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Home » Things to Do » Lincoln Brayford Belle Boat Trips

Lincoln Brayford Belle Boat Trips

Between Easter and October, you can enjoy a boat trip from Lincoln’s Brayford Pool along the Fossdyke Canal in the Brayford Belle. The Fossdyke was built by the Romans to link Lincoln to the River Trent (and ultimately the North Sea).

Spend a relaxing hour sailing on the Lincoln Brayford Belle, enjoying the lovely scenery and watching the world pass slowly by.

An interesting commentary will keep you informed about places of interest en route.

Light refreshments are available onboard.

For more information about the boat trips, please click here .

Brayford Belle Sailing Times:

Easter – September: Daily

October: Weekends only

Sailing at: 12.15pm, 1.30pm & 2.45pm

Brayford Belle Prices:

Concessions: £6

Children: £4

Family: £20

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Travel | New Illinois River cruise does deep dive into…

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Travel | new illinois river cruise does deep dive into land of lincoln.

Lori Rackl / Chicago Tribune

Migrating American white pelicans crowd a green swath of land on the Illinois River north of Peoria.

Lori Rackl/Chicago Tribune

High ceilings and soaring windows in the Duchess' dining room give passengers a good view of the outdoors.

The American Duchess didn't have much room to spare when passing under a rail bridge near Chillicothe, Ill.

Abraham Lincoln, played by Freeport resident George Buss, waves as the boat pulls away from Hannibal, Mo.

The Duchess enters a lock on the Mississippi River. The boat made a total of nine crossings through locks on its journey from Alton to Ottawa, with a side trip to Missouri's Hannibal.

The American Duchess approaches the Joe Page Bridge in Hardin, Ill.

Live music was played nightly in the American Duchess' show lounge, which sometimes turned into a dance floor.

Historical re-enactors take a stroll near the Duchess' docking space in Peoria.

Bald eagles were a relatively common sight along the banks of the Illinois River.

Freshly picked, perfectly ripe peaches from Calhoun County were waiting for Duchess passengers when they disembarked in Grafton, Ill.

A passenger soaks up the sun and the scenery on the top deck of the American Duchess as it cruises along the Illinois River.

A few birds linger on the banks of the Illinois River as the American Duchess passes by en route to Peoria.

Abraham Lincoln, played by George Buss of Freeport, chats with a California couple aboard the American Duchess on a cruise through Illinois. "Lincoln's Illinois" was the theme of the cruise.

The boat passed a vibrant green island and remnants of a rainbow as it left Havana, Ill.

The candy apple red paddle wheel at the back of the boat helps power the American Duchess.

One of American Queen Steamboat Co.'s hop-on, hop-off buses takes passengers through Hannibal, Mo.

An American Duchess passenger checks out commercial traffic on the Illinois River, largely the domain of big barges and small pleasure boats.

The staircase in the Duchess' Grand Lobby was inspired by the 1980s television drama "Dynasty." It leads to the Lincoln Library, a place where passengers can have a drink, listen to live music or read a book.

A rainbow shimmered in the sky as the boat left the dock in Havana, Ill.

The two-story loft suites on the American Duchess measure 550 square feet and include a private balcony.

Washington Square Park in Ottawa, the American Duchess' final port on the "Lincoln's Illinois" cruise, is home to bronze statues depicting Abraham Lincoln and political rival Stephen A. Douglas. The memorial commemorates the site of the first of seven Lincoln-Douglas debates of 1858.

A Dixieland band gave the Duchess a musical welcome when the boat arrived in Havana, Ill., on a "Lincoln's Illinois" cruise.

Passengers on the American Duchess' "Lincoln's Illinois" cruise boarded the boat in Alton, where we sailed on the Mississippi River past the floating Argosy Casino and towering silos.

People in pontoons and smaller pleasure boats wave to the Duchess as the paddle-wheeler makes its way north of Peoria on the Illinois River.

You won't soon forget that Hannibal, Mo., is the hometown of author Mark Twain, whose name and visage are everywhere. The American Duchess, pictured here at the dock, spent a full day in Hannibal before heading back to Illinois.

When you tell people you’re going on a weeklong cruise, you expect them to ask, “Where?”

Here’s what they don’t expect you to answer: “Illinois.”

The Illinois River isn’t exactly top of mind when it comes to recreational river cruises, a pursuit that conjures up far-flung locations like the Danube, Nile and Amazon. But the nearly 275-mile-long waterway that threads through the heart of the Prairie State served as the main setting for a groundbreaking — make that waterbreaking? — cruise this past summer. That’s when the 166-passenger American Duchess paddle-wheeler made its way from the Mississippi River town of Alton, up to Ottawa, on the Illinois.

“This large of a passenger boat on the Illinois River hasn’t happened, if ever, for many years,” said Duchess Capt. Randy Kirschbaum, who’s navigated inland waterways for four decades. “There’s a lot of excitement around it. Not only for us on the boat … but for the towns.”

I witnessed that excitement firsthand in August on the ship’s inaugural trip along the Illinois River, a route typically populated by commercial barges and smaller pleasure boats. Tagging along was my 13-year-old niece, Sara, a good half-century younger than most of the passengers.

During our deep dive into the Land of Lincoln, the year-old Duchess made maiden calls at several ports, including Peoria, whose riverfront bustled with a Saturday morning farmers market, and the sleepier town of Havana, where the mayor, a Dixieland jazz band and camera-toting residents turned out to greet the Victorian-style vessel as she cozied up to shore.

In these parts, the Duchess was a bona fide aquatic anomaly. The limited-but-growing inventory of overnight cruise boats plying U.S. rivers tends to cluster on bigger, better-known waterways. And many of these ships simply aren’t a good fit for the Illinois River, a tributary of the Mississippi that basically flows southwest of Joliet, at the confluence of the Kankakee and Des Plaines rivers, all the way down to Grafton, not too far north of St. Louis. The vessels are often too tall to navigate the northern reaches of the Illinois; in the game of limbo between the boat and some of the low-slung bridges that straddle the water, the boat loses.

Even the relatively compact Duchess had to collapse its black smokestacks and sun-deck umbrellas to squeeze under spans carrying trains and trucks roaring overhead. If heavy rain had caused water levels to rise too much, that would have been the end of our river road.

Cruise companies are willing to tackle these kinds of logistical headaches if it means giving the growing riverboat market new and off-the-beaten-path itineraries like this one, dubbed “Lincoln’s Illinois.” By venturing deeper into domestic waterways, they’re catering to a clientele that craves the intimacy of riverboat cruising but doesn’t necessarily want to fly to a foreign country to experience it. They’re targeting folks who are eager for longer, overnight journeys on U.S. rivers but have already “done” the Mississippi or the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest.

