River Cruise Comparison

Which Line Gives You the Most Value?

Planning a river cruise can be exciting—but let’s be honest, it can also feel overwhelming. With so many options out there, how do you know which cruise line fits your style and your budget?

We’ve compared Avalon Waterways, Viking River Cruises, and AmaWaterways to help you understand how they stack up in terms of pricing, inclusions, and overall value. Are there others? Absolutely, but these three represent value, quality, and a known reputation.

💸 Daily Fare (Per Person)-Estimate

• Avalon Waterways: ~$200–250/day for a Panorama Suite

• Viking: ~$250/day (meals, port fees, and taxes included)

• AmaWaterways: Starts at $250–300/day, depending on route and cabin level

  
  

🚶‍♂️ Shore Excursions

• Avalon: Most are included; premium options cost extra,

• Viking: One complimentary excursion per port; others ~$80–130

• AmaWaterways: Multiple choices daily; premium events like wine tastings may cost extra
  

🍷 Drinks (Alcoholic & Non‑Alcoholic)

• Avalon: Basic non‑alcoholic drinks included; alcohol sold separately unless you upgrade

• Viking: Beer, wine, and soft drinks included only at lunch and dinner; Silver Spirits package (~$350) adds full-day drinks (do the math Is it worth it?

• AmaWaterways: Includes wine, beer, and soft drinks with meals; full drink upgrades available
  

🌐 Wi‑Fi Access

• Avalon: Free may allow upgrades depending on cabin tier

• Viking: Free standard Wi‑Fi (speed varies)

• AmaWaterways: Complimentary high-speed Wi‑Fi throughout
  

💁 Gratuities

• Avalon: Not included (expect ~$15–20/day per person)

• Viking: Sometimes included in promo fares. Usually additional

• AmaWaterways: Often included, but varies by itinerary

✈️ Transfers & Flights

• Avalon: Usually not included, but add-ons available

• Viking: High-end packages may include air and transfers

• AmaWaterways: Often included in bundled promotional offers

🌟 Extras

• Avalon: Panorama Suites, wellness programs, optional spa treatments

• Viking: Entertainment, cultural programming, spa access (on ocean ships)

• AmaWaterways: Bikes/e-bikes, wellness options, themed food & wine events

🧭 Which Line is the Best Fit for You?

• Choose Viking if you want a “mostly inclusive” cruise with predictable budgeting and the option to upgrade your drinks.

• Choose Avalon if you want more control over your costs, don’t mind paying for drinks and gratuities, and value high-end suites.

• Choose AmaWaterways if you like more included excursions, bundled gratuities, and a slightly more luxurious feel.

💰 Real Trip Cost Breakdown (Sample Viking Cruise for Two Adults)

ItemCost (USD)Cruise Fare (lowest room)$2,499/personAirfare (Houston to Munich)$900/personPrepaid Gratuities$140/personCruise Protection Insurance$449/person (optional)Total with Insurance~$8,800Total without Insurance~$7,900

💡 Value of Included Items

InclusionEstimated ValueSoda at meals~$288 totalWine/Beer at meals~$300 totalDaily Excursions~$900 totalBottled water for excursions~$50 totalTotal Value Added~$1,488

That’s about $744 per person in added value—if you use all the inclusions.

📝 Final Thoughts: Value is Personal

The real value of a river cruise depends on how you travel.

• Don’t drink? Skip the alcohol package.

• Love tours? Excursions are worth every penny.

• Prefer to relax on board? You may not need daily outings.

  
  

When comparing cruise lines, it’s not just about the sticker price—it’s about how much value you’ll get from what’s included.

Choose the cruise that best matches your travel style, your budget, and the kind of experience you want to have.

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