All Aboard the World’s Coolest River Cruises

River cruises, which set sail all over the world, have been growing in popularity with travelers of all ages. They offer the structure and security of a cruise, while allowing explorers to see places that aren’t total tourist traps along the river of their choosing. Riverboats themselves are a more attractive alternative to many travelers than the behemoth ships that often come to mind upon hearing the word “cruise.”

For those curious about the booming-in-popularity river cruises, here are some of the world’s most awesome.

Danube Delights, Europe

Launched just this year, Emerald Waterways’ eight-day Danube Delights cruise takes passengers along the stunning Danube River in the heart of Old Europe from Nuremberg, Germany to Budapest, with stops in between in Weltenburg, Regensburg, Passau, Linz, Dürnstein, Vienna and Bratislava.

Rivers and Rails, Africa

For a unique perspective on the vast and beautiful continent of Africa, hop aboard Ama Waterways’ Zambezi Queen, a 28-passenger riverboat, for their 12-night Rivers and Rails of Africa tour. The cruise takes guests along the Chobe River and to the nations of Botswana, South Africa and Zimbabwe. Passengers will enjoy three nights in Cape Town, followed by a four-night safari cruise, two nights In Victoria Falls and a three-night Rovos Rail train journey from Victoria Falls to Pretoria.

The Amazon, South America

Anakonda Amazon Cruises offers passengers a trip through the lush, wild Amazon via their three- to seven-night river cruise itineraries. The cruises take guests to Ecuador, Peru and Brazil, depending on which itinerary is chosen, aboard the 36-passenger Anakonda.