A river cruise is kind of like a floating hotel, except you'll visit a variety of places but only have to unpack once. My husband and I went on the Treasures of the Mediterranean Isles Trip jn October 2022. Visit the Amazon Rainforest with Aqua Expeditions' naturalist guides. We cruised Budapest to Amsterdam 2 years ago with Avalon and it was the best vacation,most relaxing we ever. Choose Tauck ifyou're fine with a French balcony and want a larger standard cabin. In Memphis, opt for The Elvis Experience with a tour of Graceland. Delivering unparalleled experiences and boundless exploration, Avalon puts you inthe captains seat to navigate your journey, fuel your passions and steer clear of the unexpected as you cruisedown the worlds most memorable and mesmerizing waterways. Those are also offered all day, not just at mealtimes, which is a nice addition. These are the best river cruise lines for comfort, destinations, and irresistible perks and tours. Their National Geographic sailings are particularly of note and include a variety of educational, expert-led travel excursions and talks. Learn to paint like Van Gogh at the Ateliers Art Institute in Amsterdam. Choose Scenic for an all-inclusive river cruise that has more options for active and individually minded travelers. Read on for our look at .css-hghiur{transition-property:var(--chakra-transition-property-common);transition-duration:var(--chakra-transition-duration-fast);transition-timing-function:var(--chakra-transition-easing-ease-out);-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;outline:2px solid transparent;outline-offset:2px;font-weight:var(--chakra-fontWeights-medium);border-bottom-width:1px;border-bottom-style:dotted;cursor:pointer;color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);border-color:var(--chakra-colors-blue-base);}.css-hghiur:focus-visible,.css-hghiur[data-focus-visible]{box-shadow:var(--chakra-shadows-outline);}.css-hghiur:hover,.css-hghiur[data-hover]{-webkit-text-decoration:none;text-decoration:none;border-bottom-width:1px;border-bottom-style:solid;}Viking River Cruises vs. Tauck and some ideas of why you should pick one over the other. During the trip, Guests will be required to complete a self-assessment daily. For each, passengers are divided into groups (around the same size on both lines) and have individual audio headsets that make it easy to hear the commentary without having to cluster around the guide. Uniworld is also a good choice with an array of added perks for kids of all ages. Wine plays a role on both ships, with regional varietals served at every meal. But no matter how different the motivation, Tauck river cruising has a way of bringing everyone of every age and generation together to share . After experiencing the river cruise lifestyle, I was sold. They are owned by Globus and do a fantastic job. Lower Danube River Company Routes Comparison Dream Destinations Adventures by Disney, the guided, family vacation arm of the Walt Disney Company, offers unique journeys sprinkled with signature Disney magic. Whats the Best Choice For A Rhine River Cruise? All-Inclusive River Cruises: How Are They Defined? Travelstride helps you search and compare 50,000+ expert-planned trips from 1,000+ companies. Tours & Operators on Travelstride Awarded and Featured by: 2023 Travelstride. AMA has a modern fleet like Avalon and offers a few things that Avalon does not and that we would enjoy including bicycles, in room free internet and movies, tables for two in the dining room, and an onboard masseuse. While there are plenty of places to curl up with a book or play a game in the public spaces, a bevy of activities will lure you onshore. One of the best vacations I've ever taken was a river cruise. It sounds like it will be what we're looking for. And above all else, it should be beyond the ordinary. Tauck just looked fabulous but, for us, the premium is not worth it as the additional inclusions are not important to us. There will be talks by the Tauck directors or lecturers hired by Viking and activities such as awine tasting. Save up to $2,800 per couple off the cruise price of Europe sailings. Choose Viking ifyou are more a do-it-yourself person on shore and with tips, and don't mind paying for your Happy Hour and after-hours drinks. A View with a Room. It was a fascinating trip down the Danube River in Europe with Disney Cruises, focused on Christmas markets. A river cruise is an all-inclusive journey where you unpack once but visit many destinations. On both lines, the excursions will include walking and coach tours of local towns and villages, visits to castles and historic monuments, and experiences such as wine tasting. Both Tauck and Scenic boast spacious, contemporary cabins that are among the most comfortable in river cruising. Scenic and Tauck have many similarities, even if fans of one haven't heard of the other. The entry-level cabin is the Avalon Deluxe Stateroom. Both cruise lines sail around Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. Whats the Best Choice for a River Cruise in Bordeaux? Tauck's shore excursion program is a little more comprehensive (although oddly, the guides themselves and the berths where the ships dock aren't necessarily better. The river cruises ships all have comfortable, well-appointed cabins and an array of perks like complimentary in-room dining, pillow menus, and epic views that make the journey feel luxurious. Book their "Open-Air Balcony" and enjoy wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows that open for