river cruises bulgaria

Experience a world beyond your expectations. Choose from our award-winning vacations on virtually every continent with local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share.

We know why you travel. You’d rather have an extra day exploring than a fancy chocolate on your pillow at night. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you.

Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities.

Bulgaria River Cruises

• European Vacations

River Cruises in Bulgaria

For those looking to avoid the beaten path, or for those who are relentlessly seeking to know the secrets of Europe, a trip to Bulgaria is essential. While cruising on the Danube , you will cross a part of the country, and discover the secrets of the Black Sea .

Bulgaria, still relatively unknown in Europe, is at the heart of Balkan Europe , surrounded by Greece, Romania, Macedonia, Serbia and Turkey. The " Gateway to the Orient ", as the country was often called by 19 th Century travellers, is a blend of natural beauties: high breathtaking mountains, fertile valleys, very old forests and golden beaches facing the Black Sea.

In addition to landscapes that delight any traveller, Bulgaria has something for art and history lovers alike. At the crossroads of East and West, Bulgaria has seen the ages of the Thracians, Romans, Byzantines and Ottomans. The passage of each era has left deep traces in the country, as well as in its culture and language. Many sites have been classified as World Heritage by UNESCO because of their incredible value.

Discover all our Bulgaria river Cruises bellow.

From the Blue Danube to the Black Sea

VIENNA - BRATISLAVA - BUDAPEST - KALOCSA - NOVI SAD - BELGRAD - The Iron Gates - RUSE - TULCEA - FETESTI CERNAVODA - OLTENITA

From the Iron Gates to the Danube Delta, admire the majestic blue river, crossing 8 countries and stopping in 4 capitals. You will discover tremendous landscapes of striking beauty where nature is queen. From Belgrade to Vienna via Bratislava and Budapest, discover unique architecture, history and culture all along the beautiful Danube.

Trans-European cruise from Strasbourg to Tulcea, 3 rivers, the Rhine, the Main and the Danube (port-to-port cruise)

STRASBOURG - MAINZ - FRANKFURT - MILTENBERG - WERTHEIM - WURZBURG - SCHWEINFURT - BAMBERG - NUREMBERG - MÜHLHAUSEN - REGENSBURG - PASSAU - MELK - DURNSTEIN - VIENNA - ESZTERGOM - BUDAPEST - MOHACS - OSIJEK - NOVI SAD - BELGRADE - The Iron Gates - RUSE - CERNAVODA / FETESTI - TULCEA - OLTENITA

Exhilarating ports of call and amazing cuisine are on deck for this cruise from France to Romania. Take a journey through one thousand years of tradition,  where nature dazzles and monuments reflect the passionate, sometimes turbulent, history along the European waterways.

From the Black Sea to the Blue Danube (port-to-port cruise)

OLTENITA - TULCEA - The Danube Delta - GIURGIU - RUSE - The Iron Gates - BELGRADE - NOVI SAD - BUDAPEST - BRATISLAVA - VIENNA

From the Danube Delta to the iron gates, admire the majestic blue river, crossing 8 countries and stopping in 4 capitals. You will discover tremendous landscapes of striking beauty where nature is queen. From Vienna to Belgrade via Bratislava and Budapest, discover unique architecture, history, and culture all along the beautiful Danube.

Along the river Danube, Budapest, the Balkan peninsula and the Danube delta

BUDAPEST - MOHACS - OSIJEK - NOVI SAD - BELGRADE  - The Iron Gates - RUSE - CERNAVODA / FETESTI - TULCEA - OLTENITA - Sinaia - Predeal - Sibiu - Sibiel - Bran - Predeal - Sighisoara - Brasov - Predeal - Bucarest

From Hungary to Romania via Serbia, you'll be surprised and delighted by this cruise that will take you to the heart of Eastern Europe. You will discover cities with remarkable landscapes and elegant architecture such as Novi Sad, the capital of the province of Vojvodina regarded as the "Serbian Athens", whose cultural and artistic backgrounds will surprise you. Do not miss out on Ruse, one of the largest ports in Bulgaria and a true melting pot of Bulgarian and Romanian cultures. 

Along the Danube, the Danube delta, the Balkan peninsula and Budapest

Bucarest - Predeal - Sighisoara - Brasov - Predeal - Sibiu - Sibiel - Bran - Predeal - Sinaia - OLTENITA - TULCEA - OLTENITA - Bucarest - RUSE - The Iron Gates - BELGRADE - NOVI SAD - OSIJEK - MOHACS - BUDAPEST

From Romania to Hungary via Serbia, you'll be surprised and delighted by this cruise that will take you to the heart of Eastern Europe. You will discover cities with remarkable landscapes and elegant architecture such as Novi Sad, the capital of the province of Vojvodina regarded as the "Serbian Athens", whose cultural and artistic backgrounds will surprise you. Do not miss out on Ruse, one of the largest ports in Bulgaria and a true melting pot of Bulgarian and Romanian cultures.

