Europe is the birthplace of Western civilization and each river that flows through it has shaped both the landscape and the region’s history. What better way to discover classical Europe’s cultural and historical significance than by experiencing it from its waterways. History unfolds before your very eyes as you pull up alongside a medieval castle, giving you a sense of discovery like the explorers did. While the Danube may be the most well known European river, many magical discoveries are made throughout western, central and eastern Europe. The Main, Moselle and Rhine Rivers run through the heart of Germany, Switzerland and Holland, with their castle-clad hills and fairytale settings. Sail the Rhone and Saone Rivers in France from the bridges of Paris through the gastronomic Burgundy region, all the way to Roman Provence. And the Douro River winds its way through Spain and Portugal’s unspoiled, stunning Port region.

With the flat-bottomed shape of riverboats, a smooth ride is a given and one never has to worry about motion sickness. Discover the joys of river cruising, the fastest growing attraction in travel today.

Avalon Waterways
March-December 2010 departures

It is no wonder Avalon Waterways is a recipient of numerous top travel awards including Condé Nast Traveler’s Gold List. You’ll travel aboard the youngest river cruise fleet afloat, with an average age of 2 years, and find comfort in their state-of-the-art, oversized staterooms -- the largest ones on the European waterways today. Arriving in 2010 are the newest additions, Avalon Luminary and Felicity, which like their sister ships, carry no more than 138 guests in an intimate setting. Special features include sky grills - an alternative dining option on the outdoor roof, whirlpools on the Sky Deck, and elevators, rare to river cruise ships. With several itineraries to choose from in France, Holland, Belgium, Germany and Eastern Europe, you’ll travel in style while gliding past imposing medieval castles, lush riverbank vineyards, and remarkable ancient wonders.

Uniworld
March-December 2010 departures

Boutique is how best to describe Uniworld’s river cruise ships. They are luxurious, floating hotels of elegance, designed to make you feel like you’re at a 4-star boutique hotel. The River Beatrice, just introduced in 2009, is the latest jewel on the Danube and features French balconies in 80 percent of her well-appointed, river view staterooms. All of their company-owned ships have recently been renovated and programs are all-inclusive, with wine and beer at dinner and complimentary use of bicycles. Their itineraries take you to the many glorious rivers of Europe, including the less-explored Douro River in Spain & Portugal -- an unspoiled river valley and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Their special Epicurean Adventure Program is offered on select departures and features private wine tastings, culinary demonstrations led by Master Chefs and delicious wine and food paired dinners. Uniworld continues to receive accolades from leading travel publications.

Viking River Cruises
March-December 2010 departures

Viking has a long heritage in European river cruising. Their ships are elegant, comfortable and Scandinavian in design, with open, airy interiors providing panoramic views throughout. All of the deluxe staterooms have outside river views and offer the comfort of hotel-style beds with European linens and duvets. They are also the only river cruise line to guarantee their award-winning service. And while you travel along Europe’s great rivers, you’ll also be doing something good for the earth. Beginning with this year’s launch of Viking Legend, Viking is now launching river vessels with all the latest amenities and efficient “green” technology. With hybrid diesel engines and advanced emission control protocols, the ship uses an estimated 20% less fuel and has additional features that help reduce its impact on the environment.