vantage travel river cruises europe

V antage Travel was a U.S. company that targeted an American audience with its own itineraries and with cruises on ships of other lines. It offered cruises on most of Europe's major rivers.

2023 update: Vantage Travel has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and may be acquired by a Singapore-based tour company. Seatrade has published a news story with more details.

2024 update: Vantage's assets have been acquired by a new owner. The cruise line has been renamed " Vantage Explorations " and focuses on high-priced small-ship expedition cruises around the world (including a few cruises in the Mediterranean and Northern Europe).

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The 10 Best River Cruise Lines in 2022

The best river cruises blend refined onboard accommodations with exciting itineraries along some of the world’s most memorable waterways.

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite river cruise lines.

After pandemic-related challenges at the beginning of last year, river ships got back to what they do best: exploring inland waterways in Europe, the United States, and select other destinations around the world. Travel + Leisure readers enthusiastically returned, setting out on voyages both classic and new.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated individual cruise ships on their cabins and facilities, food, service, itineraries and destinations, excursions and activities, and value. Those assessments were combined to generate results for the cruise lines in six categories, including river cruising.

The top three in the river cruise lines were very close in their scores. Viking, the world's largest river cruise company, moved up two spots into the lead position. Tauck, the well-known tour and river-ship operator, retained its No. 2 spot. "The itinerary was thoughtful as well as instructive," wrote one reader who traveled on the Joy . In the No. 3 spot is Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, with praise that included this rave from one voter who sailed on the Maria Theresa : "This was an exceptional cruise. The staff was excellent. I can't say enough about this cruise line and this ship."

Aqua Expeditions, with journeys on the Peruvian Amazon, ranked No. 4, thanks in part to the sophisticated onboard dining. "Its cuisine is rich in local products and designed by one of the most renowned chefs in Peru," noted one reader. Closer to home, No. 5 American Queen Voyages (formerly American Queen Steamboat Company) earned praise — especially from older adults — for its leisurely cruises on the Columbia, the Mississippi, the Ohio, and other U.S. waterways.

Top-ranked Viking does all the major riverways of Europe, with ships also on the Nile and the Mekong, and, new in 2022, on the Mississippi. Readers praised the line's value proposition and shore experiences that go beyond the norm. The "Thinking Man's vacation" is the way one reader who sailed on a Viking ship on the Rhine river put it.

Find the full list of the best river cruise lines — and more on what sets Viking apart — below.

With its fleet of more than 50 contemporary "longships" on rivers such as the Rhine, the Danube, and the Seine, plus additional ships in Europe, Egypt, and Vietnam, T+L's top-ranked river cruise line for 2022 is often praised for its steadiness. "Having traveled on seven Viking longships that are virtually indistinguishable from one another, I believe it's the consistency that makes Viking one of our favorite ways to travel," said one reader. The longships are light-filled floating boutique hotels with a Scandinavian-design aesthetic, indoor and outdoor dining, and herb gardens up on top. Viking's carefully crafted itineraries and "good value" also received praise from readers. "Met wonderful new friends. Absolutely outstanding service and terrific food," said one fan.

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 96.77

More information: viking.com

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 96.60

More information: tauck.com

3. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 96.31

More information: uniworld.com

4. Aqua Expeditions

Score: 93.27

More information: aquaexpeditions.com

5. American Queen Voyages (formerly American Queen Steamboat Company and Victory Cruise Lines)

Score: 92.82

More information: aqvoyages.com

6. Grand Circle Cruise Line

Score: 90.64

More information: gct.com

7. AmaWaterways

Score: 90.12

More information: amawaterways.com

8. Avalon Waterways

Score: 89.88

More information: avalonwaterways.com

9. Vantage Deluxe World Travel

Score: 84.71

More information: vantagetravel.com

10. American Cruise Lines

Score: 81.17

More information: americancruiselines.com

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European River Cruises

European River Cruises – A Panorama of Sights Right Outside Your Stateroom.