Experience a world beyond your expectations. Choose from our award-winning vacations on virtually every continent with local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share.

We know why you travel. You’d rather have an extra day exploring than a fancy chocolate on your pillow at night. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you.

Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities.

Bulgaria River Cruises

Experience a world beyond your expectations. Choose from our award-winning vacations on virtually every continent with local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share.

We know why you travel. You’d rather have an extra day exploring than a fancy chocolate on your pillow at night. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you.

Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities.

Bulgaria River Cruises

Deals of the Week   European Long Weekends   Up to 50% OFF

Luxury River Cruises in Bulgaria and Romania

Searching for a luxury cruising experience? Look no further, as our Luxury cruises in Bulgaria and Romania will allow you to discover exceptional destinations such as Bucharest and Budapest. Taste the adventure and discover new cultures while enjoying premium services and facilities. Read more on luxury river cruises .

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3 luxury river cruises on the bulgaria and romania.

Black Sea Explorer with Transylvania - Kalocsa (Start Budapest, End Bucharest, 2024, 13 Days)

Eastern Enlightenment 2019 (Start Belgrade, End Bucharest)

• River Cruise

Black Sea Explorer with Transylvania - Welcome to Budapest (17 destinations)

All Bulgaria River Cruises

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• Food & Wine
• River Cruises
• Archaeological Site Visits
• Land & Sea Exploration
• Small Ship Cruises
• Urban Exploration
• Village Visits
• Wine Tasting
• Avalon Impression
• Avalon Passion
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• Emerald Luna
• MS Amabella
• MS AmaMagna
• MS Amaverde
• S.S. Beatrice

Gems of Southeast Europe - Cruise Only

• Admire Rousse's architecture
• Learn of the region's rich history
• Enjoy culinary and wine excursions
• Tour European cities and villages

Gems of Southeast Europe

• Visit the Szekszárd wine region
• Discover Novi Sad
• Explore Vidin

Highlights of Eastern Europe

• Tour Belgrade by bicycle
• Cruise the Iron Gates along Danube
• 2 UNESCO World Heritage sites

Enchantment of Eastern Europe

• Visit site of Lepenski Vir
• Visit and meet a Croatian family
• Bike around the Belgrade
• Watch and enjoy a horse show

Balkan Discovery

• Explore the Balkan region
• Discover Pécs
• Explore Belgrade
• Discover Belogradchik
• Take a tour of Novi Sad
• Indulge in MS Amabella's luxuries
• Cruise through the Iron Gates

Grand Danube Cruise

• Explore historic Prague
• Join an Oktoberfest festival
• Enjoy optional excursions
• Tour Vienna's highlights

Grand Danube Cruise with Prague

• Visit Vienna's city center
• Enjoy local wine and food
• Tour Bran Castle
• Explore Prague's historic sites
• See Hungarian horsemanship

Top Bulgaria Travel Destinations

• Danube River

Bulgaria Trips by Departure Date

• 2024 Bulgaria trips (13)
• 2025 Bulgaria trips (10)
• April 2024 (9)
• May 2024 (11)
• June 2024 (9)
• July 2024 (7)
• August 2024 (7)
• April 2025 (7)
• June 2025 (8)
• September 2025 (8)
• October 2025 (7)

Top Experiences in Bulgaria

• Bulgaria River Cruises (13)
• Bulgaria Cruises (13)
• Bulgaria Cultural (4)
• Bulgaria Food & Wine (3)
• Bulgaria Luxury (3)

Bulgaria Trips by Duration

• 8 day trips (3)
• 9 day trips (4)
• 22 day trips (3)

Bulgaria Trips by Activity

• Bulgaria biking (7)
• Bulgaria wine tasting (6)
• Bulgaria archaeological site visits (4)
• Bulgaria small ship cruises (3)
• Bulgaria hiking (3)

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Bulgaria Cruises

About bulgaria.

Bulgaria is an eastern European country located on the western coast of the Black Sea and bordering Romania, Serbia, the Republic of Macedonia, Greece and Turkey. Human habitation in the area dates back to the Hamangia and Vinca cultures during Neolithic times and spans more than 6,600 years. Modern Bulgaria comprises the classical regions of Thrace, Moesia and Macedonia.

