saga no fly river cruises 2024

Saga Cruises releases river itineraries for 2024

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Saga has released its river itineraries for 2024, with a new ship among the programme.

Spirit of the Douro, which joins the fleet in March next year, will sail a total of 36 cruises along its namesake river until November 2024.

The itinerary through Portugal, starting at £1,461 per person, will showcase a region which is one of the oldest wine producers in the world.

More:   Saga on course for travel and cruise profits in Covid rebound

Saga Cruises chief executive Nigel Blanks said: “There are a lot of exciting new experiences for our river guests in 2024, including Spirit of the Douro arriving in the fleet to operate one of our most popular regions, the introduction of ‘taster cruises’ that are just five nights, new itineraries including to Lake Ijssel and Flanders Field and more of what our customers love most, such as André Rieu events.”

The 2024 cruises are currently available with a 25% discount for early bookers. The line added it had seen a 37% rise in pre-registrations compared with 2023.

Next year’s collection introduces five-night ‘taster’ cruises, described as a “great option for those who want to try river cruising before committing to a longer itinerary”.

Examples include A Taste of Holland with Keukenhof which starts in Amsterdam on April 4, 2024, and visits Hoorn, Lelystad, and Zaandam, where guests will tour the Keukenhof Gardens.

Another new offering is the Ypres and Flanders Fields cruise, stopping at the town that saw some of the heaviest fighting of the First World War. Guests will visit the Flanders Field Memorial Museum and the Menin Gate Memorial, with the Spirit of the Rhine also calling at Rotterdam, Dordrecht, Ghent and Brussels.

Saga also said it would now be offering four André Rieu cruises instead of three “due to overwhelming demand”, with sailings including a ticket to one of the King of Waltz’s concerts.

Other new itineraries are Rhine in the Springtime and the 11-night Hidden Treasures of the Ijsselmeer.

Blanks added: “Our ‘Spirit’ river cruises are now all-inclusive from dining and drinks to Wi-Fi and gratuities, and we offer a complimentary chauffeur service from home to the airport or St Pancras, and back again. Everything is taken care of so our guests can just relax and enjoy the rivers.”

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25 June 2024, 11:16

New Lower Fare Summer Offers from Saga River Cruises - Save Up to £450

24 June 2024 : Saga River Cruises has launched some fantastic lower fare Summer itineraries, with up to £600 per person discount on selected all inclusive itineraries for a limited time only.  The cruises explore classic European rivers; The Rhine, The Danube, The Main and The Moselle and include return flights, an all inclusive on board experience and return UK chauffeur service, plus much more.

Castles and Fables of the Rhine - This seven night river cruise departs Düsseldorf on 16th July was priced at £1,721 per person and is now £1,599​ per person .  The cruise glides through Germany and includes Cologne and Bonn, where included excursions introduce guests to the highlights of these cities. Other highlights include the picturesque town of Königswinter and Koblenz, set at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle and the scenery of the UNESCO-listed Middle Rhine Gorge en route to Rüdesheim with its vineyards and half-timbered houses. It concludes with an included tour in the vibrant city of Frankfurt set beside the Main River. Joining guests on board is presenter and consultant, Nick Hewer of The Apprentice and Countdown fame.

Through the Carpathian Mountains - This ten night river cruise discovers the culture and scenery of the Danube departs 22nd July was £2,266 per person, and is now priced at £1,999​ per person.  Discover the rich history of Budapest on an included excursion, before visiting the battlefield town of Mohacs and Vukovar in Croatia, home to the Ovcara Memorial. After exploring Belgrade on an included tour, the itinerary journeys through the most dramatic scenery along the Danube, including the towering rock cliffs of the Iron Gates Gorge.

Another highlight includes the city of Rousse, with its grand buildings with Austrian-style architecture, which can be seen on an included tour. There is an optional excursion from Braila into the UNESCO-listed Danube Delta, a Biosphere Reserve, before transferring to Bucharest for an overnight hotel stay.

Vienna and the Blue Danube - This seven night river cruise departs 29th August was priced at £1,771 per person, and now is £1,599 ​ per person. From Vienna, this cruise sails to the village of Dürnstein set beneath the ruins of Kuenringer Castle. It then continues to Linz, from where guests can explore elegant Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart and setting for ‘The Sound of Music’, before crossing the border into Passau, the most easterly city in Bavaria for an included walking tour. The itinerary continues to Melk, known for its Benedictine Abbey, and Tulln to visit the Garden Tulln on an included excursion, before arriving back in Vienna where an included city tour will reveal the many highlights of this cultural city.

Scenic Delights of the Rhine, Main and Moselle - This 12 night river cruise departing 25th July was £2,734​ per person and is now £2,284 per person. On board Amadeus Elegant, the itinerary explores the scenic towns and cities of the Rhine, Main and Moselle. Excursions include ancient Trier, Frankfurt, the medieval town of Würzburg, plus Bamberg with its baroque town houses.  Other highlights include the picturesque towns of Traben-Trabach and Koblenz, a cruise through the scenic Middle Rhine Gorge to the traditional wine town of Rüdesheim, as well as the medieval sights of Nuremberg, overlooked by the Imperial Castle. From Regensburg there is a visit to the capital of Bavaria, Munich, on an included full-day excursion, which includes a cello concert.

Voyage through the Middle Rhine to Trier - This ten night river cruise departs 14th August and is priced at £1,899 per person (was £2,174pp).  Aboard Amadeus Elegant, it combines picturesque scenery with charming medieval cities and picture-perfect towns, starting in the Swiss city of Basel on an included tour. The cruise then continues into the Rhine Valley to visit Breisach, gateway to the Black Forest. From Kehl, an included excursion reveals the medieval architecture and Gothic cathedral of Strasbourg, before continuing to Speyer to join an included tour of Heidelberg and its castle. Other itinerary highlights include the scenic town of Koblenz, Cochem, which is known as the ‘capital’ of the wine region, as well as Traben-Trarbach and Bernkastel-Kues. From Schweich there is an included excursion to discover the Roman heritage of Trier.

Saga boutique river cruises offer an all-inclusive experience.  There are no hidden costs on-board either with all dining and house drinks (including selected wines at lunch and dinner, house-branded spirits with mixers, draught lager, and all soft drinks), Wi-Fi, gratuities, sightseeing tours in selected ports, entertainment, luggage porterage and travel insurance also included, as well as return UK travel service from home to the airport.

View and book these cruises at https://travel.saga.co.uk/cruises/river/river-cruise-offers.aspx or by calling 0808 273 6463.

Sarah Lloyd-Morrison

Notes to editors

Notes to editors:

All prices are per person, based on two-sharing a cabin.

All cruises and prices are subject to availability.

All ships have a view of the river and bank.

Please check saga.co.uk/cruise for terms and conditions.

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RIVER CRUISING EXCLUSIVELY FOR THE OVER-50'S

Terms and conditions - Saga’s holidays and cruises are exclusively for the over 50s (but a travelling companion can be 40+).  

We are now offing a superb choice of exciting River cruise itineraries with Saga, including itineraries on their brand new ship Spirit of the Rhine, launching spring 2021. Inspired by Saga’s award-winning ocean cruise ships, Spirit of the Rhine brings the boutique cruise experience to the riverways of Europe.

Don’t like flying, Saga offer no-fly river cruises, where you can travel by coach and Eurotunnel, or ferry, to join many of their river cruise departures.

