Which river cruise is best for first-timers?

Great question! If you’ve never done a river cruise before, it can feel overwhelming – there are so many lines, rivers and itineraries. The key is to start with a cruise that matches your pace and interests, letting you enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed.

What’s the easiest river to start with?

Most first-timers pick the Danube or Rhine (or both!). These classic European rivers feature iconic cities like Vienna, Budapest, Cologne and Amsterdam, with daily visits and stunning scenery. You’ll get a taste of Europe without long stretches at sea, making it perfect for a first river cruise experience.

Which river cruise lines are good for beginners?

Viking River Cruises: Often recommended as a first choice, Viking has the largest river fleet, well-tested itineraries and a relaxed feel. They include excursions in each port, so you don’t have to worry about planning everything yourself and can concentrate on enjoying the scenery and culture.

AmaWaterways: Known for excellent food, panoramic decks and optional active excursions like cycling. Great if you enjoy a balance of relaxation, culture and activity.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises: If you want a more boutique, luxury feel, Uniworld’s ships are beautifully decorated and offer immersive cultural experiences. They tend to be more inclusive and offer personalised service.

Avalon Waterways: Another excellent choice, with contemporary ships with flexible options for walkers and cyclists. A bit more active and modern in style. Perfect for lying in bed opposite wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows that open seven feet wide, creating Avalon’s signature Open-Air Balcony.

APT: An Australian-owned company with classic luxury and all-inclusive features. Their Signature Experiences take you beyond the usual itinerary with curated local events and seamless service — great for travellers who want comfort and personalised touches.

Scenic: Offers 5-star “Space-Ships” with spacious suites, butler service and included cultural experiences. Their Scenic Freechoice excursions let you tailor your days to your pace, from gentle walks to immersive local activities.

How do they differ?

Viking is classic and reliable with lots of itinerary choice. AmaWaterways blends comfort and gourmet dining. Uniworld focuses on boutique luxury and local immersion. Avalon is flexible and active; while APT and Scenic cater especially well to Australian travellers seeking all-inclusive, high-quality experiences. Your personal style – whether you want quieter days, gourmet food or scenic activity – helps decide which suits you best. Your first river cruise should leave you inspired, not exhausted.

Tips for first timers:

✔ Check what’s included – meals, drinks, gratuities, excursions.
✔ Think about pace – do you want lots of activity or relaxed exploration?
✔ Choose a classic route (Danube, Rhine or both) for your first trip.

In short:

Choose a river cruise itinerary that feels manageable and pick a brand whose style matches your travel vibe. Whichever company is right for you, a river cruise is one of the most magical ways to see Europe – slow, elegant and deeply memorable.

Get in touch to start planning your dream river cruise holiday at [email protected].