After World War II, Bulgaria became a Communist state and was part of the Eastern Bloc, but today it is a democratic republic and a member of both NATO and the European Union. Its capital city, Sofia, has 1.38 million inhabitants.

Bulgaria is credited with giving the world the Cyrillic alphabet, the second most widely-used alphabet in the world, in the 10th century A.D. The internationally famous artist Christo was born Hristo Yavashev in Bulgaria in 1935.

The country boasts no fewer than nine UNESCO World Heritage sites, some historic and some because of natural beauty, and is an increasingly popular tourist destination. Its cuisine demonstrates both eastern European and Mediterranean influences and there are many regional wines and beers to sample.

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• Our Journeys

Bucharest to Vienna

Journey highlights.

On one incredible Journey, travel along the legendary Danube River, through the powerful landscapes of the Iron Gates and into the serene refinement of the Schönbrunn Palace. Be amazed by the “Paris of the East,” Bucharest before embarking on a river cruise through five world-famous capitals. From Bulgaria to Serbia, Hungary and Slovakia, you will stand among the most beautiful and some of the oldest cities and landmarks in Europe before ending in exquisite Austria.

Browse the highlights and map on the cards below by swiping or pressing the arrows.

Peleș Castle, Romania

Admire one of the most stunning palaces in all of Europe. With spectacular landscapes, magnificent collections of art, stained glass and weapons, Peleș Castle in Romania is absolutely divine. A Neo-Renaissance castle set in the Carpathian Mountains, wander through the elaborately decorated and fairytale-like royal palace.

Equestrian Show

A highlight of Hungary, stop in Kalocsa, known as the “paprika capital of the world”, and take a short ride to a traditional ranch on the Hungarian Puszta. Here, stand in awe as the Magyar cowboys parade, race and demonstrate tricks used during wartime. A magnificent demonstration, take the time to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the gorgeous Puszta.

Belgrade, Serbia

Discover the “white city” where the Sava and Danube Rivers kiss. One of the oldest cities in Europe, saunter through the unique city of Belgradeto see Kalemegdan Fortress, Terazije Square, the Serbian parliament, and the magnificent St. Sava Church. Belgrade is an intriguing place where the old world comes to meet the new world.

Budapest, Hungary

Roam through Budapest, the “Queen of the Danube”. A city built in the ‘golden age,’ marvel at the remnants of the past found around each corner. From the Great Market Hall to the views from Castle Hill, and the exceptional evening cruise to see the Hungarian Parliament, discover the dramatic splendour of Buda and Pest.

Vienna, Austria

Explore the masterpieces on display around Vienna. Drive along the grand Ring Boulevard and stroll through the city center. Known as ‘the city of music,’ engage in the extraordinary experience of listening to the marvelous sounds of a classical music performance at Golden Hall. With an legacy shaped by residents such as Mozart, Beethoven and Sigmund Freud, Vienna is a magical city.

The Iron Gates

Utterly entrancing, the Danube, also known as the “river of kings” is lined with mysterious medieval castles, idyllic lush hillsides and beautiful ancient villages. Drift along the romantic blue waters into a narrow gorge surrounded by towering cliffs and cross the iconic Iron Gates that separate Serbia and Romania.

Journey Itinerary

Depart for bucharest, romania.

Enjoy your private car home pick up service. Guests departing from the Toronto airport are assisted with their check-in. Meet your Journey Manager and fellow guests, and board your flights to Bucharest, Romania. Our Journey Manager travels with you to take care of all the details throughout the journey, enabling you to concentrate on your experience.

WELCOME TO BUCHAREST

Bucharest, Romania’s capital and largest city, has an exciting heritage of mixed cultures, influenced by the ancient Romanian aristocracy and the communist society. After arriving at Bucharest airport, we meet our friendly local guide who introduces us to the city before we transfer to our hotel. This evening join your fellow guests for a casual welcome dinner.

We travel on the road to Romania’s North, through the very scenic Valley of Princes to the 19th-century Peleș Castle. Take in the spectacular views and tour its magnificent collections of art, stained glass, and weapons before we continue to Azuga to learn about the Prahova Valley’s historic cellars. At Rhein-Azuga Wine Cellar, enjoy a selection of champagne and a delicious lunch. Admire the stunning mountain vistas on a beautiful drive to our hotel in Brasov. After settling in, we enjoy dinner  at the hotel.

