Road Scholar works with a number of cruise lines to provide an authentic regional experience, using regional companies with a local crew whenever possible. These cruise lines include Amazon Clipper, American Cruise Lines, CF Mekong, CroisiEurope and Jungle Experiences. 

The number of passengers range by region and cruise line but usually accommodates from 18 passengers up to 180 passengers. Riverboats in Southeast Asia and the Amazon tend to be a smaller size in order to navigate smaller, shallower waterways.

While ships vary from cruise line to cruise line, almost every riverboat cabin has outside views. In Europe, choose between smaller, more intimate barges and larger more modern riverboats. European riverboats tend to be narrower, longer and sleeker, with lower-deck cabins being at or just above river’s view. These cabins range from porthole windows to full-size windows that span the width of the cabin. Mid- and upper-deck cabins feature large, panoramic windows at a minimum with some cabins featuring small balconies. For some cruise lines, every cabin has a smaller French balcony or full balcony. 

Local, authentic entertainment may be offered during the cruise but can’t be counted on each evening while you are aboard. When there are performances, they often feature local artists or musicians who entertain in the ship’s bar or lounge area as opposed to stage productions that are becoming more common on larger ships. The smaller, intimate performances are a great representation of the relaxed vibe of the river cruise experience.  

Riverboats typically only have one restaurant on board in addition to a lounge that serves snacks, coffee and tea through the day. Breakfast is served as a buffet while dinner is a multi-course meal served in a single sitting. Lunches will vary between buffet and plated table service depending on the cruise line and the activities planned for the day. 

The chefs aboard riverboats are flexible and will do their best to accommodate dietary restrictions. The course menu will be posted ahead of time so passengers can ask for a substitution if they would like. To understand the options available, talk to the group leader or the maître d′. Always be sure to alert Road Scholar of any food allergies or special diets ahead of your departure.

The number of passengers on excursions can range from 18 to 40 people. Most of the time, when possible, Road Scholar offers exclusive excursions with our own local experts and transportation. When Road Scholar operates a full-ship charter, passengers will be divided into smaller groups, each with their own leader.  

The availability of onboard Wi-Fi varies by cruise line. Wi-Fi is often available on riverboats across the United States and Europe, though it may not be too reliable except when in port. When Wi-Fi is available, it may be at an additional fee but you should check your program materials for details. Even when Wi-Fi is available, the bandwidth will often be limited — ideal for a quick email or check-in, but not suited for browsing the web or uploading photos. 

One of the best parts about riverboats is they can dock in the center of town. Many of the ports they visit — especially in Europe — are historic towns built on the river, since they were the primary form of transportation. In some circumstances where a docking location is outside of the city center, shuttles may be provided.

Riverboats will accept local cash and credit cards while on board. It is always a good idea to carry small bills in the local currency for when you are in port; there may be a minimum purchase amount required to use your credit card. 

Sometimes. Most ships will sail both during the day and during the night, but it depends on the region and local navigation standards. Sailing during the day is one of the highlights of river cruising because it allows for the opportunity to admire the towns and countryside along the riverbanks between ports of call.