Whether you’re meeting the wine growers of the Douro, exploring the historic cities of the Danube or admiring the floral delights of the Dutch and Belgian Waterways, Saga River Cruises get you closer to the destinations you visit. Perhaps, choose one of Saga’s cruise and stay holidays which combine a relaxing river cruise with a hotel stay in cities such as Prague, Vienna, Budapest and Copenhagen.

Every aspect of a Saga river cruise is taken care of by experts – from their highly experienced holiday creators, to the Saga cruise directors and escorts who’ll create a sociable atmosphere and the local guides who’ll accompany excursions.

Their latest collection features a wide selection, so it’s easy to find the perfect cruise for you.

Saga also offer a warm welcome to single sailors with hundreds of single cabins at no extra cost on many dates, plus departures reserved exclusively for solo travellers.

There is so much included, making Saga cruises fantastic value.

Every Saga River cruise includes:

• Return economy flights, coach or rail travel as specified for each cruise
• All airport taxes, fees and charges
• The services of a Saga Host, Tour Manager or Cruise Escort, as stated for each cruise
• Named ship/hotel accommodation and meals, as specified
• Porterage of luggage on board ship/at accommodation
• Return transfer between the overseas airport (or arrival point) and ship/accommodation
• A visa, if required, for full British citizens resident in the UK
• A Saga cocktail party
• A choice of wine, beer and soft drinks on board selected ships
• A welcome drink reception and farewell dinner

*Not applicable to Saga’s UK and Ireland holidays or Ocean cruises with a third party cruise line. Booking must be made with Jetline Cruise, bookings made directly do not qualify. This must be claimed at time of booking to receive the offer.

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The 10 Best No-Fly River Cruises You Need To Try

River cruises in Europe are a great way to enjoy the scenery without worrying about flying. The end destination of many river cruising trips is often Paris, Amsterdam or Brussels – all major cities with plenty going on for visitors. Perfect for those that want “no-fly” options for a holiday in Europe!

Unlike many further afield overseas holidays, river cruises in Europe really lend themselves to the increasingly popular “no-flying” holiday concept.  Due to climate concerns regarding carbon emissions and the restrictions in airports due to Covid-19, river cruising without flying will become even more in demand, we predict. The start and end destinations are usually capital cities or major cities such as Paris, Amsterdam, Brussels or Cologne. 

From the UK, we are blessed with a short channel crossing either by ferry or by rail to take us to continental Europe and the river cruise starting points on the rivers of France, The Netherlands, Belgium, Germany and Switzerland.  With a bit of careful planning, we can even get you to The Danube.  So when you are looking for the best no-fly river cruises, what should you be looking for?

Advantages/disadvantages of no-fly river cruises in Europe

From talking to clients we believe that the following applies:

Advantages of no-fly European river cruising

More flexibility due to multiple daily train times – depart when you want

A much more relaxed experience than moving through an airport and encountering prolonged security queues

Able to arrive much later to check in

There’s more space on a train and able to move about during the journey

Unlikely to be long delays so you arrive on time

The ability to view the countryside makes you feel that you are travelling, discovering and on holiday already

Disadvantages of no-fly European river cruising

With the UK no longer being an EU member state, there may well be longer immigration queues for UK citizens to enter the Schengen area via the rest of the world lanes than previously experienced.  NB: However, the same would apply at immigration at airports.

Changing between Eurostar and domestic rail services such as SNCF or Deutsche Bahn may mean handling luggage and finding luggage space.

Travelling within the UK from outside the South East may mean having to get to London/Ebbsfleet the day before.

Our list of the 10 best no-fly river cruises in Europe, concentrates on the best river cruises that also mean you don’t have to fly but where travelling by not flying works best.  The list also concentrates on rail transportation as it is quicker than travelling by coach – coach travel we believe will wane in popularity due to its enclosed nature for long periods of time and social distancing restrictions.  But for those that like the ease of coach travel we have included a recommendation.   

So don’t let fear of flying or airports put you off going on a European trip, as a river cruise without using airports can work out to be easy to manage.  There is help for less mobile travellers with Eurostar and also the national continental rail operators such as SNCF or Deutsche Bahn.  As river cruise travel agents we can help plan and arrange any additional assistance, upgrades or porterage.

You can get to French river cruises without flying, Rhine river cruises without flying and The Netherlands and Belgium river cruises without flying.  And we can also accommodate The Danube without flying and without taking 2 days to get there.  Read on for more information.

So, save some emissions and bag yourself a holiday that works without flying.

Our no-fly river cruise office is now open.  Why not speak to us about your requirements today and we’ll recommend the best cruise for you?

The best 7 night no-fly Holland & Belgium river cruise

1. AmaWaterways “Best of Holland and Belgium” 

This round trip from Amsterdam can now be enjoyed from June through to December.  This trip suits both the active and the less active due to the wonderful “flatness” of the low countries which make it ideal for either walking, hiking or cycling.  Clients can take advantage of a direct train from London to Amsterdam.  Every day has lots of small touring group options including the option of a bike tour through one of the beautiful medieval towns such as Bruges or Antwerp or cycle next to the 19 windmills at Kinderdijk.  Taste waffles when you stop on your bike, or take the motor coach to the chocolate factory or the Belgian beer garden, the choice is yours.  Visit castles and museums and windmills and the incredible modern buildings of Rotterdam by architect Piet Blom, the Kubuswoningen, or ‘Cube-Houses’.  AmaWaterways provide the bikes and the tour guides.  Or for those of you that prefer a more leisurely pace, then a slow walking tour will be for you.  For the more active, the onboard Wellness Host will also provide daily yoga classes, runs and there’s an onboard gym.  This truly is a river cruise for all ages and states of activity.  And only a couple of hours by direct train from London.  Plus there is never an issue with high or low waterlevels. This is in the high end price bracket but certain departure times may have discounts available.   

Suitable for the more active travellers? YES

Biking tours every day including a bike tour to see Kinderdijk’s 19 windmills, hikes, wellness Host including onboard gym, lots of active experiences.

Suitable for the less active travellers? YES

Slow walker tours available, daily tours with motor coaches provided, lots of scenic cruising to Ijsselmeer and through Holland and Belgium’s waterways which are so numerous and include lakes, canals and rivers.

Price point = £££

The best 14 night Rhine no fly river cruise

2. APT River Cruises”Western Front Explorer”

This river cruise is (wonderfully) longer – 14 nights, still reachable directly from London to Amsterdam but is also a history buffs delight.  APT offers this 14 night all-inclusive river cruise with rail included and plenty of time to explore the history of this area including the World War 1 sites.  Only offered on a couple of dates each year, it sells out fast with guests from as far afield as Australia and Canada, eager to find out more about this area of history.

Covering the best of The Netherlands and Belgium’s waterways, there are several tours to choose from each day depending whether you are feeling historic, gastronomic or simply curious to explore your surroundings.  There is of course the chance to experience the haunting nightly “Last Post” at the Menin Gate in the Ypres region of Belgium.  Savour a Michelin-starred lunch at Château Neercanne , enjoy the artwork of masters Piccasso and Monet.  Travelling on the April departure will also allow a visit to the world famous Keukenhof flower gardens. Or an exclusive private organ recital and cheese making classes anyone?  There is also plenty of time to explore on your own with your APT app with GPS, take out a bike through the beauty of the lowlands and simply recount your day with your fellow worldwide travellers over your all inclusive drinks in the lounge of your luxurious ship. This is in the high end price bracket but certain departure times may have discounts available.  