fresh air. It should re-energize and transform. The line also offers a "bite to eat" snack menu that can be delivered to your cabin as room service, or to any of the lounges as a small plate. We had cabin 308 (cat. AmaWaterways operates the finest fleet and provides all-inclusive river cruise vacations on the great waterways of Europe, Russia, Vietnam and Cambodia. Scenic also has special "TailorMade" devices that allow travelers to head out by themselves and follow GPS guided tours that are pre-programed into the personal audio systems. On these cruises, too, the restaurants have kid-friendly menus and casual dining options. Passengers often get a choice of excursions, both of them included. Some of the shore excursion options are truly special, such as truffle hunting in Bordeaux, visiting Highclere Castle where "Downton Abbey" was shot or cognac blending in Camus. Plus, get air rates starting at $599 per person from select gateways. The beds in the Panorama Suites are also cleverly placed against the opposite wall so guests may view the scenery from bed. Tauck vs. Viking River Cruises - Cruise Critic For those with an interest in history, try The Life and Legacy of Abraham Lincoln tour. The line claims the ship offers more suites than any other European river vessel and these cabins -- while not true two-room suites -- are 300 square feet. 6 Best River Cruise Lines (2022) | TravelAwaits Crystal Cruises river cruise line features all-suite ships. The river cruise division of Tauck is a relatively new component of the brand established in 1925 by Arthur Tauck, a true pioneer in the travel industry. We believe that travel should be easy. Which Royal Caribbean Suite Should I Book? Due to the size of the boats, the cabins are small, ranging from 80 square feet to about 300 square feet. AmaWaterways: What Are Its Smallest, Largest and Most Common Stateroom Sizes? The Most Popular Tour Operator Comparisons by Travelers - Travelstride Typical starting price: $2,195 for 7 nights (per person based on double occupancy $313 per night, all-inclusive), Where do they sail:Danube, Main (Germany), Rhine, Moselle, Rhne, Douro (Portugal), Seine, Bordeaux, Volga (Russia), Mekong (South East Asia), Irrawaddy (Myanmar), Specialty cruises: National Geographic, Christmas markets, Onboard amenities (may vary by ship):Laundry,wellness area, gym, massage services, hair salon, Wi-Fi, e-bikes, L'Occitane products, pillow menu, shoeshine, Inclusive: Meals, butler service, gratuities, transfers, excursions, beverages (with the exception of certain specialty wines and rare spirits), minibar fully restocked daily, chef-prepared picnics, 24-hour in-room dining, entertainment. Pros:Having a butler on call is a big perk. Uniworld: What Are Its Smallest, Largest and Most Common Stateroom Sizes? Typical starting price: Starting at $2,299 per person for 7 nights (per person based on double occupancy $328 per night, all-inclusive). 2 spot. Choose Viking ifyou want what has become the industry standard for river cruising, a semi-inclusive experience with a line that does more sailings on more rivers than anyone else. Avalon River Cruises is recognized for their all suite concept. Indulge in regional cuisine on Viking ships flavored with herbs grown in an on-board garden, though familiar classics are always available. One step aboard our modern, luxurious SuiteShips with the grandest views in cruising and youll see how the tides they are a-changin. Expect to pay $129 for the drink package on a weeklong cruise. Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. Another thing that sets Tauck's newer ships apart: "loft" design cabins, which have a raised platform seating area that provides extra space in lower-level cabins. River cruises are available all over the world in Europe, Egypt, Peru, and South East Asia. View travel requirements for countries around the world. The open dining time is a nice addition since many cruise lines have a set dining schedule. When cruising the Nile, ride a camel as you visit the pyramids in Cairo, Egypt. At least one Tauck director comes on each shore excursion so if you want to ask what time the bus leaves for the umpteenth time or your Quietvox battery dies, help is a few steps away. There is a wide variety of cabin categories from a 350 square foot suite that sleeps four with a balcony to Category D, the most affordable cabin, which is about 170 square feet, sleeps two, and features small windows. Like most cruises, the food served is reflective of your destination's local cuisine and there is also a light menu and options for vegetarians, vegans, and kids. Please choose only one for now. Which River Cruise Ship Should You Choose? Here Are the Key Differences The cruise lines are priced to start at $241 per night, depending on the time of year and the cruise line. They are comfortable but not luxurious or particularly interesting. If you want flexibility, the line is hard to beat. Dinner is served to the table (although on Scenic, you'll have a buffet your first night onboard) and, on both lines, staff are attentive. Not as well known locally as APT or Scenic, Avalon Waterways have nevertheless been cruising the rivers of Europe and Asia since 2004. Most cabins also have a French balcony, which allows the rooms themselves to be larger while still letting in fresh air. Tauck has nine ships, with its four newer vessels carrying 130 passengers -- the lowest number of passengers for a ship of its size. Which Royal Caribbean Suite Should I