scenic river cruise amsterdam to budapest 2024

approx. 2 hours

OR Rüdesheim wine tasting & Drosselgasse

Rüdesheim wine tasting & Drosselgasse

Enjoy an unforgettable tram ride on the "Winzerexpress" and discover the beauty of the Rhine Valley. Visit a typical winery and taste different wines of the region. Afterwards, stroll along the famous 'Drosselgasse', which is a narrow cobblestone street, first mentioned in the 15 th century as an alley used by the Rhine boatmen to reach their homes. Here you can still find numerous half-timbered wine houses, restaurants and shops. Immerse yourself in the history of the village before returning to the ship. 

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Suites & Staterooms 

• Luxury accommodation in an outside river-view stateroom of your choice: Spacious Mozart Suites with a walk-out balcony, stateroom cabins on Mozart and Strauss Decks with drop-down Panorama Retractable Windows offering a wide-open view (except Amadeus Brilliant)
• Individual climate control and in-room safe 
• Choice of bed configuration in all categories (double or twin bedding)
• Bottled water in every stateroom 

Gourmet Dining

• Gourmet dining featuring breakfast, multi-course lunches and dinners with menu choices (including vegetarian options), afternoon tea and late-night snack
• Free-flowing hand-selected wines from the best wine regions, draft beer, soda as well as coffee and tea with every lunch and dinner 
• Coffee and tea available 24 hours a day in the Amadeus Club
• Welcome and Farewell Cocktail Reception, Welcome Dinner and Captain’s Gala Dinner

An Array of Amenities 

• Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard
• Onboard fitness center open 24 hours a day
• All gratuities on board are included in your cruise fare

Voyage of Discovery

• Personalized service of an experienced, multilingual AMADEUS Cruise Director 
• AMADEUS digital audio system for all guided excursions 
• Variety of enriching onboard programs, including fascinating lectures, cooking demonstrations, local cultural performances, and music by our onboard musicians 
• Complimentary use of onboard bicycles for independent exploration 
• All port taxes, embarkation, disembarkation and lock fees included in your cruise fare 

Excursions and excursion packages

Cruise your way and choose from a carefully curated selection of immersive and inspiring excursions and adventures! Select one of our packages offered at a discounted rate when purchased in advance or book individual shore excursions at regular rates on board your cruise.

Package A | for only $ 458 per person

Enjoy a package of these pre-selected excursions for a discounted rate when purchased in advance.

Package B | for only $ 548 per person

Package c | for only $ 877 per person, package d | for only $ 1,006 per person.

Amsterdam – Budapest

Prices per person if excursions are purchased on board.

You're in good hands with us from the start: Let us book you a transfer from the airport or train station to the ship port and back. The following prices apply per person per transfer:

Amsterdam (Netherlands)

Train Station - Port $ 57

Airport - Amsterdam City Centre $ 67

Airport - Port $ 67

Budapest (Hungary)

Port - Train Station $ 35

Port - Airport $ 62

Vessels on this route

Amadeus cara.

Discover an extraordinary way to see Europe as we combine elegance with outstanding innovation.  

Meticulously designed, enriching and truly all-inclusive 

Be transported to a world of wonder, exploring forested hillsides, idyllic vineyards, romantic towns and culinary delights along the Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle. 

Discover Central Europe

• Experiences

Cruise throughs  spectacular must-see landscapes

Getaway to Germany | Part 2

Why travel on a Scenic Europe river cruise?

Our ultra-luxury river cruises have been designed to be the ultimate 5-star experience of a lifetime. Custom designed, each Scenic Space-Ship caters for only up to 163 guests. Designed to take you to extraordinary regions, allowing you to relax and unwind as you explore multiple magical towns and cities.

Innovative Scenic Space-Ships

Our innovative Scenic Space-Ships include an abundance of premium experiences and luxurious outdoor, dining and wellness areas. Low guest numbers of up to only 163 guests ensure a more intimate river cruise. These sleek ships are also able to dock in the heart of towns, so you can enjoy more time to explore onshore.

Find out more

Luxurious Suites

Our generously sized suites are elegantly appointed with premium amenities including a queen-size Scenic Slumber bed, a pillow menu, luxurious bath products and advanced air circulation systems (HVAC). The Balcony, Junior and Royal Suites feature your very own window to the world with our signature Scenic Sun Lounges – some of the largest balconies offered on European waterways. 

Up to Five Dining Options

Whether you prefer a fine dining experience with a six-course degustation, a relaxed café setting offering a delicious à la carte menu or dining in the privacy of your suite, you’ll find delectable options to suit your tastes and mood on board your Scenic Space-Ship. 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.

Find out more  

Scenic Freechoice

Scenic Enrich

Our exclusive Scenic Enrich experiences place you at the heart of the world’s most refined art, music and architecture. You’ll go behind the scenes to enjoy moments inaccessible to the ordinary traveller, from a classical concert at the opulent Palais Liechtenstein in Vienna to a visit to the Baroque Palace of Rastatt in the Upper Rhine Valley, these carefully curated experiences are destined to be the highlights of your voyage.

Salt Therapy Lounge

Featured Itineraries 

Gems of the Danube

Take a journey rich in culture and beauty

Danube in Depth

Jewels of Europe

Europe’s most spectacular river discovery

Christmas Markets

Soak up the Christmas magic

Christmas & New Year

A festive tradition

Jewels of Europe with Ljubljana & Zagreb

Snowcapped mountains and sparkling glacial waters

Where we travel in

• Europe River Cruising 2024
• Your Guide to Europe River Cruising

Your guide to Europe river cruising

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Amsterdam to Budapest by Riverboat

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Direction and Year

Select the river cruise direction and the year you would like to travel.

• 2024 Northbound
• 2024 Southbound
• 2025 Northbound
• 2025 Southbound
• Accommodations
• Pricing & Availability
• Important Info

Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – A private Imperial Evening at a traditional palace in Vienna featuring a gala dinner and Viennese performers

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Gratuities to ship staff, drivers, local guides, Tauck Directors and Tauck Cruise Director

All private Tauck shore excursions – $3,383 Value!

In Amsterdam, a guided tour of the famed Rijksmuseum, home to many masterpieces

Day exploring Nürnberg, the walled medieval town whose history is forever intertwined with World War II

Choice of sightseeing in Vienna – a visit to the Sisi Museum and the Imperial Apartments in the Hofburg or to Schönbrunn Palace

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Exclusively inclusive river cruising

Cruise along the River Danube from Budapest to Amsterdam on an amazing journey past grand cathedrals, medieval monasteries, castles and vineyards...

The river of kings – the danube, old world europe – rhine river cruises, tauck exclusive - imperial evening at palais pallavicini, another wonderful tauck experience. the scenery was breathtaking and the crew on the riverboat were wonderful..

Thomas Harrigan

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Download the details to make planning your trip easier - including an itinerary overview, pricing based on your selected departure date and accommodations, plus protection plan costs.

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Welcome Aboard

• ms Treasures

Ship Specifications

View Cabin Categories

Diamond Deck

Emerald Deck

(Note: All Category 7 cabins are three-guest capacity suites with a pull-out couch)

Overnight Accommodations

Extend your stay

Arrive Early

Nights 1-14 On Board

Tauck Riverboat

Your Journey

Pricing & Availability

Pricing & Dates are not available yet. Please check back soon.

Northbound: Budapest → Amsterdam

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Southbound: Amsterdam → Budapest

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. You are not required to obtain a visa to enter any of the countries visited for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally , you should contact an embassy or consulate of the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary to determine what travel documentation is required.

International maritime security guidelines require that your passport information be provided to us prior to your embarkation. You need to provide this information to us as soon as you book your cruise or boarding may be denied. Once you board the riverboat, your passport will be held by the purser temporarily to make copies.

Please Note: Longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $900 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. It must be purchased within 10 days of your initial deposit. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will  reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.  Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost. 
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection is:   $799   per person

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise and Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise and Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACCREINTL

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $900 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

The riverboat is registered in Basel, Switzerland. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of the U.S. , no other vaccinations are currently required for travel to the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia or Hungary. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country , please contact an embassy or consulate of the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia or Hungary. to determine what additional vaccinations are required for your travel.

While a river cruise from is very relaxing and the pace leisurely, to enjoy this cruise, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. There is a moderate to significant amount of walking during our excursions, often along the cobblestone streets on the hills along the rivers; for the most part, however, the amount of walking you do is at your discretion.

Your riverboat has four decks: Sun, Diamond, Ruby and Emerald. The elevator runs between the Diamond Deck and the Dining room, which includes stops at the Lounge and the Ruby Deck. There is no elevator access to the Sun Deck or Emerald Deck. There is no chair lift between any of the decks.

Because you will be cruising on a river and not on the open sea, you are never far from land and, therefore, there is no doctor on board the riverboat. In case of emergency we can easily dock the boat and call for an ambulance or medical assistance.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate service animals on any river cruise for medical and legal reasons.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

On board the riverboat, smoking is permitted in a limited area of the Sun deck. Smoking (including e-Cigarettes) is not permitted in any cabin, the restaurant, the lounge or any other interior space.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The climate along the Rhine, Main and the Danube rivers is temperate and unpredictable. From June through August, the average high temperatures increase as you travel south along the river and range from 68 to 78°F (20 to 26°C) and the average low temperatures range from 50 to 59°F (10 to 15°C). Rainfall amounts in this region remain fairly constant throughout the year, although late spring and early summer are generally the wettest seasons of the year. Opposite of temperature, rainfall decreases as you travel south.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is always advisable. A light jacket or sweater for the sun deck is also recommended. Pack comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in, as many of the sites visited were built centuries ago and have uneven surfaces, some steep inclines and many steps.

During evenings aboard the riverboat, dress is resort casual. Items such as slacks and collared shirts are appropriate for men.  For women, slacks, a dress or a skirt and blouse are suitable. For dinner and throughout the evening, guests should refrain from wearing shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops or sneakers.  Your journey also includes one or two special occasion dinners, where a sport coat and tie for gentlemen and a dress/pantsuit for ladies are suggested. (Your Tauck Director will advise you prior to those evenings.)

Bathrobes, slippers and hairdryers are provided in each riverboat cabin.