Just about everyone I talked to aboard the Duchess — one of three paddle-wheelers owned by American Queen Steamboat Co. , which has a fourth on the way — had previously traveled with the New Albany, Ind.-based riverboat cruise line. They’d usually cruised some stretch of the Mississippi — the Memphis-New Orleans leg is especially popular — and they’d usually done it on the company’s largest vessel, the 436-passenger American Queen.

This time, they picked Lincoln’s Illinois on the Duchess because they wanted “something different.”

Here’s something different: seeing Abraham Lincoln in a bright orange life jacket during the ship’s mandatory muster drill.

Looking for Lincoln

The country’s esteemed POTUS, played with haunting perfection by Freeport resident and Lincoln impersonator George Buss , traveled onboard with us for most of the voyage. He and Mary Todd (Buss’ actual wife) would pop up in various spots around the boat, making small talk with passengers and delivering snack-sized doses of history in keeping with the trip’s Lincoln theme. When we ran into Honest Abe one sunny afternoon on the top deck, he pulled out a copy of the Gettysburg Address from his stovepipe hat and gave it to my niece.

It was a little head-trippy to think that nearly two centuries ago, the real Lincoln worked on this very waterway, piloting a flatboat full of supplies headed for New Orleans.

The towns that bookended our cruise hosted the first and last of the famous Lincoln-Douglas debates of 1858, a series of verbal smackdowns that started in Ottawa and ended a few months later in Alton.

Not surprisingly, the cruise’s shore excursions often featured a tie-in to the 16 th president, whether it be one of the stops on the ship’s private hop-on, hop-off buses that take passengers on a continuous sightseeing circuit in every port, or something more elaborate, like the “premium excursion” (read: extra cost) that shuttled us from Havana to Springfield for the day. On that one, we logged a lot of Lincoln: a visit to his presidential museum , a tour of the only home he ever owned , a stop at his tomb and a trip to nearby New Salem , a re-creation of the village where Lincoln lived in the 1830s.

“It’s like a field trip!” Sara said on our motor coach ride to the state capital.

Kids at heart

Sara, about to enter eighth grade, was the only kid on the cruise. Heck, at 49 years old, even I felt like a kid. The average age of American Queen Steamboat Co. passengers is about 72, according to company officials. Shave a decade off that for customers on its American Empress boat based in the Pacific Northwest.

“This is how old people have fun,” an energetic septuagenarian stage-whispered to my niece as her smiling husband grabbed her hand and led her onto the ship’s dance floor. The band jammed out show tunes and other well-known hits while the enthusiastic crowd clapped along.

Sara got into the spirit, even if she was too young to recognize any of the songs performed by the talented cast of onboard entertainers. (Me: “Seriously? You’ve never heard of ‘Footloose?’ Or ‘Dancing Queen?’ Her: blank stare.)

She didn’t have a ship’s kids club to retreat to, or other tweens and teens to play with. But plenty of passengers stepped up to fill the social void, taking on the role of de facto grandparents, showering her with warm smiles and conversation.

A retired Florida couple even invited us to a pre-dinner cocktail party in their swanky loft suite, a 550-square-foot, two-story space with a private balcony — roughly three times the size of our interior stateroom.

The butler doted on Sara, making sure her wine glass was full of Sprite.

“Old people are nice,” Sara later declared.

Rhythm of the river

We both relished the semiformal fun of our nightly ritual: eating a multicourse meal in the Duchess’ elegant, high-ceilinged dining room. The expansive windows were like a movie screen, showing an endless loop of scenery as diners dug into filet mignon, grilled salmon, fettuccine Alfredo, lobster tails, etc.

Unlike on some cruises, Duchess passengers don’t have to eat at the same time, same table. We could show up whenever we wanted between 5:30 and 8 p.m., either opting for a table for two or, if we were feeling more social, joining others who felt the same.

Wine and beer are complimentary at dinner. When we were finished eating, our friendly waiter made a habit of topping off my glass with a healthy pour of red that I could take into the show lounge for the nightly performance of “Songs Sara Doesn’t Know.”

For our post-show dessert, we’d swing by the boat’s self-service Perks cafe to rustle up an ice cream sundae we’d eat on the top deck, under the stars.

The 340-foot-long Duchess isn’t big by cruise-ship standards, but it’s outfitted with a lot of the amenities you’d expect in larger vessels: a show lounge, a fitness center, multiple venues to eat and drink.

One thing it doesn’t have is a casino, which is kind of ironic given the boat’s origin. The hull used to belong to the Isle of Capri riverboat casino, a longtime fixture in the Quad Cities. American Queen Steamboat Co. bought it in 2016, transforming it into a boutique riverboat reminiscent of a white wedding cake. The old-fashioned gingerbread trim on the outside belies a more modern interior with contemporary furniture and art.

A daily newsletter was dropped off in our cabin each night, per cruise ship protocol. The “River Times” detailed the next day’s port and a schedule of onboard activities, so you’d know when to catch a game of bingo or trivia in the Lincoln Library or an educational talk by the so-called Riverlorian, the ship’s resident culture and history expert.

Despite its relatively snug size, the Duchess never felt crowded. While most passengers gravitated to the rocking chairs on the second and third decks or loitered over coffee at the River Club Terrace at the back of the boat, Sara and I preferred camping out on the couches on the top of the ship’s sprawling sun deck — a place we had virtually to ourselves. We used the boat’s binoculars to spot bald eagles and watch startled Asian carp shoot out of the water as motorboats zoomed by.

At least once a day, we’d spend some time being mesmerized by the hypnotic whirring of the candy apple red paddle-wheel that would just keep on turnin’. (Me: “You’ve never heard ‘Proud Mary?’ The rollin’ on the river song?”)

Locks and landscapes

The Mississippi River stretch of the journey is where our boat passed through the most locks. Going through locks, much like squeezing under low bridges, adds a jolt of excitement to river travel.

When we pulled up to these engineering feats, passengers lined the deck’s rails as the Duchess oh-so-gently maneuvered into its cement chute. A gate closed behind us, allowing the water level to rise or fall as needed before another barrier opened, sending us on our way.

We took these “water stairs” nine times over the course of the cruise, a voyage that led us past steep limestone bluffs and forests of leafy trees that made me wish it were autumn, not August. Peaceful. Tranquil. That’s how I can best describe the sensation of sitting on the sun deck, cruising at a leisurely 5 to 6 mph, with a soundtrack supplied by chirping cicadas and the gentle hum of the engine.