TRANSYLVANIA: BRAN & BRASOV

Transylvania is arguably Romania’s most famous and picturesque region. We begin the day with a road trip to the village of Bran to the famous “Dracula Castle,” which earned this designation because of its medieval look and past owner, Count Vlad the Impaler.

After hearing the legendary tales, visit one of the main cities in Transylvania, Brasov, to wander its medieval city centre and marvel at the imposing Gothic architecture of the Black Church. We return to our hotel for dinner.

CANTACUZINO CASTLE

Today we visit the Cantacuzino Castle. The Cantacuzino Castle is situated in Bușteni, Romania. The building, whose construction was completed in 1911, was conducted by the architect Gregory Cerchez at the request of Prince George Grigore Cantacuzino. With the Bucegi Mountains as a backdrop, stroll the 3,000-metre estate before discovering portraits of the Cantacuzino family. Tonight, enjoy a welcome dinner with fellow passengers of the MS Amadeus Riva.

After breakfast, explore Bucharest’s capital city, fondly known as the “Paris of the East.” See the Opera House, the Triumph Arch, and the Main Square. Marvel at the impressive Palace of Parliament, the second-largest building in the world. Enjoy lunch, then meander along the Strada Lipscani and through the ancient streets in Bucharest’s Old Town. See the majestic National Museum of Romania and the lavish CEC Palace and visit the Romanian Orthodox Stavropoleos Monastery and Church.

Following a full day of discovery, depart for the port city of Fetesti, and board the Amadeus Riva, your home for the next nine days. This evening, enjoy a welcome cocktail, followed by a specially prepared welcome dinner.

DANUBE DELTA

The Danube Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a sanctuary for around 300 different bird species. This morning, board a small delta safari boat for an intimate exploration of the delta’s shimmering lagoons and narrow channels to witness the largest pelican colony at Sahalin lagoon. Return to the Amadeus Riva.

HIRȘOVA & CONSTANTA

Embark on a leisurely visit to the small Romanian town of Hârșova. Cross the Black Sea’s golden sandy beaches as we head for a guided tour of Constanta. A walk into the city’s Old Town features sights of its prominent and historic buildings, including the Great Mosque, the Casino Constanta, and the Genovese Lighthouse. A short visit to the National Museum of History and Archaeology further reveals the city’s rich history and unique blend of cultures.

VELIKO TARNOVO, BULGARIA

Pay a visit to Giurgiu before we cross the Danube to Ruse, where we begin our day excursion towards Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria’s oldest town. Upon arrival, pass by the fortress Zarewez, visit the 13th-century church of St. Peter and Paul, and enjoy some free time to explore this medieval city. Before returning to the boat, we continue to the nearby small town of Arbanassi, famous for its ornately painted churches, stopping at a typical Bulgarian restaurant along the way. We meet up with the Amadeus Silver II in Svishtov this afternoon.

Utterly entrancing, the Danube, also known as the “river of kings” is lined with mysterious medieval castles, idyllic lush hillsides and beautiful ancient villages. Spot the face of Chief Decebalus carved onto the cliffs of the Romanaian side. Drift along the romantic blue waters into a narrow gorge surrounded by towering cliffs and cross the iconic Iron Gates that separate Serbia and Romania.

BELGRADE, SERBIA

Belgrade, the capital of Serbia, is one of the oldest cities in Europe. Embark on a city tour and enjoy the impressive views over the river at the Kalemegdan Fortress. See such highlights as the National Museum, Terazije Square, and the Serbian parliament and marvel at the massive St. Sava Church. After a refreshment break at the Hotel Majestic, spend some free time exploring at your leisure.

MOHÁCS & KALOCSA, HUNGARY

Let the sights, sounds, and tastes of Hungary fill your senses. Enjoy a leisurely morning of river cruising and take in the beauty of the Danube. After departing the tiny harbour town of Mohács following lunch, we drive into the Hungarian Puszta or Great Hungarian Plain. View the passing scenery dotted with villages and farmland. Stop to see local handicrafts and a demonstration of a local dance before visiting the House of Paprika. Our exploration of the Puszta continues with a visit to a traditional Hungarian ranch, where we enjoy a glass of local wine and watch a fantastic equestrian show. We join the ship late this afternoon in Kalocsa.

The Danube flows through the heart of the city, dividing it into two parts: Buda on the western banks and Pest on the eastern. First, explore Pest, including its Great Market Hall, the splendid Hungarian State Opera, and the famous Heroes’ Square. Continue across into Buda, and take in the unforgettable view from Castle Hill before stopping at St. Matthew’s Church and Fisherman’s Bastion. After lunch, visit the Royal Palace of Gödöllö and see the spectacular ballroom with its beautiful marble stucco details. This evening, enjoy a traditional Hungarian folklore show on board while cruising down Budapest’s illuminated skyline.

BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA

A full morning of sailing brings us to Bratislava, the capital of the young Slovakian Republic, by midafternoon. Our excursion passes St. Martin’s Cathedral and the Grassalkovich Palace before continuing up the hill to admire stunning, panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. Afterwards, a guided walking tour leads us through the gorgeous Old Town to such sites as the Primatial Palace, the Academia Istropolitana, the Opera House, and Maximilian Fountain. Late this afternoon, we return to the boat and prepare for the Captain’s Gala Dinner.

VIENNA, AUSTRIA

With an artistic and intellectual legacy shaped in part by former residents including Mozart, Beethoven and Sigmund Freud, Vienna is a magical city and capital of Austria. After arriving into Vienna this morning, we say goodbye to our lovely staff and bid farewell to the Amadeus Silver II. Today, we embark on a panoramic city tour and see Vienna’s top sights as we drive along the grand Ring Boulevard and stroll through the beautiful heart of this historic city. Dine at a local restaurant before checking into our hotel and enjoying an afternoon at leisure to rest or explore. Following dinner at the hotel, experience one of Vienna’s greatest performances: a classical music concert by the Vienna Mozart Orchestra at the Golden Hall in Musikverein, home of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra. This is sure to be a night of magic you won’t soon forget!

SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE

Our final full day in Vienna begins with a visit to the famous 18th century Schönbrunn Palace, the Habsburgs’ former summer residence. Following lunch at a local restaurant, we visit the Museum of Fine Arts and discover the Kunstkammer Wien. In the evening, join your fellow travellers one last time and enjoy a farewell dinner at a typical Viennese Heurigen, famous for their comfortable atmosphere and fine wines.

Today we bid “auf wiedersehen” to our new friends and make our way to the airport for our flights home. Enjoy our private car to your home. (B)

Signature Inclusions on This Journey

In addition to our essentials, your journey includes our following signature inclusions:, 24/7 professional journey manager.

• Will travel with you from Canada and handle every detail In addition to knowledgeable local guides

Memorable Private Excursions

• Private excursions crafted by our team
• All sightseeing & entrance fees included

Private Car Pick-up Service

• Within a 200-kilometre radius, let your Journey begin in elegant comfort with a private chauffeured car to the airport

Generous Tips & Gratuities

• For the porters, local guides, hotel staff & many more, paid by us on your behalf

Our essentials included with your Journey:

• 9 nights on the MS Amadeus Riva II
• 6 nights in outstanding hotels
• All meals included (15 breakfasts, 13 lunches, 15 dinners)
• Wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch & dinner on board
• Round-trip airfare from Toronto with Air Canada & Lufthansa
• All taxes as well as port & service charges
• “Whisper” radios included for use during excursions
• Flights from select Canadian gateways for only $100
• Other gateways & travel classes available
• Porterage for one piece of luggage per person
• Complete information & assistance leading up to your departure
• Branded overnight carry-on or backpack

Discover the MS Amadeus Riva

Fares & Staterooms

C4 — Haydn Deck

Located on the Haydn deck, these well-appointed cabins are the perfect place to relax following a day of exploring the Danube River.

• Small Panoramic window
• Choice of bed configuration (double or twin)
• Flatscreen television
• Spacious wardrobe
• Private bathroom with spacious shower
• Hair dryer, climate control & in-room safe

Double Occupancy

Single occupancy, c1 — haydn deck.

B4 — Strauss Deck

Located on the Strauss deck, these cabins are the perfect combination of incredible panoramic views of the Danube River, as well as inspiring interiors.

• Drop-down Panoramic window

B1 — Strauss Deck

A1 — mozart deck.

Located on the Mozart deck, these cabins are the perfect combination of incredible panoramic views of the Danube River, as well as inspiring interiors.

Mozart Suite — Mozart Deck

The leisurely pace to river cruising reaches a new height when you stay in the Mozart suite. Whether you are lounging on the corner couch or walk-out balcony enjoy the pristine views of the Danube without having to leave the comfort of your own room.

• Comfortable corner sofa
• Walk-out exterior balcony
• Walk-in wardrobe
• En-suite bathroom & bathrobe

Prices are per guest in CAD, all taxes included.

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Inspiration to Visit Eastern Europe

5 Traditional Highlights in Eastern Europe

8 European Sights Best Experienced During a River Cruise

We Believe that Travel Should be Memorable from Start to Finish

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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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