Valet laundry service is available on the riverboat for a fee. There is no valet dry cleaning available on the riverboat. Ironing facilities are available by request to the front desk. Category 7 suites feature their own irons and ironing boards.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed. No medications are sold on board the riverboat.

We recommend you pack the following items for your cruise:

• Flat, rubber-soled walking shoes for on board
• Sturdy but comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in for onshore
• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• A Sport jacket (optional tie) for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm fuctions (many hotels don't have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your ship cabin while traveling

The Tauck Experience

Uncommon Access

Travel in good company, sophisticated, intimate ambiance onboard ship, distinctively inclusive.

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River Cruises from Budapest to Amsterdam

Discover river cruises that depart from Budapest and end in Amsterdam. Cruises from Budapest to Amsterdam are most popular in November, with the most cruises doing this route then.

14 River cruises from Budapest to Amsterdam with 7 reviews

• River Cruise

Magnificent Rivers of Europe 2024

Splendours of Europe (Start Budapest, End Amsterdam)

Magnificent Rivers of Europe 2025

European Jewels (2024) (Budapest to Amsterdam, 2024)

Jewels of Europe - Krems > Dürnstein

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European Jewels (2025) (Budapest to Amsterdam, 2025)

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Christmas Markets

Christmas & New Year - Krems > Dürnstein

Christmas Markets - Salzburg or Cesky Krumlov

• Christmas & New Year

Grand European Tour Budapest to Amsterdam

Nothing was too much trouble for staff. Excellent organisation and xare of clients.

European Gems Budapest to Amsterdam (2025)

European Gems Budapest to Amsterdam (2024)

Travel styles, river cruise from budapest.

• to Prague (27)
• to Vilshofen an der Donau (23)
• to Bucharest (23)
• to Nuremberg (21)
• to Munich (14)
• to Passau (12)
• to Paris (11)
• to Vienna (8)
• to Basel (6)
• to Giurgiu (5)

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River cruise, land journey, rail journey, small ship cruise, ocean cruise, remote journey, luxury yacht cruise, private jet air tours, private air tours, why choose apt.

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Canada, alaska & usa, egypt & jordan, new zealand, south america & antarctica, special deals, voyage magazine, tour personaliser, travel agent.

Rhine Valley

Travel pass quaint villages and see many castle ruins, full of history

Magnificent Europe

Amsterdam → budapest.

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• Trip Highlights

Map & Itinerary

• Travel & Accommodation
• Experiences in 14 destinations
• 14 nights on a luxury river ship  with the services of an expert Cruise Director 
• Freedom of Choice  Inclusions
• A total of 41 meals and a wide range of onboard beverages
• Butler, room service and laundry (select suites)
• Transfers, port charges and gratuities
• Exclusive - Visit Vienna’s City Palace for a cocktail party and private classical concert
• Exclusive - Enjoy a special ‘Sound of Music’ show in Salzburg
• Itinerary, inclusions and pricing are subject to change
• Prices are for land/cruise only. Flights not included unless specified

Reverse Trip

Signature Experiences

Designed Exclusively for APT guests

SIGNATURE EXPERIENCE

These once-in-a-lifetime moments allow you to experience an unforgettable world of exclusive moments, incredible cultures and charming surprises

FREEDOM OF CHOICE™

Give your holiday a personal touch with a choice of included sightseeing or dining options

Arrive Amsterdam, Embark Ship

Welcome to Amsterdam . We’ll meet you on arrival and transfer you to your ship. Settle into your suite before getting to know your fellow travellers and APT Cruise Director at a Welcome Reception. After your first dinner on board, you may like to explore the city at your own pace.

Stay: 14 Nights, a Concerto River Ship

FREEDOM OF CHOICE™

Mix and match a wide selection of cultural, culinary, active and nature-based experiences. Go with something gourmet one day and get active the next. It's completely up to you.

Spend today on your preferred Freedom of Choice activity. Rejoin the ship in Utrecht and cruise towards Germany in the afternoon. Tonight, enjoy a gala welcome dinner.

Freedom of Choice – Glass-Top Boat Canal Cruise

A peaceful way to see the best of Amsterdam, board a glass-top boat and admire the city’s unique architecture as you cruise the maze of World Heritage-listed canals for which the city is famous. Freedom of Choice – Visit Zaanse Schans Visit the typically Dutch village of Zaanse Schans, famous for its wooden windmills, traditional Dutch houses and specialty produce. Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride

Join a guided bike ride through the countryside to the village of Durgerdam before visiting the Street Art Museum. Gala Welcome Dinner Enjoy a multi-course meal with an enhanced menu.

These exclusive or unique events are designed to deepen your experience, taking you on an inspiring journey beneath the surface of local history, culture and traditions. What's more, these once-in-a-lifetime moments are often not available to a regular traveller.

This morning will be spent cruising through Germany. Spend time on board. Perhaps indulge in a spa treatment, relax on the sun deck and read a book. Disembark in Andernach and enjoy a Signature Experience here. Signature Experience – Namedy Castle Princess Heide von Hohenzollern graciously welcomes APT guests into her home, Namedy Castle, a 14th century residence set near the Rhine River in Germany. Go beyond the gates and wander about the rooms, hidden nooks and manicured grounds. You’ll then enjoy a cocktail party where a pianist playing classical music sets the mood.

Today you’ll approach what is known as the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine River. Glide past crumbling ruins that cling to rocky cliffs and rolling hillsides marked with perfectly planted vineyards. Dock in Rüdesheim, one of Germany’s most revered cultural and historic cities. Here, you’ll set out on your chosen activity. Freedom of Choice – Gondola Ride Glide over the emerald vineyards of the Rhine Valley in a gondola, enjoying stunning vistas. At the top, arrive at the Niederwald Monument, commemorating the unification of Germany in the late 1880s. Freedom of Choice – Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum Take a tour of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, an eccentric and unique museum which is home to a beautiful collection of fascinating automated musical instruments from all stages of history. Freedom of Choice – Visit a Historic Wine Cellar Visit a historic wine cellar for a tasting of Rhine Valley wines. Discover why this location is one of Germany’s most well-known wine regions.

This morning, enjoy a relaxing sail along the Main River. Spared from the destruction of World War II, the town of Miltenberg is much like a time capsule, revealing what old-world village life was like in Germany before the war. Featuring remarkably preserved buildings and lively town squares, this is a beautiful example of Germany’s history. Set out on a guided exploration of the town before time at leisure to explore.

Your day unfolds on your terms thanks to a choice of activities today. Freedom of Choice – Visit the Würzburg Residence The immense architectural beauty of Würzburg is on display today as you stroll through this fascinating city to the Würzburg Residence. An 18th-century palace that once belonged to the Prince-Bishops of Würzburg, this regal building is home to a number of historic wonders. Inside, you’ll marvel at the intricate tapestries, gilded stucco work and ceiling frescoes by famed Tiepolo. Freedom of Choice – Explore Rothenburg Travel to the walled town of Rothenburg and immerse yourself in medieval life. Wander the narrow cobblestoned streets and admire the pretty coloured-fronted houses as you stroll. During free time, you may wish to visit Käthe Wolfhart’s ‘Christmas Village’, where you’ll find the largest selection of Germany Christmas decorations in the world. Freedom of Choice – Hike to Marienberg Fortress Enjoy a hike to Wurzburg’s most visible landmark, Marienberg Forstress, an imposing castle overlooking the city which boasts a fascinating history dating back many centuries.

This morning your ship will arrive in World Heritage-listed Bamberg, another of the few German cities that wasn’t destroyed during World War II. As you explore the Old Town with a guide, you will discover a range of historic churches and buildings, including the town hall on the River Regnitz. Following your tour, rejoin your ship to cruise onto the Main-Danube Canal.

This morning gives you the chance to choose your sightseeing activity. This afternoon, continue cruising on the Main-Danube Canal. Having taken 32 years to construct, the canal links the North and Black seas. Freedom of Choice – Discover Nuremberg’s World War II Sites Journey through Nuremberg’s World War II sites, including the Reich Party Rally Grounds, the site of Hitler’s now infamous annual rallies that were held from 1927 to 1938. Freedom of Choice – Medieval History of Nuremberg Tour Join a tour focused on Nuremberg’s medieval history. Discover medieval architecture, including the 900-year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle, the main market square and its 14th-century Gothic church.

Discover Regensburg on your choice of activities today. Freedom of Choice – Explore Regensburg’s World Heritage-listed City Centre In Regensburg, explore its atmospheric World Heritage-listed city centre. With a history dating back to the Roman times, this incredible city was the first capital of Bavaria. See such sights as the iconic Old Town Hall, the 12th-century Stone Bridge and the historic city centre. Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride to the Walhalla Memorial Get active and take a guided bike ride to the Walhalla memorial. This neo-classical building sits above the Danube River and houses a hall of fame that honours notable politicians, artists, sovereigns and scientists from Germany’s past.

Passau, Salzburg, Linz

Take a guided tour of Salzburg before a Signature Experience. Signature Experience – Gaisberg Mountain

Lunch and ‘Sound of Music’ Show Be welcomed by a Jagdhornbläser – a hunting horn blower – into a rustic, traditional restaurant on the Gaisberg mountain overlooking Salzburg. Enjoy a welcome drink as you soak in the scenery before savouring a delicious lunch, followed by a ‘Sound of Music’ show

Melk, Durnstein

Visit the statuary-adorned Melk Abbey, one of the world’s most famous monastic sites. Then, it’s up to you how you get to the next port of call. In Dürnstein, perhaps view the ruins of the castle where Richard the Lionheart, the King of England, was imprisoned in 1192. Freedom of Choice – Cruise Through the Wachau Valley Cruise through the Wachau Valley to Dürnstein, where you’ll roam its cobblestoned lanes at your leisure. Freedom of Choice – Guided Bike Ride from Melk to Dürnstein Take a guided bike ride along the Danube River from Melk to Dürnstein and take in the beautiful scenery of Wachau Valley along the way.

Arrive in Vienna and set out on a city tour. Take in the city’s many landmarks along the Ringstrasse, as well as St Stephen’s Cathedral. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore. This evening is set aside for your magical Signature Experience. Signature Experience – Cocktail Party and Private Performance at Vienna’s City Palace After dinner, head to the princely family of Liechtenstein’s City Palace in the heart of Vienna, where we have arranged an exclusive cocktail party and private recital, just for you. A full orchestra will perform classical masterpieces by Mozart and Strauss. You will also be enchanted by an operatic recital and a performance by some members of the Mozart Boys’ Choir.