I liked watching the wildlife, wondering if that heron hopscotching alongside us was being curious or territorial, trying to run our giant wedding cake out of town.

It felt like a mashup of Ireland and the Everglades as we passed an emerald green island full of migrating American white pelicans.

Around the bend, a couple of fawns ventured to the water’s edge before darting back into the brush.

A rainbow shimmered in the blue sky as we pulled out of Havana.

Near the end of our journey, we cruised by Starved Rock State Park , getting a stellar view of its namesake sandstone butte.

That’s the scenic highlight reel, mind you. During seven days on the water, we meandered through some mundane stretches too. Nature’s splendor was often interrupted by manmade inventions designed to quarry limestone, store grain and transport goods from Point A to Point B. Yet from the water, even these prosaic fixtures exuded a certain heartland charm.

The Illinois River will never be flanked by the grand cathedrals and castles of Europe, the pyramids of Egypt or the rainforests of the Amazon. But a row of towering silos at sunset has a homespun beauty of its own, at least to this Midwestern girl.

[email protected]

Twitter @lorirackl

AMERICAN QUEEN STEAMBOAT CO.: The riverboat cruise line has a trio of paddle-wheelers offering a range of overnight cruises on U.S. rivers. The American Duchess and American Queen operate year-round, traveling the Mississippi, as well as the Ohio, Tennessee and Cumberland rivers. The American Empress sails in the Pacific Northwest, March through November. A fourth ship, the 245-passenger American Countess, is under construction.

ILLINOIS RIVER: The Duchess ran two Illinois River trips this year. A company spokesman said more Illinois River itineraries will likely be offered in 2020, following lock-and-dam repair work on the waterway by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

CRUISE COST: Prices for 2019 voyages start at $2,099 a person on the Duchess and $1,899 on the Queen and Empress if booked by Nov. 30 of this year; 888-749-5280, americanqueensteamboatcompany.com .

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Sailing Times

We set sail 3 times aday.

No more than 60 people per trip.

Tuesday to Sunday: 12:15pm,1:30pm and 2:45pm. Monday sailings: No Boat Trips apart from bank holiday weekends.

School holidays, we will sail 7 days aweek.

Seats are available in the open air on the bow and stern of the vessel and also seats in the open air on the upper deck with fantastic views.

Or choose one of the many seats in the heated saloon area with large picture windows.

despite restrictions are lifted, we will limit number of people on each trip. no more than 60 per trip.

Please note, all trips are subject to weather conditions and block bookings.

we will not sail on extreme windy and torrential rainy days for safety reasons.

Adults £9.00 Senior Citizens £8.00 Children £4.00 (under 3yrs are free) Family Ticket £23.00

The family ticket includes 2 adults and 2 children under 15 years. Please note we are only able to accept cash payments. Dogs more than welcome if on lead, free of charge (it's the humans we don't like :) .

Sit back, relax and enjoy the sights of Lincoln and the countryside from a different perspective aboard a 50 - 60 minute guided canal trip with a very entertaining commentary about Lincoln's past and present.

Enjoy a cruise whatever the weather with inside and outside seating, the lower deck is fully heated, or enjoy a great view from the top deck under canopy.

We serve soft drinks, hot drinks and snacks. toilet facilities available.

unfortunately, no wheelchair access for chairbound individuals.

Group Booking

Group bookings of 20 or more for the Public Day Cruises will be offered at a discounted rate, if pre-booked, or please ask on the day if seats are available for your group. No need to pre-book for small group less than 12 people.

Brayford Wharf, Brayford Pool, Lincoln, Lincolnshire LN1 1YX

Our departure mooring is located at the bottom of Lucy Tower Street on the Brayford Pool just behind the new Wagamamas which used to be the Harbormaster office.

If you would like to see pictures of our service on this page, please feel free to go over to the gallery page .

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City Cruises – Weehawken

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New Jersey Ellis Island Hard Hat Tour | New Jersey Pedestal Reserve | New Jersey Reserve – Statue | New Jersey Statue of Liberty Signature Lunch Cruise | New Jersey Signature Brunch Cruise | New Jersey Fall Foliage Lunch Cruise | New Jersey Signature Lunch Cruise | New Jersey Signature Dinner Cruises | New Jersey Statue of Liberty Signature Lunch Cruise

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Recommended for Weehawken

New Jersey Signature Dinner Cruises | New Jersey Statue of Liberty Signature Lunch Cruise | New Jersey Signature Brunch Cruise | New Jersey Fall Foliage Lunch Cruise | New Jersey Ellis Island Hard Hat Tour | New Jersey Pedestal Reserve | New Jersey Reserve – Statue | New Jersey Statue of Liberty Signature Lunch Cruise | New Jersey Fall Foliage Lunch Cruise | New Jersey Signature Lunch Cruise

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THE 5 BEST Lincoln Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in lincoln.

• Waterskiing & Jetskiing
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• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
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• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Activities Away

2. Oliver Boat Trips

3. Brayford Belle

4. Burton Waters Experiences

5. Fenlake Fishery

6. Duncan Wheeler

What travellers are saying.

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Departing from Lincoln Harbor in Weehawken, NJ, set sail on a NJ Dinner Cruise aboard the Spirit of New Jersey. Dine on a freshly-prepared dinner buffet as you cruise along the East and Hudson Rivers. Enjoy stunning views of the New York City skyline, Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge and Empire State Building—all illuminated against the night sky. up to 2.5 hrs 1 or more people

Good To Know

• A 2.5-hour New Jersey cruise on the Hudson and East Rivers with a chef-prepared buffet and unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea and water.
• Departs from the Lincoln Harbor in Weehawken, NJ. Please board 30 minutes prior to cruise time.
• Family-friendly and free for infants ages two and below.
• Enjoy the panoramic views of iconic NYC sights at night, such as the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, and more.
• Hit the dancefloor with the live DJ music in the climate-controlled deck or chill under the stars at the roof deck lounge.
• Don’t forget your camera or smartphone and government-issued ID for ages 18 and up.
• Soda and juice available for purchase. Creative cocktails, wines, and beers available for purchase at the onboard bar for 21+ with a valid ID.
• Wear casual clothing and comfortable shoes.

