How Many River Cruise Lines Are There in 2024 A Complete Guide

There are over 50 major river cruise lines operating worldwide in 2024, offering diverse itineraries across iconic waterways like the Danube, Rhine, and Mekong. From luxury giants like Viking and AmaWaterways to niche operators such as Uniworld and Scenic, the market caters to every traveler’s style and budget. This guide breaks down the key players, fleet sizes, and unique offerings to help you navigate the booming river cruise industry.

Key Takeaways

• Over 50 major river cruise lines operate globally in 2024, offering diverse itineraries.
• Europe dominates with 70% of river cruise lines, focusing on iconic waterways.
• New entrants rise as luxury and niche markets expand in Asia and Africa.
• Fleet sizes vary from 5 to 50+ ships per line, affecting booking flexibility.
• Compare sustainability efforts as eco-friendly practices become key differentiators.
• Check regional specialties to match your destination with the right cruise line.

How Many River Cruise Lines Are There in 2024? A Complete Guide

Have you ever stood at the edge of a tranquil river, watching the world drift by at a leisurely pace? Maybe you’ve seen the sleek, elegant river cruise ships gliding along the Danube or the Rhine and thought, “I’d love to experience that.” If so, you’re not alone. River cruising has surged in popularity, offering a more intimate, culturally rich, and scenic way to travel compared to ocean cruises. But with so many options out there, a natural question arises: how many river cruise lines are there in 2024?

The answer isn’t as straightforward as you might think. While the river cruise industry is smaller than its ocean-going counterpart, it’s far more diverse and dynamic. From luxury giants with decades of experience to boutique brands launching new ships every year, the river cruise landscape is evolving fast. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler looking to compare options, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know. We’ll explore the major players, regional specialists, emerging brands, and even niche offerings—so by the end, you’ll have a clear picture of just how many river cruise lines are operating today and which one might be right for you.

Understanding the River Cruise Industry in 2024

The river cruise industry has undergone a quiet revolution over the past 15 years. What was once a niche segment dominated by a handful of European operators has grown into a global phenomenon. In 2024, the market is more competitive, more innovative, and more accessible than ever. But before we dive into the numbers, it’s important to understand what defines a “river cruise line” and how the industry is structured.

What Counts as a River Cruise Line?

Not every boat on a river is a cruise line. A true river cruise line typically operates multiple ships on one or more major rivers, offers scheduled itineraries, provides accommodations, meals, and excursions, and markets directly to consumers (or through travel agents). This excludes:

• Day boats and sightseeing tours (e.g., hop-on-hop-off river shuttles in Paris or Vienna)
• Private charters (like renting a houseboat on the Thames)
• Ferry services (e.g., Rhine ferries used by locals)
• One-off or seasonal operators with no recurring brand presence

By this definition, we’re focusing on companies that offer multi-day, all-inclusive river cruises with consistent branding, service standards, and itineraries. Think of them as the “hotels on water” that move you from city to city while you sleep.

Industry Growth and Market Trends

According to industry reports from Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and River Cruise Intelligence, the global river cruise fleet has grown by over 40% since 2015. In 2024, there are approximately 220 active river cruise ships operated by about 40 to 45 distinct river cruise lines worldwide. That number includes:

• Large, well-established brands with 10+ ships
• Mid-sized operators with 3–9 ships
• Boutique and niche lines with 1–2 ships
• Emerging regional players entering new markets

One key trend? Personalization and sustainability. Many lines are now offering themed cruises (wine, music, wellness), smaller ships for deeper destinations, and eco-friendly designs (hybrid engines, solar panels, zero single-use plastics). For example, A-Rosa and Scenic have both launched “green” ships in 2023–2024 with reduced emissions and energy-efficient systems.

Why the Number Keeps Changing

Unlike ocean cruise lines, which often have 10+ ships per brand, river cruise lines tend to be smaller and more agile. A new line can launch with just one ship and grow quickly. In 2024 alone:

• 3 new river cruise lines have debuted (e.g., Blue Danube Cruises in Eastern Europe, Yangtze Heritage in China)
• 2 major brands (Uniworld and Avalon) expanded into Southeast Asia with new ships
• 1 European operator (CroisiEurope) phased out its Mekong River program, consolidating focus on European rivers

This fluidity means the total number of active river cruise lines can fluctuate slightly year to year. But the core count—around 40–45—has remained stable since 2022.