Set out on your choice of tours. This evening, set sail for Hungary. Freedom of Choice - Schönbrunn Palace Visit Tour inside Schönbrunn Palace, the summer palace of the Habsburgs. Discover the apartments of former emperors and take some time to wander the immaculate grounds. Freedom of Choice – Visit Bratislava in Slovakia Tick another country off your list and journey to Slovakia’s Bratislava, where a mixture of 18th-century rococo design and communist era architecture make this a city of alluring contrasts. See some of the architectural landmarks that were built during the city’s time under Communist rule. These include the UFO bridge, Slovak Radio building and Hotel Kyjev.

Enjoy a city tour of Budapest taking in its historic monuments, including Fisherman’s Bastion and Heroes’ Square.

Disembark Ship, Depart Budapest

Sadly, the time has come to say goodbye and be transferred to the airport.

Frankly it was EXCELLENT. We had a most enjoyable holiday and could asked for no more than what the tour provided. The staff were excellent, extremely helpful and most pleasant.

Terence - River Cruise, Europe

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• River Cruising

Scenic Amsterdam to Budapest

By Dolebludger , September 24, 2015 in River Cruising

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Dolebludger

This is a brief review of our August 30 to September 14 river cruise. First, we selected Scenic as a truly all inclusive line. All drinks, all tips (even for tour guides and drivers) and just about everything else is included. This is an Australian line with about 75% Australian guests. The interior decor of the ship is somewhat stark but very fresh, and the food seemed to be geared toward Australian tastes (rather than American) which we had fully expected. It was rather good, but not quite on the level of a lux ocean cruise line. The tours of the ports and nearby attractions were excellent. Each tour consisted of no more than 34 guests (usually less) and headsets were provided so we could always hear the tour guides. On many days, there were choices of activities, and one could change plans with only a timely request to the Cruise director. Tours included admission fees to all sites. We had a nice dinner in a castle, heard a concert by a contingent of the Vienna Symphony, visited places like a black smith shop, toured breweries and wineries, and so forth. At Nuremberg, the Danube water level was too low for the ship to proceed to Passau. So guests were moved by bus in a 2 1/2 hour ride to Passau where our belongings were placed in an identical room in an identical ship, and the cruise proceeded to Budapest. Onboard entertainment was educational, including a glass blower, a Zither player, Austrian waltz dancers, and Hungarian folk dancers. Dress was very casual at all times, while shorts ere not allowed in the dining room for dinner, jeans were allowed. Jackets, particular kinds of shirts, and ties were never required on the ship.

This was our first river cruise, and we booked a junior suite (it was the last room left when we booked). It had an interesting balcony with roll down windows which could be rolled up to make the balcony part of the "suite". This "suite" was supposed to be 250 square feet in size, and it may have been, but it seemed too small for us. Should we do another river cruise on this line, we'll book something larger.

There was one point of confusion on the subject of laundry service, which we find important on a 14 day cruise. We were told by Scenic before we left that all wash laundry was included for our suite. I looked on Scenic's web site under "butler service" and therein it was stated that "concierge" laundry service via butler was included in all rooms on European cruises. In our cruising vocabulary, "concierge" means "included without charge". But onboard, nobody seemed to know about this inclusion. We showed the Cruise Director that site page, and all our laundry after that was free of charge. I shall not make any issue of the charges before that point, as they were very small. But I suggest all considering a cruise on this line get this matter cleared up through your TA before booking.

As this was our first river cruise, I cannot compare this with other lines. All I can say is that we had a very good time, the low water problem was handled seamlessly, the tours and events were excellent, and the educational entertainment was excellent given the small size of the ship. The Cruise Director (known as J. J.) was right on top of things. We have known a number of Australians in the past and for us, the fact that fellow guests were 75% Aussy was a plus for us.

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Thanks for the report. My Scenic cruise experience is very much like yours although we were on the lower level and knew that laundry service was not included. It was nice to leave the ship and not owe another penny. I had one travel agent try to tell me that almost all river cruises were all-inclusive. When I asked what about tips, she had to admit that tips were not included on the line she was suggesting. Also cocktails, wine, beer and soft drinks are included all day long which is not the case on some lines.

The small size of our cabin didn't bother us since we were not in the room that much. On our cruise, about 75% of the passengers were Canadian with the rest being from the U.K., Australia and the U.S.

Our exact experience in our search for a TRUE all inclusive European river cruise. Some lines advertise that they are "all-inclusive" when indeed they are far from it. Beer and wine at lunch and dinner does not equal all inclusive. On our cruise, local beers and wines were brought on each day, and they too were included.

sunsetbeachgal

Thank you for your review!

We have a Scenic cruise booked for next June. I have read or heard that some type of free laundry benefit will be included in 2016, which will be helpful. Even if it is one bag per stateroom or passenger per cruise, it will help!

I am so glad to hear that the tours are good, in addition to being all inclusive the included tours are what really steered us towards Scenic. I just read another review by a recent Scenic cruiser and he also said that the dining, both in the dining room and buffet, were below his expectations as was the service levels at dinner. I hope they improve in this area!

thanks again!

If you go to Scenic's web site and look under "butler services" you will see the last sentence states that butler "concierge" laundry service is included on European cruises. If I were you, I would show this to my TA and have him/her contact Scenic about it. As you know "concierge" is a fancy way of saying "included". Scenic either needs to honor that, or remove that language from its web site.

I've never interpreted "concierge" as "free". It just means that someone will arrange something for you. A hotel Concierge provides custom arrangements like tours, theatre tickets, dinner reservations; it doesn't mean that its free. Semantics!

As far as food and drink: The buffets were fine and sometimes really good. The lunch time seafood buffet included oysters flown in from France. I saw them carrying the crates onboard. There were two buffet dinners; the rest had table service. At times, the service was a little slow but never horribly so. Keep in mind that everyone has a chance to eat at the special Portobello table which serves an excellent Italian meal with Italian wines. For passengers on the upper deck, a special Table l'Rive meal is served with a special menu and wines.

If you don't like the wine they are serving, you can ask for something else. Someone I was sitting with one night tasted three or four different wines until they found one they liked.

I've never interpreted "concierge" as "free". It just means that someone will arrange something for you. A hotel Concierge provides custom arrangements like tours, theatre tickets, dinner reservations; it doesn't mean that its free. Semantics! As far as food and drink: The buffets were fine and sometimes really good. The lunch time seafood buffet included oysters flown in from France. I saw them carrying the crates onboard. There were two buffet dinners; the rest had table service. At times, the service was a little slow but never horribly so. Keep in mind that everyone has a chance to eat at the special Portobello table which serves an excellent Italian meal with Italian wines. For passengers on the upper deck, a special Table l'Rive meal is served with a special menu and wines. If you don't like the wine they are serving, you can ask for something else. Someone I was sitting with one night tasted three or four different wines until they found one they liked.

You are right, Nancy....Actually the term "concierge" comes from the french and means the person in charge of the front door, acting as agent for the owner....who will provide extra services for guests such as tickets, reservations, taxis, etc. At the suite levels on some river cruises and most ocean cruises, the service of the butler is included but it doesn't mean it's free. The concierge on river cruises will help the passenger find places to visit, shop, dine, and assist in obtaining reservations, entrance tickets, transportation, etc. again the services are included but since the concierge is provided a gratuity of about 11 Euro per day, their services cannot be considered free. As for suite level cabins that include a butler, I can't imagine any of them charging extra for laundry services. On Vantage if you're in a suite with butler service, that service includes free laundry....but you still better tip the butler or who knows who's laundry you'll get back!

I would ask that we not derail this thread by over-discussing the meaning of "concierge". There was more language on the "butler service" page of Scenic's web site, coupled with the representation via phone that laundry was included in our room, that would lead one to think that it was included. Look at this site page and see for your self.

In fact, if we had paid for laundry on the entire cruise (which we didn't) the cost would have been under $100. And in fact, we really liked this Scenic river cruise and will undoubtedly cruise with them again. Only next time, we will be more diligent in checking out what laundry (if any) is included so we can pack accordingly.

To change the subject a bit, for those who don't know, Scenic is an Australian-owned line. That accounts for the majority of guests on our cruise being Australian. Also, Scenic has been conducting a rather massive promotion campaign in Canada, accounting for the majority of guests being Canadian on another Scenic cruise as another poster reported. As we were told, next move for Scenic will be a large promotional campaign in the USA, along with the addition of cruise itineraries, perhaps including some on US rivers. I am eager for these things to happen, as my age makes 15 hours of flying to the river ports a bit taxing.

All our fellow guests seemed to really like this cruise and line. The only complaints I heard were from one of the three American couples aboard. They said the food was not up to the standards of lux ocean lines like Crystal, Regent, Seabourn, Silversea, and the like. Well, it wasn't -- and we never expected it to be. The ship is too small and the activities too intensive to allow a big deal to be made out of dining. Plus, it is a big deal to me that Scenic was the only river cruise line that I could find that is beverage all-inclusive, and included some very "classy" events.

So I would like to leave the "laundry issue" and go on to more major factors, with only the suggestion that prospective Scenic cruisers have their TA confirm what laundry services are included at their room level, and pack accordingly.

To add to the above post, when we returned home, we both received a package from Scenic with the same language about butler service, stating that the butler would provide "concierge laundry service,because you won't have time to waste doing laundry" -- or words to that effect. Now if those words don't mean that laundry is included, what do they mean? Do these words mean that a butler will pick up my laundry and have it done for a fee, instead of having the room steward pick it up and have it done for a fee as is the case on most cruise lines? That is rather a laughable interpretation of the wording in Scenic's ads, as why do I care who picks up my dirty laundry? Every time I have seen the words "concierge service" in a cruise line web site or advertisement, it has meant an included service.

Sorry to post on a rather minor detail, but I'm just a "truth in advertising" advocate,

I tend to agree with you dolebludger, especially since Scenic bills itself as all inclusive. Maybe because they are an Australian company there are different interpretations? As I said in a prior post, starting in 2016 there is a limited free laundry benefit included on Scenic cruises, so perhaps they received other complaints.