Description

New Jersey Dinner Cruise Reviews

New Jersey Dinner Cruise is located at City Experiences by Hornblower • Lincoln Harbor Marina | 1500 Harbor Blvd • Weehawken , NJ 07086

Nearby Things to Do

• Freedom Liberty Cruise
• Bateaux New York Premier Brunch Cruise
• New York Signature Lunch Cruise
• Spirit of New York Signature Dinner Cruise
• The New York Sightseeing Pass

Nearby Hotels & Lodging

• Best Western Premier NYC Gateway Hotel
• Hyatt Place Secaucus/Meadowlands
• Courtyard by Marriott Secaucus Meadowlands
• Best Western Plus Meadowlands
• La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Secaucus Meadowlands

Frequently Asked Questions about New Jersey Dinner Cruise

Where do the new jersey cruises depart from.

The New Jersey dinner cruise departs from Lincoln Harbor Marina, 1500 Harbor Blvd, Weehawken, NJ 07086.

Is there parking?

City Cruises does not own the parking lots or parking facilities. However, different nearby parking options are available for guests joining the cruise. Validated parking is available on level 2 of the Whole Foods Parking Garage at 1400 Waterfront Terrace (between 19th Street & River View Terrace), Weehawken, NJ 07086. Parking will be validated at the time of garage exit. Upon exit, insert parking ticket into machine at the gate and press call button to speak to the attendant, letting them know you are a City Cruises guest exiting. This complimentary parking option is only available during weekdays and is subject to change per ownership of parking lots. Paid parking is available at the Sheraton Hotel at 500 Harbor Blvd. Propark's paid parking lot is also available directly across the street from the Marina.

Is there a dress code?

Yes, there's a dress code. The dinner cruise requires casual attire, such as khakis, nice jeans, dresses, button-up shirts, and blouses.

Are children allowed onboard?

Yes, the cruise is family-friendly! Infants ages two (2) and below cruise for free.

Are there highchairs or booster seats available?

Yes, there are highchairs available. No booster seat is offered.

Can I bring a cake from outside?

Yes. Outside cakes are allowed on board as long as they're covered and held at your table. Please use flameless/LED birthday candles. Open flames like a lit candle are not allowed on board.

Do I need to bring an ID?

Yes, please bring a government-issued ID. The U.S. Coast Guard requires all passengers over 18 years old to have a photo ID. You can only buy alcoholic drinks if you're age 21+ with a valid ID.

What happens if it rains or snows?

The Spirit of New Jersey dining vessel features multi-level climate-controlled decks; it sails rain or shine. In the case of severe weather conditions or upon the advice of the U.S. Coast Guard, the vessel will remain dockside and still provide the full dining service.

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The 9 top river cruise lines for 2024.

Sail through Europe, Asia, the U.S. and more on one of these exquisite river cruise lines.

The Top River Cruise Lines

Courtesy of Viking River Cruises

Not one for the high seas? Explore the world along its rivers instead.

If you'd like to take a cruise but aren't interested in the hustle and bustle of a massive ocean liner, consider a river cruise. River cruises offer the chance to visit lesser-known ports around the world, thanks to the small size and maneuverability of the vessels. These sailings are known to provide exceptional, personalized service, as most welcome fewer than 200 guests at a time. On top of that, you'll spend the majority of your trip exploring a different port each day, as most destinations along the waterways are fairly close together.

Read on to discover the best river cruise lines around the world, with details about where they sail, the number of passengers you can expect onboard, a snapshot of amenities and experiences, and sentiment from recent travelers.

Viking River Cruises

Uniworld boutique river cruises, american cruise lines, amawaterways, avalon waterways, emerald cruises.

• Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

CroisiEurope Cruises

Number of passengers: 75 to 250 Sails to:  Europe, Asia, Africa, U.S.

Viking's 60-plus ships – known as longships – traverse major rivers across Europe, including the Danube , the Rhine, the Douro and more. Other popular routes sail Egypt's Nile River as well as the Mississippi River , and newer options include a series of Great Lakes itineraries.

What to expect: Travelers may be familiar with Viking Ocean Cruises , which operates larger ocean voyages with an emphasis on opulent accommodations and diverse enrichment activities. Viking's river cruises follow a similar road map, with meals, daily walking tours and Wi-Fi access (where applicable) included in the base fare. Other amenities and activities span guest lectures, cooking demonstrations, musical performances, libraries, outdoor decks and more. Select Viking riverboats are also equipped with swimming pools, while cabins feature minibars, premium toiletries, purified water and TVs.

On board, you can expect to find mostly English-speaking passengers. Viking's price point generally attracts older crowds in the 55-plus age group, and travelers must be at least 18 years old to cruise on the line.

What travelers say: Recent cruisers thoroughly enjoyed their experience with Viking, praising the scenic shore excursions, top-notch service and comfortable rooms. Some, however, expressed disappointment with the service as well as the food.

Book a Viking River Cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Number of passengers: 32 to 159 Sails to:  Europe, Asia, Africa, South America

Uniworld offers luxurious sailings in historic cities across central Europe, France , Italy , Portugal , India, Egypt and Peru.

What to expect: Its 17 ships aim to create the feel of a boutique hotel with stylish decor, antique artwork and specialty restaurants. The ships hold an average capacity of 120 cruisers, and the company boasts one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios in the industry: about one crew member for every two travelers.

Stateroom amenities vary by vessel but may include marble bathrooms, Egyptian cotton linens, French balconies, iPod docking stations, Nespresso coffee machines, rainfall showers and more. The line's all-inclusive rates cover meals, alcoholic beverages, select excursions, gratuities, onboard fitness classes and Wi-Fi access, on top of entertainment and enrichment classes. Uniworld prides itself on its top-notch cuisine, which is made with local ingredients sourced from the ports on your itinerary and also includes vegetarian and vegan options.

Uniworld's typical clientele tend to be in their 50s or 60s and reside in North America, the U.K. and Australia . The river cruise line has select itineraries aimed at families, LGBTQ cruisers and solo travelers.

What travelers say: Recent cruisers offered abundant praise for Uniworld's voyages, complimenting the stylish accommodations, attentive staff and fascinating excursions. Though complaints were few and far between, a handful of past travelers felt the experience was not worth the high price point.

Compare Uniworld Boutique River Cruises on GoToSea.

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines

Number of passengers: 90 to 180 Sails to:  U.S.

As the name suggests, American Cruise Lines sails exclusively on the rivers and coastlines of the United States. Popular cruises visit destinations along the Mississippi River, on the Hudson River, throughout New England , and lining the Columbia and Snake rivers in the Pacific Northwest. The line also tours Alaska , the Southeast coast including Florida , and the Puget Sound between Washington state and the Canadian border.

