cruising. Their themed cruises such as hiking and music are particularly popular.

13. American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines is a U.S.-based cruise company that specializes in small ship and riverboat cruises, primarily along the rivers and waterways of the United States.

The company operates a fleet of modern riverboats and small cruise ships that sail on rivers such as the Mississippi, Ohio, Columbia, Snake, and the Intracoastal Waterway.

Compared to large ocean cruise ships, American Cruise Lines’ vessels carry a relatively small number of passengers, typically between 100-190 guests.

Itineraries range from 5 to 15 nights and cover a variety of themes, including music and culture, Civil War history, nature and wildlife, and more.

14. Emerald River Cruises

Emerald Waterways is a river cruise line operated by Scenic Group and launched in 2014. They offer river cruises on major European waterways including the Danube, Rhine, Main, Moselle, and Douro rivers.

Emerald’s fleet consists of over 15 custom-built “Star-Ships” that feature contemporary, innovative design with features like indoor balconies and pool areas.

The ships accommodate around 180-220 passengers, providing a mid-size, more intimate river cruise experience compared to some larger lines.

15. Avalon Waterways

Established in 2004, Avalon Waterways is a river cruise company that operates river cruise ships along various waterways in Europe, Asia, and South America.

Avalon is known for its focus on providing innovative ship design, all-inclusive pricing, and flexible cruise packages that appeal to both experienced and first-time river cruisers.

Their fleet consists of over 30 modern river cruise ships, including Suite Ships which feature spacious suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows.

Avalon’s cruise itineraries range from 8 to 24 days and include shore excursions, onboard entertainment and fine dining.

16. TUI River Cruises

TUI River Cruises is a relatively new river cruise brand that launched in 2019. It’s a subsidiary of the TUI Group, one of the world’s largest travel companies.

The cruise line operates a fleet of modern, custom-built river cruise ships that sail on popular European waterways like the Danube, Rhine, Main, and Moselle rivers.

TUI’s ships accommodate around 155-190 passengers, providing a more intimate cruising experience compared to some larger river cruise lines.

Shore excursions range from walking tours and bike rides to more active adventures like hiking and kayaking, allowing guests to explore the destinations in depth.

17. A-ROSA Cruises

A-ROSA is a German river cruise line that operates primarily on the rivers of Europe like the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Douro, and Rhône.

They have a relatively modern fleet of around 15 ships with ship capacities ranging from around 100-300 passengers.

Their cabins tend to be larger than average for a river ship, with most having French balconies or step-out balconies.

A-ROSA attracts an international audience but caters especially well to English and German speakers.

18. Saga River Cruises

Saga River Cruises is a British river cruise line that is part of the Saga Group, a company known for providing travel and insurance products for older adults. The cruise line caters specifically to the 50+ demographic, with an average passenger age of 65-75 years old.

Saga’s river cruise ships accommodate around 190-250 passengers, providing a mid-sized, intimate cruising experience. The ships feature modern, contemporary design with amenities like balcony suites, wellness facilities, and spacious public areas.

This river cruise line is known for its all-inclusive pricing, which covers gratuities, select drinks, and door-to-door chauffeur service to the departure point.

19. Antara Cruises

Specializing in all-suite river journeys in India, Antara Cruises guarantee a memorable trip. As well as river ships, they have catamarans – exclusive 2-suite vessels built specifically for the river in Bhitarkanika National Park.

What’s more, Antara offer a complete buyout of their ships for charters ranging from 2-7 nights, for a maximum of 56 guests.

Antara River Cruises boast a number of key inclusions such as farm to table cuisine, a complimentary signature event during each trip, butler service and free WiFi.

Pandaw River Cruises is a luxury river cruise company that specializes in journeys along the waterways of Southeast Asia. Founded in 1995, the company is known for its fleet of boutique ships designed in the style of classic river steamers.

Pandaw offers intimate cruising experiences on rivers such as the Mekong, Irrawaddy, and Chindwin, allowing travelers to explore remote and culturally rich destinations in countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar.