Another "different interpretation" that I have become aware of...Scenic's brochure states that dinner in the dining room is "open seating". However in reading several recent reviews I find out that, unlike on ocean cruise lines where "open seating" means that you can arrive for dinner anytime between certain specified hours, Scenic's definition of open seating is apparently that dinner in the dining room is at a fixed time and open seating refers to the tables themselves not being pre-reserved.

Not a deal killer, but definitely not what my take was looking at the brochure! We like flexibility, one person actually said there was a mad dash to the dining room for dinner each evening. Hope that isn't the norm!

Host Jazzbeau

Another "different interpretation" that I have become aware of...Scenic's brochure states that dinner in the dining room is "open seating". However in reading several recent reviews I find out that, unlike on ocean cruise lines where "open seating" means that you can arrive for dinner anytime between certain specified hours, Scenic's definition of open seating is apparently that dinner in the dining room is at a fixed time and open seating refers to the tables themselves not being pre-reserved.   Not a deal killer, but definitely not what my take was looking at the brochure! We like flexibility, one person actually said there was a mad dash to the dining room for dinner each evening. Hope that isn't the norm!

River cruising is a different industry from ocean cruising and has its own terminology. This is the common definition of "open seating" in river cruising. Because of the small size of the galley, it would be very difficult for a river ship to allow passengers to drift in to dinner whenever they want. They must deal with all the appetizers, then all the main courses, then dessert.

On my recent Scenic cruise, there was no "mad dash" to the dining room. People seemed to drift in over a 30-60 minute period.

Unless a brochure specifically says that a service is included or complimentary, I don't expect it to be free. I'm very aware that advertising language is often slanted to make you think you are getting more than is actually provided.

We had a similar experience on Uniworld last month - the only time we were told to be at dinner at 7 pm was when we signed up for a special chef's dinner held on the deck and limited to 20 people. It was spectacular!

Wow, that to me says included. I don't see any other way to interpret that statement.

On Avalon we used the laundry services often and ended up with a bill for $115 after 15 days. I never tried to economize or wash in the sink. Sent it out in the morning or evening before and it was back and beautiful by 6pm.

On Avalon last October it was pretty much a mad dash. I would say that at 7:05PM the dining room was 95% in the room. There were a few people who typically came later, as there was a family from Spain that spoke very little English who would arrive together or separately and typically ate together at the far forward table beside the breakfast / lunch buffet serving area.

I think the mad dash is the norm, but I could be completely wrong.

To add to the above post, when we returned home, we both received a package from Scenic with the same language about butler service, stating that the butler would provide "concierge laundry service,because you won't have time to waste doing laundry" -- or words to that effect. Now if those words don't mean that laundry is included, what do they mean? Do these words mean that a butler will pick up my laundry and have it done for a fee, instead of having the room steward pick it up and have it done for a fee as is the case on most cruise lines? That is rather a laughable interpretation of the wording in Scenic's ads, as why do I care who picks up my dirty laundry? Every time I have seen the words "concierge service" in a cruise line web site or advertisement, it has meant an included service.   Sorry to post on a rather minor detail, but I'm just a "truth in advertising" advocate,

I would have to agree with you ....I think Scenic slipped up here. There's only one way to interpret the wording (no matter what your opinion on the origin of concierge is :)) and that's laundry is included for people in the butler class. I hope you get reimbursed for the charges.

As for the laundry, we only ran up a $40 bill before they started giving us included laundry, so I won't bother with seeking a refund.

On our Scenic cruise, dinner was served from 7 to 9, and it was true open seating.

Let me say a few things more on this subject. We were not the first guests to bring up the laundry matter to Scenic's on-board staff, but we were the first to show that staff a copy of what was on the line's own website. I have raised this matter only to inform future cruisers to clarify it with Scenic's home office before booking. My pre cruise investigation indicated that Scenic just may be the best all-around river cruise line. While we've taken only this one river cruise, I remain of that opinion, in spite of this small issue.

One reason CC is so useful is that many travel providers are playing fast and loose with terms like all-inclusive, suite, and concierge using them contra to their accepted meanings. CC gives us the truth of the matter. IMO, it is generally sloppy marketing. The Federal Trade Commission is supposed to enforce federal laws against false and misleading advertising in interstate commerce. But in recent years the FTC has been very lax in this. I suspect these travel providers aren't even running their promotional material by their legal departments anymore.

So my advice to future Scenic guests is that they get something in writing (like an email) from the home office as to whether they will or will not have included laundry service before or at booking, and take that writing with you. But I am not suggesting that you disregard serious consideration of Scenic. We will very probably cruise with them again.

Let me say a few things more on this subject. We were not the first guests to bring up the laundry matter to Scenic's on-board staff, but we were the first to show that staff a copy of what was on the line's own website. I have raised this matter only to inform future cruisers to clarify it with Scenic's home office before booking. My pre cruise investigation indicated that Scenic just may be the best all-around river cruise line. While we've taken only this one river cruise, I remain of that opinion, in spite of this small issue.   One reason CC is so useful is that many travel providers are playing fast and loose with terms like all-inclusive, suite, and concierge using them contra to their accepted meanings. CC gives us the truth of the matter. IMO, it is generally sloppy marketing. The Federal Trade Commission is supposed to enforce federal laws against false and misleading advertising in interstate commerce. But in recent years the FTC has been very lax in this. I suspect these travel providers aren't even running their promotional material by their legal departments anymore.   So my advice to future Scenic guests is that they get something in writing (like an email) from the home office as to whether they will or will not have included laundry service before or at booking, and take that writing with you. But I am not suggesting that you disregard serious consideration of Scenic. We will very probably cruise with them again.

And you should cruise with them again....they delivered the product and you were satisfied with it....big difference now though is now you are wise to their advertising and will never be "boondoggled" again. At least it wasn't a terribly expensive education like some have had on these pages. I'm glad you're willing to give them another chance...many people would just right them off entirely.

• 2 weeks later...

As a matter of fact, we have booked on Scenic for August 15, 2016, and are working out air now, We have booked a larger room called a "Royal Suite" (though I doubt it will be a true suite). And our TA has been adequately assured that laundry WILL be included with that suite. I still feel the Scenic web page was misleading concerning included laundry, and still recommend that anybody booking Scenic get this matter clarified as to their intended cabin at time of booking. But overall, the cruise was so good and enjoyable that it would not be in our best interests to "cross them off our list" over the laundry issue.

As we are up in years, we are doing our long distance travel while we still (barely) can, and saving shorter, domestic trips for later. Even now, long airline flights in coach are just impossible for us. Mainly, I think, because airlines have been shrinking the passenger space in coach out of sheer greed. (As you my be able to tell, we are no fans of airlines!) Even first/business class on 10 hour flights is getting grueling. But the onboard experience is so good that we'll try it one more time.

harbourside

I have the 2016 Scenic brochure (NZ edition).

Laundry concierge. Our service takes away the hassle of washing whilst on board. A complimentary bag of clothes will be laundered for you on every cruise. It does mention later on that this is for all cabins.

DIAMOND DECK - Two pieces of complimentary clothes pressing each day.

Our web page in the US about this on the Scenic site has changed just a little since I pulled it up before our cruise in late August. Here in the US it now states that concierge laundry service is provided in all cabins. No limit is stated. IMO this was only a slight wording change, with no change in the meaning (and IMO is still misleading unless unlimited laundry is included for all)). The Scenic web site here leaves much to be desired. Very difficult to navigate. Before we booked our August, 2016 trip my wife had found a page on that site stating that unlimited laundry was definitely included for the Royal Suite we booked. But now, we can't find that page. We have asked our TA to get IN WRITING whether full laundry service is included in the Royal Suite, If we are told it is not, we may re-think the booking as it is a few months before cancelation penalties kick in. When I get some definitive information on this matter, I will post it right here. Hopefully with additional information about laundry in other types of suites and cabins as well.

To make matters more confusing, I just stumbled upon a review on this board of a Scenic cruise in Russia in June, 2015 where it was stated that drinks were included at lunch and dinner only, and drinks at other times were at extra charge. All drinks WERE included 24/7 on our August 30-Sept 14 Amsterdam - Budapest cruise with no problem. So, while we enjoyed our Scenic cruise enough to book with them again, it seems that Scenic needs to be a bit more forthcoming and consistent about what is included and what is not on there web site and promotional material.

While I agree there should some clarity in regards to included amenities, you would cancel a First Class cruise over $150 worth of laundry? Wow

River cruises in Russia are quite different from the rest of Europe, so it is possible that Scenic doesn't include all alcohol all the time there even though they do in France and Germany.

When I see a webpage listing benefits that should apply to me, I always make a PDF -- including headers and footers to show URL and date -- and file it with that cruise. [i do this to cover my own memory lapses, but it would be handy later to show the cruise line.]

But when it comes to the term "concierge," I would not assume this means "free." Hotel concierges arrange bookings and taxis for you, but they do not pay the fares. I take this as distinguishing their full-serve laundry service from a self-serve laundromat onboard. And frankly, if the choice is between paying a reasonable fee for "concierge" service and taking our valuable time in a laundromat -- I'm happy to pay!

I did not say I would cancel. I said we would "re-think" the matter. Scenic does not give Royal Suite accommodations away, to say the least. And, just a few days ago, my wife was able to access a part of Scenic's web site stating laundry is included in that suite (as well as a number of other perks), and now we can't find it. Plus, we have found that the major airline provider in our area (United) would charge the two of us $30K for business class air to and from this cruise! Obviously, our TA is looking for alternatives that allow us to check luggage from origin to destination and fly business class for much less. This is in addition to the fact that my wife was told by Scenic by phone that laundry service would be included in our Junior Suite on our cruise just concluded, and initially, it wasn't.

So the matter of whether laundry service is included in the fare for the 2016 cruise is becoming a straw that could break a camel's back.

Host Jazzbeau,

If you read posts above on this thread, you will see that other seasoned cruisers believe that the word "concierge" when combined with the word "laundry" means that it is included in the fare, in "cruise language". If it does not mean this, what does it mean? does it mean only that a "butler" picks up and delivers the laundry -- rather than this being done by a room steward as on mass market cruises? And if that's all it means, why did anybody think it was something worth the advertising space.