What to expect: American Cruise Lines operates 19 relatively new small ships and river vessels (the average ship is about 5 years old), ranging from modern riverboats to small coastal ships to authentic paddlewheelers. Comfortable cabins can accommodate up to three people per room, and all ships offer single staterooms designed exclusively for solo travelers . Each room boasts picture windows, a spacious bathroom and – in some cases – a private balcony. In the ships' public spaces, cruisers can enjoy daily onboard entertainment like jazz and blues performances, as well as presentations by historians and area experts.

The line promises an all-American experience. As such, you can expect to find American staff aboard the American-built ships as well as food that pays homage to the destinations you will visit, from New Orleans -style andouille sausage gumbo to New England-inspired seafood boils. Complimentary cocktails and hors d'oeuvres are served every night prior to dinner; all meals, snacks, and wine and beer are included in the base fare. Shore excursions are not typically included in the rate.

Passengers on American Cruise Lines tend to lean North American and are typically mature retired travelers.

What travelers say: Recent cruisers enjoyed their experience, particularly on the line's themed cruises.

Read:  Cruise Packing List: Essentials for Your Next Cruise

Courtesy of AmaWaterways

Number of passengers: 28 to 196 Sails to:  Europe, Asia, Africa, South America  

Consider a river cruise with AmaWaterways, whether you're looking to sail through the heart of Europe or seeking a once-in-a-lifetime adventure touring destinations like Vietnam, Egypt, South Africa or (beginning in 2024) Colombia. A family-owned business founded in 2002, AmaWaterways operates 29 river cruise boats that welcome 150 passengers on average.

The cruise line aims to provide excursion-rich experiences and offers unique themed sailings for passengers with certain interests. Wine-themed voyages are perfect for oenophiles wishing to explore some of Europe's most popular wine regions, while a concierge golf program will transport passengers from one famous golf course to the next. Or, opt for a holiday river cruise to visit magical Christmas markets around Europe. In 2024, AmaWaterways will offer three new Black history-themed itineraries.

What to expect: On board, guests can expect cabins suitable for couples or single travelers, as well as a set amount of connectible rooms designed for multigenerational families. Staterooms are spacious, with perks like bathrobes, slippers and plush bedding. Cabins can feature up to two balconies with AmaWaterways' twin balcony design, which allows for a full, step-out balcony alongside a French balcony with sliding glass doors. In-room Wi-Fi is complimentary, and guests will have access to movies and music on demand.

Outside of their cabins, passengers can enjoy amenities spanning small pools, sun decks, fitness equipment, a hair salon, massage services and more.

AmaWaterways primarily attracts North American travelers in their 50s who enjoy taking part in active shore excursions that involve walking or cycling. Passengers from the U.K. and Australia sail on this river cruise line as well. You can expect to find a mix of couples, families and solo cruisers – including a growing number of millennial travelers – on your vessel, thanks to AmaWaterways' diverse cabin offerings. Adventures by Disney charters AmaWaterways ships for select sailings each year as well.

What travelers say: Recent travelers say AmaWaterways exceeded their expectations, with many noting it was especially enjoyable for families. Still, some were disappointed, particularly with the food.

Find AmaWaterways cruises on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

Number of passengers: 16 to 166 Sails to:  Europe, Asia, Africa, South America

Avalon Waterways sails 19 riverboats along popular thoroughfares like the Danube, the Rhone, the Seine, the Nile, the Rhine, the Moselle, the Mekong, the Ganges and more. In 2024, it will also sail the Douro River in Portugal.

What to expect: Launched in 2004, Avalon stands out for its spacious vessels – known as Suite Ships – which feature some of the largest rooms in the river cruise industry and beds that face wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows, providing panoramic views. Additional stateroom perks include complimentary breakfast in bed, L'Occitane toiletries, sitting areas, ample storage space and mattress toppers.

Across the ship, passengers can enjoy amenities like a sun deck with lounge chairs, whirlpools and a game area, in addition to numerous restaurants and bars and a 24-hour self-serve coffee station. You will also have your pick of Classic, Active or Discovery shore excursions – ranging from standard tours with a local guide to hiking outings along a hilltop castle – depending on your interests and physical abilities.

Avalon Waterways attracts English-speaking cruisers from a variety of countries, typically in their 50s and 60s. However, children ages 8 and older are welcome on board (though there are no designated kids clubs), and some voyages draw younger or older passengers.

What travelers say: Most recent reviews are positive, with travelers highlighting the friendly, knowledgeable staff and tasty food.

Explore Avalon Waterways cruise deals on GoToSea.

Courtesy of Tauck

Number of passengers: 84 to 130 Sails to:  Europe

Travel company Tauck wears multiple hats: It operates small-ship voyages around the world, land tours across seven continents, small group journeys for an average of 24 travelers at a time, family tours and – finally – European river cruises. Six new river itineraries in Europe are on the docket for 2024. Take your pick from nine river vessels to explore popular waterways like the Douro, the Moselle, the Rhine, the Danube and the Rhone.

What to expect: All-inclusive fares cover shore excursions, onboard activities and entertainment, gratuities, beverages and more. Plus, Tauck offers exclusive access to unforgettable experiences like wine tastings at private vineyards and gala dinners in historic castles.

More than 80% of the staterooms feature French balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing for excellent views. Other in-room amenities may include adjustable climate controls, satin linens, pillow-top mattresses, terry cloth robes and more. Outside of your cabin, you'll find perks such as a sun deck, a putting green, enrichment programs like cooking demonstrations, a fitness center and complimentary bikes for onshore exploring.

Tauck caters to affluent, English-speaking cruisers – primarily Americans in the 55-and-older age group – though you may also find families with adult children on board. The line appeals most to travelers who prefer all the details of their trip to be taken care of for them, versus those who like to plan activities independent of the cruise line.

What travelers say: Recent passengers generally speak highly of their Tauck river cruise experiences, pointing to the exceptional level of organization and spacious, luxurious accommodations. Others said they were underwhelmed for the price.

Getty Images

Number of passengers: 84 to 180 Sails to:  Europe, Asia

Previously known as Emerald Waterways, Emerald Cruises transports travelers across some of the most popular rivers in Europe and Asia, including the Danube, the Rhine, the Douro and the Mekong.

What to expect: The cruise fare covers all meals, beverages with lunch and dinner, daily shore excursions − which include more physically rigorous options called EmeraldACTIVE – Wi-Fi access and gratuities.

Emerald operates nine river vessels, all of which boast luxurious public spaces and accommodations with en suite bathrooms and flat-screen TVs. Common-area amenities span heated indoor pools, sun decks, spa and wellness facilities, and a variety of eateries. Onboard fitness classes are available, as are other forms of entertainment. On shore, cruisers can borrow bicycles to explore historic city centers.