Book? When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. The reason why Scenic fans might not know Tauck, and vice versa, stems from the companies' headquarters. Tauck provides unlimited complimentary beverages onboard which includes regional wine, beer, soft drinks and premium spirits. Typical starting price: $4,599 for 7 days (per person based on double occupancy $657 per night, all-inclusive), Specialty cruises: Danube Christmas markets, Oktoberfest, Rhine food and wine, Seine National Geographic photography, Amenities (may vary by ship): High-speed Wi-Fi, gym, sun-deck, walking track, bikes for shore use, pool or whirlpool, fitness classes, salon, massage, Inclusions: All meals, unlimited beverages (local wine, beer, and soft drinks with meals), daily excursions, all gratuities onboard and at restaurants, daily cocktail hour, select meals off the ship during excursions, onboard entertainment. Book a cruise on American Queen Steamboat Company, Book a cruise on Adventures by Disney River Cruise, Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here. Tauck, the well-known tour and river-ship operator, retained its No. In fact, there are many kid-friend amenities, such as cooking classes, a young travelers' lounge, and a game room complete with PlayStation, games, movies, and local treats. By submitting your contact information, you agree that your email address may be shared with a travel expert who can help me find the perfect cruise for you. Pros: The ships are smaller than most with just over 100 passengers and children are allowed. Most cabins also have a French balcony, which allows the rooms themselves to be larger than full balcony cabins, while still letting in fresh air. Catching up with Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection - What's it Like On Board Evrima? Avalon offers many onboard presentations, including the celebrity-driven Storyteller Series, which is set to include the likes of Candace Bushnell ("Sex and the City"), Gillian Flynn ("Gone Girl"), Cheryl Strayed ("Wild"), and Diana Gabaldon (Outlander"). If you're able to provide your travel agent's contact info, I may be able to work with him or her to recommend a cruise that is best for you. A WORLD OF WATERWAYS The Rivers of Avalon All are butler-serviced river ships with a high, almost one-to-one staff-to-guest ratio. Unique to riverboats is the two-level theater, the Grand Saloon, found on the American Queen. Because the Inspiration ships are the same size as Viking ships with fewer passengers and cabins, the staterooms are larger. By proceeding, you agree to Cruise Critics. Price Comparisons: A Look At Pricing Differentials For European River Cruises, How River Cruising Compares To Luxury Ocean Cruising, River Cruise Reviews, Viking River Cruises, Uniworld River Cruises. When it's open, there's still a buffer, so your hair and food don't blow around. "The itinerary was. Tauck River Cruise or Viking River Cruise - Fodor's Tauck is equally non-fussy, but the overall feel is a little more elegant. This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies. Standard staterooms, which are the least expensive, hover at the water level, and come in at about 150 square feet. Choose Viking ifyou like dining alfresco. There is one single cabin that is 129 square feet, and one wheelchair-accessible cabin. Toiletries are Viking's own,Freya, and they are lovely. Activities include educational lectures from visiting professors, and well as local entertainment, and even Broadway-level performances. If you are the type of passenger who doesn't want to reach for your wallet at the end of a trip, both lines are great choices. Drinks are only complimentary during lunch and dinner and gratuities are not included in the price. Solo travelers will appreciate that there are dedicated Solo Traveler Suites with no surcharge for a non-double occupancy booking, which is unheard of with cruising. Viking has more weeklong cruises than Tauck and sails in more places and on more dates. AmaWaterways, with over 25 ships, is known for having a smaller amount of passengers on board. Visit Salzburg, Austria, the town featured in "The Sound of Music.". All rights reserved. Inclusions: All meals and drinks (regional wine, beer, soft drinks with lunch and dinner; sparkling wine with breakfast), Pros:You get to pick your own firmness of the beds and pillows. Read on for our look at Scenic vs. Tauck. However, Crystal Cruises has some excursions that incur an added cost, and all of the American Queen Steamboat Company excursions are additional (although they do offer hop-on hop-off bus tours). On both ships, there's a "secret cellar," with better vintages available if you ask. The difference comes with a significant impact on your wallet, particularly in the lower categories. deluxe tour operator in North America and that title is well justified. The Rhine river, Moselle river , Danube river , Rhone river and the Seine River complete the Europe Map served by Avalon River Cruises. On Viking, Scandinavian design rules the day, with light wood tones and a modern, clean look throughout. The Adventures by Disney river cruises are designed for families, and their itineraries, both onboard and onshore, have something for every age group. Tauck prides itself on offering off-the-beaten-track experiences in each destination, including multigenerational family tours that are curated to include itineraries for both kids and adults. I'm not sure you will find Tauck discounted in many places. TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES. It's