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Passing Thru Travel

Navigating 15 Majestic Rivers – A 2024 Guide to River Cruises and Expeditions

Posted: February 21, 2024 | Last updated: February 21, 2024

Embark on a journey through the veins of our planet – its great rivers. This guide will take you through the most iconic river expeditions, offering a unique perspective on the landscapes, cultures, and histories of various regions. From the Danube’s serene waters to the Amazon’s wild rapids, each river tells a story waiting to be explored.

1. The Amazon River, South America

Your adventure on the Amazon River immerses you in the densest rainforest on Earth. Starting from Iquitos, Peru, this expedition brings you face-to-face with a vast ecosystem, home to an incredible variety of wildlife. Cruising down this river, expect to encounter pink river dolphins, sloths, and a multitude of bird species. Night expeditions add an extra thrill, revealing the nocturnal life of the Amazon. The sounds of the jungle, coupled with the knowledgeable guides, make this a nature lover’s paradise.

Insider’s Tip: Book a small boat tour for a more intimate wildlife experience.

When To Travel: May to June for lower water levels and better wildlife sightings.

How To Get There: Fly to Lima, Peru, and then take a domestic flight to Iquitos.

2. The Nile River, Egypt

Cruise the Nile and step into a world of ancient wonders. The journey typically begins in Luxor or Aswan, taking you through a landscape dotted with temples and historical sites. You’ll see the Luxor Temple illuminated at night, the imposing statues of Ramses II at Abu Simbel, and traditional feluccas sailing the river. This cruise isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s an immersion into the heart of ancient Egyptian civilization, with each stop narrating a chapter from its rich history.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during late fall to avoid the scorching summer heat.

When To Travel: October to April for cooler temperatures.

How To Get There: Fly to Cairo, then take a domestic flight to Luxor.

3. The Danube River, Europe

A Danube River cruise is a picturesque journey through the heart of Europe. The river passes through historic cities and beautiful landscapes, offering a mix of cultural and natural attractions. You’ll explore Vienna’s architectural splendor, Regensburg’s medieval charm, and Budapest’s vibrant culture. Each city along the Danube has its own unique appeal, from grand palaces and museums to quaint villages and local markets.

Insider’s Tip: Look for cruises that offer cultural tours in each city.

When To Travel: May to September for pleasant weather.

How To Get There: Fly to a major city like Budapest or Vienna to start your journey.

4. The Mississippi River, USA

The Mississippi River cruise offers a deep dive into the heart of American culture and history. The cruise heads north through the American heartland, starting from the vibrant New Orleans, famous for its jazz and Creole cuisine. You’ll pass historic river towns, witness the rolling landscapes of the Midwest, and learn about the river’s role in America’s development. Onboard, enjoy live jazz, lectures about the river’s history, and Southern hospitality.

Insider’s Tip: Spend a few extra days in New Orleans for its rich musical heritage.

When To Travel: Spring or fall for moderate weather.

How To Get There: Fly into New Orleans or Minneapolis, depending on your starting point.

5. The Yangtze River, China

Your journey on the Yangtze River will take you through the heart of China, offering a blend of modern wonders and ancient traditions. The highlight of the cruise is the breathtaking Three Gorges, where steep cliffs rise dramatically from the water. Beyond the natural beauty, you’ll experience the engineering marvel of the Three Gorges Dam and explore lesser-known sites like the Shibaozhai Pagoda. The cruise provides insights into China’s history and culture, with stops in bustling cities and tranquil villages.

Insider’s Tip: Opt for a cruise that includes a visit to the Lesser Three Gorges.

When To Travel: April to October for the best river conditions.

How To Get There: Fly to major cities like Chongqing or Shanghai, depending on your itinerary.

6. The Rhine River, Europe

The Rhine River cruise is a journey through European history and culture. Starting from Amsterdam, the river takes you through the heart of Germany and into Switzerland, with stops at historic cities, medieval castles, and vineyard-covered hills. The Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is particularly stunning, with its picturesque villages and the legendary Lorelei Rock. Each port along the Rhine offers its own unique attractions, from Gothic cathedrals to lively beer gardens.

Insider’s Tip: Take a vineyard tour in one of the quaint towns along the river.

When To Travel: April to October for pleasant cruising weather.

How To Get There: Fly to Amsterdam or Basel to start your journey.

7. The Mekong River, Southeast Asia

A cruise down the Mekong River is an exploration of Southeast Asia’s diverse cultures and landscapes. The journey often begins in Vietnam’s vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, winding through rural landscapes and floating markets before reaching the mystical temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Along the way, you’ll witness daily life on the river, visit local artisans, and taste regional specialties. The Mekong’s rich cultural tapestry is matched only by its scenic beauty, with lush greenery and traditional villages lining its banks.

Insider’s Tip: Extend your trip to explore the Angkor Wat temple complex.

When To Travel: November to February for cooler, drier weather.

How To Get There: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City or Siem Reap to begin your cruise.

8. The Volga River, Russia

The Volga River cruise is a window into Russia’s soul, connecting the cosmopolitan cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg with the quieter, historic towns along the river. Moscow’s Red Square and the Kremlin, the opulent palaces of St. Petersburg, and the ancient towns of Russia’s Golden Ring provide a rich tapestry of Russian history and culture. With its serene landscapes and diverse wildlife, the river offers a peaceful backdrop to the bustling cities.

Insider’s Tip: Try traditional Russian dishes like borscht and pelmeni on board.

When To Travel: May to September for warmer weather.

How To Get There: Start your journey in either Moscow or St. Petersburg.

9. The Douro River, Portugal

Cruising the Douro River takes you through Portugal’s famous wine country, renowned for its Port wine production. Starting from the coastal city of Porto, the cruise travels through the Douro Valley, with its terraced vineyards and quaint villages. You’ll have opportunities to visit local wineries, taste regional cuisine, and explore historic towns like Peso da Régua and Pinhão. The Douro’s scenic beauty is a constant companion, with its rolling hills and serene waters.

Insider’s Tip: Take a port wine-tasting tour in one of the vineyards.

When To Travel: March to October for the best weather and wine harvest season.

How To Get There: Fly to Porto to start your river cruise.

10. The Ganges River, India

A cruise on the Ganges takes you through the spiritual heart of India. Starting from the historic city of Kolkata, the journey heads towards the holy city of Varanasi, passing through rural Bengal with its traditional villages and temples. The Ganges is not just a river; it’s a lifeline for millions and a sacred entity in Hinduism. Witnessing the river’s rituals, from the daily baths to the grand aarti ceremonies, is a profoundly moving experience.

Insider’s Tip: Witness the evening aarti ceremony in Varanasi for a spiritual experience.

When To Travel: October to March for cooler temperatures.

How To Get There: Fly to New Delhi and take a domestic flight or train to Varanasi.

11. The Amazon River, Brazil

The Brazilian Amazon offers a unique river experience, navigating through the world’s largest rainforest and its intricate network of tributaries. Starting from Manaus, you’ll venture deep into the jungle, exploring its diverse flora and fauna. The expedition includes visits to remote indigenous communities, offering a glimpse into their way of life. The Amazon’s wildlife is a major draw, with chances to see monkeys, birds, and perhaps even the elusive jaguar.

Insider’s Tip: Pack insect-repellent and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing for jungle excursions.

When To Travel: July to December for the dry season and better wildlife viewing.

How To Get There: Fly to Manaus, the main gateway for Brazilian Amazon cruises.

12. The Seine River, France

Cruising the Seine River combines the romance of Paris with the charm of France’s countryside. The journey typically starts or ends in the French capital, allowing time to explore its iconic landmarks. As you sail away from Paris, the Seine takes you through picturesque landscapes and historic towns like Rouen and Honfleur. The river’s pace is leisurely, offering ample time to soak in the scenery and enjoy the French way of life.

Insider’s Tip: Enjoy a Parisian evening meal on the riverbank for a memorable experience.

When To Travel: April to October for pleasant cruising conditions.

How To Get There: Start your journey in Paris, easily accessible by international flights.

13. The Zambezi River, Africa

Embark on a journey down the Zambezi River in Africa for a truly unique cruising experience. As you navigate these waters, you’ll be awed by the majestic Victoria Falls, one of the planet’s largest and most stunning waterfalls. This adventure isn’t just about the breathtaking scenery; it’s also an opportunity to witness the rich African wildlife that inhabits the riverbanks. Hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species are just some of the fauna you might encounter. For an insider tip, consider taking a sunset cruise to witness the falls bathed in golden hues.

Insider’s Tip: Take a sunset cruise for stunning views of Victoria Falls.

When To Travel: May to October for the dry season and optimal wildlife viewing.

How To Get There: Fly to Livingstone, Zambia, or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

14. The Chobe River, Botswana/Namibia

The Chobe River, straddling the borders of Botswana and Namibia, offers a unique cruising experience that doubles as an extraordinary safari adventure. This river delineates the northern edge of the famous Chobe National Park, a sanctuary renowned for its massive elephant populations and diverse wildlife. As you cruise along the river, you can expect to see large herds of elephants bathing, along with a variety of other animals quenching their thirst along the banks. A river safari is highly recommended for those seeking an even closer encounter with nature.

Insider’s Tip: Opt for a river safari for close-up wildlife encounters.

When To Travel: May to October for the dry season, ideal for wildlife spotting.

How To Get There: Fly to Kasane, Botswana, to start your river safari.

15. The Irrawaddy River, Myanmar

A cruise along the Irrawaddy River explores Myanmar’s rich historical tapestry and vibrant cultural heritage. This journey is more than just a scenic ride; it’s a passage through time, where you’ll witness the enduring legacy of ancient civilizations. As the river winds through Myanmar, you’ll encounter spectacular sights such as the ancient pagodas, traditional villages, and the historic city of Bagan, a site renowned for its thousands of temples and stupas. These architectural marvels offer a glimpse into a past era of opulent kingdoms and spiritual devotion. For an authentic experience, visit a local village to immerse yourself in the daily life and customs of the Burmese people.

Insider’s Tip: Visit a local village for an authentic glimpse into Burmese life.

How To Get There: Fly to Yangon or Mandalay, where many cruises begin.

The Bottom Line

River cruises offer a unique way to explore the world, combining the comfort of travel with the excitement of discovery. Each river has its own character, culture, and history, making every journey distinct. As you chart your course down these majestic waterways, you’re not just a traveler but an explorer uncovering the stories that flow through the heart of our world. So, pack your bags, set sail, and let the river’s current guide you to new adventures.