Suitable for less active travellers? YES

Home pick up in the UK and escorted touring on ship and butler services and in room dining in selected suites.

Suitable for more active travellers?  YES.

Bikes onboard and biking tours.

The best 7 night no-fly Rhine & Moselle river cruise

3. Titan Travel “Scenic Sights of the Beautiful Moselle”

This is a great 7 night no fly river cruise on the Rhine and the lesser-visited Moselle.  For those that want to be looked after from the minute you leave your front door, then this is the perfect Rhine and Moselle no-fly river cruise for you.  If you haven’t heard of Titan Travel before, as a tour operator Titan specialise in catering to travelers who like to be looked after and provide a car to your door as well as international transport and it is all included in the brochure price. 

Titan VIP home pick up will pick you up from anywhere in the UK and then transferred to coach and ferry crossing. This one is not available by rail, unfortunately.  So easy but with beautiful visits to Cochem, Bernkastel and Trier. With drinks included you can happily discuss your discoveries of the day with your new ship mates.

There are loads of departures and prices from a little over £1000 for a lower deck cabin low season.  Titan now charter their own ships so are able to offer a good 4 star standard of no-fly river cruise often with drinks included and some excursions.  On this tour you will be visiting Beethoven’s house as well as Cochem castle with wine tasting, Bernkastel and beautiful Trier.  The river ships are comfortable and the staff and fellow guests very friendly.  Titan are currently using the Serenade river ship, refurbished in 2018 there are fixed window cabins and french balcony cabins.  Plus, there are also low single supplements for travellers who don’t want to share a cabin.

Price point = £

4. The best short tulip time no-fly river cruise

Riviera travel “amsterdam, kinderdijk and dutch bulbfields river cruise by train”.

Often known as a “Tulip Time” cruise, this Spring time river cruise should be a must for all those that love river cruising.  The cruise is timed to coincide with the blooms of Holland and Belgium, when the lowlands are starting to wake up from winter. 

Perhaps you haven’t tried river cruising before, so a shorter, cheaper cruise which doesn’t involve wasting time hanging around in airports could get you to try it? This Riviera Travel river cruise, the best short no fly river cruise by train to Amsterdam shows you the highlights of Amsterdam, the windmills of Kinderdijk, Dutch fishing villages and the world famous Tulip bulbfields of Keukenhof gardens all in a short 4 night break.

Riviera Travel offer the UK’s most popular river cruises and charter their own luxury ships with literary names such as MS George Eliot, MS Geoffrey Chaucer and MS Oscar Wilde.  Your fellow travellers will be predominantly from the UK.  For a higher standard cruise, their value is hard to beat as tours are included on a daily basis as well as all meals onboard. 

It is best to book early as there are a limited number of no single supplement cabins on the lower deck on each departure if you are travelling solo or in a group and not wishing to share a cabin.

5. The best no-fly Rh ô ne river cruise

Amadeus river cruises “treasures of burgundy & provence”.

This 7 night roundtrip river cruise from Lyon, can be overlooked, unfairly as some feel that it is not going from north to south or south to north in the same way some of the other cruises.  That preconception really does it a disservice.  The train from London to Lyon is much, much shorter and the distance travelled on this cruise is the same.  You visit Macon, Beaune, Arles, Avignon, Viviers, Lyon and Chalon sur Saone just as you do on the other cruises.  But miss the long journey back again from Avignon by train.

The Amadeus Provence luxury river ship is one of the prettiest on the river with an on deck infinite pool.  You can watch the world go by on board or explore Provence and Burgundy yourself. There’s also nothing like the camaraderie guests have with the Amadeus staff, who have been working for this small Austrian family owned company for year. They really make the trip.

Suitable for less active travellers? YES.

Much easier train journey than travelling to Avignon, ability to stay onboard and watch the world go by if you decide not to go on a tour.

Suitable for the more active? YES .

The onboard Activities Host offers early morning yoga sessions, hiking trips and onboard bicycles and biking tours available.

Price point = ££

6. The best no-fly Christmas time Rhine river cruise

Amadeus river cruises “christmas cruise on the rhine”.

This 6 night river cruise on one of Amadeus’ luxury river cruise ships brings our customers to come back and enjoy it year after year.  Join the Eurostar in London and change in Brussels to arrive in Cologne just yards from where your river ship will be moored and get ready for a very different Christmas experience.  

The atmosphere on board is incredible as you celebrate Christmas with your fellow European and North American travellers and the long standing Amadeus crew, loyal to this small Austrian family owned river cruise company.  Catch the Christmas markets in Cologne before Christmas and enjoy a gala Christmas dinner after decorating the tree. You can also attend midnight mass at Speyer cathedral if you are still able to move!

Suitable for couples, families with older children and friendship groups, this cruise is also suitable for those that don’t want to share a cabin as single supplements are lowered.

Tours are available to purchase onboard or you may want to just wander yourselves in your groups and the Cruise Manager will always be on hand to advise you.  You may even get some snow, but we make no guarantees.

Suitable for less active travellers? YES. 

An easy train journey from London to Cologne via Brussels. The ability to stay onboard and watch the world go by if you decide not to go on a tour, there will always be something to do.

Suitable for the more active travellers? YES. 

7. The best no-fly Danube river cruise

Amadeus river cruises “beautiful blue danube & the danube delta”.

This is the easiest by far Danube no fly river cruise by train.  Other companies try to do the Danube by train.  However much fun it might be (which it isn’t really) to take over 2 days to get to Hungary by train, it has really lost it’s glow by the time you have to go back, a mere 7 days later!  You really have to like trains!  Instead, this trip starts and ends in the beautiful Germany city of Passau, rarely visited by UK guests on the Danube itself.  

The train journey to this part of the Danube takes about 10 hours from London St Pancras changing trains in Brussels and Frankfurt. In my opinion Frankfurt itself is worth a visit including at visit to the Goethe Institute, Germany’s most famous writer/poet.

You will see the very essence of the Danube on this 16 day trip. Visit Passau, Budapest, Vienna, Melk, Romania, Bulgaria, The Iron Gates as well as taking a Danube Delta small boat safari with an ecologist in this incredible UNESCO preserved biodiversity site and then go all the way to Constanta and the Black Sea. A 7 night Danube trip usually can only cover Germany and Austria, so with this trip you get some much more as well as a shorter train journey and a longer holiday. 

With departures throughout the season this is THE bucket list Danube cruise and one that can be done easily without flying.

8. The best no-fly Seine river cruise

Scenic river cruises “normandy & gems of the seine”.

We love this 11 day round trip on Seine from Scenic as it gives travellers  more time to explore Paris and Normandy by including visits to Honfleur, Deauville, Giverney,  as well as an onboard expert to explain in depth the Western Front.  Nothing is missed out in this tour of Paris and Northern France and also includes special extra excursions and treats such as shopping with a chef.  More time to discover and also enjoy a fantastic luxury ship, the Scenic Gem with full all-inclusive.

The no-fly bit is very straightforward as it involves a Eurostar from London to Paris and then you will be picked up from Paris Gare du Nord.  10 nights on a wonderful cruise and then a simple couple of hours train journey back again to London.  This cruise in the high end price bracket but certain departure times may have discounts available.  

Ease of travel to the ship, all-inclusive onboard, motor coach tours available

Suitable for more active travellers? YES

Scenic provides electric bikes which can be used for bike tours and taken out independently with a GPS onboard guide for your own adventures, just reserve at the front desk.  Gym onboard as well as exercise classes.

