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May 8, 2025

In today’s family vacation landscape, where the quest for authentic, personalized experiences is stronger than eve, Riverside Luxury Cruises stands out as the ideal solution for travelers of all ages.

In a sector traditionally geared toward adults, this river cruise line redefines European river travel by offering an experience designed to meet the needs of grandparents, parents, and children within a single luxurious journey.

Riverside Luxury Cruises has removed all age restrictions for its guests, providing family-focused solutions for those seeking a comfortable, elegant, and inclusive travel experience. As Jennifer Halboth, CEO of Riverside Collection Americas, highlights, river cruising in Europe eliminates the logistical complexities of road or rail travel, allowing families to make the most of their time while unpacking only once. In this sense, Riverside offers not just premium accommodation, but an intelligent travel strategy for multigenerational groups.

One of Riverside’s greatest strengths is the absence of a minimum boarding age, a conscious decision that opens up new possibilities for families eager to explore Europe together. The ships feature connecting cabins, ideal for families of four, and spacious suites that can be equipped with cribs or toddler beds upon request. Additionally, the third guest in a cabin receives a 40% discount, while children under the age of two travel free of charge.

The shore excursion program stands out for its variety and flexibility. In every port, guests can choose between traditional guided tours, immersive experiences like a visit to Cologne’s Chocolate Museum or cooking classes, and active adventures such as cycling, hiking, or kayaking. Complimentary traditional and electric bicycles are available on board, empowering families to explore destinations independently and actively.

On board, Riverside has thoughtfully designed every detail to cater to all ages. Each ship includes a shallow indoor pool, safe for little ones yet equipped with resistance jets for adults wanting to swim laps. The Atelier, a popular onboard spot, serves made-to-order bubble waffles with a wide range of toppings and features an all-day ice cream station. One of Riverside’s most distinctive elements is its 24-hour dining service. Older kids can unwind in their suite with bathrobes and slippers, order dinner via room service, and watch a movie—while parents enjoy a peaceful meal at the onboard restaurant. Adding to the warm atmosphere are fresh popcorn served nightly before aperitif hour and The Atelier’s buffet, offering rotating sweet and savory snacks perfect for anytime cravings.

Every suite is attended by a dedicated butler, ready to personalize each family’s journey and help create lasting memories through meticulous attention and bespoke service. This care extends to the cuisine, with à la minute dishes prepared from the freshest ingredients and a selection of premium wines and spirits included in the fare.

Among the most popular itineraries for multigenerational families are the Christmas Market cruises, offered in November and December. Danube routes visit iconic cities like Vienna and Budapest, while Rhine and Main cruises pass through charming German towns where the Christmas market tradition began. In these magical settings, adults and children alike can enjoy authentic seasonal experiences, from warm glühwein and hot chocolate to ice skating and handcrafted gifts.

Although Riverside Luxury Cruises is the youngest luxury river cruise company in Europe, it has quickly made a name for itself by blending elegance, innovation, and meticulous service. The Riverside Mozart, Riverside Ravel, and Riverside Debussy offer the largest suites in the category, all with king-size beds and the best guest-to-staff ratio in the industry. Guests can enjoy up to five different restaurants, the FEHI Spa, and an extensive excursion program that includes guided tours as well as self-guided exploration with the onboard bikes.

Each itinerary is crafted to enable deep immersion in the destinations, often including late evening or overnight stays in the most enchanting ports. Comfort is further enhanced with included services such as high-speed StarLink Wi-Fi, prepaid gratuities for both onboard staff and tour guides or drivers, and ground transfers. The brand’s international recognition is confirmed by prestigious awards like the Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards 2024 and the Cruise Critic Editors’ Pick Award for Best River Cruise Dining in both 2023 and 2024.

In a market where experience quality is the true differentiator, Riverside Luxury Cruises is a smart, thoughtful choice for families seeking a European journey that combines authentic luxury, flexibility, and deep attention to every generation’s needs. It’s a concept that goes beyond comfort—elevating river travel to an unforgettable experience for both young and old.

Don’t miss news, updates, and reviews of Riverside Luxury Cruises on Cruising Journal, with photos, videos, and special cruise offers.

Angela Messineo

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