On a River Cruise you’re always close to the action with a passing panorama of sights right outside your stateroom. Because there are no inside cabins, you don’t have to pay more to enjoy the view. What’s more, unlike ocean cruises there’s no worry about getting seasick, which is a big plus for those who are prone.

Are European River Cruises Right for You?

I n the last few years, European river cruises have been the fastest-growing segment of the travel experience industry. A river cruise shares many of the benefits of a conventional ocean cruise . Both allow you to wake up each morning at a new destination without packing or unpacking. You’ll travel between destinations effortlessly and in style, paying for your transportation, meals, and accommodations in advance for less than the individual components would cost.

River Cruises vs. Ocean Cruises

B ecause they’re more casual, river cruises are ideal for people who don’t like to dress up for dinner. Comfortable travel clothes are the order of the day, and country-club casual is fine in the evening.

Being able to dock in town means you’ll never have to wait for a tender or catch a taxi or Uber to see the sights. You can come and go from the ship quickly and easily. You won’t waste any of your valuable vacation time, and there’s a nice balance between structured experiences, sightseeing and free time.

River cruising is more flexible than many other travel options. You can be as independent or social, or as active or sedentary as you like.

(continued) Staying in the heart of your destination also makes it easy to meet the locals. When you dock in a city overnight, you can even have dinner ashore or go back into town after dinner for a nightcap or a concert.

Everyone travels to see new things, but many travel to do new things as well. With the introduction of Avalon Waterways new Active Discovery cruises on the Danube and Rhine, there is something for travellers with varying interests and for all fitness levels. You can now hike, bike, and explore your way through the scenic and historic wonders of the world – from action-packed experiences and interactive discoveries to traditional sightseeing.

Specialists in Luxury Travel , and the Affluent Traveller Collection.

A Panorama of Sights Right Outside Your Stateroom

U nlike on an ocean cruise , you’re always close to the action with a passing panorama of sights right outside your stateroom. Because there are no inside cabins, you don’t have to pay more to enjoy the view. What’s more, there’s no worry about getting seasick, which is a big plus for those who are prone.

Best of all, fares for most river cruises include such amenities as wine with meals, shore excursions, and Internet access. On an ocean cruise, you are expected to pay for these “extras,” which can add up substantially.

With more than a hundred vessels to choose from, there’s probably one that’s just right for you. Before you sign on the dotted line, however, there are a few things to consider.

Depending on how you choose to travel, a river cruise can be more expensive than an ocean cruise – sometimes a lot more but when you calculate everything that’s included, river cruising can be an excellent value.

Because river cruise ships often have fewer than 100 staterooms, versus thousands on an ocean cruise ship, you’ll need to book well in advance. River cruises usually sell out quickly, particularly in the most and least expensive categories.

River Cruising isn’t for Everyone

M ost travellers enjoy the experience, and in fact, many river cruisers keep coming back for more. But river cruising isn’t for everyone. You may be happier doing something else if:

• You are travelling with young children. Uniworld offers some multi-generational cruises during the summer and over the holidays, and AmaWaterways has partnered with Disney Adventures to offer family-friendly departures. Nonetheless, ocean cruises still do a better job of entertaining kids.

• You have difficulty walking or negotiating stairs or steps. River cruise ships are often less accessible than ocean-going vessels. Because dock space is at a premium, multiple boats are often tied together. This means you might have to walk across one or two other boats to go ashore.

• You don’t enjoy socializing. Although dining is usually open seating, there aren’t many tables for two, so you may end up dining with others much of the time. You can dine ashore if you wish, but that lessens the value of your cruise.

• You enjoy gambling, nightlife, and entertainment. If you love the activities that big cruise ships offer, or if you like dressing up and dancing every night, a river cruise may be too quiet in the evenings for you.

