Part of our Partner Spotlight series
Breaking into the river cruise scene isn’t easy. With powerhouses like Viking, AmaWaterways, and Uniworld dominating the market, any newcomer needs more than nice ships—they need a clear, compelling difference.
Enter: Riverside Luxury Cruises.
They’re the new kid on the block, but they’re not playing small. And honestly? We’re impressed by what we’re seeing.
Who Is Riverside?
Riverside Luxury Cruises launched in 2023 after acquiring the award-winning river fleet formerly operated by Crystal Cruises. These ships were already known for their spacious suites, elegant design, and top-tier service—but Riverside didn’t just slap on a new logo and call it a day.
They reimagined what river cruising could be.
What if it felt less like a group tour… and more like staying at a five-star boutique hotel that happens to glide through Europe?
What Makes Riverside Different
Smaller Ships, More Intimate Experience
Most river ships carry 150–190 passengers. Riverside keeps it to just 100–160 guests per vessel, depending on the itinerary and configuration.
That difference changes everything:
- Dining rooms that don’t feel crowded
- Excursions with smaller, more agile groups
- Lounges where you can actually find a quiet corner
- Service that feels personal, not programmed
When there are fewer passengers, the crew knows your name. The bartender remembers your favorite apéritif. And the whole atmosphere feels exclusive—without ever feeling stuffy.
Design That Breaks the Mold
Riverside’s ships are stunning. We’re talking modern, high-design interiors—contemporary and sophisticated without trying too hard.
What sets them apart:
- Exceptionally spacious suites (some among the largest on European rivers)
- Clean, elegant aesthetic: think neutral tones, plush textures, and open light
- Thoughtful touches in layout, lighting, and materials
- Public spaces that invite you to linger
These don’t look like floating hotels. They feel like design-forward boutique properties—on water.
Butler Service
All Riverside suites include butler service, a rarity on river cruises and previously only seen on ultra-luxury ocean lines.
What that really means:
- Assistance with unpacking, packing, and in-suite dining
- Curated touches like afternoon tea or evening canapés
- Attention to preferences (beverages, snacks, pillows, etc.)
- True personalized service—not just a fancy job title
It’s a quiet luxury that makes a meaningful difference.
Michelin-Level Dining Without the Pretense
Riverside’s culinary program is led by renowned chefs and designed to reflect each region they sail through—with precision, creativity, and wine pairings that feel more sommelier-curated than mass market.
Expect:
- Michelin-inspired menus
- Locally sourced, seasonal ingredients
- Fine wines, many from the very regions you’re sailing through
- A la carte and tasting menus across multiple venues
The vibe: Less buffet line, more refined dining room. Less cruise food, more culinary experience.
Thoughtful Touches That Solve Problems
This is where Riverside really shines. They’ve rethought the details other lines overlook—because sometimes luxury isn’t about extravagance, it’s about removing friction.
Examples:
- Spacious suites with actual walk-in closets and double vanities
- Smaller groups mean no long waits for excursions or buses
- Butler service handles the “little things” you didn’t know you needed
- Understated luxury—no announcements over the loudspeaker every hour
It’s the difference between “this is fine” and “oh… this is how it should be.”
Who Riverside Is Perfect For
You’ll love Riverside if you:
- Have cruised rivers before but want a more elevated, design-forward experience
- Appreciate thoughtful aesthetics, architecture, and boutique hotel vibes
- Are a wine enthusiast (the onboard wine culture is exceptional)
- Prefer smaller groups and quieter environments
- Value intuitive, high-touch service
Riverside may not be for you if:
- You’re looking for the most budget-friendly cruise option
- You love lots of onboard programming, games, or nightlife
- You prefer the anonymity or energy of a larger ship
Where They Sail
Riverside sails the iconic waterways of Europe—Danube, Rhine, and Rhône, with Seine and others coming online soon.
What stands out:
- Longer port stays with fewer rushed days
- Curated shore excursions, often in small groups
- Authentic regional immersion
- Ample time for independent exploration
The vibe: You’re not ticking off stops on a list. You’re absorbing the rhythm of a place—without the crowds.
Why We’re Watching Closely
We haven’t personally sailed every itinerary yet, but we’ve been watching Riverside’s rollout carefully—and we like what we see.
Here’s what’s impressed us:
- They’re not trying to copy existing lines. They’re carving out a new space.
- Their ships, design, and service standards exceed most river cruise norms.
- They’re converting travelers who previously said, “River cruising isn’t for me.”
- Client feedback so far? Overwhelmingly positive.
As one traveler put it: “I thought I knew what to expect from a river cruise… I was wrong. This was completely different—in the best way.”
Riverside vs. the Rest
| Cruise Line | Capacity | Best For | Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| Riverside | 100–160 | Boutique luxury lovers, wine & design fans | Contemporary & refined |
| Viking | 190+ | First-timers, cultural immersion | Modern, minimalist |
| AmaWaterways | 150–160 | Active cruisers, wellness enthusiasts | Casual elegance, energetic |
| Uniworld | 120–150 | Maximalists, décor aficionados | Ornate, opulent, colorful |
Takeaway: Riverside doesn’t compete on volume or price. They’re for the traveler who values space, service, and style above all else.
Should You Consider Riverside?
If you’ve been curious about river cruising but worried it might feel too group-tour-ish or not quite “luxury” enough, Riverside may be your perfect fit.
Smaller, more refined, beautifully designed—this is river cruising reimagined. It’s less about checking boxes, more about savoring the journey.
