River cruising offers an intimate way to explore destinations, with smaller ships, convenient access to cities and towns, and many experiences included in the cruise fare. The best cruise line depends on your client’s destination, travel style, activity level and priorities.

Not sure which river cruise line is the best fit? Use the comparison below to help narrow down your options.

Viking
Best for: International river cruising & cultural experiences

American Cruise Lines
Best for: U.S. river & small-ship cruising

AmaWaterways
Best for: Active & immersive river cruising

Avalon Waterways
Best for: Spacious accommodations & scenic views

Best for:

Viking is ideal for clients seeking a culturally focused, adults-only river cruise experience with an emphasis on destination immersion, included amenities and a calm, elegant onboard atmosphere.

  • Clients who enjoy history, art and culture

  • Adults seeking a quiet, refined cruise experience

  • Travelers who value included shore excursions and amenities

  • European river itineraries

AGENT ACCESS / REGISTRATION

NEW ADVISORS:
Click here to create your Viking Travel Advisor account.

EXISTING ADVISORS:
Click here to access the Viking Travel Advisor Portal.

AGENT SUPPORT:
800-304-9616

Best for:

American Cruise Lines is ideal for clients who want to explore the United States by river or small ship, with itineraries ranging from the Mississippi and Columbia & Snake Rivers to New England, Alaska, and coastal destinations.

  • U.S. river and small-ship cruising

  • Clients who prefer domestic travel

  • Mississippi, Columbia & Snake River itineraries

  • New England, Alaska, and coastal U.S. destinations

AGENT ACCESS / REGISTRATION

NEW ADVISORS:
Click here to register as an American Cruise Lines Travel Advisor.

EXISTING ADVISORS:
Click here to access the American Cruise Lines Travel Advisor login.

AGENT SUPPORT:
800-460-4518

Best for:

AmaWaterways is ideal for clients who want an immersive river cruise with flexible excursion choices, including active options such as guided biking and hiking.

  • Active and experience-focused travelers

  • Guided biking and hiking excursions

  • Food, wine and cultural experiences

  • Clients who want choices in pace and activity level

AGENT ACCESS / REGISTRATION

NEW ADVISORS:
Click here to register for access to the AmaWaterways Travel Advisor Portal.

EXISTING ADVISORS:
Click here to access the AmaWaterways Travel Advisor Portal.

AGENT SUPPORT:
1-800-626-0126
IT-HelpDesk@AmaWaterways.com

Best for:

Avalon Waterways is ideal for clients who place a high priority on spacious accommodations, panoramic views and the flexibility to explore each destination their own way.

  • Spacious Panorama Suites and Open-Air Balconies

  • Clients who value stateroom comfort and scenery

  • Classic, Active and Discovery excursion choices

  • Travelers who want a more personalized river-cruise experience

AGENT ACCESS / REGISTRATION

NEW ADVISORS:
Click here to create your Avalon Waterways Travel Advisor account.

EXISTING ADVISORS:
Click here to access the Avalon Waterways Travel Advisor Portal.

AGENT SUPPORT:
800-221-0090

RIVER CRUISE TIP

River cruise itineraries can be affected by high or low water levels, weather, lock closures and other operational conditions. Always review the current itinerary and supplier policies when quoting and before final payment, and make sure clients understand that ports or itineraries may occasionally need to change.

OTHER RIVER CRUISE OPTIONS

These are some of our most frequently used river-cruise suppliers, but they are not the only options available.

If you cannot find the right fit for your client, or they have a specific itinerary, destination or travel style in mind, please check with me before moving on. We may already be registered with another supplier that can accommodate their needs.