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The post Navigating 15 Majestic Rivers – A 2024 Guide to River Cruises and Expeditions was republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Calin Stan.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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The best cruises to book for 2024

Whether you're looking to sail near or far, these are the best cruises to consider for 2024

So many places, so little time - and the best cruises for 2024 are ideal for seeing as much of the world as you can.

They also open up spectacular views you wouldn’t get on land, such as fairytale castles dotted along the Danube or the rolling vineyards flanking the Douro Valley .

Choosing a cruise means seeking new adventures, perhaps travelling to a continent you’ve never set foot in before or trying new activities like hiking, wildlife spotting or cooking . There are other ways to expand your horizons on a cruise too, such as seeing some local entertainment or making new friends on board.

As it’s become ever-more important to us to take a stress-free holiday, we've rounded up the very best cruise packages that won’t disappoint, with everything from the best river cruises to amazing cruises for couples and excellent cruises around the UK .

It doesn't matter when you're looking to sail either, as these cruises take in all the seasons. Fancy a wintery adventure? We've got an epic Norwegian expedition cruise for that. Feel like a spring cruise to escape the summer crowds? We've got the perfect cruise around Japan at the height of cherry blossom season . Japan cruises are always popular and tend to sell out early, but we've got you covered with an excellent 2025 sailing already available — make sure to take a look before it sells out.

However or whenever you want to travel, there's a trip for you, and the best cruises in 2024 take you to the most incredible destinations. You can travel with celebrities on star-studded holidays , visit lesser-known towns and villages to get a real taste of a location and sail to amazing wildlife destinations.

These are the best cruises for 2024.

Venetian Lagoon - Best cruises

Venice is a city that's famous for its water, and a cruise around the Venetian Lagoon reveals more of this romantic and fascinating destination than a hotel city break ever could.

On a Venetian cruise, you can visit the islands of Venice's northern lagoon, including Mazzorbo, Torcello and Burano during a sailing on the luxurious SS La Venezia. Burano is known for its traditional lacemaking and its vividly colourful fisherman cottages lining the lagoon.

The opportunity to visit Burano isn’t the only reason to pick a cruise in the Venetian Lagoon. On Good Housekeeping's special cruise , you’ll sail in the company of top chef James Martin, who will give a talk and Q&A about his career, and design and cook a grand gala dinner on board the luxurious ship SS La Venezia.

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If you fancy an autumnal sailing with more of a musical theme than a foodie one, you might choose to join an eight-day cruise of the Venetian Lagoon in the company of world-famous tenor Russell Watson, who will give a special talk and Q&A, sign your complimentary CD, and give an exclusive intimate concert. You’ll have a chance to explore the highlights of the Lagoon as well, with trips to its islands of Burano, Mazzorbo and Torcello and private visits to Venice's iconic Doge's Palace and St. Mark's Basilica.

Croatia - Best cruises

If you're looking for a sunny Mediterranean cruise you'd do well to consider Croatia and its stylish seaside towns and dozens of sun-kissed islands and islets off the glittering Dalmatian Coast.

With their astounding natural scenery, stylish coastal towns and off-the-beaten-path beaches, Croatia’s islands are wonderful to explore by small ship where you can dock in hard-to-reach corners only accessible by boat.

There mainland has no shortage of attractions either, with bustling cities to be explored too, like Dubrovnik, with its labyrinth of limestone streets and alleyways, palaces, churches, monasteries and picturesque piazzas, and Split, which has a long and varied history and excellent museums.

On Good Housekeeping's cruise you'll dock in Hvar, Dubrovnik and Split as well as one of Croatia's most beautiful beaches at Zlatni Rat - the Golden Horn - whose distinctive shape has made it an icon of Croatian tourism. You'll also visit the island of Mljet and discover the Mljet National Park with its serene saltwater lakes and verdant pine forests.

Vietnam and Cambodia - Best cruises

A cruise through Vietnam and Cambodia is a fantastic way to discover the rich cultures, fascinating histories, and delicious cuisines of these two Southeast Asian gems. The countries are connected by the mighty Mekong River, which is a destination in itself, providing a home for diverse ecosystems and fishing communities on the delta and with ancient archaeological wonders along its banks.

Good Housekeeping is offering a 17-day tour of Vietnam and Cambodia, which includes seven nights cruising the Mekong on board the Mekong Jewel - an ornately decorated luxury ship.

You'll visit Ho Chi Minh City, where skyscrapers tower over ancient temples, Phnom Penh, Cambodia's thriving capital, and Vietnam's capital, Hanoi, where you can visit excellent museums and historic sites before indulging in some delicious Vietnamese street food.

There are excursions to the sprawling temple complex of Angkor Wat, the remnants of the last capital of the Khmer Empire, Angkor Thom, and to local villages and markets on sampans - traditional wooden boats.

Northern France - Best cruises

If you want to enjoy pretty coastal towns with a touch of history, a cruise to Northern France can offer you all of this without having to spend a huge amount of time at sea.

Sail to the Normandy region and you'll discover charming harbourfront towns like Honfleur, where you can sample local delicacies like camembert and Calvados, a rich local brandy made from apples and pears. Originally occupied in the 9th century by the Vikings, Honfleur has attracted artists for many years, including a young Claude Monet.

Join Good Housekeeping on a cruise to Normandy on board the luxurious ship Borealis. On the way to Northern France, you'll make several stops in the Isles of Scilly and the Channel Islands, including Guernsey, with its elegant Georgian and Regency architecture, and St Mary's, a marine conservation zone with lovely coastal walks. FIND OUT MORE

Japan - Best cruises

As each new spring begins, millions of Japanese residents and tourists wait with anticipation for the first buds of the pink cherry blossom, known as sakura , to appear.

These blossoms are a symbol of renewal, vitality and beauty, and they make Japan's already spectacular cities and landscapes even more breathtaking than usual.

You'll have the chance to experience this phenomenon for yourself with Good Housekeeping's once-in-a-lifetime two-week cruise around Japan. The journey begins and ends in Tokyo, where you'll find soaring skyscrapers contrasting with blooming gardens and traditional noodle houses.

Along the way, you'll stop in Hiroshima, where you can learn about its devastating Second World War history, Osaka, where you can see some of the country's most ornate shrines and temples, and you'll even make a stop in Busan in South Korea to enjoy the city's subtropical landscapes. FIND OUT MORE

Norway - Best cruises

Another wonderful European cruise destination for seeing the Northern Lights is Norway. It's one of Europe's best destinations for aurora spotting, especially if you head north above the Arctic Circle, where sightings of the lights are an almost daily occurrence at certain times of year.

From the Arctic capital of Tromsø, you can sail on to the remote and mysterious Lofoten Islands and visit North Cape, Europe's most northerly point, passing ancient Viking villages and herds of reindeer on the way.

On Good Housekeeping's Northern Lights cruise of Norway , you'll enjoy all the highlights of Norway's spectacular coastline: from exploring the Unesco-listed port of Bergen, the city of Tromsø and the ancient Viking trading post of Trondheim. You'll sail through some of Norway's most jaw-dropping landscapes, cruising past more than 1,000 mountains and 100 fjords. There'll be opportunities for wildlife spotting and stargazing and you'll be sailing with an expert expedition team who'll give you the best chance of catching a unique light display.

If you'd prefer a summer sailing, Good Housekeeping has a wonderful cruise over the August bank holiday weekend. You'll sail through several of Norway's most heavenly fjords, learning about ancient Viking history and the fascinating myths and legends that surround these icy waters.

Scottish Highlands - Best cruises

Loch Ness, Loch Nevis, the Sound of Mull, Iona, Eigg, Skye, Fort Augustus, Fort William… these names conjure up images of glistening waters, wild landscapes and towering castles, majestic flora and fauna, and ancient myths and legends.

A cruise in this part of Scotland would surely be a contender for the most scenic of British getaways. You can travel through the Highlands and islands of Scotland to explore the endlessly beautiful Caledonian Canal, the magical islands of Scotland's western shore and hidden sea lochs that are only accessible on the water.

The deluxe Lord of the Glens hosts a maximum of 54 passengers and is one of the best ways to sail the Highlands. Guests stay in outward-facing en-suite cabins and enjoy superb cuisine throughout.

You can experience this ship on a exclusive sailing with weather presenter Carol Kirkwood, who'll join you on a journey through the tranquil Caledonian Canal and onwards towards the Sound of Mull, sharing stories of her Scottish family's history.

Egypt - Best cruises

If you're looking for a culture and history-filled cruise a little further afield, a river cruise through Egypt is a great option. Sailing along the Nile allows you to visit magnificent temples including Kom Ombo, Philae, Edfu and the Valley of the Kings, the ancient burial grounds of Egyptian royalty.

Good Housekeeping has a fabulous 12-day trip to Egypt packed full of historical and archaeological excursions. The trip begins in Cairo, where you'll take a trip to Giza to see the ancient pyramids and the Great Sphinx before heading to Luxor and boarding an opulent river ship for your seven-night cruise.

Making this cruise extra special is the company of historian Lucy Worsley. Lucy is an expert in Agatha Christie and will share her knowledge of the author's work during Q&As and talks, pointing out her connections to Egypt and the locations which inspired one of her most famous works, Death on the Nile.

Antarctica - Best cruises

Choosing the best Antarctic cruise can seem like a daunting task. It’s an investment of your time and money and likely something you may only do once and remember in exquisite detail. It’s a remote and thrilling part of the world to explore, where 12 million penguins live in the coldest, highest, and driest place on earth.

To get the best out of this bucketlist experience, you need to go with experts who will take care of everything. Hurtigruten expedition cruises have explored Antarctic waters for over 20 years, and their premium ships have been designed so guests can explore the region comfortably.

Good Housekeeping’s Antarctic cruise on MS Fridtjof Nansen has one of the lowest possible CO2 footprints of all expedition ships in Antarctica, thanks to a special hybrid engine on this future-ready vessel.

You’ll depart from Ushuaia, a city nicknamed ‘End of the World’ and head through the icy waters of the Drake Passage, home to the incredible marine life you may have only seen on screen, where the white wonderland envelopes you on an adventure like no other.

The Hebrides - Best cruises

For a slightly different kind of island holiday - one that's more about getting out and about in wild, untamed nature and spotting incredible wildlife - try a cruise around the dramatic Hebrides .