9. The best no-fly river cruise to Bordeaux, France

Uniworld river cruises “brilliant bordeaux”.

Discover the waterways of the Bordeaux region, fast flowing and intriguing on this 7 night no-fly river cruise with trains from London to Bordeaux via Paris.  The journey takes about 7 hours with one change.

This is an ultra luxury all-inclusive river cruise with the boutique river cruise company, Uniworld.  This particular cruise offers the friendliest and most attentive yet unobtrusive staff on the luxurious SS Bon Voyage, fantastic regional dining experiences onboard.

But off the ship, there is more to this cruise that simply Bordeaux wines – that is if you need anything more than just Bordeaux wines, in what is the home of wine.  Why not do a yoga class at the Blaye Fortress or if that is too much like exercise, then take a scenic drive along the Route de la Corniche Fleurie through the most picturesque villages in the region.  There will be an opportunity to bike through the Médoc Vineyards as well as discovering the colourful life of Toulouse Lautrec at Château de Malromé.  And don’t worry, there will be plenty of private wine tasting and learning opportunities in this the most incredible of French regions. This cruise is in the high end price bracket but certain departure times may have discounts available.  

Uniworld take care of everything, you will be completely spoilt. Touring options will always include slower paced options and motor coaches.

With onboard fitness activities and bikes available, there will always be something to do to work off the incredible food and drink on offer throughout the trip.

10. The best no-fly Rhine river cruise to Switzerland

Riviera travel “rhine cruise to switzerland”.

Yes – I have included yet another river cruise with Riviera – they are the operator we sell the most of to our UK customers – in my no-fly river cruises to Europe top 10. 

This  is a 7 night no-fly river cruise which takes in the highlights of The Black Forest and beautiful Lucerne but starts from Cologne rather than Amsterdam.  There are merits to starting in Cologne and missing out the more industrial area of the North and also if you have already been to Amsterdam in the past.  Seeing Lucerne is a highlight in itself and works out very reasonably by not having to pay Swiss prices for accommodation in one of their most beautiful cities.

The journey by train is a little more involved from London to get to Basel in Switzerland with a few more changes if you were going to do it independently, which is why this fully escorted river cruise is highly recommended for those that would rather have it all sorted out for them. Riviera make it much easier. 

All tours are set each day and all transport escorted, including to and from the UK (London).

And there you have it, our top 10 no-fly river cruises in Europe.

I hope that you have enjoyed this list. It was a tough decision and there are very many that I had to leave out. This list is ones that tick all the boxes from ease of travel and quality of cruise within their price point.

P.S. -We do have a much wider selection of other of river cruises that don’t need flights within our website. Please do have a look.

Why not find out about “The Best All Inclusive River Cruises”

We’d love to hear your questions and find the right river cruise for you. Our online consultations let us bring the cruises to life for you, and go beyond the brochure. Why not give us a try?

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Who is Alex Leete? A passion for travel and over 15 years' experience in the industry encouraged me to set up Global River Cruising, our own family run company. Over the last few years we have been on as many river cruises, ships and seen as many destinations as we possibly can so we can rightfully call ourselves "experts". As independent specialists we work hard to find the perfect river cruise for our clients - at the very best prices too!

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Saga Cruises

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Saga Cruises fleet

Spirit of adventure, spirit of discovery, spirit of the moselle, spirit of the danube, spirit of the rhine, spirit of the douro, ms filia rheni ii, ms rex rheni, review of saga cruises.

Saga Cruises (Saga Shipping Ltd, saga.co.uk/cruises) is a British company, luxury cruise brand and division of Saga Group. The company started passenger shipping operations under the travel brand name "Saga Cruises" in 1997, with the purchase of Saga Rose (former NCL ship MS Sagafjord), Saga Rose was the flagship until 2004 when Saga Ruby was bought from Cunard Line (previously named MS Caronia). Saga Travel's CEO is Nick Stace.

The shipowner Saga Group/Saga plc (1951-founded, headquartered in Folkestone, Kent England, UK) is a London Stock Exchange-listed company specializing in travel and insurance. Currently, Saga plc is managed by Mike Hazell (CEO) who in 2024 succeeded Euan Sutherland (2020-23).

Company history and changes

While on its final cruise in the Caribbean, Saga Ruby had one of its generators fail disabling the air-conditioning plant. Then it was decided to cancel the sailing and head for a Western Mediterranean itinerary. Saga Ruby returned to Southampton on Jan. 9, 2014 due to bad weather. While in Funchal Madeira, the ship met up with Saga Sapphire for New Year's Eve fireworks display. Saga Ruby then departed for Gibraltar out of Southampton for the last time on January 10th and was handed over to her new owners on Jan 13, 2014.

In 2005, Saga Cruises introduced the "Spirit of Adventure Cruises" brand. In March 2006, MV Spirit of Adventure (former Orange Melody) entered into service. In 2013, Saga sold the brand.

For summer 2003, Saga Holidays chartered  Minerva  (1989-built) which sailed as "Saga Pearl". Saga Rose was retired in 2009 after a final 37-night Mediterranean voyage. Subsequently, the ship was laid up in  Gibraltar  and scrapped  in China in 2010. In 2014 was acquired Saga Ruby (former NCL ship MS Vistafjord), which last voyage was in January 2014.

Until 2020, Saga Holidays operated two ships under charter - Saga Sapphire and Saga Pearl 2 . The former fleetmate Saga Ruby was built and launched under the name "MS Vistafjord" for NCL/Norwegian America Line. In 1983, the vessel was sold to Cunard, and in 1999 renamed "MS Caronia". In 2004, Cunard sold it to Saga. It was operated as "Saga Ruby" until 2014 when was sold to a Chinese company, renamed "Oasia", operated as a hotel ship until 2017, then scrapped at Alang India .

Earlier in 2009, Saga UK acquired Astoria (Saga Pearl 2). Followed a GBP 14 million drydock refurbishment of the 1981-built vessel. The upgrades included new Veranda Restaurant; new balcony cabins; new Library Lounge; a redesigned Spa, and renovations to both swimming pools. The ship has 126 twin-bed cabins, 25 twin or king-bed cabins, 42 double-bed cabins. Of all staterooms, 20 have balconies and 9 have French balconies. Saga Pearl 2 has 60 single cabins (almost 1/4 of all staterooms). Among Saga's signature trademarks are the shipboard Afternoon Tea service and ballroom dancing. Saga ships departure from UK ports ( Southampton and Dover) on cruises to the Canaries, Baltic, and the Mediterranean. Itineraries range between 7- and 24-days in length.

Saga Sapphire and Saga Pearl 2 were both withdrawn from service/left the fleet after two new ships ( Spirit of Discovery /2019 and Spirit of Adventure /2020) were delivered. In August 2019 was announced that Saga Sapphire will be acquired by ANEX Tours (Turkey's largest travel agency/tour operator), starting operations for ANEX in mid-2020. However, due to the global health crisis in 2020, the 39-year-old liner was officially sold to ANEX Tours in July 2020. Renamed to "Blue Sapphire", it started operations for ANEX in 2021, offering roundtrips from Antalya Turkey to Eastern Mediterranean and Black Sea ports.