Typical clientele aboard Emerald Cruises' voyages includes American and British passengers around retirement age, though some younger travelers may make an appearance as well. Children 12 and older are permitted on board and on tours, but there are no kids clubs or designated activities for younger cruisers. Special rooms and dinner reservations are available for solo travelers.

What travelers say: Cruisers on recent sailings – especially first-time sailors – enjoyed their experiences on Emerald Cruises. High points included the attentive crew members and the stress-free booking and planning process. However, some felt that customer service and communication were subpar.

Gillies Zaiser | Courtesy of Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

Number of passengers: 68 to 163 Sails to: Europe, Asia

From the Danube to the Mekong, Australian travel company Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours offers lavish, all-inclusive river sailings with an emphasis on customization. The more upscale sister brand of Emerald Cruises, Scenic affords travelers the opportunity to do as much or as little as they want while on board and ashore.

What to expect: Enrichment activities are hand-picked by the line's "Journey Designers," and vessels provide a top-notch level of service thanks to their high crew-to-passenger ratios. In fact, each passenger receives a designated butler who can complete nightly turndowns and make laundry arrangements, among other tasks.

Spacious suites on board are larger than those on most other riverboats (ranging from 160 to 510 square feet). High-tech balcony controls allow lodgers to let in as much air as they'd like with the touch of a button. Cruisers will also enjoy special in-room touches like pillow menus, slippers and robes.

When it comes to dining, Scenic sources local ingredients and culinary inspiration from the ports visited on the itinerary to provide an authentic experience. All meals are included in the base cruise fare, along with beverages, gratuities, Wi-Fi access, shore excursions and electric bicycle usage in select destinations.

What travelers say: Recent cruisers were pleased with their experiences aboard Scenic's vessels, praising the spacious cabins, pampering butler service, and knowledgeable crew members and tour guides. However, some travelers were particularly disappointed with the food.

Helwin Goetzinger | Courtesy of CroisiEurope

Number of passengers: 22 to 200 Sails to:  Europe, Asia, Africa

CroisiEurope is a family-run French cruise line that has been in business since 1976. This line has more than 50 ships and barges that sail to countries around the world, including Egypt, Cambodia and Spain . Unusual in river cruising, the line operates two custom-built ships that sail on Lake Kariba in southern Africa. Additionally, CroisiEurope has a division that sells barge cruises throughout France on six different canals, such as Burgundy or Provence.

What to expect: CroisiEurope is known for its wide range of destinations and is one of the only river cruise lines that operates custom-built ships on Germany 's Elbe river, the Guadalquivir and Guadiana rivers in Spain and Portugal, and Venice 's canals. Onboard accommodations are relatively basic, which keeps the cruise fare to a budget-friendly minimum. The cruise line aims to provide the best value for money in the cruise industry. Cuisine is focused on French food with some local flair in the main dining room, which is included in the cruise fare.

The passenger mix on a CroisiEurope cruise is relatively international, featuring large contingencies from France, Germany, the U.K. and North America. Announcements are typically given in both French and English. The cruise line sees a mix of older couples and groups as well as younger families, depending on the itinerary and time of year.

What travelers say: Several cruisers echoed that some of CroisiEurope's river ships are due for a refurbishment and that internet connectivity leaves a lot to be desired, while others maintain that the experience was superb.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Size: River cruise ships are smaller in size and the number of passengers they can accommodate, with one lounge and one main dining room being a typical setup.
• Atmosphere: The overall vibe on a river cruise is more relaxed and far less busy than that of an ocean liner.
• Onboard entertainment: River cruising is notoriously sleepy at night, with a focus instead on local enrichment like cooking demonstrations or liqueur tastings. Due to the busy schedule of port calls and excursions, most passengers are tired after a long day of sightseeing and don't mind a lack of nightlife.
• Excursions: Most of your time on a river cruise is spent out exploring the destinations, which can sometimes be two stops in a single day. Passengers can choose from a variety of activities in port – including biking, kayaking and hiking – or explore the destination at a leisurely pace.
• Cuisine: Cuisine tends to be focused on local specialties but is prepared to accommodate predominantly American tastes. Not every river cruise line offers unlimited drinks, but the majority include beer and wine at lunch and dinner, often showcasing regional varieties.
• Price: River cruising typically comes at a much higher price point than ocean-based itineraries.
• American Queen

Note that inclusions can vary by cruise line. For example, Viking rates – while not fully all-inclusive – cover beer and wine at meals and one tour per day, while gratuities and other drink packages are left to the discretion of the guest.

Avalon Waterways, on the other hand, offers a number of included tours in every port on select itineraries that range from cultural or culinary-focused to active.

In terms of inclusions and service ratios (the number of crew on board to guests), the following river cruise lines are considered the most luxurious:

You might also be interested in:

• The Top Cruises on Small Ships
• The Top Adults-Only Cruises
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans
• The Best Annual Travel Insurance Plans
• The Best Travel Insurance for Seniors and Retirees

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New  to 2024 boating season is a new self drive hire boat called Olivia . Come and captain your own ship... Seating for four people. Full instructions given.£20 for 20 mins for four.  terms and conditions apply., I am Captain Chrissy and I own the Oliver Boat Trips company.We have been running for 12 years in the heart of Lincoln  I am based outside the  Waterside shopping centre and i am opposite wilkos . Ln25dq. My  Tel Number is  07551876758 or  text Captain Chrissy for any information.  We are a small  boat company and we enjoy every trip we do  If you have a voucher please telephone to book . or text.We also run the famous Moonraker floating tearooms  which is the same address. A great place to have a cup of tea and a slice of cake and then plan your boat trip.

🌈Our pick up  location is on the Waterside north. Ln25dq  opposite  wilkos and out side the Waterside  shopping center,  and I'm opposite the city Square.  The nearest car park is the central carpark which is next to the bus station. We are Running weather depending  from  11am to 4pm  excluding  Thursday from Feb until/dec please telephone to check the running times  and check us out on 07551876758🌈

Opposite the waterside shopping centre tel or text 0 7 5 5 1 8 7 6 7 5 8 . check out our 🎅 santa grotto from  november to december, free great presents for everyone every big kid gets to chat to santa claus. ho ho ho.,  half hour boat £6 .50 adults and £5 50 oap children  includes cakes and drink...., upgrade to a cream tea on a half hour boat  tour for £8.00pp, our promise, our promise is to ensure you have the best boat trip cruise you will remember. please let captain chrissy know if it is your birthday, we provide  cakes and decorate the boat with  birthday banners.   starting at 12pm until 6pm. .  booking only on board. tel 07551876758 .