Explore the Heart of Europe

W hen you take everything into account, river cruising combines the convenience and comfort of an ocean cruise with the cultural immersion of a land tour, as well as the unstructured free time of independent travel. For those who want to explore the heart of Europe without packing and unpacking, hopping on and off tenders, or leaving port every night, a European river cruise is a terrific solution. ∎

Experience Better River Cruises

Your river cruise experience awaits.

We have a wide variety of cruises for you to choose from. Total Advantage Travel has specialized in providing cruise holidays for our valued customers for over 25 years. We are fully TICO and CLIA licensed, so you can rest assured that your reservation and booking are in safe hands.

Questions about european river cruises? Total Advantage Travel & Tours 2011 Lawrence Ave West, Suite 20, Toronto Ontario, M9N 3V3 | Email: [email protected] Phone: (416) 240-7700 or (800) 419-1635

Total Advantage is a full-service travel agency located in Toronto. We expertly manage and book your travel arrangements with the world’s top tour operators, airlines, hotels, railways and cruise lines. Our company’s commitment is to supply you with the highest level of personal service, expert advice, and the best travel values.  Contact us for all your travel needs.

Hero photo by John Zeus.

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Portugal & Spain: Treasures Along the Golden Douro - 2021

Lisbon • óbidos • nazaré • 7-night river cruise with porto, guimarães, entre-os-rios, régua, lamego, pinhão, barca d'alva • salamanca • madrid.

• Our Journeys
• Portugal & Spain: Treasures Along the Golden Douro
• $364 PER DAY

4 DAYS FROM $1,299

• Journey Highlights

Full Itinerary

• Accommodations, Dining & Activities
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Join Vantage on this picturesque cruise into the heart of the Douro Valley, where generations of winemakers have created some of the world’s finest vintages — and views. Alongside tastings at renowned quintas and wine estates, you’ll revel in bucolic landscapes and verdant countryside, where latticed vineyards lead to medieval hillside towns. You’ll also discover the revered cultural capitals of Spain and Portugal, including Lisbon, Madrid, and Porto, home to its signature port wine made from Douro grapes and fortified with brandy into distinctive varieties.

From town to country, uncover culture, cuisine, and varietals with 29 included features and Cultural Connections. Attend a fado performance in the ship’s lounge and enjoy a passionate flamenco dinner show in Spain. Learn about the Portuguese economy and lifestyle with lectures on tea and cork production. Taste delicate jamón and delectable tapas inside Madrid’s Mercado Central. And pay a visit to Nazaré, where legions of extreme surfers arrive each year to ride the town’s legendary swells.

Enjoy both the best value out of the competition and Vantage Exclusives — including a lunch at the Quinta da Avessada winery — as well as explorations away from the crowds in small groups and exclusive Harvest departures. Sail on the m/s Douro Serenity , and make the most of your journey with optional pre- and post-trip extensions to Madeira and Barcelona.

• Lisbon to Madrid

Pre-Trip Extension

Madeira, portugal.

Barcelona, Spain

Fly to Portugal

Depart the U.S. and board an overnight flight to Lisbon, Portugal.

Welcome to Lisbon! Enjoy a Welcome Dinner with fellow travelers tonight

Arrive in Portugal’s capital today. If you purchased your airfare from Vantage, our representative will meet you outside the arrivals area at the airport and assist you with your transfer to the hotel. Travelers who took the optional pre-trip extension to Madeira will meet up with fellow travelers on Day 2. Enjoy a Welcome Briefing and Dinner this evening.

Included meals:

Tour Lisbon’s famed monuments and sample a culinary favorite

Begin the day with a guided panoramic and exterior walking tour of Lisbon’s famed monuments, including Belém Tower and the courtyards of Jeronimos Monastery, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites. During your city tour, you’ll sample a classic Portuguese pastry: the mouthwatering p astéis de Belém. One taste of this creamy egg custard wrapped in buttery, flaky crust, and you’ll see why this is Portugal’s favorite treat! Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure by exploring Lisbon’s cobblestoned charm on your own, or perhaps join your Cruise Director for a pub crawl. 