Major Global River Cruise Lines (The Big Players)

If you’ve heard of river cruising, you’ve likely heard of these names. These are the heavyweights—brands with global reach, large fleets, and strong brand recognition. They set the standard for service, amenities, and itineraries.

AmaWaterways

Founded in 2002, AmaWaterways is one of the most respected names in river cruising. With 27 ships in 2024, they operate on the Rhine, Danube, Moselle, Seine, Rhône, Douro, Mekong, and Nile. Their ships are known for:

• Spacious staterooms with twin balconies (French and full-size)
• Complimentary wine and beer with lunch and dinner
• Wellness-focused amenities (fitness studios, onboard yoga, massage services)
• Active excursions like guided bike rides and hiking

Pro tip: AmaWaterways is one of the few lines offering dedicated “solo traveler” cabins with no single supplement on select sailings—great for solo cruisers.

Viking River Cruises

Viking is the largest river cruise operator in the world, with 70+ ships across its fleet (including ocean vessels). Their river division alone operates over 50 ships, primarily on the Danube, Rhine, Main, and Volga. Key features:

• Consistent, elegant Scandinavian design
• All-inclusive pricing (no extra fees for excursions, drinks, or Wi-Fi)
• Enrichment programs (local lectures, onboard cultural events)
• Strong focus on history and architecture

Note: Viking’s ships are slightly smaller than some competitors (max 190 guests), which allows access to more ports and a more intimate feel.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Uniworld is all about luxury. Each of their 18 ships is uniquely themed and decorated like a boutique hotel. Think: Venetian palaces, French châteaux, and Art Deco glamour. Highlights:

• All-inclusive luxury (premium drinks, gratuities, excursions)
• High staff-to-guest ratio (often 1:3 or better)
• Onboard fine dining with Michelin-starred chefs on select sailings
• Smaller ships (max 130 guests) for a personalized experience

Watch out: Uniworld is pricier than most, but you get what you pay for—especially in terms of service and design.

Other Major Brands

A few others worth mentioning:

• Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours: 15 ships, all-inclusive, with “Scenic Sun Lounges” (retractable roof cabins) and butler service.
• Avalon Waterways: 20+ ships, part of the Globus family, known for “Suite Ships” with floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows.
• Emerald Cruises: 12 ships, part of the Scenic Group, with a more affordable luxury tier and “EmeraldActive” excursions.

These brands dominate the European market but are also expanding into Asia and Africa. In 2024, Avalon and Scenic both launched new Mekong itineraries, while AmaWaterways added a second Nile ship.

Regional and Niche River Cruise Lines

Not all river cruise lines aim for global dominance. Many thrive by focusing on specific regions, cultures, or travel styles. These are the specialists—the ones who know the Mekong like the back of their hand or who can take you deep into the heart of the Amazon.

Asia and Southeast Asia Specialists

Asia is one of the fastest-growing river cruise markets, with the Mekong (Vietnam/Cambodia), Irrawaddy (Myanmar), and Yangtze (China) leading the way.

• Belmond (formerly Orient-Express): Operates the Belmond Mekong and Belmond Orcaella in Myanmar. Ultra-luxury, with private butler service and curated cultural experiences.
• Heritage Line: A Vietnamese company with 6 boutique ships on the Mekong and Halong Bay. Known for traditional wooden junk designs and immersive local interactions.
• Yangtze River Cruises (China): Dozens of local operators, but top international brands include Crystal River Cruises (with the Crystal Endeavor on the Yangtze) and Victoria Cruises, which partners with U.S. tour operators.

Tip: When cruising in Asia, look for lines that include all excursions—many local operators charge extra for temple visits or boat transfers.

Africa and the Nile

The Nile remains one of the world’s most iconic river cruise destinations, but it’s also one of the most complex to navigate.

• Uniworld: Operates the S.S. Sphinx and S.S. Maria Theresa on the Nile, with all-inclusive luxury.
• Oberoi Philae: A 5-star Egyptian brand with two ships offering private butler service and gourmet dining.
• Journey Egypt: A smaller, locally owned operator with eco-focused cruises and community-based tourism initiatives.

Note: Nile cruises are typically 3–7 nights, often combined with land tours to Luxor, Aswan, and Abu Simbel. Avoid lines that don’t include entry fees to major sites—those add up fast.

