Using the River Cruise Directory
How lines are listed, what the labels mean, and how to get your shortlist priced.
Get Free Quotes From Any LineHow the directory is put together, what the labels mean, and how to turn a shortlist into real quotes.
Three Ways to Use the Directory
Start with a line
Know the name? Go to the A–Z and read its entry, then follow its rivers to the region pages.
Start with a river
Choose Europe, America or Asia, Africa & Beyond and see every line that sails it.
Start with a style
Know how you like to travel? Lines by Style groups the lines by atmosphere and inclusions.
What the Labels Mean
- Luxury
- Larger suites, high staff-to-guest ratios and fares that include nearly everything, often down to tips and premium drinks.
- Premium
- Polished ships and a generous fare — usually tours and wine with meals — with some extras charged separately.
- Value
- Simpler ships and fewer inclusions, often with good itineraries; a smart choice when the route matters more than the hotel.
- Expedition
- Very small ships built for wildlife and remote places, with naturalist guides and small boats for outings.
- Escorted
- A tour director travels with the group the whole way, handling details ashore and onboard.
- Hotel barge
- A small converted barge on a canal, carrying only a handful of guests and moving at walking pace.
From Shortlist to Quote
- Pick a river and a rough month.
- Shortlist two or three lines from the directory that sail it.
- Decide what matters most: cabin type, inclusions, solo pricing, family dates, accessibility.
- Send the shortlist to our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise.
- Compare the quotes side by side and book with an advisor who stays with you through the trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
How are lines chosen for the directory?
We include river cruise lines that U.S. travelers can book through a travel advisor and that sail regular, published itineraries. Lines that have stopped operating are removed.
How often is the directory updated?
It is reviewed regularly as lines announce new ships and itineraries. Programs change every year, so our cruise advisors confirm current details with every quote.
Why don’t you show prices?
River cruise fares change often and depend on dates, cabin category and what is included. A fixed price on a web page would be wrong within weeks. A free quote gives you current fares and offers.
Can I contact a line through this site?
This site does not link to line booking pages. Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise handle quotes and bookings with every line in the directory, and can compare several for you at once.
What does a free quote involve?
You tell us the river, rough dates, number of travelers and any lines you like. Our cruise advisors reply with options and current offers. There is no cost and no obligation.
Is a line’s position in the list a recommendation?
No. Lines are listed alphabetically. For picks by travel style, see Lines by Style or our sister site Best River Cruises.
Ready to Send Your Shortlist?
Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will price every line on your list for the same river and dates. Free, with no obligation.
Send My Shortlist