Each year, Travel and Leisure Magazine comes out with their much anticipated "Worlds Best Awards" which highlight top consumer choices for tour operators, river cruises, safari outfitters, hotels and more.
Winners are selected from a consumer survey sent out to Travel & Leisure readers. So this list of river cruise lines is truly a representation of what real leisure and experiential travelers prefer.
This year, of course, the world of travel and tourism has been turned upside down due to the devestating coronavirus. Travel all but shut down completely between March and August. And while many restrictions and quarantine measures are beginning to ease, there are still several countries that aren't open at all, and the CDC maintains a Level 3 (High Risk) warning for most countries around the world.
Curious about travel restrictions right now?
Check out our blog to learn where it's safe to travel
The survey for the 2020 World's Best Awards closed in March, just before everything shut down. So keep in mind these results reflect a pre-Covid travel perspective.
Traveling on a river cruise provides a wonderfully unique insight into the historical and cultural importance of rivers, as you meander through quaint European ports, or discover the many byways of the Amazon - some only available at certain times of year due to the rivers water level. River cruising is a great way to see numerous sites in one trip, while unpacking only once.
Here are the Top 5 River Cruise Lines of 2020
1. Crystal Cruises
Rising to #1 from the #3 spot last year is Crystal Cruises. Offering cruise experiences from private yachts to large ocean crusies, they have options all over the world. Crystal Cruises are all-inclusive and they provide a number of on-shore activities as well.
See all Crystal Cruises trips »
Be the first to write a review for Crystal Cruises »
2. U by Uniworld
Uniworld holds the unique distinction of placing in the #2 and #3 spot this year. U by Uniworld is a more modern style of river cruising, appealing to active travelers and a somewhat younger crowd than your typical river cruise.
Be the first to write a review for U by Uniworld »
3. Uniworld Boutique Collection
Slipping a few slots from the #1 spot is Uniworld's Boutique Collection. These all-inclusive river cruises offer a wonderful classic throwback to an era of dressing for dinner, fine dining, and cocktail hour. Visit exotic destinations like China or Egypt or stick to the quaint byways of Europe.
4. Tauck
Last year's #2 pick, Tauck is another classic travel company. And while they are well known for river cruises, that is not their only offering. They have a number of land tours around the world as well. Note: this is the place to look if you're after a family friendly travel experience.
See all Tauck Tours & Cruises »
If you're looking for a river cruise experience beyond Europe, Aqua Expeditions is a great choice. These river cruises are perfect for active and adventurous travelers who still want a touch of luxury.
See Aqua Expeditions Reviews »
