Once a niche way to explore Europe's historic waterways, river cruising has firmly sailed into the mainstream, becoming a major force in the global travel industry. What was once defined by the classic journey between Amsterdam and Budapest has now expanded into a world of possibilities, with hundreds of ships plying rivers across Europe, Asia, and Africa.
Europe's Enduring Allure and the Art of Choosing
The iconic European river cruise remains the gold standard for many. However, with more than 400 river cruise ships set to sail in Europe next year and around 20 new vessels joining the fleet this year alone, the choice has never been greater. This expansion means travellers need to do their homework, as the number of days and the overall price can vary significantly even for the same route.
For the quintessential voyage from Amsterdam to Budapest, experts recommend looking for an itinerary of around 14 or 15 days. A quality journey should include ample time in charming towns and cities like Miltenberg, Wurzburg, Regensburg, Passau, Melk, and the stunning Wachau Valley, as well as the cultural hub of Vienna. The inclusion of Bratislava in Slovakia adds an interesting stop, though it's not featured on all schedules.
As a general guide, prices can range from approximately $6000 to $11,000 per person, but this is highly variable. River cruise companies frequently offer a wide array of deals, inclusions, and flight incentives, making it essential to compare options carefully.
The World is Your Oyster: Mekong and Nile Adventures
The river cruising revolution is far from confined to Europe. High-quality voyages are now a reality on legendary rivers across the globe.
Cruising the Mekong River in South-East Asia is now completely mainstream. Operators like APT offer popular itineraries such as their Spiritual Cambodia and the Mekong journey, an 11-day trip from Siem Reap, home of Angkor Wat, to Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, with prices starting from $6795 per person in 2026. The market continues to grow, with Viking Cruises launching its 80-passenger ship, the Viking Tonle, on the Mekong in October 2025. It joins its sister ship, the Viking Saigon, on a 15-day Magnificent Mekong itinerary between Kampong Cham in Cambodia and My Tho in Vietnam.
Similarly, Egypt has emerged as a major river cruising destination, propelled by purpose-built ships and soaring demand. These cruises offer far more than the local trips available just a few years ago, taking travellers to iconic Egyptian sites in Luxor, Aswan, and the Valley of the Kings, combined with time in Cairo. A prime example is Viking Cruises’ Pharaohs and Pyramids itinerary. This comprehensive 12-day trip includes 11 tours and is a round trip from Cairo, with prices starting from $10,595 per person in 2026.
Navigating Your Next River Cruise Adventure
The dramatic growth in river cruising means more options and more incredible destinations for Australian travellers. From the timeless castles of the Danube to the vibrant life along the Mekong and the ancient wonders of the Nile, there is a river journey to capture every imagination. With new ships launching annually and competitive deals available, now is the perfect time to explore the world from a unique and intimate perspective.