• Guided panoramic and walking tour of Lisbon and its monuments
• Pastéis de Belém sampling

Explore Lisbon on your own, or get a change of scenery in Sintra and Cascais

A day at leisure lets you decide between more time in Lisbon and an optional day tour exploring the scenic Portuguese coast. You’ll head to the UNESCO town of Sintra — home of the opulent, Moorish Castle — and onward to the fishing village of Cascais and its dramatic seaside cliffs, sweeping beaches, and bustling marina. If you stay in Lisbon, active travelers can embark on a hike through the Seven Hills of Lisbon, a trademark attraction for must-see views of the city. Or, you can head over to the Castelo neighborhood for a trek up to the Moorish São Jorge Castle, which offers stunning city overlooks and shopping opportunities for everything from local pottery to Portugal’s famous  azulejo tiles.

Sintra & the Coast of Portugal

• Approximate Cost: $79 USD per person
• Approximate Time: 7 hours
• Location: Portugal
• When: Full-day tour

Your coastal trek begins in the town of Sintra; designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the wealth of 19th-century Romantic architectural monuments it contains, as well as its predominance in Portuguese culture. You'll visit the town's ornate palace before enjoying some time on your own to explore this whimsical site. Later, your tour continues with a scenic drive along the coastline to the quiet fishing village of Cascais. Once you have arrived, you can enjoy lunch on your own at numerous restaurants (all offering fresh regional specialties!) and take in the postcard-perfect scenery before returning to the ship this evening.

The storied walls of Óbidos and seaside Nazaré; embark the ship in Porto

• Óbidos walking tour
• Sightseeing and lunch in Nazaré
• Portugese language lesson en route to Nazaré-Oporto

Discover Porto and enjoy a port wine sampling at a local wine cellar

Following breakfast on board, get to know Porto better with a full city tour and panoramic drive, including a visit to the historic center — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and the market area. No visit to Porto is complete without enjoying its signature wine, of course! So, you’ll seek out port-wine at one of the city’s best-known cellars. Learn about and sample the varieties of this  digestif  while enjoying views of Porto and the Douro River. Following dinner, enjoy a lively performance by a local tuna band.

• Guided city and panoramic tour of Porto
• Tuna band performance in the ship’s lounge
• Port wine tasting in a celebrated Porto wine cellar

Explore historic Guimarães or join a walking tour of Porto's Ribeira district

• Your choice of tours: Guided Guimarães sightseeing or a walking tour of Porto’s Ribeira district
• Talk on Portugal’s cork industry in the lounge
• Onboard performance
• Tonight, you will sail down the UNESCO-listed Douro River, lined with terraced vineyards and quintas, or rural estates. During the length of our cruise, you’ll pass multiple locks and hear onboard commentary on certain stretches, while enjoying slow sailing to savor every view!

Sample local vintages at Aveleda Winery before touring Régua

• Régua excursion and Museu do Douro with wine tasting and lecture
• Aveleda Winery excursion with wine and cheese tasting
• Portuguese tea experience onboard
• Onboard cooking lesson: Pastéis de nata
• Régua active walking tour

Lamego's highlights, a regional quinta tasting, and an evening of traditional entertainment

Today you’ll explore the quaint town of Lamego, filled with terra-cotta rooftops, tree-lined streets, and a 700-step staircase that leads to the grand Santuário de Nossa Senhora dos Remédios. Your tour begins at the church. Then, you can descend all 700 steps and admire the surrounding gardens filled with monuments, terraces, fountains, and pretty tile mosaics. You’ll also visit the Lamego Museum, which houses a collection of works by Portuguese painter Grão Vasco. Enjoy lunch on board and an afternoon at leisure, during which you’ll cruise to Pinhão. Early this evening, head to another quinta to sample more fantastic regional wines in yet another breathtaking Douro setting. After, experience the tradition of Portuguese fado music as you enjoy a live performance.

