top of page

Smooth Sailing
Your Go-To Guide for All Things River Cruising
Search


Douro River Cruise Guide: Why Portugal’s River of Gold Is Booming
Your complete guide to Douro river cruises in Portugal. Learn about wine estates, port towns, AmaWaterways ships, Viking options, and the best times to sail the River of Gold.

Emma Guse
Nov 28, 20256 min read


Best River Cruises for Seniors: Comfort, Pace, and Access Tips
Discover the best river cruises for seniors with tips on comfort, mobility, insurance, pacing, transfers, and senior-friendly cruise lines.

Emma Guse
Nov 26, 20257 min read


Columbia and Snake River Cruises: Gorge Scenery, Seasons, and the Lines That Sail the Pacific Northwest
Explore Columbia and Snake River cruises with Gorge scenery, the best seasons to sail, and the cruise lines sailing the Pacific Northwest. Plan your trip with a river cruise expert.

Emma Guse
Nov 25, 20255 min read


2026 River Cruises: Your Guide to the Best Rivers, Itineraries, and Cruise Lines
Explore the best 2026 river cruises across the Rhine, Danube, Douro, Rhône, and Seine. Learn how to choose the right river and cruise line with guidance from a river cruise specialist.

Emma Guse
Nov 24, 20257 min read


Viking Grand European Tour vs. AmaWaterways Magnificent Europe
Viking Grand European Tour vs AmaWaterways Magnificent Europe 2026 and 2027. Compare the Rhine, Main, Danube, balcony cabins, included drinks, dining value, pricing approach and advisor support.

Emma Guse
Nov 24, 20259 min read


Avalon vs. AmaWaterways: Active Discovery or Culinary and Wellness
Compare Avalon vs. AmaWaterways across excursions, dining, wellness, pricing, and itineraries to understand which river cruise line best fits your travel style.

Emma Guse
Nov 24, 20255 min read


Best River Cruises for First-Time Travelers in 2026 and 2027
Explore the best river cruises for first-time travelers in 2026 and 2027. Learn how to choose the right river, itinerary, and cruise line with guidance from a dedicated river cruise specialist.

Emma Guse
Nov 11, 20255 min read


Best River Cruises for Life’s Milestones: Anniversaries, Retirements & Bucket-List Journeys
Celebrate your anniversary, retirement, or bucket-list milestone with a river cruise. Compare AmaWaterways, Viking & U.S. options for once-in-a-lifetime celebrations.

Emma Guse
Oct 14, 20257 min read


Last-Minute River Cruises: How to Plan an Unforgettable Journey (Even Just Weeks Before Departure)
Booked late? Discover how to secure a Rhine or Danube river cruise at the last minute. Insider tips, real stories, and expert help for stress-free planning.

Emma Guse
Oct 1, 20256 min read


Paris River Cruise Guide: When to Go, What You’ll See, and Which Line
Dreaming of a Paris river cruise? Discover the best months, ports, and cruise lines to plan your perfect Seine voyage with confidence.

Emma Guse
Sep 28, 20257 min read


Best Tulip Time River Cruises 2026–2027: When to Go, What You’ll See, How to Choose
Planning a Tulip Time river cruise for 2026 or 2027? Discover peak bloom weeks, must-see ports, and how to choose the right line for your style.

Emma Guse
Sep 25, 20258 min read


Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2026 and 2027: Your Complete Guide
Explore the best Mississippi River cruises for 2026 and 2027. Compare Viking, American Cruise Lines, and more with expert planning at no extra cost.

Emma Guse
Sep 5, 20258 min read


Your First River Cruise: How to Choose the Right Line, River, and Itinerary (and Why You Shouldn’t Do It Alone)
So you’re curious about river cruising. Maybe you’ve seen the ads, heard friends rave, or stumbled across breathtaking photos of ships gliding past castles and vineyards. You’re wondering where to start, and maybe even feeling a little overwhelmed by all the choices. If that's you, you're in the right place.

Emma Guse
Aug 7, 20256 min read


Danube vs Rhine River Cruise: How to Choose Your Best First Sailing (2026–2027 Guide)
If you're planning your first European river cruise, you're likely deciding between the two most iconic rivers: the Danube and the Rhine. It's a classic traveler's dilemma, and a good one to have.

Emma Guse
Jul 23, 20257 min read


Best Christmas Market River Cruises for 2026 & 2027: Rhine vs. Danube Magic
If you’ve been dreaming of sipping mulled wine under twinkling lights, wandering through centuries-old town squares, or sailing past snow-dusted castles with hot chocolate in your hand, there’s no better time than Christmas. And in my opinion, there’s no better way to experience it all than with a river cruise.

Emma Guse
Jul 21, 20258 min read


American Cruise Lines River Cruises: A Trusted Guide for 2026–2027
Plan your 2026–2027 American Cruise Lines river cruise with expert help. I’ll guide you every step — with personalized care and no added cost.

Emma Guse
Apr 19, 20256 min read


The 25 Best River Cruises of 2025 (For Families, Couples, Wine Lovers & More)
I’ve handpicked this list of 2025’s best river cruises to reflect what matters most: ease, experience, value, and joy. Whether you're wondering about the best river cruise for families, affordable options, or which cruise line fits your travel style — I put this information together just for you.

Emma Guse
Apr 18, 20257 min read


A Douro River Cruise: Why Portugal’s River of Gold Should Be on Your List
The Douro River feels like a hidden gem that is quieter, more intimate, and full of magical surprises.

Emma Guse
Mar 13, 20253 min read


Beyond Europe: The Best River Cruises in Asia, Africa, and South America
For those looking to venture further, river cruises in Asia, Africa, and South America offer experiences beyond the ordinary.

Emma Guse
Feb 27, 20253 min read


AmaWaterways & Smithsonian Journeys: A Partnership for the Culturally Curious
AmaWaterways and Smithsonian Journeys have created something truly special—a luxury river cruise experience unlike any other!

Emma Guse
Feb 11, 20254 min read
bottom of page