The cruises combine comfort and authenticity, featuring teak and brass decor, spacious staterooms, and open-air observation decks. Pandaw’s itineraries typically include off-the-beaten-path excursions, allowing guests to immerse themselves in local cultures, visit historic sites, and experience the natural beauty of Southeast Asia’s riverine landscapes.

Final Thoughts on the Best Luxury River Cruise Lines

Luxury river cruising has evolved from sparse accommodations in the early 1990s to beautifully decorated ships inspired by the destinations they cruise through.

River cruising provides amazing experiences in iconic major cities, unique local culture, and panoramic views of natural beauty. Many luxury river cruise lines boast award-winning dining options featuring local and international cuisines.

River cruise ships are often referred to as boutique hotels on water, offering “hotel style” amenities and all-inclusive experiences.

There are several all-inclusive river cruise lines offering inclusions such as airport transfers, tour experiences, meals, beverages, in-suite bar, shore excursions, gratuities, bike rentals, and butler service.

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These Are the Best Luxury River Cruises to Take in 2024

Get ready to add to your travel bucket list with these bespoke offerings.

​​Make your list and check it twice. Experiential gifts are all the rage, and for good reason. Making memories, like while on a luxury river cruise trip, is statistically shown to provide higher long-term satisfaction than simply acquiring things ( though we have you covered there, too) .

Plus, people who travel often tend to be happier in general. Let that be your motivation to finally take (or gift) that dreamed-about journey down the Danube or the bucket list boat safari in Africa. Read on for the top luxury river cruises for 2024, in no particular order. These upscale offerings sure to brighten any holiday occasion, whether for Christmas, an anniversary, or a milestone birthday.

Riverside Luxury Cruises: Holland at the Heart of Tulip Blossom

Riverside stands out for boasting all suite categories of rooms and having the highest crew-to-guest ratio of any cruise line. Guests each get a personal butler, too. While all Riverside options are stunning, the launch of a new ship, the Riverside Debussy in Spring 2024, makes the tulip season cruise in Holland especially compelling. The 8-day, 7-night offering features port stops in Amsterdam, Arnhem, Nijmegen, Antwerp, Gent, Middelburg, Veere, Dordrecht and Rotterdam. Look forward to learning more about the 150 different species of tulips on this lovely Western European cruise. Beyond the blooms, this Netherlands and Belgium-focused itinerary includes multiple excursions, from cheese tastings to guided walks to an oyster tour. Fares include accommodation, all meals and drinks and one excursion per port.

Viking: America’s Great River, Mississippi River Cruise

America’s greatest waterway gets the luxe treatment with this new Viking offering, which debuted in 2022. Start in St. Paul, Minnesota and journey through 10 states until ending in New Orleans, Louisiana. Stops include Red Wing (MN), La Crosse (WI), Dubuque (IA), Quad Cities (IA), Hannibal (MO), St. Louis (MO), Memphis (TN), Greenville (MS), Vicksburg (MS), Natchez (MS) and Baton Rouge (LA). The trip lasts 15 days and includes 12 guided tour excursions, a lovely way to uniquely experience the central United States and the water that has shaped the region’s identity. Half journeys are available, too, for those only interested in the southern or northern legs. Viking offers one free excursion at each port, as well as all meals and beer, wine, and soft drinks.

Zambezi Queen, Chobe River, Botswana and Namibia

This luxury houseboat features 2-, 3- and 4-night itinerary options for this one-of-a-kind water safari. According to Monique Lange, African Safari expert for Go2Africa , “Guests can enjoy leisurely days spent cruising along the Chobe River, a region that’s home to Africa’s largest concentration of African elephant herds.” She adds, “This 42-meter-long vessel offers 14 luxury suites, each fitted with their own outer decks overlooking the river.”

Travelers can also check out other unique gathering spots like a spacious dining area, rear viewing deck, a lounge and front deck with loungers and plunge pool. “Activities on offer include water-based game-viewing, catch-and-release Tiger Fishing, cultural tours to the local village and even an indigenous Baobab Tree outing (these are mythical trees in Africa, and an important symbol in local African cultures) to see the ‘Tree of Life’ on Impalila Island,” Lange concludes.