Our half hour town trip

One hour cream tea tour.

Have a look at a few of our pictures,.

37 Redbourne Road, Brigg, DN20 9NU, UNITED KINGDOM     07551876758   or Waterside shopping centre ln25dq 

Majestic Harbor Cruises

New jersey & new york sightseeing dinner cruises.

Saturday, July 19th the 60 minutes Statue of Liberty Tours will operate on Saturdays and Sundays during the month of July and August.

Rock Kandy Rock of Ages cruise has been rescheduled to September 5th! Please check the website for further details

Breathtaking Views of New York City

The Majestic Princess is a perfect setting for the most breathtaking views of New York City on a three-hour brunch or dinner cruise. The sightseeing cruise departs Lincoln Harbor in Weehawken, New Jersey taking in the sights of New York Harbor, The Freedom Tower, The Brooklyn Bridge, The Statue Of Liberty, and Ellis Island. Enjoy spectacular views of the New York City skyline complemented by our in-house DJ, freshly prepared buffet style dinner or brunch, and a specialty cocktail from our on-board bar. Don’t miss out on Majestic Harbor’s New York Harbor cruises. Be advised that we do not offer free parking on none of our events.

• Most Popular!
• Hour Glass 60 Minutes

Statue of Liberty Sightseeing Tour

Spacious decks and panoramic windows provide spectacular views of the New York City skyline.

Santa's Statue of Liberty Sightseeing Tour

Enjoy our Santa Cruise around the Statue of Liberty and have photo opportunities with Santa as well as hot chocolate and holiday cookies.

• Hour Glass 3 Hours

Easter Sunday Dinner Cruise

Experience all the unique sights of New York while enjoying a wonderful dinner buffet, prepared fresh on board by our World Class Chefs.

Rock Kandy Rock of Ages Cruise

IT’S BACK!! Rock Kandy’s Rock of Ages Cruise Around NYC!

Statue of Liberty Dinner Cruise

During your cruise, experience all the unique sights of New York while enjoying a wonderful dinner buffet.

• COMING SOON

Statue of Liberty Brunch Cruise

The Cruise departs Lincoln Harbor in Weehawken New Jersey taking in the sights of New York Harbor, The Freedom Tower, The Brooklyn Bridge, The Statue Of Liberty and Ellis Island.

• Hour Glass 3.5 Hours

Valentine’s Day Statue of Liberty Dinner Cruise

Come and join us on board the Majestic Princess for a romantic 3.5-hour cruise.

Depart From Lincoln Harbor in Weehawken, New Jersey

Our NYC sightseeing cruise departs Lincoln Harbor in Weehawken, New Jersey where you enjoy spectacular views of the major icons, like: New York Harbor, The Freedom Tower, The Brooklyn Bridge, The Statue Of Liberty, and Ellis Island. Every cruise has our house DJ onboard playing contemporary music. There is a cash-only bar on board serving your favorite cocktails, wine, beer, soft drinks, and juices.

Fall Foliage Lunch Cruise

The three hour cruise will make its way up the Hudson River to take in the beautiful fall foliage.

Get the Hottest Deals First!

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Imagine yourself on the Danube River in Austria, sipping fine wine at dinner. Or, you could be on the Yangtze River in China, taking a sunrise Tai Chi class. Or maybe you could be on the Nile in Egypt, relaxing after exploring ancient ruins.

Incredible experiences like this, and many more, are at the core of our River Cruise tours.

get ready for a cruise experience like no other

For a cruise experience like no other..

River cruise tours, and our tours that include on-ship stays, are unique travel experiences. You’ll cruise through beautiful landscapes, and dock at waterside destinations that show you the culture of a locale from a new perspective. We’ve expanded our River Cruise travel style to include all of our tours that have on-ship experiences. These new tours include experiences like privately chartered yachts to the Galápagos, cruise liners that take you through Norwegian fjords, and more.

refresh YOUR OUTLOOK.

River Cruise tours are about seeing the world from a different point of view, and at a different pace. This is about immersing yourself in the scenery of the water’s edge, and seeing a more intimate side of the cities and towns along the way.

Take a privately chartered small ship (maximum 14 guests) to the unique ecosystems of the Galápagos Islands.

Cruise along the awe-inspiring landscapes of Norway’s Geirangerfjord.

Take in the tranquility of the Yangtze River during a Tai Chi class on the ship’s sun deck.

Sit back, relax, and let the currents carry you, revealing the beautiful waterways of the world.

Relax as the world reveals itself..

The landscape is as much of a presence on tour as any of your fellow passengers, or even your Tour Manager. The sights you’ll see from your ship’s deck are truly spectacular.

Pass by lovely Dutch scenery as your journey unfolds across Amsterdam’s waterways.

Sail to Cape Horn, the “end of the Earth,” and hike along the coast of Patagonia.

Discover the medieval walls of Dubrovnik as you sail alongside this seaside stronghold.

When you’re on tour, the next captivating sight is just over the horizon, so there is never a dull moment.

Remarkable destinations from remarkable ships..

The ships you’ll take while on tour are 4-star vessels designed to give you every comfort as you embark on your journey. World-class and regionally inspired cuisine is served right there on your ship.

Experience the latest technology, panoramic decks, and more aboard your ships.

Take advantage of exclusive, privately chartered ships in Europe and the Galápagos.

Dine on gourmet cuisine while overlooking the lush banks of the Nile.

For many of these tours, your ship is your home. Unpack, settle in, and enjoy the adventure as your ship sails from one landscape to the next.

Magical rhine and moselle rivers, 9 days, 20 meals.

Glide along the enchanting Rhine and Moselle rivers on a leisurely journey to the Netherlands, Germany and France.

starting from

*per person, land only, double occupancy

Croatia & Its Islands

12 days, 20 meals.

From medieval architecture to ethereal waterfalls, coast along the sparkling Adriatic Sea and experience the best of Croatia.

The Danube River was once considered the border of the ancient Roman Empire.

16th century Europeans described the indigenous Patagonians as 12-ft. tall “giants.”

Sognefjord in Norway is the deepest fjord in the world, stretching 4,291 ft. down.

The pirate Ambrose Crowley originally named the Galápagos Islands after his pirate companions.

All the epic sights

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2024 Lincoln Corsair Luxury Crossover Cruises the Open Highways

T aking the space of Lincoln’s discontinued MKC, the Lincoln Corsair works as an entry point into Ford’s legacy luxury arm. While the Corsair name was used as a well-optioned Edsel , and as a sedan in other markets , Lincoln’s bite at the Corsair apple helps build on the legacy of both marques and nameplates.