• Lamego tour, with entrance to the Lamego Museum
• Afternoon quinta visit and wine tasting
• Fado music performance in the lounge

Mateus Manor House and Garden and Quinta da Avessada wine tasting

• Quinta da Avessada winery lunch
• Mateus Palace and Gardens tour

Journey back to medieval times in Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo

• Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo walking tour
• Onboard lecture: “A Look Inside Portugal”
• Regional food tasting in Figueira de Castelo Rodrigo

Discover Salamanca’s Old City, then head to Madrid

Discover the magic of Salamanca on a coach and walking tour. Then, explore its UNESCO-listed Old City and see the town’s grand cathedral and baroque Plaza Mayor, where you can seek out  churros and do some shopping and independent wandering along the town's main street. Lunch (typically tapas ) will be on your own. We’ll depart for Madrid after lunch; practice your pronunciation during the drive with a Spanish language lesson and an introduction to Spain. We'll reach Madrid and check into our centrally-located hotel close to many restaurants, the Royal Palace, and the famous El Corte Inglés shopping mall (just across the street). Tonight, regroup for a Farewell Dinner at the hotel. 

• Guided Salamanca walking tour, with visit to the UNESCO-listed Old City
• Spanish language lesson and introduction to Spain

Explore Madrid's landmarks, try traditional tapas at the Mercado Central, and experience the passion of flamenco

• Panoramic and walking tours of Madrid with included tapas at Mercado de San Miguel
• Flamenco dinner show

Prado Museum Tour

• Approximate Cost: $65 USD per person
• Approximate Time: 4 hours
• Location: Madrid, Spain
• When: Afternoon tour

Welcome to Madrid’s treasured Prado Museum, one of the world’s greatest art galleries. Located in the eponymous street, El Paseo del Prado, you’ll find a dazzling display of priceless works by European masters such as Velázquez, Goya, Raphael, Rubens, and Bosch. The sheer scale of this museum’s collection can be daunting, so you’ll begin your tour with the expertise of a guide before having free time to explore further on your own. (You'll spend two hours in the museum, and another two hours factoring in lunch, sightseeing, and transfer time.)

Explore Madrid at your leisure, or join an optional tour of Toledo

Enjoy a free day to pursue your own interests with recommendations provided by your Cruise Director. Wander the city’s many squares, shop for espadrilles and other classic Spanish products, and get your fill of tapas — or set off on an optional tour to nearby Toledo and the charming, narrow lanes of its UNESCO-listed historic center on the Tagus River. The evening is at leisure with dinner on your own.

• Approximate Cost: $89 USD per person
• Approximate Time: 9 hours
• Location: Toledo, Spain

Return home, or head to Barcelona on an optional extension

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home. Or continue your travels by next heading to Barcelona on an optional extension.

Post-Trip Extension

Important Notice: The above day-by-day itinerary is preliminary and subject to change. If changes occur while on tour, you will be notified by your Cruise Director or regional expert. In addition, should there be an extreme change in water levels, Vantage will do everything possible to provide either the included excursion or an alternate excursion at Vantage’s discretion.

Please Note: Port times & itineraries are subject to change. Fluctuating water levels may affect itinerary.

*Note that on our special harvest itineraries, winery visits may occur on days other than advertised . 

• Madrid to Lisbon
• Harvest Wine Celebration: Lisbon to Madrid
• Harvest Wine Celebration: Madrid to Lisbon
• Harvest Wine Celebration: Madrid to Lisbon (September 17)
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We maintain an enduring commitment to responsible and respectful travel. As pioneers in this ethos, Aurora Explorations was among the first operators to join esteemed organizations like IAATO and AECO, underscoring our serious dedication to our responsibilities. Our curiosity and passion extend beyond exploration; we genuinely care about minimizing our environmental footprint. Taking tangible steps for the planet’s well-being, we are actively engaged in initiatives that make a positive impact. At Vantage Explorations, we are doing MORE to ensure a sustainable and conscientious approach to travel.

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