• In November 2019, after acquiring Thomas Cook Group's subsidiaries in Germany (Oger Tours, Bucher Reisen and Neckermann) and Russia (Intourist, 1929-founded USSR-Russia travel brand privatized in the 1990s by Vladimir Yevtushenkov), ANEX Tours became the world's second-largest tour operator - after TUI Group. The company's Chairman (Neset Kockar) commented that expects the annual passenger volume to increase to 8 million and the turnover to reach ~EUR 10 billion (~USD 11 B).
• Thomas Cook Group plc (2007-founded / 2019- defunct ) was a British travel group formed by the merger of Thomas Cook AG (British-German, 2001-founded) and MyTravel Group plc (British, 1972-founded). Neset Kockar (ANEX Tours) was the second-largest shareholder in Thomas Cook Group plc - after Fosun International China.

In July 2022, SAGA UK marked the anniversaries of Spirit of Adventure (July 6th) and Spirit of Discovery (July 10th), announcing interesting facts about the boats and their guests. In three full years, Spirit of Discovery navigated ~145,000 NM/nautical miles, completed 48 voyages, visited 273 different destinations, and served 2825 shore excursions. In one year, Spirit of Adventure navigated ~80,000 NM, completed 23 voyages, visited 144 destinations, and served 1617 shore excursions. Both vessels served ~36,9M meals, ~5,7M eggs, ~9,2 tons of lobster, ~13,5 tons of Dover sole, ~190 tons of smoked salmon, ~668,000 bottles of wine. ~12,000 customers used the onboard spas for massages.

In January 2024, Saga Group announced that it is exploring the option of a "partnership arrangement" for its ocean cruise business (including the potential sale of a stake in the division or selling the ships Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery) to unlock capital. In the period August 1, 2023, through January 29, 2024, Saga Group reported significant revenue growth (10-15%) over the same period in 2022-23, as well as ~30# increase (year-on-year) in revenue from its OCEAN division.

In 2017, Saga UK ordered two new cruise ships with capacity under 1000 passengers, each vessel with a total of 540 cabins and suites. The shipbuilder is Meyer Werft ( Papenburg Germany ). Unlike all previous Saga ships, these two are fully-owned by the company.

The vessels were scheduled for deliveries in 2019 July ( Spirit of Discovery ) and 2020 August ( Spirit of Adventure ). This is a new series of polar-class expedition ships with ice-strengthened hulls. Each costs USD 346 million (GBP 280M / EUR 310M) and has a total of 540 staterooms (cabins and suites), of 100 are single cabins (designed for solo travelers, no single supplement required), which is approx 20% of all cabins. The other staterooms are in categories Standard Balcony, Deluxe Balcony, Mid-Ship Suite and larger suites.

Among the signature venues onboard are the Britannia Lounge (2-level Atrium bar lounge), The Verandah (specialty restaurant) and an outdoor (alfresco dining) restaurant. Each vessel has two swimming pools (indoor and outdoor).

At the end of March 2017 was announced the name selected for the first ship - "Spirit of Discovery" (scheduled delivery June 2019). The second vessel was ordered in September 2017 - "Spirit of Adventure" (scheduled delivery August 2020).

In mid-September 2018 was announced that starting January 2020, Saga's new ships deals will be all-inclusive. Fares include unlimited (shipboard served) house spirits, beers, wines (by the glass) and soft drinks. Company's packages also include:

• UK travel package (to/from departure port), Shuttle bus transfer (to the nearest downtown from the port)
• Onboard gratuities, Porterage
• Onboard Welcome cocktail party
• All onboard meals, afternoon tea, live entertainment
• Unlimited tea and coffee (selected ship venues)
• 24-hour room service
• premium service (2 staff members for 3 passengers)

In early-March 2019, Saga announced that the company's both newbuilds (the sisterships Adventure and Discovery) are all-inclusive. This means that Saga cruise fares are inclusive of specialty restaurant dining, drinks (wine, beer, house spirits, soft drinks), 24-hour room service, Wi-Fi, gratuities, transfer (chauffeur service to/from homeport for cruise passengers based within 250 ml / 402 km distance). Shore excursions remain optional and at additional cost. The cruise company offers complimentary shuttle bus services in all ports where the town/city is over 0,5 km from the ship.

In early-November 2019 was announced the shipbuilding order for Spirit of the Rhine (2021-inaugurated, 192-passenger riverboat). In early-February 2021 started the construction of a second newbuild riverboat - Spirit of the Danube (2022-inaugurated, sistership). Since 2024 is also chartered Spirit of the Douro (2017-built, owned by Mystic Invest via Douro Azul ).

In late-March 2022, Saga announced a 4-ship expansion project for its riverboat fleet, ordering 4x ships (Spirit of the Moselle, Spirit of the Main, Spirit of the Elbe, Spirit of the Rhone), with the first entering service in 2023 and the rest following one vessel per year.

Saga Holidays ocean- and river cruising experience

Saga Cruises offers both Ocean and River cruise travel vacations. All the company's vessels are chartered. The cruising experience is classic, elegant and comfortable. Passengers are able to choose from contemporary amenities such as modern spas, Internet cafes, alternative dining in intimate restaurants. Do not expect shopping centers, casino or lustrous shows - Saga passengers like the relaxed and good-mannered social life. Traditional English tea is served each afternoon; ballroom dancing is presented nightly.

Saga passengers are more adventurous than it might be imagined. They seek a high level of comfort and service while they are careful not to squander pensions on gambling (the reason why there are no casinos on Saga's ships). They also demand fine food, that is well-prepared, from varied menus. Some of the mainstream cruise lines may get away with fortnightly or weekly menu cycles. That wouldn't be welcomed by Saga Cruises customers who are free to stay onboard for back-to-back cruises.

When you are not out or it is one of those lazy days at sea onboard Saga ships, you will be surprised by the great number of onboard activities. You will have the opportunity to join painting or computer classes, keep fit with Pilates and yoga, enjoy swimming, attend a talk from guest speakers. Relax with new and old friends, or look for some quiet time in ships' cozy areas. Other diversions include the beauty salon and spa - go for a pampering treatment or a massage or try the gym - go for a refreshing yoga course. A well-stocked library with thousands of books is also provided. Another choice is using one of the computers and keep in touch with family and friends.

In the evening onboard Saga ships, while heading to the next destination before dining, enjoy an aperitif in onboard bars, or work up with pre-dinner dance classes. At formal nights (one for a week-long cruise, two for a 14-night cruise) enjoy the feeling of occasion. Later take your seat for a show, go dancing, watch a film or socialize with friends - you may even enjoy a nightcap accompanied with live music in the inviting lounges and bars.

On select cruise itineraries, you will be entertained by celebrities. But the best part of all is that with no children on board, kids' games arcades or clubs taking up space, everything aboard is designed for your pleasure.

No matter which Saga ship you choose (ocean or river), each mealtime is going to be an exciting dining experience. Good breakfast is essential when you have a day full of activities - plenty of choices await for you for the day ahead. Choose from a waiter-served meal, the buffet onboard Saga Ruby, or eat out on deck. Opt for full English breakfast brought to the cabin. There are plenty of things to tempt you at lunchtime: choose from the buffet or enjoy a cooked-to-order lunch in the main restaurant.

Afternoon Tea is a daily cruising tradition with tempting cakes, pastries, finger sandwiches. Dinner - the day's highlight - is always waiter-served, one-sitting, sometimes with six courses. A talented team led by the Executive Chef prepares the meals using the finest and freshest/locally sourced ingredients.

Delicious wines from well-stocked "cellars" are recommended from sommeliers who are also on hand. Main courses, including game, fish, meat, vegetarian dishes, are followed with desserts from a selection of souffles, tarts, pavlovas, petits fours. The best of all is that you will never feel rushed to end your meals or have to wait for guests, as flexible arrangements make sure you dine at any time between 7-9 pm.

