Love Boats: Romantic River Cruises

Abercrombie & Kent

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Luxurious adventure travel is synonymous with A&K, the bespoke, family-run outfitter that has been hosting discerning guests across the globe since the early ’60s. In addition to land packages and private jet itineraries, the company hosts 12 European river cruises. A favorite journey is the 11-day Art & Architecture cruise along the Rhine, which winds through Switzerland, Germany, France and the Netherlands. As is customary with A&K, excursion groups are limited to 24. The ship Amadeus Silver III, which is new to launch this year, features 72 cabins and 12 suites, all with panoramic views and access to exterior spaces. Stateroom rates start at $6,195 per person for the 11-day, all-inclusive cruise.

Uniworld

Experience the opulence of India with the new land/river 13-day itinerary aboard the new ship Ganges Voyager II, a grand vessel that accommodates just 65 passengers. Staterooms and common areas are decidedly luxe, with decadent detailing that evokes India’s maharajas. The tour begins with visits to the Taj Mahal and New Delhi, the country’s capital, before setting sail for an eight-day cruise along the sacred Ganges River. Excursions include stops at Mother Teresa’s home and tomb; Kolkata, the former capital of the Raj (English rule); and a tour of “Temple City,” a seemingly endless expanse of Hindu shrines. Stateroom rates start at $7,599 per person for the 13-day, all-inclusive cruise and land tour.

Aqua Expeditions

The Aqua Mekong, a 40-passenger ship that navigates over one of Asia’s most storied waterways, is the latest boutique vessel to join the high-end river cruise line. As is customary with the brand, all service and experiences are highly personalized. Repose in an expansive outdoor lounge as you glide by the colorful floating markets dotting the Mekong. Or order a cocktail at the indoor lounge and stroll along the observation deck. Staterooms are oversize with California king beds and floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows. On shore, guides lead cultural excursions to groups of no more than 10. And bicycles are available for self exploration. Staterooms start at $3,315 per person for the three-night, all-inclusive cruise.

Photos courtesy of Aqua Expeditions

Disney

The Mouse House taking to water is hardly news — the fleet of four cruise ships has been delivering happily-ever-after adventures at sea for two decades. But the recent addition of European river itineraries is bringing the family-friendly approach to vacationing to a new setting. The eight-day Danube sail passes through four countries (Austria, Germany, Hungary and Slovakia) with magical stops in all. A favorite excursion is a tour of the grand Schönbrunn Palace, the imperial summer residence of the Hapsburgs, with its sprawling formal gardens and more than 1,000 rooms. Staterooms start at $4,699 per person, for the eight-day, all-inclusive cruise.

Photo courtesy of Disney