Here's a sneak peek at some of the cruise lines and ships that Shelley and I explored while at the Travel Advisors River Cruise Expo in Vienna in March 2025.
And yes, that was 14 ships in the headline photo while we were at the Expo in Vienna.
Scenic Opal: Our home for the duration of the expo, the Scenic Opal is renowned for its all-inclusive luxury. With spacious suites, butler service (not for us), and diverse dining options, we're eager to experience and share its offerings.
Emerald Cruises: After a comprehensive refresh over the winter, Emerald's fleet promises updated amenities and contemporary designs. We'll be among the first to witness these enhancements. If you are a long time reader, you will remember that we "took the parents" on an Emerald river cruise last fall on the stunning Rhine River.
AmaWaterways: As our agency's top-selling brand, AmaWaterways is showcasing three ships. Known for their variety of itineraries, as well as excursion options on every sailing, they cater to travelers seeking immersive and active experiences, or a laid back approach with history, culture and ambiance. As a solo, couple or group, everyone has something suited for them.
Avalon Waterways: With a focus on active and discovery tours, Avalon's offerings appeal to those seeking a blend of adventure and relaxation. We'll delve into their unique excursions and onboard programs.
Amadeus River Cruises: In 2024, Amadeus launched the eco-conscious Amadeus Nova, which will be at the expo. In 2025, the Amadeus Amara launches with many excited features, and in 2026, they will be launching the Aurea with an impressive set of new, state of the art features.
Viking River Cruises: As the largest in the industry, Viking offers a more laid-back cruising experience, often dubbed, "The Thinking Man's River Cruise". We'll explore how they maintain their signature relaxed atmosphere amidst a growing fleet with 10+ new river vessels in the forthcoming years.
Riverside Luxury Cruises: Featuring the MS Mozart, Riverside brings a touch of elegance and exclusivity to river cruising. We're excited to see how they blend luxury with intimate experiences.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises: Shelley is particularly looking forward to exploring Uniworld's ship, known for its boutique ambiance and artistic décor.
Tauck River Cruises: Celebrating 100 years in the travel industry, Tauck's legacy of excellence continues. We're honored to join them for a special evening event commemorating this milestone.
Industry Buzz: Celebrity Cruises Enters the River Scene
A significant highlight of the expo is the announcement of Celebrity Cruises venturing into river cruising. Set to launch in 2027, Celebrity plans to introduce a fleet inspired by their Edge Series ocean ships, bringing a new dimension to river travel. This move has sparked varied reactions:
Positive Outlook: Celebrity's entry could elevate the river cruise experience, attracting travelers accustomed to their ocean cruises and setting new industry standards.
Concerns: The addition of large-scale operations raises questions about river congestion and the preservation of the intimate ambiance that river cruises are known for.
We'll engage with industry experts to gather insights on how this development might shape the future of river cruising.
Planning Ahead: Early Bookings for 2027 Itineraries
Most cruise lines have unveiled their 2027 itineraries in time for the expo. This early release underscores the importance of planning ahead. Early bookings not only secure preferred dates and cabins but also often come with attractive savings. If you're considering a river cruise in the coming years, now is an excellent time to start the conversation.