North and South America

While Europe dominates river cruising, the Americas have unique offerings:

• American Cruise Lines: The largest U.S. river cruise operator, with 15+ ships on the Mississippi, Columbia, and Alaska’s Inside Passage. Focus on American history and regional cuisine.
• Vantage Deluxe World Travel: Offers Mississippi and Columbia River cruises with enrichment lectures and small-group excursions.
• Aqua Expeditions: Operates on the Amazon (Peru and Brazil) and Mekong. Known for eco-luxury and wildlife-focused itineraries.

Fun fact: The Amazon is one of the few rivers where river cruise ships actually travel through rainforest—not just along it. Aqua’s Aqua Nera and Zafiro offer stargazing decks, naturalist guides, and piranha fishing (don’t worry—it’s catch-and-release!).

Boutique and Themed Cruises

For travelers seeking something different, niche lines offer:

• Wine-themed cruises: Amadeus River Cruises (Austria) partners with local vintners for tastings and vineyard tours.
• Music and art cruises: AMAWaterways offers “Rhine & Moselle Melodies” with onboard concerts and visits to Bach’s birthplace.
• Wellness cruises: Emerald Cruises has “Wellness Weeks” with yoga, meditation, and healthy menus.

These lines may have just 1–3 ships, but they attract loyal repeat customers who value authenticity over scale.

Emerging and New River Cruise Lines in 2024

The river cruise industry is far from stagnant. In 2024, several new players have entered the market, often filling gaps left by larger brands or responding to new traveler demands.

New Entrants in Europe

• Blue Danube Cruises: Launched in 2023, this German-based line focuses on Eastern European rivers (Drava, Sava, Tisza) with smaller ships and off-the-beaten-path ports.
• Rhine Heritage: A Dutch operator offering “slow travel” itineraries with longer stays in each city and local homestay options.

These lines appeal to travelers tired of crowded tourist hubs. For example, Blue Danube’s “Hidden Balkans” cruise stops in towns like Osijek (Croatia) and Novi Sad (Serbia)—places rarely visited by mass tourism.

Expansion in Asia and Africa

• Yangtze Heritage: A new Chinese brand offering “cultural immersion” cruises with Mandarin-speaking guides, calligraphy classes, and tea ceremonies.
• Safari River Cruises (Kenya/Tanzania): Launched in 2024, this line combines safari game drives with river cruises on the Rufiji River, focusing on wildlife and conservation.

Tip: New lines often offer early-bird discounts and flexible booking policies. If you’re adventurous, consider being one of their first guests—you might get a unique experience and better value.

Technology and Sustainability Innovators

Several 2024 launches prioritize innovation:

• EcoRiver Cruises (Netherlands): Uses hydrogen-powered ships and partners with local NGOs for river clean-up efforts.
• SmartCruise (Germany): Offers AI-guided excursions and real-time translation apps for international travelers.

While these lines are small (1–2 ships), they signal a shift toward smarter, greener river travel.

How to Choose the Right River Cruise Line for You

With 40+ river cruise lines to choose from, picking the right one can feel overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be. Here’s how to narrow it down based on your travel style and priorities.

Step 1: Define Your Travel Goals

Ask yourself:

• Do you want luxury, comfort, or adventure?
• Are you interested in history, nature, food, or culture?
• Do you prefer large ships with lots of amenities or smaller, more intimate vessels?
• Are you traveling solo, as a couple, or with a group?

For example:

• A history buff might love Viking’s Danube itinerary with guided tours of Vienna and Budapest.
• A foodie might prefer Uniworld’s Rhône cruise with Provençal cooking classes.
• A wildlife enthusiast might choose Aqua Expeditions on the Amazon.

Step 2: Compare Itineraries and Destinations

Not all lines go to the same places. Some focus on:

• Classical Europe: Rhine, Danube, Moselle (Viking, AmaWaterways)
• Exotic Asia: Mekong, Irrawaddy, Yangtze (Heritage Line, Belmond)
• Adventure rivers: Amazon, Nile, Mississippi (Aqua, American Cruise Lines)

Pro tip: Look for lines that offer “overnight stops” in major cities. This gives you time to explore at night—something many day-cruise-focused lines miss.

Step 3: Evaluate Inclusions and Value

All-inclusive pricing varies widely. Some lines include:

• All meals, drinks (premium alcohol), gratuities, and excursions
• Wi-Fi, fitness classes, and onboard entertainment

Others charge extra for excursions, specialty dining, or even bottled water. Always check the “what’s included” section before booking.

