Emerald Waterways River Cruises Review: Cruise Ship Guide, Itineraries, Bookings & Deals

Emerald Waterways River Cruise Ships offer a unique and luxurious experience, providing guests with an unforgettable journey along some of the world’s most iconic waterways. This review will delve into the literal aspects of the cruise ships, focusing on their design, amenities, and the overall experience they offer.The Emerald Waterways fleet is composed of sleek and modern river cruise ships, each designed with the utmost attention to detail. The ships are not overly large, with a maximum capacity of 182 guests, ensuring a more intimate and personalized cruising experience. The exterior of the ships is a sight to behold, with their gleaming white hulls and dark blue accents, reflecting the colors of the water and sky.

In a Nutshell…

  1. Award-Winning Luxury: Emerald Cruises offers luxurious river cruises through Europe and Southeast Asia. Their ships have garnered acclaim for their exceptional service and innovative features.
  2. Thoughtfully Designed: With carefully considered guest numbers and an excellent staff-to-guest ratio, Emerald’s Star-Ships provide a comfortable and luxurious journey along the rivers.
  3. European Exploration: Explore Central Europe along the DanubeRhineMain, or Moselle rivers. Each destination reveals unique cultures, scenic wonders, and culinary delights.
  4. French Flavors: Cruise along the Rhône to discover the flavors of France, or explore the Douro in Portugal for a taste of its rich culture.
  5. Mystical Mekong: Uncover the mystical lands of Vietnam & Cambodia as you cruise the Mekong, immersing yourself in vibrant traditions and breathtaking landscapes.
  6. Small Ship Expertise: Emerald Cruises specializes in small ship river cruises, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience for guests.
  7. Contemporary Design: Their fleet of award-winning Star-Ships combines comfort, innovation, and contemporary styling. Expect stylish interiors and a wealth of amenities.
  8. All-Inclusive: Panoramic views, gourmet dining, and outstanding service are all included in the price. Emerald Waterways aims to make your journey unforgettable.
  9. Global Exploration: Beyond river cruises, Emerald Cruises also offers ocean-going luxury yachts, allowing you to explore unspoiled islands and bustling metropolises.
  10. Plan Your Voyage: Whether you’re dreaming of European castles, French vineyards, or Asian wonders, Emerald Cruises has a range of itineraries to suit your travel desires.

Emerald Waterways River Cruise Ships offer a literal journey of discovery, combining modern design, luxurious amenities, and exceptional service. Whether you’re relaxing in your cabin, enjoying a meal in the restaurant, or taking in the views from the Sun Deck, every moment aboard these ships is a delight. The ships’ smaller size allows for a more intimate and personalized cruising experience, making Emerald Waterways an excellent choice for those seeking a unique and memorable river cruise.

Destinations of Emerald Waterways River Cruises

  1. Central Europe: Emerald Cruises invites you to sail along the iconic rivers of Central Europe. Embark on a journey along the DanubeRhineMain, or Moselle rivers. These waterways wind through picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and historic cities. Discover the allure of medieval castles, vineyard-clad hills, and vibrant cultural hubs. Whether it’s Vienna’s classical elegance or Budapest’s lively spirit, Central Europe offers a tapestry of experiences.
  2. France: The flavors of France come alive as you cruise along the Rhône River. Explore the sun-kissed vineyards of Provence, visit the historic city of Lyon, and savor exquisite French cuisine. Alternatively, set sail on the Douro River in Portugal, where terraced vineyards produce the renowned port wine. The Douro Valley’s dramatic landscapes and charming towns await your discovery.
  3. Southeast Asia – The Mekong River: Uncover the mystical lands of Vietnam and Cambodia as you cruise the majestic Mekong River. This ancient waterway winds through lush jungles, bustling markets, and serene temples. Immerse yourself in local traditions, explore floating villages, and witness the vibrant cultures that thrive along its banks. From the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City to the ancient temples of Angkor Wat, the Mekong offers a captivating voyage of contrasts.

Conclusion

Upon boarding, guests are greeted by a spacious and elegantly designed reception area. The decor is contemporary, with a soothing color palette of neutrals and soft blues, creating a calming atmosphere. The use of glass and mirrors throughout the ship adds to the sense of space and light.

The cabins on Emerald Waterways River Cruise Ships are a highlight. Each one is a haven of comfort and luxury, with hotel-style beds, flat-screen TVs, and en-suite bathrooms. The cabins are also equipped with innovative features such as the ‘Indoor Balcony’ system. This allows the top half of the floor-to-ceiling window to drop down, transforming the cabin into an indoor balcony, offering unobstructed views of the passing scenery.

The ships’ public areas are equally impressive. The Horizon Bar and Lounge is a popular spot for guests to relax and socialize. It features a well-stocked bar, comfortable seating, and large windows offering panoramic views. The Reflections Restaurant is where guests can enjoy delicious meals, prepared by skilled chefs using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s design is elegant yet understated, with a focus on providing a comfortable dining experience.

One of the standout features of Emerald Waterways River Cruise Ships is the Sun Deck. Located at the top of the ship, it offers stunning 360-degree views of the surrounding landscape. The Sun Deck is equipped with comfortable loungers, a walking track, and even a small pool, providing guests with the perfect place to relax and take in the sights.

The ships also offer a range of amenities designed to enhance guests’ comfort and enjoyment. These include a small fitness center, a wellness area offering spa treatments, and a cinema room. The ships are also equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi, allowing guests to stay connected throughout their journey.

The Emerald Waterways River Cruise Ships sail along some of Europe’s most beautiful waterways, including the Rhine, Danube, and Douro. Each itinerary is carefully planned to offer guests a mix of scenic cruising and shore excursions. The ships’ small size allows them to dock in the heart of each destination, providing guests with easy access to local attractions.

The service aboard Emerald Waterways River Cruise Ships is exceptional. The crew is friendly and attentive, ensuring that every guest’s needs are met. They are also knowledgeable about the destinations visited, providing guests with valuable insights and tips.

In conclusion, Emerald Waterways River Cruise Ships offer a literal journey of discovery, combining modern design, luxurious amenities, and exceptional service. Whether you’re relaxing in your cabin, enjoying a meal in the restaurant, or taking in the views from the Sun Deck, every moment aboard these ships is a delight. The ships’ smaller size allows for a more intimate and personalized cruising experience, making Emerald Waterways an excellent choice for those seeking a unique and memorable river cruise.

– Reviewed by Contributing Author Silvester Thomson

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N.B. – The information on this review has been compiled by contributing author and Cruise Expert Silvester Thomson for thedigitalglobetrotter.com and is provided “as is” for the convenience of online readers. The Sources come from personal opinions, online research on official and unofficial websites, and in some cases with the help of AI generated content. It should not be taken as fact, as it can be mistaken or altered by future ship modifications from the cruise line done after review. Thedigitalglobetrotter.com does not and cannot verify all information and should not be taken as granted fact. All readers must take measures to find reliable facts by their travel agent or from the official page of the cruise line to verify any doubts.

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