These Scottish islands offer rugged coastlines, varied flora and fauna and delicious local whisky to taste at several historic distilleries.

Each island has its own special charms. There's the outstanding wildlife haven of Arran, the Isle of Mull with its brightly painted harbourfront houses, the 'whisky island' of Islay, world-renowned for its peaty single-malts, and the uninhabited Hirta Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you're interested in exploring the Hebrides, we have an eight-day sailing that will take you to Iona, Eigg, and Skye, as well as many other picture perfect locations on the mainland.

Greece - Best cruises

The idyllic Cyclades, a collection of Greek islands in the Aegean Sea, are known and loved for their pretty white-walled houses draped in pink bougainvillea, sandy beaches and bright blue waters.

But there is more to the Cyclades than just sun, sea and sea. These isles have a rich history, shaped by their many past conquerors, including the Minoans, Persians, Byzantines and Romans. You'll see remnants of these cultures in the architecture, from the Monastery of the Apocalypse Patmos to the cliff-clinging monastery of Hozoviotissas on Amorgos.

Discover a range of these intriguing buildings and monuments with Good Housekeeping on a cruise of the Cyclades . As well as the Cyclades you'll also spend time in Athens and Kusadasi, a beach resort in Turkey.

Douro River - Best cruises

Anyone wanting to explore the Douro wine region should choose a cruise along the Douro River. This scenic waterway is central to the Portuguese wine trade and is flanked by rolling hills and vineyards, with storybook villages rising from the banks.

The Alto Douro, the name of this wine-producing valley region, holds UNESCO status and is one of the oldest and most renowned wine-making regions in the world.

Good Housekeeping offers an exclusive cruise along the Douro, where you can truly soak in the beauty of this golden valley as you travel.

Whereas some cruises like their passengers to dress in their finest gowns for dinner, A-ROSA ALVA has no such rules. Instead, an eight-day cruise invites its guests to relax on a wine-themed voyage where you'll visit multiple wine estates. Depending on the time of year, you might even get the chance to take part in a traditional grape harvest, including crushing the grapes underfoot in traditional granite troughs.

Germany - Best cruises

The Rhine Valley is a captivating part of Germany, characterised by storybook castles and hilltop vineyards. A cruise on the Rhine is particularly inviting during the weeks leading up to Christmas, when the towns, villages, and cities along its banks go all out for their famous Christmas markets.

Good Housekeeping has a Christmassy cruise which will take you to the best of these markets. Starting in elegant Cologne, you'll see the incredible Gothic cathedral before boarding your beautifully appointed ship and setting sail along the Rhine.

You'll make several stops along the way, including in Mainz, Frankfurt, Koblenz, and Rüdesheim. At each stop you'll have time to browse the fairytale markets, picking up unique gifts and trying local delicacies as the heavenly scent of roast almonds, mulled wine and spiced cider fills the air.

India - Best cruises

The Ganges is India's most sacred river, meandering 2,500km through the country from its starting point high in the Himalayas. Flowing through sprawling cities, tiny villages, and spectacular nature, a cruise down the Ganges is a fantastic way to see some of India's best attractions.

On a Ganges cruise, you can visit highlights like the Rajbari temple complex in Kalna, the artisan village of Matiari, and the neoclassical Hazarduari Palace in Murshidabad.

Good Housekeeping has a once-in-a-lifetime tour of India , which includes a seven-night cruise down the Ganges. After exploring India's Golden Triangle – including an unforgettable trip to witness both sunrise and sunset over the Taj Mahal – you'll board the luxurious Ganges Voyager II, a spectacular ship adorned with hand-painted murals.

Another highlight of any trip to India is the food, and you'll be joined on board by the Michelin-starred British-Indian chef Atul Kochhar, who'll share his passion for Indian cuisine in a live cooking demonstration.

Alaska - Best cruises

With its staggering mountain ranges, lush forests, rolling tundra, dramatic glaciers and a jaw-dropping range of wildlife, ranging from bears and moose to whales, Alaska is wilderness at its best. And no location in Alaska is more inviting for nature lovers than its Inside Passage, a network of waterways that wind through the fjords and mighty forests of the USA's largest state. Cruising through this incredible body of water gives you a rare chance to glimpse humpback whales, orca, bald eagles and bears in their natural habitat, and to discover the diverse and fascinating culture and history on its banks. From intriguing Gold Rush history to the traditions of Native Alaskan communities, there's so much to learn about on an Alaska cruise. Good Housekeeping has a once-in-a-lifetime cruise of the Inside Passage as part of a Canadian and Alaskan adventure. You'll ride on a scenic train route through the Rocky Mountains to Vancouver, where you'll set sail for a week-long Alaskan cruise on board a well-equipped ship.

Danube River - Best cruises

The enchanting Danube is a wonderful river for a culture-packed European cruise. It winds through seven European countries and boasts opulent cities on its banks, as well as picturesque towns and villages and dramatic unspoilt rural scenery, including the UNESCO-protected Wachau Valley.

Good Housekeeping is offering a week-long Danube cruise , where you'll discover the highlights of three of the great capitals on its banks. You'll enjoy the culture and culinary treats of Vienna, marvel at the its magnificent buildings in Budapest, and take in the Gothic architecture and imposing castles of Bratislava.

In Vienna, you'll also have a very special event to look forward to; a trip to the famous Royal Lipizzaner Stables and Spanish Riding School with one of UK's best-loved historians, Lucy Worsley. Here, you'll get an insight into the training work of the riders with their Lipizzaner stallions as you watch them train to the sounds of classical Viennese music.

FIND OUT MORE Looking for inspiration for your next holiday? Grab a cuppa and browse our brochure packed with unique escapes.

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Spontaneous adventures await with our slection off truly all-inclusive last minute river cruises departing within the next 90 days. Whether you wish to be immersed in cultural experiences, discover iconic cities and small towns, or simply devote time to unwind, a last minute getaway is just around the corner.

Plan your summer getaway today. For best available fares contact your Professional Travel Advisor or call us at 857-326-5258

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Charming Castles & Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle

Mighty castles and lush green vineyards

Jewels of Europe

Europe’s most spectacular river discovery

Romantic Rhine & Moselle

Romance is alive and well on the Rhine

Plan your summer getaway today. For best available fares contact your Professional Travel Advisor or call us at 857-837-0439

            Included with your luxury cruise

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Premium Beverages

Scenic Enrich exclusive events

Choice of shore excursions

All gratuities included

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Airport Transfers

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2 for 1 Fares : 2 for 1 Fares are displayed as a per person rate in a double occupancy cabin. Fares are based on full fare pricing and may not have resulted in a sale. Offer applies to cruise pricing only; does not apply on land extensions, air or any other add-ons. Scenic Select Savings : Bonus savings of up to $1,500 per suite ($750pp) are available on select departures in 2024, with bonus savings of up to $750 per suite ($375pp) on select 2025 departures. Savings vary by departure. Combinable with 2 for 1 Fares and FlexCredit offers, and are capacity controlled.  Pay in full — FlexCredit : For RP, RR, RO, R, RA, RD, RS or RJ categories receive a choice of $1,500pp savings or $1,500pp air credit when you pay in full within 30 days of booking or at 90 days prior to departure, whichever is soonest. Other cabin categories receive the choice of $1,000pp savings or $1,000pp air credit for the same payment window. Guest must choose savings or air credit selection at time of booking. Departures outside of 11 months can pay in full at 10 months prior to departure to receive these benefits. Air credit offers are only valid 61 or more days prior to departure. All flights will be booked on Scenic's choice of airline and routing, and are subject to availability. Single Supplement : Free single supplement is available on select 2024 departures. Full payment required. Single supplement is applied to the 2 for 1 Fare; single guest pays one guest fare. Free single supplement is not combinable with any other offers. Other dates may have a 45% single supplement; can be converted to a 25% supplement when paid in full within 30 days of booking or 90 days prior to departure; whichever is soonest Single supplement offers not applicable on RP, RR, RO, R, RA, RD, RS or RJ categories. Not combinable with any other offers. Offer is capacity controlled. All offers are inventory controlled and may be extended, cancelled or withdrawn at any time without notice. Scenic reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares and promotions at any time. Port charges are included in the price shown. For the most up-to-date pricing, availability and offers, please visit our website or contact your Professional Travel Advisor. Offers applicable for residents of the 50 United States of America & Washington D.C.

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Europe  River Cruises

Discover the captivating waterways and be immersed in the history and culture of Europe's extraordinary regions.

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Journey through picturesque European river waterways

Be inspired by the history, culture, cuisine and magnificent sights of Europe. From the charming castles and fairy-tale villages on the Rhine, Main and Danube, and the iconic sites of France, to the renowned Portuguese wine regions along the Douro River. Explore these incredible destinations while enjoying truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury in a class of its own. 

Choose your European Destination

A world of enriching experiences awaits you as you cruise past an array of towns rich in culture and history.

Enjoy a truly all-inclusive river cruise in a class of its own.  

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Our luxurious Scenic Space-Ships have been purpose-built for Europe’s waterways and get you closer to shore to create a real sense of immersion. Let time stand still as you discover the limitless wonders of Europe and enjoy a premium all-inclusive experience.

Innovative Scenic Space-Ships

Our innovative ships feature an abundance of luxurious outdoor, dining and wellness areas, along with spacious suites. Low guest numbers of only up to 163 guests provide an intimate experience. These sleek ships are also able to dock in the heart of towns, so you can enjoy more time to explore.

Luxurious Suites

Each suite offers you the luxury of personal space. Our generously-sized suites are elegantly appointed with premium amenities including a queen-size Scenic Slumber Bed, a pillow menu and luxurious bath products. The Balcony, Junior and Royal Suites* feature your very own window to the world with our signature Scenic Sun Lounges – some of the largest balconies offered on European waterways. 

Up to Five Dining Options

Whether you prefer a fine dining experience with a six-course degustation, 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. 

Scenic Freechoice

Personalise your river cruise and pursue your own interests as you set off on curated excursions throughout Europe. Scenic’s extensive and diverse list of Freechoice excursions offer an Active, Moderate or Relaxed pace so you can choose activities best suited to you based on your passions. Whether it’s a guided hike up beautiful Buda Hill or delectable wine tastings in the French town of Châteauneuf du Pape, the choice is yours.