Saga Cruises customers

The Saga cruise line targets 50-and-older customers and is kids-free. The company sells directly to the public, not counting on travel agents. Allowing traveling companions who are 40+ years old is beneficial to couples who want to cruise together with grown-up families and in-laws, and also to those who need assistance and personal care. Saga's customers are elderly and almost exclusively British, with occasional passengers from Australia, Canada, New Zealand, rarely Japan.

Saga UK provides free chauffeur service (door-to-door) for passengers who live within 75 mi (120 km) of cruise departure ports, and also shared chauffeur for up to 250 mi (400 km) homeport distances. Alternatives include coach and rail transportation, or domestic flights (from the UK) which can be fare-included. Saga also offers free parking to all its cruise passengers.

Saga Cruises enjoys a high repeat booking rate (about 75%).

To attract first-timers, since 2016 Saga offers "Love it First Time". By this initiative, a full refund is guaranteed to anyone who doesn't enjoy the company's cruising vacation product. SAGA UK guarantees that if passengers find that the experience is not for them, they can leave the ship at the next available call port. The "Love it First Time" offer applies only to new bookings and first-time customers.

Saga Holidays fly-cruise deals

For the end of 2017 (November and December), Saga Cruises offered 3 fly-cruises. The 8-, 11- and 12-night itineraries were available for booking with all-inclusive prices starting from around GBP 114 per person. Saga's "flight and cruise" deals are inclusive of airport and seaport transfers, all onboard meals, alcohol (wine by the glass / at lunch and dinner, house-brand spirits, cocktails, draught beers, lager), also soft drinks, afternoon tea, free Wi-Fi and, all onboard gratuities.

Saga Sapphire ship's 8-night "Canary Island Medley" cruise (prices from GBP 897) departed from Southampton on December 8, 2017.

The Saga Pearl 2 's 11-night "Jewels of the Canary Islands" cruise (prices from GBP 1516) departed from Southampton on November 20, 2017.

The Saga Pearl II ship's 12-night "Contrasts of the Canary Islands and Cape Verde" cruise (prices from GBP 1980) departed from Southampton on November 1, 2017.

The Nov 1st voyage included a flight from the UK to Funchal (Madeira), boarding there Saga Pearl 2, and the home flight from Lisbon back to the UK.

(Coronavirus crisis) passenger shipping pause 2020-2021

Due to the COVID pandemic, Saga Ocean Cruises suspended its fleet's passenger shipping operations by cancelling all voyages with pre-scheduled departures in the period March 15, 2020, through early-July 2021.

Operations resumed in 2021 with Spirit of Discovery (June 27) and Spirit of Adventure (July 26/ Maiden Voyage ). Saga UK requires all passengers to have had both doses of the COVID vaccine before boarding the ships.

All affected bookings received full monetary refund (100% of the fare paid) or 125% refund in FCC (future cruise credit) with rebooking made within 24 months.

Saga UK's "Cruise Price Promise" allows penalty-free cancellation up to 14 days prior departure. All shipboard employees (fleetwide) remained on the docked vessels. Both SAGA ships' berthing location (during the no-sail period) is London-Tilbury Port .

Itinerary of Saga Cruises

(fka "Saga Holidays") SAGA UK's cruise Itineraries and shore excursions are designed mainly for adults. The company has 60+ years of holiday travel experience in Europe. The company used to charter two older boats, but since 2021 operates a small (SAGA Group-owned) fleet of two newbuilds - Spirit of Adventure and Spirit of Discovery .

Saga UK also operates (under time-charter) the following riverboats: Filia Rheni 2 , Amadeus Royal , Amadeus Symphony , Johannes Brahms , Rex Rheni , Dutch Melody (fka River Melody, since 2020) .

Saga Group also owns a fleet of six newbuild riverboats /sisterships - Spirit of the Rhine (2021), Spirit of the Danube (2022), Spirit of the Moselle (2023), Spirit of the Main (2024), Spirit of the Elbe (2025), Spirit of the Rhone (2026).

Since 2024, Saga also charters Spirit of the Douro (Douro Serenity/2017-built) for Douro River voyages in Portugal and Spain.

SAGA's free shuttle bus service is available if you want to explore independently - the shuttle will take you to the nearest city center or town. The service is offered if the distance between Saga ship and the city is over 500 yards. At ports of call, you will have a choice of exciting optional excursions. Saga representatives accompany cruisers on the coach. Saga Cruises company is sending a detailed booklet a few weeks before the cruise which gives the chance for pre-booking. If you prefer so, you can also visit the Tours and Travel Office onboard and Saga staff will book the preferred tours for you, if available.

The organized tours are a great way to see the sights. Saga excursions include transport, entrance fees, services of English-speaking guides. Lunch and refreshments are sometimes also included, so you will enjoy without worrying about costs. All excursions are optional, an additional cost will be added to your account. They are subject to change and availability. Among the highlights detailed on Saga cruises, are some that may be seen only by exploring independently or on optional excursions.

Douro River cruise itineraries

Starting in 2024, Saga offers two itineraries scheduled for Spirit of the Douro - "Lisbon & the Heart of the Douro" and "Douro Explorer".

Saga Douro River cruise fares are inclusive of travel insurance, onboard beverages (between 11 am-11 pm/non-branded alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks), Cruise Director services, return flights and land transfers, Captain’s events (dinner and cocktail reception), onboard Wi-Fi and gratuities, land tours/excursions (Lamego, Figueira Castelo de Rodrigo, Salamanca sightseeing, a quinta dinner, a wine estate tour, Casa de Mateus Palace, Oporto City tour with a wine cellar visit).

The company provides interactive maps and audio headsets for independent shore exploration.

"Lisbon and the Heart of the Douro" itinerary

"Lisbon and the Heart of the Douro" is a 10-night/11-day cruisetour itinerary starting in Lisbon. These voyages are priced from GBP 2520 pp (EUR 2945/USD 3180) and are inclusive of a flight from the UK to Portugal (Lisbon), a 3-day/2-night hotel stay in Lisbon and a domestic flight from Lisbon to Oporto.

• (Day 1) flight UK to Lisbon
• (Days 2-3) Lisbon hotel
• (Day 4) flight Lisbon-Oporto, boarding the Spirit of the Douro ship (overnight port stay)
• (Day 5) cruising from Oporto to Regua and Pinhao
• (Day 6) cruising from Pinhao to Vega de Terron/Salamanca (Spain)
• (Day 7) cruising from Vega de Terron to Barca d'Alva
• (Day 8) cruising from Barca d'Alva to Cais de Espinho and Pinhao
• (Day 9) cruising from Pinhao to Regua and Bitetos
• (Day 10) cruising from Bitetos to Entre-os-Rios and Oporto
• (Day 11) Oporto (debarkation/return flight to the UK)

"Douro Explorer" itinerary

"Douro Explorer" is a 7-night/8-day cruise itinerary starting in Oporto. These voyages are priced from GBP 2180 pp (EUR 2550/USD 2750) and are inclusive of a flight from the UK to Portugal (Oporto).

