The Major River Cruise Lines, Compared

Each line has a personality — luxury, active, value, all-inclusive. Here’s a quick guide to the biggest names.

Viking

AmaWaterways

Scenic

Uniworld

Avalon & Emerald

Tauck, Riviera & CroisiEurope

Viking

The best-known name — adults-focused, understated Scandinavian design, strong value and enrichment. A great all-rounder.

AmaWaterways

Superb dining and wine, active excursions and e-bikes — premium and energetic, great for foodies and couples.

Scenic

Truly all-inclusive luxury — butler service, e-bikes and everything folded into the fare.

Uniworld

Boutique, lavishly individual all-inclusive ships — no two alike, richly decorated and intimate.

Avalon & Emerald

Modern ships and strong value — Avalon’s open-plan Panorama Suites and Emerald’s contemporary Star-Ships (with a pool).

Tauck, Riviera & CroisiEurope

Tauck for the most inclusive touring, Riviera for British-style value, CroisiEurope for the widest, best-value European program.