River Cruises

River cruises offer a distinctive and captivating way to explore the world, offering a blend of intimacy, cultural immersion, and scenic beauty that sets them apart from ocean cruising. At Holidays of Australia and the World, we provide a diverse range of river cruises both in Australia, such as along the iconic Murray River, and internationally, including enchanting journeys through Europe and Asia.

Here’s why you should consider a river cruise for your next holiday:

1. Intimate and Scenic Journeys: River cruises are renowned for their intimate and serene atmosphere. Unlike large ocean liners, river cruise ships are smaller and more intimate, accommodating fewer guests. This creates a cozy, personalized experience where you can enjoy unobstructed views of the stunning landscapes as you glide through picturesque riverside scenery. The close proximity to the riverbanks allows for unparalleled sightseeing opportunities and easy access to charming towns and villages.

2. Cultural Immersion and Local Experience: River cruises are ideal for those seeking a deeper connection with the destinations they visit. Many river cruise itineraries focus on exploring historic cities, quaint villages, and culturally rich regions along the riverbanks. This proximity enables you to immerse yourself in local traditions, sample regional cuisine, and engage with the community. Excursions often include guided tours of historic sites, local markets, and vineyards, providing an authentic and enriching travel experience.

3. Convenient Access to Unique Destinations: River cruises navigate through some of the world’s most iconic and accessible waterways, offering direct access to areas that larger ships or other forms of travel might miss. In Australia, you can explore the scenic beauty and wildlife of the Murray River, while European river cruises might take you through the heart of historic cities like Vienna, Amsterdam, and Budapest. In Asia, cruises on rivers like the Mekong offer insights into vibrant cultures and landscapes.

4. Comfortable and Inclusive Experience: Despite their smaller size, river cruise ships are designed with comfort and luxury in mind. Staterooms often feature large windows or balconies, allowing you to enjoy the changing scenery from the comfort of your room. Onboard amenities typically include gourmet dining, spacious lounges, and wellness facilities, ensuring a relaxing experience. Many river cruises offer inclusive packages that cover meals, excursions, and beverages, simplifying your travel experience.

5. Personalized Service and Relaxed Atmosphere: The smaller size of river cruise ships means that you receive more personalized service from a dedicated crew. The relaxed atmosphere fosters a sense of community and allows for more intimate interactions with fellow travelers. With fewer guests on board, you can expect a more attentive and personalized experience, both on the ship and during shore excursions.

6. Sustainable and Scenic Exploration: River cruises are often considered more environmentally friendly compared to ocean cruises due to their smaller size and lower impact on natural habitats. They provide a unique way to explore scenic landscapes and waterways while minimizing your ecological footprint.

Choosing a river cruise with Holidays of Australia and the World offers a unique opportunity to experience the world’s waterways in a personal and immersive way. With expert-curated itineraries and a focus on cultural richness and scenic beauty, our river cruises provide an unforgettable journey through some of the most enchanting and accessible destinations.

ALL PACKAGES

European Gems River Cruise Amsterdam to Budapest

15 nights departing 27 September 2026

Enjoy the best of Europe on a 14-night premium river cruise. Begin in Amsterdam before floating through some of Germany’s most beautiful towns along the Rhine River. Take in Vienna’s elegance and conclude your tour in Budapest, Hungary’s grand capital.

Enjoy the best of Europe on a 14-night premium river cruise. Begin in Amsterdam before floating through some of Germany’s most beautiful towns along the Rhine River. Take in Vienna’s eleganc...

Enjoy the best of Europe on a 14-night premium river cruise. Begin in Amsterdam...

Small Group Tours

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European Gems River Cruise Amsterdam to Budapest

15 nights departing 27 September 2026

FROM (per person/twin share)

$8,699

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Lisbon with Douro Discovery Cruise & Tour

13 nights departing 12 October 2026

Explore beautiful Lisbon in depth with a 3 night city stay, giving you time to enjoy its grand squares, historic tram rides, lively neighbourhoods and mouth-watering cuisine. Then embark on a 7-night cruise along the picturesque Douro River, gliding past terraced vineyards, charming towns and timeless villages. Along the way, you’ll uncover Portugal’s rich culture, sample regio...

Explore beautiful Lisbon in depth with a 3 night city stay, giving you time to enjoy its grand squares, historic tram rides, lively neighbourhoods and mouth-watering cuisine. Then embark on...

Explore beautiful Lisbon in depth with a 3 night city stay, giving you time to e...

Small Group Tours

Map