• (Day 1) flight UK to Oporto, boarding the Spirit of the Douro ship (overnight port stay)
• (Day 2) cruising from Oporto to Regua and Pinhao
• (Day 3) cruising from Pinhao to Vega de Terron/Salamanca
• (Day 4) cruising from Vega de Terron to Barca d'Alva
• (Day 5) cruising from Barca d'Alva to Cais de Espinho and Pinhao
• (Day 6) cruising from Pinhao to Regua and Bitetos
• (Day 7) cruising from Bitetos to Oporto (overnight)
• (Day 8) Oporto (debarkation/return flight to the UK)

"Discovering St James' Way" itinerary

A discovery of ancient pilgrims' route is the highlight of one of Saga's holidays - it runs from southern France over the Pyrenees, ending in Santiago de Compostela. Discover St James (Camino de Santiago) way with Saga. Along the Way, visit ancient cities and villages; do not do the hard work, walking in pilgrims' footsteps. Look out for highlights as Gaudi's fairytale Episcopal Palace; stay in Pamplona - evoked by Hemingway in The Sun Also Rises; taste wine in La Rioja's bodega; see the cathedral cities of Logrono, Burgos, Leon. For 12 nights, prices start at GBP 899. Among the many inclusions are additional cancellation cover and travel insurance, all breakfasts, ten dinners. You will be accompanied by an experienced Saga manager throughout.

Naples to Apulia itinerary

Saga Cruises offer is colors of the South 90-night tour. You will travel from Naples to olive groves of Puglia; stay on Ischia island with subtropical foliage. Discover the beautiful scenery of towns along the way; gain a wonderful insight into the Italian way of life. You will stay in four throughout the tour - five-star hotels on a half-board basis. Enjoy the glorious views of the bay while in Naples; visit Unesco World Heritage; listed dwellings in the Apulia region; enjoy naturally heated spa thermal waters at Ischia hotel. As on many Saga holidays, prices start at GBP 949 and single staterooms - available on selected dates - no extra cost! Join Saga Cruises' team and enjoy tours of Romania, Portugal, the Baltic; go shopping in Greece; join a tour in Croatia; discover Italian Lakes. Additional cancellation cover and travel insurance are one of the money-saving elements that are included in the Saga holidays.

Saga's tours in the USA, Mozambique, and Japan

Let your year to embark on one of the most memorable journeys with Saga Cruises experts. The chances Saga Cruises has the right trip you have been looking for, are quite big. Wherever you want to go into the world and however you want to travel, there's a good chance that Saga Cruises will help. Unlock Japan's mysteries. Stay in Mozambique's authentic bush camps, dare to look over the edge of South Rim in Grand Canyon. Saga Holidays seeks for new destinations and new experiences for the over 50s audience - such are these exciting new tours.

Trans-frontier Trail - Mozambique to Kruger

This 12-night tour will make you discover Greater Limpopo Trans-frontier Park and the rich Portuguese. The three national parks in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique are protected and form a territory of 36,000 square miles. Mozambique's most beautiful beaches on the Indian Ocean are the place you could swim off, stay in comfortable bush camps and venture bush walks and safaris- for unrivalled opportunities for spotting wildlife. The size of the group is limited to twenty people. Of course, you will be fed well too - seven lunches, all breakfasts, and dinners are price included.

South West Iconic Parks of America

Wide-open spaces, fresh air and relax. Each of the national parks is more spectacular than the last one; the rock formations are impossibly beautiful and multi-colored. Experience Mother Road and what was left of Las Vegas Route 66 - The Strip is the one place to stay if you travel through Nevada. The best way to experience the Grand Canyon is to stay in the park, close to South Rim. Since you will be in the Wild West, probably you will wish to experience the badlands of Painted Desert; see the Sedona formations of red rocks; enjoy scenic cruising along Antelope Canyon; see the limestone spires in Monument Valley.

Saga Mystery Cruise 2018

Captain Horne's Mystery Cruise surprises up to 720 passengers every day for 3 weeks. The intriguing cruise aboard Saga Sapphire left Southampton UK in November 2018 with Captain Stuart Horne promising to keep "everyone guessing as long as possible." He added he would only tell his engineers and navigation team as much as they need to know for fuel management and route planning.

No guarantee where the captain sails but there are all-inclusive drinks and tours as well as entertainment from Syd Lawrence Orchestra on 6 nights. VIP Chauffeur service is guaranteed to and from the port, all included in the fare, along with travel insurance. Another surprise is the array of mystery celebrities/VIP guests on Saga Sapphire.

Ports of call are announced once the ship is berthed, but there is a shore trip included in every port.

The adventure is the last mystery cruise aboard Saga Sapphire and features a choice of table wines at lunch and dinner, as well as house-branded spirits, soft drinks, draught beer, and lager. Afternoon tea, unlimited tea, and coffee in selected venues, welcome cocktail party, free wifi, onboard gratuities, and 24-hour room service are also included.

Saga Sapphire departed Southampton on November 27, 2018. Prices for the 21-night cruise started from GBP 3090 pp (based on double occupancy / 2 people sharing a Twin Cabin).

Itineraries 2021 (cancelled)

Saga UK planned 7 new itineraries for early-2021 (all were eventually cancelled) including an 83-night South America itinerary visiting the Amazon Delta, Punta Arenas , Cape Horn , Rio de Janeiro , Buenos Aires , Montevideo on MS Spirit of Discovery.

This world cruise was the ship's longest and planned to depart from Southampton on January 6, 2021. Prices included chauffeur service to the homeport, balcony cabin, all-inclusive meals and drinks, daily afternoon tea, free wifi, onboard gratuities.

The clockwise South America circumnavigation itinerary had to start with a Transatlantic crossing (UK to Brazil), followed by coastal cruising through the Amazon Delta, Patagonia, Panama Canal , Ecuador, Colombia. From Callao Peru were offered optional tours to Machu Picchu and Galapagos Islands . Overnights were scheduled in Rio de Janeiro , Manaus , Stanley (Falklands) .

Spirit of Adventure had planned in Europe 6 itineraries (January through March 2021) including

• 14-night "Constellations of the Canaries"
• 16-night "A Norwegian Aurora" (Northern Lights cruise) with included Aurora Borealis shore excursion, Rauma Railway through Troll Wall, overnight in Sorrisniva Igloo hotel)
• 15-night "Taste of the Mediterranean" visits Barcelona , Cartagena , and Valencia and includes flamenco dancing, horse show, paella and tapas-making, chocolate and wine tastings.
• 8-night "Scandinavian Rhythms" visits Copenhagen , Frederikshavn , Gothenburg , Odderoya, Kristiansand .

The wellness-themed 16-night "Exotic Morocco and the Canary Islands" itinerary featured outdoor yoga classes, guided hikes, tours in Lisbon and Funchal, Madeira Island .

For Spirit of Discovery was planned an 83-night "South America: A Grand Voyage" (from GBP 17,324 pp) departing from Southampton on January 6, 2021. For Spirit of Adventure were planned the following voyages:

• 14-night Constellations of the Canaries, from GBP 2449 pp, departs January 5, 2021.
• 16-night Exotic Morocco and the Canaries, from GBP 3024 pp, departs January 19, 2021.
• 15-night The Beautiful Canaries, from GBP 2892 pp, departs February 4, 2021.
• 16-night A Norwegian Aurora, from GBP 3117 pp, departs February 19, 2021.
• 15-night A Taste of the Mediterranean, from GBP 2799 pp, departs March 7, 2021.
• 8-night Scandinavian Rhythms, from GBP 1475 pp, departs March 22, 2021.

Summer "Around Britain" 2023 itineraries

In October 2022, Saga added a further 4 round-Britain voyages into its summer 2023 schedule, all with up to 35% off, and timed to coincide with events like the Tall Ships Race and the Rolex Fastnet Yacht Race.