As part of the company’s push away from its Mark naming conventions, the Lincoln Corsair helps the company navigate the high seas of the luxury compact crossover market. Giving this reborn compact crossover a full name might help with brand appeal down the line, but it also separates the similarly navigation-themed products from each other in Lincoln’s lineup.

While a 2.0-liter turbocharged I4 powers the entry-level Corsair Premier and Reserve models, sitting atop the Corsair hierarchy is the plug-in hybrid Grand Touring model. This PHEV blends a 2.5-liter Atkinson cycle I4 with a CVT and an electric motor to net 266 hp combined.

On this episode of Quick Spin , Autoweek executive editor Tom Murphy hops behind the wheel of the 2024 Lincoln Corsair and puts it through its paces. Murphy takes you on a guided tour of the Corsair and highlights some of his favorite features.

Later, Murphy takes you along for a live drive review of the Lincoln Corsair Ground Touring, then chats with host Wesley Wren about the Corsair, its competition, and its spot in the market. Closing the show, the pair break down what makes the Lincoln Corsair special.

Tune in below, on Apple Podcasts , Spotify , Stitcher , or wherever podcasts are played.

See inside a new ultra-luxury river cruise line that's charging up to $59,520 per person

• Newcomer Riverside Luxury Cruises wants to break into the growing river cruise market.
• The ultra-luxury cruise line  operates former Crystal ships in popular European rivers like the Danube.
• Riverside's 2024 cruises start at $1,055 per person for four days.

A new ultra-luxury cruise line wants to be the swankiest travel-by-river vacation option.

To do so, it's enticing cruisers with truffle-infused butter, $320-per-person dinners, and butlers that can be beckoned with a simple WhatsApp message.

Affluent travelers , meet Riverside Luxury Cruises.

The budding company first set sail in March 2023. With a year of service under its belt, its three ships are now sailing some of Europe's most popular rivers — starting at more than $260 per person per day.

Riverside is operated by Seaside Collection, a European hotelier.

The firm had its sights set on a river cruise venture since 2018, Jen Halboth, CEO of Riverside Luxury Cruises, told Business Insider.

Ironically, COVID-19 was the reason it got into the business.

Crystal Cruises declared bankruptcy in early 2022 amid the pandemic. Shortly after, Seaside purchased and updated five of the then-defunct cruise line's ships.

Three of these vessels now make up Riverside's fleet. The other two are being leased to competitor Uniworld River Cruises.

River cruising has become increasingly popular as wealthy travelers gravitate to ultra-luxury small-ship vacations.

River cruise ships are much smaller than their behemoth ocean-based counterparts, allowing Riverside to sail in waterways like Europe's Rhine, Rhone, Danube, Main, Moselle, and Saône rivers.

Along the way, guests can explore destinations many giant ships can't easily access — like Budapest, Hungary; Frankfurt, Germany; and Amsterdam — sometimes visiting more than one port in a day.

One of Riverside's shortest and cheapest 2024 voyages starts at $1,055 per person for a four-day Danube River cruise from Passau, Germany, to Vienna.

Alcohol and excursion packages can tack on an extra $75 to $175 per person per night.

Looking to ball out? The most expensive and longest itinerary is $59,521 per person for a three-river, 22-day cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest, Hungary, in the most expensive suite with the most inclusive package.

To compare, the cheapest 2024 voyage with all-inclusive luxury competitor Uniworld River Cruises starts at $2,000 per person for an eight-day Danube River sailing.

River cruisers tend to be over the age of 55.

But the new company is targeting guests 45 years old and older, specifically those who frequent luxury vacations but have yet to try a river cruise.

"New luxury travelers want to be pampered, get off and have an adventure, and come back and be taken care of," the cruise line's CEO said.

"Pampering” they will get.

Of Riverside's three ships, the 394-foot-long, 74-foot-wide Mozart can accommodate the most guests — up to 162, not including the 82 crew.

Yes, it's larger than Uniworld's ships, which range from 32 to 159 guests. But it's also significantly smaller than Royal Caribbean's new 9,950-person Icon of the Seas ocean vessel.

Like most cruise liners, Riverside's three ships have spas, buffets, and plush lounges and bars.

During the day, travelers can enjoy lunch at the open-air grill and relax to live music courtesy of Steinway and Bösendorfer pianos, no less.

At night, they can dine on a seven-course meal at the 295 euros ($320) per-person Vintage Room.

Riverside’s ships have up to 5 restaurants. Vintage Room is the only specialty option.

The cost to dine includes a wine pairing and plates like veal with truffle and chanterelle mushrooms and "surf and turf" with beef sirloin and scallops.

But don't expect a lackluster, rushed meal at the other complimentary options: "This is not a churn-and-burn," the company's CEO said of the ships' Waterside restaurants. "You come in for fine dining."

Infused, whipped butter is apparently one of Riverside's hottest commodities.

Sometimes, it has chiles. Other times, it's infused with citrus. If you're lucky, you'll get one with truffles.

"People were raving about our butter," Halboth said. "Everyone's waiting to see what butter they'll get at dinner each night."

Need to sleep off all that dairy? You're in luck. Every cabin has a king bed.

Riverside's suites range from 194 to 883 square-feet. These high-end cabins include butler service, stocked mini-bars, and espresso machines.

Some suites also have double-sink vanities and walk-in closets, a hallmark of an ultra-luxury cruise vessel .

Does Riverside’s more than $260 per person, per day fare seem reasonable now?

If yes, book soon. It'll only get more expensive from here.

These fares don't offset the amount Riverside is spending on amenities like the upscale food, according to Halboth. To make up for these expenditures, the cruise line plans to raise its prices gradually over the next two years.

The company's CEO said bookings have been 'a little lighter' since the start of 2024.

But the back half of the year is "filling up" thanks to Americans: About 70 to 80% of its guests are from North America, the company said.

Riverside will operate its Mozart, Ravel, and Debussy ships for three years as it 'hones the brand,' Halboth said.

The cruise line's two additional vessels would join its fleet in the next few years.

Given the growing popularity of river cruises , it's a good time for companies like Riverside to start expanding.

However, it could face plenty of incoming competition.

Jamie Loizou, the UK managing director of luxury river cruise line AmaWaterways, is forecasting 2024 as a "pivotal" year for the river cruise industry, noting that 15 new river-based vessels are expected to launch this year, Cruise Critic reported .

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