Planning a river cruise for 2026 or 2027 might feel far away, but the truth is, these are the years travelers are already securing the best cabins and itineraries. When it comes to AmaWaterways, booking early isn’t just about locking in your preferred stateroom, but about giving yourself the widest choice of routes, sailing dates, and even special seasonal sailings that tend to disappear quickly.

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.

When you need legal advice, you call a lawyer. When you’re investing your retirement savings, you consult a financial advisor. When you face health challenges, you seek the help of a doctor. So why would you invest thousands of dollars on a river cruise and try to figure it all out on your own?

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.

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.