Spirit of Discovery ship departs from London-Tilbury on July 16, 2023, sailing along Britain's south coast, visiting Scilly Isles, Fowey, Falmouth, and Portsmouth, and concluding in Dover. The 8-night itinerary also visits Tresco (Abbey Gardens) and also has a price-included tour of Portland. Guests will have the chance to see the start of the Rolex Fastnet Yacht Race. Prices start from GBP 1819 per person with double occupancy.

On July 24, 2023, Spirit of Discovery starts a 6-night voyage to the Shetland Islands (Dover roundtrip), visiting Invergordon and Scrabster . The itinerary also includes Lerwick as it hosts the Tall Ships race before returning to Dover. Included tours are a visit to John O'Groats and a scenic drive along the Scottish Highlands. Prices start from GBP 1367 per person.

Spirit of Adventure ship departs Dover on August 28, 2023, for a 6-night roundtrip along the Cornish coastline. The itinerary visits Scilly Isles, Fowey, Falmouth, and Portland , with 2 included excursions - a scenic drive along the Dorset coast and a visit to Tresco's Abbey Gardens. Prices start from GBP 1378 per person.

On September 3, 2023, Spirit of Adventure starts a full Great Britain circumnavigation voyage. The 8-night roundtrip from Dover visits Ullapool (fishing town at Loch Broom, Scotland), Isle of Mull , Isle of Staffa 's Fingal’s Cave and volcanic rock formations, and features scenic cruising along the English Channel's Jurassic Coast (UNESCO World Heritage Site). Prices start from GBP 1755 per person.

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• Saga : launches 2024 river itineraries with a new ship and new range of cruises

Tuesday 24 April 2023: Saga River Cruises' 2024 itineraries have now launched with up to 25 per cent off, offering early bookers the best deals. And with a 37 per cent increase in pre-registrations for the 2024 itineraries in comparison to 2023, travellers are clearly keen to get the cruise of their choice at the best possible price.

Nigel Blanks, CEO of Saga Cruises, said: "There are a lot of exciting new experiences for our river guests in 2024, including Spirit of the Douro arriving in the fleet to operate one of our most popular regions, the introduction of 'taster cruises' that are just five nights, new itineraries including to Lake Ijssel and Flanders Field and more of what our customers love most, such as André Rieu events.

"Our 'Spirit' river cruises are now all-inclusive from dining and drinks to wifi and gratuities, and we offer a complimentary chauffeur service from home to the airport or St Pancras, and back again. Everything is taken care of so our guests can just relax and enjoy the rivers."

Excitingly, Saga's fleet will be joined from March 2024 by a new addition, Spirit of the Douro , which will operate on its namesake river throughout the full season.

The ship will offer 63 cabins, all of which face out onto the river. Like its sister ships, Spirit of the Rhine and Spirit of the Danube , Spirit of the Douro will also boast a restaurant with panoramic views and a sun deck for the warm weather. It will be almost impossible to miss any of the sights from the ship and guests can expect the same high-quality, all-inclusive experience and 'Spirit' service that they experience on other Saga cruises.

Spirit of the Douro will undertake 36 Douro Explorer cruises between March and November 2024, with prices starting from £1,461 per person. The region, which is incredibly popular with travellers, is famous for its beautiful wines and attractions such as the city of Salamanca and Lamego's baroque Sanctuary of Nossa Senhore dos Remedios.

Saga will also be offering a range of five-night 'taster' river cruises, which are a great option for those who want to try river cruising before committing to a longer itinerary. Examples include A Taste of Holland with Keukenhof which starts in Amsterdam on 4 April 2024 and visits Hoorn, Lelystad, and Zaandam, where guests will tour the famous Keukenhof Gardens,

Saga will also be offering an Ypres and Flanders Fields cruise, stopping at the town that saw some of the most bitter fighting of World War I. The tour will call at the Flanders Field Memorial Museum and the Menin Gate Memorial during the Last Post ceremony to pay respect to those who fought and fell. The cruise, which starts in Amsterdam on 1 May 2024, will also call in Rotterdam, Dordrecht, Ghent, and Brussels. Prices start from £1,536 per person for this six-night itinerary on Spirit of the Rhine.

A new Rhine in the Springtime cruise, also on Spirit of the Rhine , will offer the only stop of the season in beautiful Bingen - once the home of visionary and composer Hildegard von Bingen. The cruise will start in Dusseldorf on 20 March 2024 and call in Koblenz, Rudesheim, Speyer and Arnhem. This eight-night cruise starts from just £1,409 per person.

An unusual itinerary along Lake Ijssell in the Netherlands will explore the maritime ports and tiny islands on its shores. This 11-night Hidden Treasures of the Ijsselmeer cruise departs from Amsterdam on 8 June 2024 on Amadeus Elegant , and will visit Enkhuisen, Den Helder, Oudeschild, Harligen, Sneek, Kampen and Deventer. Prices start from £2,511 per person.

And due to the overwhelming demand, Saga will now be offering four 2024 André Rieu cruises (in previous years there has been a maximum of three), all including tickets to one of the 'King of Waltz's' concerts. One, a seven-night André Rieu's New Year Concert in Amsterdam promises to be a brilliant start to 2024, as it departs on Spirit of the Rhine on January 3, 2024, with cabins available from £1,849 per person.

The other 2024 André Rieu cruises will be on Amadeus Elegant , which joins the fleet in May 2023. These include: André Rieu in Maastricht , a four-night cruise departing on July 5 and July 9 2024 respectively with prices from £1,299; The André Rieu Hometown Experience , an 11-night cruise departing on 24 June 2024 from Amsterdam starting from £3,144 per person, and The Moselle and André Rieu , a 12-night cruise departing on 13 July 2024 from Maastricht with prices from £3,314 per person.

As the cruise line announced at the beginning of the year, Saga branded e-bikes will also be available for guests to explore the various stops on route.

Saga boutique river cruises offer an all-inclusive experience. Starting in style and comfort, guests are offered a chauffeur to take them from home to either the airport or St Pancras for their flight or Eurostar journey. Alternatively, guests wishing to drive to the airport themselves will be offered free parking. Transfers are also included to/from the ships. Bookings made by 28 April 2023 can fly from a local airport to the cruise departure city at no extra cost.

There are no hidden costs on-board either with all dining and house drinks (including a selection of cocktails, draft beers and lagers, wines, spirits, mixers, and soft drinks), Wi-Fi, gratuities, sightseeing tours in selected ports, entertainment, luggage porterage and travel insurance also included.

Saga is committed to offering early bookers the best deals, so always launches its river cruises with up to 25 per cent off the full price, and its ocean cruises with up to 35 per cent off. Saga also offers a price promise , whereby if the price of the cruise ever drops, guests who have paid the higher price will get the value difference.

Guests can view and book these 2024 cruises at saga.co.uk/rivers-2024 or by calling 0800 300 400.

Images available for download:

Spirit of the Douro

A Taste of Holland

For journalist enquiries , please contact: [email protected] .

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The 7 Best Mississippi River Cruises for 2024

T he more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days

Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days

Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days

Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days

Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

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Viking River Cruises

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days

Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

FAQ Module : Travel - Top Mississippi River Cruises FAQs

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• The Top River Cruise Lines
• The Top All-Inclusive Cruises
• Cruise Packing List Essentials
• The Top Cruise Insurance Plans

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