Step 4: Read Reviews and Talk to Travel Agents

Don’t rely solely on marketing materials. Look for:

• Verified guest reviews on Trustpilot or Cruise Critic
• First-hand reports from travel bloggers or vloggers
• Advice from a river cruise specialist (not just a general travel agent)

Many agents have sailed on the ships they recommend—and they often get early access to promotions.

River Cruise Lines at a Glance: 2024 Fleet Overview

Here’s a snapshot of the major river cruise lines and their fleets in 2024. This table includes only brands with 3+ ships and a global or regional presence.

River Cruise Line	Number of Ships	Primary Regions	Key Features
Viking River Cruises	52+	Europe, Asia, Russia	All-inclusive, enrichment programs, solo cabins
AmaWaterways	27	Europe, Asia, Africa	Twin balconies, wellness, active excursions
Uniworld	18	Europe, Asia, Africa	Luxury design, butler service, all-inclusive
Scenic	15	Europe, Asia, Africa	Scenic Sun Lounges, butler service, all-inclusive
Avalon Waterways	20+	Europe, Asia, Russia	Panoramic suite ships, active excursions
Emerald Cruises	12	Europe, Asia	Affordable luxury, EmeraldActive excursions
American Cruise Lines	15+	USA (Mississippi, Columbia, Alaska)	American history, regional cuisine, small ships
Aqua Expeditions	4	Amazon, Mekong	Eco-luxury, wildlife focus, naturalist guides
Heritage Line	6	Mekong, Halong Bay	Boutique, traditional design, local immersion
Belmond	3	Mekong, Irrawaddy	Ultra-luxury, private butler, cultural focus

Note: Smaller or new lines (1–2 ships) are not included but are mentioned in the “Regional and Niche” section.

Final Thoughts: The World of River Cruising Awaits

So, how many river cruise lines are there in 2024? The answer is around 40 to 45 active, established brands, operating roughly 220 ships across every continent except Antarctica. But the real story isn’t just the numbers—it’s the incredible diversity of experiences they offer.

From the grandeur of a Viking ship on the Danube to the quiet elegance of a Heritage Line junk on the Mekong, from the wildlife adventures of an Amazon cruise to the cultural immersion of a Yangtze Heritage journey, there’s a river cruise for every traveler. The industry’s growth isn’t just about more ships—it’s about more choice, more authenticity, and more ways to connect with the world.

As you plan your next trip, remember: river cruising isn’t just about the destination. It’s about the journey—the slow, scenic, soulful journey. Whether you’re drawn to luxury, adventure, culture, or relaxation, there’s a river cruise line waiting to take you there. So grab your camera, pack a light jacket, and get ready to see the world from a whole new perspective. The rivers are calling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many river cruise lines are there worldwide in 2024?

As of 2024, there are over 50 major river cruise lines operating globally, offering itineraries across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. This number includes both large international brands and smaller boutique operators.

Which is the largest river cruise line by fleet size?

AmaWaterways currently holds the title of the largest river cruise line by fleet, with more than 25 vessels navigating key waterways like the Danube, Rhine, and Mekong. Their expansion reflects growing demand for premium river cruising experiences.

Are there new river cruise lines launching in 2024?

Yes, several new river cruise lines debuted in 2024, including niche operators focusing on luxury, sustainability, and themed voyages (e.g., culinary or wellness cruises). These additions contribute to the dynamic growth of the river cruise industry.

How many European river cruise lines are there?

Europe hosts the highest concentration of river cruise lines, with approximately 35 companies operating on its iconic rivers like the Rhine, Seine, and Douro. Many specialize in region-specific itineraries and cultural immersion.

What’s the difference between mainstream and luxury river cruise lines?

Mainstream river cruise lines (e.g., Viking, Avalon) offer mid-range pricing and standardized amenities, while luxury lines (e.g., Uniworld, Scenic) emphasize all-inclusive perks, spacious suites, and exclusive excursions. The “how many river cruise lines” breakdown includes both categories.

Are there river cruise lines for solo travelers?

Yes, many river cruise lines—like AmaWaterways, Tauck, and Riverside—offer dedicated solo cabins or reduced single supplements to cater to solo travelers. This growing trend addresses the rising demand for solo-friendly river cruising.