Viking: Paris & D-Day 80th Anniversary

This new sailing, specifically to commemorate 80 years since D-Day, is set for 2024. This is perfect for history buffs! A 12-day cruise tour, start in Paris or London, then sail through Normandy visiting historic sites and museums to learn about the beginning of the end of WWII on the Western Front. This poignant journey includes 11 excursions in spots like Vernon, France, and Rouen, France. As with all Viking offerings, all meals are included in the price, plus one free excursion per port. Departures are available from March through November of 2024.

Abercrombie & Kent: ‘La Belle Epoque’, Burgundy Cruise

Oenophiles will especially love this intimate, 7-day offering from renowned luxury magnate Abercrombie & Kent . This European barge trip, limited to 12 guests, explores one of France’s most celebrated wine regions, Burgundy, in style. Start in Venarey-les-Laumes, with stops in Ancy-le-Franc, Lezinnes, Montbard, Chablis, Ravières, and Tanlay. This journey on the Burgundy canal includes highlights like a falconry display, gourmet shore lunches, complimentary bicycles for exploring, and tons of wine and food experiences. This route is accessible from the end of April through October, with departures each Sunday. Included in every fare is the accommodation, all charters and transfers, all meals and drinks on board, all sightseeing excursions during the cruise and a 24/7 on-call concierge (not on site). Cheers to a bespoke French adventure!

Riverside Luxury Cruises: Delightful Danube Christmas

No list of yearly cruises is complete without a Christmas markets trip to the winter wonderland of central Europe. Riverside Luxury Cruises takes travelers on a 5-day, 4-night journey from Vienna, Austria to Passau, Germany. Stops in between include the Christmas markets in Salzburg, Linz and Krems. Get your fill of mulled wine and gingerbread, plus snag one-of-a-kind festive trinkets in some of Europe’s best Christmas markets. Fares are all-inclusive, meaning accommodation, all meals and drinks and one excursion per port is covered.

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Plan Your River Journey

Start planning your unforgettable river cruise here and discover Europe or South East Asia in ultra-luxury. 

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Explore Your  River Cruise Options 

Planning your river cruise .

We will go to the Nth Degree to ensure you can relax and enjoy every precious moment of your trip. Talk to your expert Scenic travel advisor and use our top tips to select the cruise that’s right for you.

Choose Your Destinations

You may have a wish list of countries, cities or must-see sites in Europe or South East Asia that you’d like to visit. This is a great starting point as it will help narrow down your cruise options.  Find out more

Determine Your Preferred Experiences

Scenic offers a range of river cruise itineraries to suit all interests and passions. Whether it’s discovering the food and wine in Portugal, Bordeaux and the south of France, or the historic castles and medieval architecture of Central Europe. Or you may want to explore World Heritage-listed sites in Siem Reap Cambodia, the beauty of Halong Bay Vietnam or the serene Buddhist culture of Luang Prabang Laos while in South East Asia.  Find out more

Select Your Travel Season

Discover the best of Europe and South East Asia during every season, to add magical experiences to your river cruise. In Europe, summer brings warm temperatures and ideal travelling conditions, while spring brings vibrant tulips in bloom. Or travel in the winter to explore stunning Christmas markets and snow-capped mountains. In South East Asia, the tropical climate is ideal year-round. From May to October, short afternoon showers nourish fields with vibrant green pastures, while during the dry season from November to May you can bask in the sunshine, though temperatures will increase.

Pick Your Travel Duration

Knowing the length of time you want to travel will help you choose your itinerary . In Europe, you may like to combine a short river cruise with a land journey or city stay, or simply complete a longer-length cruise or a combination of cruises back-to-back to create your dream holiday . For South East Asia , choose a land journey through Indochina (Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos) with varying durations from 11 to 27 days and then decid e between a seven o r nine-night Mekong River Cruise within that tour , based on your date of travel . You could even create a trip of a lifetime with a river and ocean cruise combination on a Scenic Eclipse D iscovery Y acht . Extend your stay

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Our Readers' Favorite 10 River Cruise Lines in 2021

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on cruise travel. He has been covering the travel industry for more than 15 years for outlets including Condé Nast Traveler , Skift , and The Huffington Post .