easy to see the world's sights. Whats Included In All-Inclusive River Cruises? The pours at lunch and dinner are generous, so if you're not a liquor drinker -- or don't like alcohol at all -- you might not need all the extras that Tauck provides. Guest lectures and performers also come aboard to highlight the destination, from Viennese opera to Portuguese fado, and local craft and culinary demonstrations are sprinkled throughout voyages as well, such as lace-making and Austrian apple strudel. Experience the "Wild West" of France in la Camargue with farm-fresh meals, local music, and a horse show. Rest easy (literally) as you enjoy bigger views, more space and 24/7 access to open-air cruising. Window cabins are 150 square feet to Viking's 135, and most of Tauck's cabins have a French balcony and are 225 square feet (while the standard on Viking is 205 square feet). ABC Cruiser, I was leaning towards the Heartland (Rivers and Castles) land and cruise itinerary with AMA before reading your review, and now I'm pretty sure that's what we'll go for. All cruise lines have new COVID-19 policies that prioritize the health and safety of guests. In French balcony cabins, the beds generally face the window for better views. Adventures by Disney is the best option for families since they curate their onboard and onshore activities with kids and teens in mind. Cabins are located across three decks and available in seven categories; the line claims the ship offers more suites than any other European river vessel. The cabins and public areas are also beautifully appointed with art, antiques, hand-painted murals, and luxury linens. Both offer more inclusions than their competitors and both carry fewer passengers than most river lines, ensuring that service remains at a high standard. Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos, http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1224277, Click here to reload the page in order to enable certain features, Policy regarding COVID related Discussions, C858B0A9-6769-424D-B129-59363EDAC023.jpeg, B5073042-BF8A-4EEC-BD19-0938D8732763.jpeg. This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. Odds are you will not get motion sickness on a river cruise since large waves or currents do not hit the ships. Beyond advertising budgets, the lines offer vastly different experiences. The ships also offer complimentary alcoholic beverages. Given the price point, the passengers seem more well-heeled on Tauck. Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on APT's 15 Day Rockies Icons and Alaska Cruise. QUICK STATS AVALON WATERWAYS 2004 I have a few specific questions which I can't seem to find answers for on the websites. Cons: Entry-level cabins are small, at 150 square feet, and have just two small windows. They did not offer bikes which would have been nice, though not on our particular itinerary. Visit a farm along Normandy's Cider Route to taste the region's elegantly crafted apple ciders and calvados, and see how they're made; in Normandy, cider is an art, like winemaking, centuries old. I've come up with 4 that I think might suit us, and I'd appreciate comments from anyone who has experienced any of them. Get the real picture with both traveler and expert reviews to ensure the trip you book is the right one for you. A-ROSA: What Are Its Smallest, Largest and Most Common Stateroom Sizes? Choose Tauck ifonboard spa, beauty and fitness options are essential to your vacation. Onboard enrichment on both lines is based around the destinations visited. The perfect combination of icons and lesser-known wonders. smalltowner, October 30, 2010 in River Cruising. Avalon Waterways River Cruises - 2023 & 2024 River Cruises These are all decorated in a modern, contemporary style and feel airy and spacious due to the liberal use of mirrors and reflective panels. Tauck will sell through TA's, but maybe not online ones. The dishes are paired with a selection of wines from the area that is being explored. Started October 12, 2018, Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Why Take A Tauck River Cruise. Tauck Tours and thus Tauck River Cruises may be the most well respected. The water, especially on European cruises, is very calm. There is also Uniworld's Legendary Rhine & Moselle, 13 days. (The Longships are the same size, 443 feet, but carry 190). Back By Popular Demand: Whats Included On River Cruises? Whats the Best Choice for a Sane River Cruise? Many of the river cruise passengers will have taken land tours with the company. Sunny Chanel is a freelance writer based in San Francisco who has written thousands of pieces on topics such as travel, parenting, pop culture, products, and entertainment for a variety of online sites. Email us at reviews@insider.com. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We were next to one of the Tauck river boats in Wurzburg last year and both my husband and I commented on how luxurious it looked next to ours, which was very nice and brand new at the time. 9 Mistakes to Avoid When Booking Shore Excursions, 12 Things You Don't Need to Take on a Cruise, Virtual Cabin Crawl: Symphony of the Seas Cruise Ship, How To Cope With Cruising's Pause? Expires February 28. These state-of-the-art, authentic paddle wheelers can accommodate from 150 to 400 guests, depending on the ship. Overall, the crowd is older and more sedate than you'd find on Scenic; the dance floor is rarely used on Tauck ships, while on Scenic, it's not unusual for dancing to occur if the right band is playing.