If you follow the river cruise world, you may have seen the recent news: Rudi Schreiner, co-founder and longtime visionary behind AmaWaterways, has officially announced his retirement. Born and raised in Vienna, and known across the industry as the “Godfather of River Cruising,” Rudi helped shape what modern river cruising looks like—placing a strong focus on innovation, personal service, and a true sense of connection on board. While this marks the end of an era, we have every confidence that AmaWaterways’ family feel and guest-first traditions will continue to thrive. Co-founder Kristin Karst, who remains very active and engaged in leadership, continues to be a strong presence—and she regularly communicates directly with us to support our clients. Congratulations to Rudi on a remarkable career and for building one of the most beloved brands in the industry. #Did you know - Rudi worked for Viking River Cruises before starting his own brand. |
A Tale of Two Rivers: Rhine vs. Danube
If you're dreaming of a European river cruise but not sure whether to sail the Rhine or the Danube, you're not alone. These two iconic rivers offer distinct experiences—and knowing the differences can help you make a more rewarding choice.
Let’s take a closer look at what each river has to offer, and why choosing the right cruise line is just as important as choosing the right itinerary.
The Rhine River: Castles, Charm, and Fairytale Towns
The Rhine is pure visual delight. Between the cities of Basel and Amsterdam, you’ll pass dozens of hilltop castles, vineyard-lined slopes, and medieval towns that look like they were lifted straight from a storybook.
Top Rhine Highlights:
Cologne: With its soaring Gothic cathedral and vibrant riverfront.
Rüdesheim & Bacharach: Quintessential Rhine villages known for wine and charm.
Koblenz & the Lorelei Passage (Middle Rhine River Gorge): Where the river narrows and castle views multiply (40+)
Strasbourg (on some itineraries): A taste of both France and Germany in one.
We recently sailed the Rhine in October 2024 with my in-laws, and I can’t recommend this itinerary enough—especially in the fall when the vineyards glow in shades of gold and red, and the towns feel alive but not overly crowded. This trip was a perfect blend of scenic cruising and charming day stops that even first-timers adored.
The Rhine appeals most to travelers who love castles, pretty towns, and diverse scenery—and it’s ideal for photographers and first-timers alike.
The Danube River: Grand Cities, Deep History, and Cultural Depth
The Danube delivers more of a cultural and historical journey. From the imperial cities of Vienna and Budapest to smaller gems like Dürnstein and Melk, this river cruise feels like time travel.
Top Danube Highlights:
Vienna: Birthplace of classical music, home to royal palaces and WWII stories.
Budapest: A stunning city by day or night, full of architectural and historical depth.
Regensburg: One of the best-preserved medieval cities in Europe.
Melk Abbey: A golden baroque masterpiece overlooking the river.
We’ve cruised the Danube several times, including the Upper Danube in October 2023 and again visiting Vienna for the River Cruise Expo in March 2025. Each experience reinforced just how rich and meaningful this route is for travelers who crave depth, especially around art, music, and European history.
While castles are fewer, the cultural weight of the Danube is heavier—perfect for travelers who value history, music, and old-world elegance.
A Note About River Conditions
It’s worth noting: in recent years, the Danube has had more instances of low water levels than the Rhine. While this only affects a small percentage of cruises, your itinerary and cruise line choice can make a real difference if levels shift.
Some lines are better prepared with sister ships, flexible routing, and generous compensation, while others are less proactive. That’s why working with someone who understands the nuances matters.
Cruise Line Match Matters—A Lot
Just as no two rivers are alike, no two cruise lines are either. The onboard experience, included amenities, pace, and even shore excursion styles can vary widely.
Here’s a quick guide to how some of the top river cruise lines differ:
Viking – Consistent and clean Scandinavian style; great for independent travelers, but more limited inclusions.
AmaWaterways – Active options like biking and hiking, excellent food, and warm service; one of our personal favorites.
Avalon Waterways – Known for their “beds that face the view,” Avalon offers flexible excursions and a slightly more casual atmosphere.
Amadeus River Cruises – Elegant European feel with value-focused pricing; excellent for well-traveled guests who want a quieter, refined experience.
Tauck – Everything is included and handled with precision. Excellent for guests who want top-tier service and no surprises.
Scenic – Ultra-luxury with true all-inclusiveness and butler service; a good fit for travelers who want to feel pampered every step of the way.
Uniworld – Artful, boutique interiors with a stylish flair; well-suited for those who love design and a little decadence.
Riviera – Strong value for travelers who prefer a more independent style and don’t need all the extras bundled in.
Choosing the right cruise line for your travel style can make the difference between a “nice trip” and a “life-changing one.” That’s where our expertise really helps.