Scenic Enrich

Our Scenic Enrich experiences are exclusive to Scenic guests and place you at the heart of the world’s most refined art, music and architecture. You’ll go behind the scenes to enjoy moments inaccessible to the ordinary traveller, from a classical concert at the opulent Palais Liechtenstein in Vienna to after hours access at Bassins de Lumières, a former submarine base turned immersive digital art installation. These carefully curated experiences are destined to be the highlights of your journey. 

Salt Therapy Lounge

Scenic is the first and only river cruise company to feature a therapeutic Salt Therapy Lounge* on board its Scenic Space-Ships cruising Europe’s waterways. Mimicking the environment of a salt cave, the Salt Therapy Lounge can assist with healing, improving respiration and boosting the immune system.

Featured Itineraries

Unforgettable Douro

A truly timeless place

Spectacular South of France

Awaken your senses in the South of France

Black Sea Explorer with Bucharest & Budapest

Hidden Treasures Rediscovered

Jewels of Europe

Europe’s most spectacular river discovery

Romantic Rhine & Moselle

Romance is alive and well on the Rhine

Christmas Markets

Soak up the Christmas magic

• Europe River Cruising 2025
• Europe River Cruising 2024
• Your Guide to Europe River Cruising

Your guide to Europe river cruising

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The rooms here are $12,000 a night, but there's a 45% cleaning fee if you actually sleep on the sheets. Pic via Getty Images.

Luxury travel has changed, man. Here’s what to expect in 2024

19 hours ago | Alexandra Carlton at Escape

Link copied to clipboard

Travelling at the pointy end in 2024 is about much more than gold-plated taps and doormen in top hats. Here’s what the big bucks get you now. 

I walk out of passport control in Bali’s Denpasar International Airport and raise my eyes towards the electronic boards that list the luggage carousels to find out where to collect my suitcase. But before I can focus, a voice says my name. “Ms Carlton? Welcome to Bali.”

It’s Raja, the concierge arranged by Raffles Bali who is there to greet me, even before I clear customs. With brisk efficiency he fills in my electronic customs form, collects my luggage and whisks me past every other passenger to my private transport, which is equipped with wi-fi, a vibrant herbal tonic and even an iPad, on which I can choose the music for my journey to the resort. Carousel to car in 10 minutes flat.

Once upon a time, luxury travel was all about opulent marble bathrooms, magnums of chilled Champagne and hermetically sealed limousines. It can still be all those things, but today’s luxury-seekers value less-tangible jewels – things like effortlessness, space, privacy and time. “For me, luxury is about ease,” Katya Herting, Raffles Bali’s general manager, tells me later. “Life can be so complicated. For our guests, everything is taken care of.”

What does luxury look like in 2024?

The basic touchpoints have not changed. A high-end hotel or cruise will have top-quality sheets, exquisitely comfortable beds, showstopping food (with ingredients like caviar and foie gras almost always somewhere on the menu) and plush amenities. But big-picture details are just as important.

At Como The Treasury in Perth, for example, the impersonal check-in desk queue is replaced with a welcome salon that feels like a friend’s beautifully designed living room where guests sink into plush lounges with a cocktail as they complete the arrivals process. A top-level cruise ship will have a high staff-to-guest ratio so that every traveller’s needs are instantly accommodated. And then there is the luxury of access.

True luxury is about money-can’t-buy experiences such as a customised fragrance for your suite, an art gallery opened at night for a one-on-one-tour, or a personalised drawing of your likeness.

Does luxe mean less?

Certainly luxury should mean that you need to worry less; a true luxury experience means that someone else is taking care of the details. All-inclusive products may look pricey at first look, but you’re paying for everything to be completely carefree.

“We find ‘all-inclusive’ to be luxurious as it takes the pressure and pain away from having to make decisions,” says Anthony Laver, general manager sales and marketing Australasia of Scenic Group , whose river and ocean cruises are all-inclusive, all the time. “The only decision you have to make is what cocktail to have before dinner.”

But all-inclusive can also mean you pay less in the end, as you’re not adding on – and perhaps losing track of – expenses on the go.

Is affordable luxury a thing?

Here’s the good news. Increasingly, little bits of luxury are finding their way into the travel landscape at all price points.

At the Quincy Hotel in Melbourne, where rooms start at a moderate $223 a night, guests can order their own fragrance service, where a concierge will arrive with a spritz of Bulgari, Jean Paul Gaultier, Balenciaga or Valentino to make a night out that little bit more special, while the Swell Hotel in Byron Bay has its own high-end ice bath and sauna worthy of a top-level hotel spa.

Overseas, an upgrade to plush Gran Class on a Japanese shinkansen (bullet train) could be worth the splurge of an extra $100 or so, especially if it’s a route where beautiful bento boxes are included.

Luxury dining

Top-tier dining is about much more than just food. It’s a multisensory hospitality experience. Attentive service is a given; someone will take your coat, bring a stool for your handbag and explain every dish in detail.

But there’ll also be drama and theatre, such as when New York’s Eleven Madison Park recreated a tropical island in the private dining room for a couple whose vacation had been cancelled.

At Melbourne’s Vue de Monde , guests participate in making their own luxe jam doughnuts, while at the three-hatted Amisfield near Queenstown in New Zealand, guests are led into a beautiful greenhouse full of ferns and rich forest scents to eat dessert.

Best luxury travel experiences of 2024

Five-star hotels and resorts $$$$-$$$$$.

What to Expect: Chances are you know the basics of luxury hotels: the never-want-to-get-up beds, the “sirs” and “ma’ams”. But it’s actually the thoughtful touches and unmatched experiences that get that final star over the line.

At the Four Seasons in Bangkok , for example, you’ll find a charming digital likeness of your face on the welcome dessert plate in your suite on arrival. The Hotel Belles Rives in the South of France has a waterskiing butler who will teach you how to look like a 1960s film star in a striped swimsuit, flying across the Mediterranean. While at the Six Senses in Rome you can arrange a private peek at a priceless artwork inside the church next door, one that’s otherwise entirely hidden from the public. But luxury is also about having space to breathe and reflect. Most of the 23ha of the Raffles Bali is lush jungle, so guests have extraordinary views from every angle, while the new Soneva Secret in the Maldives has only 14 entirely secluded multi-space bungalows on a completely private island.

River cruises $$$

What to expect: A luxury river cruise somewhere such as France, Germany or Portugal should be a seamless blend of on-board comfort and immersive shore experiences. Plenty of vessels will punt you from port to port but a  Scenic cruise goes significantly further on the luxe scale, with an all-suite offering and a maximum of 163 guests. But it’s the exclusive Scenic Enrich shore program that takes your trip far beyond ordinary travel, with experiences such as the thrill of a Mozart concerto at the Palais Liechtenstein in Vienna or after-hours access to the Fabrique des Lumières art centre in Amsterdam.

Ocean cruises $$$$

What to expect: A luxury cruise should feel effortless from the moment you board. Your minibar should be stocked with the requests you arranged pre-cruise, and your personal butler on hand for whatever you need (caviar delivery as soon as you put down your handbag? Certainly, ma’am). Even the lowest-tier suite should have high-end amenities such as full-size baths and private balconies. On an expedition ship such as Silversea’s Silver Origin , which operates in the Galápagos Islands, part of the luxury is the expertise of the crew itself; if you travel to these places to learn about the landscape and wildlife, having the best-trained guides on board to point out hidden curiosities is priceless.

Private yacht $$$$$

What to expect: Private yachts can be hired almost anywhere there’s water, and if you’re willing to pay for it the crew should move mountains to get you whatever you want on board. A charter company like Cecil Wright will find the vessel and arrange an itinerary that suits your needs (Greek islands but only the smaller, lesser-known ones? Can do) and then stock it with any food, drinks and entertainment you desire. But expect to pay for it. The cheapest motor yacht in their fleet starts at around $470,000 for a week’s charter.

Business and first class flights $$$-$$$$$

What to expect: Flying business class is already pretty perk-heavy: dedicated lounges, priority boarding, drink service upon boarding and of course the holy grail, the flat bed, which is available on most airlines and routes. But first class takes things to a whole new level. Qantas ’s first-class lounge at Sydney Airport is like all your favourite restaurants in one: Korean fried chicken, Neil Perry’s famous salt and pepper squid and pavlova, and limitless Champagne. On board, you’re not in a seat but a suite, one that includes a table for two so you can dine with your companion, as well as a roomy bed fitted with Sheridan sheets.

Private jet $$$$

What to expect: Airport queues and lost luggage? Forget it. The most luxurious aspect of a private jet tour is that it whisks you in or out of a destination in the time it takes most people to haul their luggage on to the conveyor belt. Most private jet companies have dedicated hangars or even whole airports so you arrive and step straight on board, with no waiting in line. Prices for private jet tours can be virtually unlimited depending on the route and comfort levels. APT runs air tours that aren’t cheap but considering the inclusions, are incredible value for money. Their 16-day Icons of Australia Air Tour touches down in Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart, Cairns, Margaret River, Uluru, Darwin, the Great Barrier Reef and more, with signature experiences at every destination, starting from under $25,000. An investment in the trip of a lifetime.

Rail class upgrades $$

What to expect: Depending on your priorities, upgrading on a train trip might be one of those semi-affordable luxuries worth the splurge. If you’re travelling overnight on one of Trenitalia ’s Intercity Notte trains in Italy, upgrading to a sleeper berth rather than sitting upright is a solid investment for your back if nothing else, and will still generally cost under 100 euros ($165), depending on the route. Canada’s Via Rail upgrades aren’t quite so economical – an upgrade from Vancouver to Toronto might cost $C2000 ($2265) rather than $C600 for economy but the private beds and meal service turn a simple mode of transportation into an experience.

Luxury rail journeys $$$$

What to expect: Romance and heady adventure are the spirit of a luxury rail journey. On the Eastern & Oriental Express in Southeast Asia, the decor of each suite is rich and jewel-toned, reflecting a sumptuous bygone era. Food at the two restaurants is curated by a Michelin-starred chef, and you can even customise your sleeping quarters with a choice of fragrances and playlists.

10 luxury hotels that belong on your bucket list

The ‘wildest’ luxury hotel we’ve ever seen

6 cheap luxury experiences around the world

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