7 Ultimate River Cruises
If you're searching for a low-key travel experience with opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture, river cruises are the way to go! We love that the ships are generally smaller and dock right in the heart of cities or places that oceangoing vessels can't reach. There are plenty of modern ships with expanded amenities and intriguing itineraries that allow you to experience several destinations without having to repack for separate excursions. Here are a few of our favorites, don't hesitate to reach out to your Huffman Travel Luxury Travel Advisor for more insight on each region.
Amazon
Journey into Earth's largest rainforest and the Peruvian black water lagoons. The mystical river has never been more accessible than now! Navigate through the breathtaking sceneries and many waterways and explore the biodiverse rainforest, which houses the world's most extensive plant and animal life collection. A third of all recorded animal species in the world can be found in the Amazon. Among them, pink dolphins and giant river otters have frequently been spotted by our clients.
Nile
Since the ancient Egyptians believed the Nile would carry them into the afterlife, most of Ancient Egypt's cultural and historical sites lie along its banks. See the wonders of the longest river in the world unfold before your eyes. Let skilled Egyptologists guide you around five thousand years of culture, from magnificent temples to the great pyramids, to treasures of antiquity.
Douro
One of Europe's oldest and most renowned wine regions, the Douro Valley, enchants with ancient wine estates and Barcos Rabelos laden with casks enroute to Porto and Lisbon. Portugal's Douro River was named "River of Gold" because, back in the day, the river was used to transport fine wines, almonds, and olives produced in the river valley. The river was the primary source of wealth for the area. The Douro Valley is a sublimely scenic corner of Europe with equally sublime food, wine, and history.
Bordeaux
Travel to France's legendary wine capital, Bordeaux. Iconic châteaux, timeless vineyards, and delicious wine tastings are plentiful—there is so much to do in this part of France. Visit Bordeaux's fountains and cellars, hunt for truffles in Périgord, and create your own personal blend of Cognac at the Camus distillery. Savor France's finest oysters fresh from the bay at Arcachon. Sip Saint-Émilion, Médoc, and Sauternes in their own "terroir" in Bordeaux—a region synonymous with fine wine and finer living.
Burgundy
Wine, religion, power, politics, money. All are deeply entwined in Burgundy’s history, where almost a thousand years have crafted some of the best wines in the world. Only accessible to small barges, Burgundy offers fabulous vineyards, charming towns, and picturesque bikeways to enjoy with friends and family. Also of note, Burgundy is ideally located in the center of France and pairs well with any destination in France and Europe.
Mekong
Immerse yourself in history and culture as you discover the rich heritage and traditions of the Mekong river and its storied past. Navigate the picturesque, life-giving waters of Southeast Asia’s longest river with expert local guides, visit small villages, and bike along the shores for a bit of exercise.
Danube
The Danube river rises in Germany’s Black Forest and flows through or along the borders of 10 countries. A Danube river cruise may include spectacular cities like Vienna, Budapest, Munich, and Prague. Danube river cruise ships wander through scenic old-country villages, stop at fairytale-esque castles, medieval fortresses, churches, museums, and more – amazing food, wine, and beer also await. Christmas markets anyone?