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite river cruise lines.

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

The past year put the entire travel industry through the wringer, perhaps no segment more so than cruising. Though the pandemic forced ships around the world to remain in port, readers nevertheless looked back fondly on their times at sea while ranking the world's top 10 river cruise lines for Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated individual cruise ships on their cabins and facilities, food, service, itineraries and destinations, excursions and activities, and value. Those assessments were combined to generate results for the cruise lines in five categories, including river cruising.

Though many European countries have been off-limits for travelers, memories of recent trips to one of the world's iconic river cruising destinations helped inform voters' choices this year. Tauck moved up two places in T+L's 2021 rankings to grab the No. 2 spot with an eye-popping score above 96. The iconic river ships of No. 3 Viking Cruises also fared well this year, with readers giving the stalwart high marks, moving it up three places. Viking has river ships across Europe, of course, but also sails the Mekong and the Nile. In 2022, the company plans to launch trips on the Mississippi.

Other high-ranking lines won praise for their journeys outside the traditional rivers of Europe. No. 4 Aqua Expeditions, for example, sails to such destinations as Indonesia, Peru, and Vietnam. (The company's newest ship, the Aqua Nera, debuted this summer on the Amazon.) And No. 5 American Queen Steamboat Company, which didn't make T+L's top 10 last year, keeps its focus strictly domestic, with trips on the Columbia, the Mississippi, the Ohio, and other U.S. waterways.

But this year's highest-ranked line goes just about everywhere. No. 1 Uniworld Boutique River Cruises earned one of the highest scores of any cruise line — river or ocean — this year, impressing readers with flawless service, imaginative itineraries, top-flight design, and wonderful food. "We were treated like royalty," gushed one traveler who sailed on the Maria Theresa. "Our experience was an 11 out of 10." Can't do much better than that.

Find the rest of the list — and what other qualities set Uniworld apart — below.

1. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

This global operator of 19 ships sails rivers across Europe, plus waterways in Cambodia, Egypt, India, Peru, and Vietnam. Among the newest in the fleet are the Bon Voyage, based in France, and the La Venezia, recently relaunched in Italy. And while readers certainly raved about the line's ships, they saved their highest praise for the ask-and-you-shall-receive mentality of the Uniworld crews. "My experience exceeded all expectations," said one traveler, who toured Europe on the Antoinette . "Staff consistently went above and beyond to ensure a pampered vacation. When one of our party asked if there was a guitar on board so we could sing in the parlor one evening, a staffer said he would arrange it — and proceeded to purchase a guitar at our stop the next day!" Other respondents made note of Uniworld's overall attention to detail, with excursions, meals, entertainment, and logistics expertly handled in just the right way. "It was among our most favorite vacations ever — everything was perfect," said one voter, who traveled on the Beatrice . "The best experience I have ever had on any ship," said another. A third reader summed it up like this: "This was my first experience with Uniworld, and I cried when I had to leave. Everything wowed me."

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 96.79 More information: uniworld.com

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 96.30 More information: tauck.com

3. Viking Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 93.65 More information: vikingcruises.com

4. Aqua Expeditions

Score: 92.69 More information: aquaexpeditions.com

5. American Queen Steamboat Company

Score: 92.68 More information: americanqueensteamboatcompany.com

Score: 92.07 More information: belmond.com

7. Avalon Waterways

Score: 91.29 More information: avalonwaterways.com

8. Scenic Cruises

Score: 91.08 More information: scenicusa.com

9. AmaWaterways

Score: 90.64 More information: amawaterways.com

10. Crystal Cruises

Score: 88.23 More information: crystalcruises.com

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards .

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