The luxury paddle steamer is the future of river cruising

 The river cruise has traditionally been the sedate cousin of big-sea cruising, especially welcome if the idea of mega multi-floored ocean ships doesn’t appeal.

Gliding up the Rhine or ticking off country after country along the Danube has a markedly different feel to trying out umpteen restaurants, watching West End-style shows and clocking up lengths in the onboard pool.

But how about a different kind of river cruise experience? One that combines the convenience of sailing right into the heart of a destination with more space: bigger staterooms with view-snatching balconies, more bars and al-fresco dining? Perhaps even a private plunge pool?

Drawing inspiration from the classic Mississippi paddle steamers, a new fleet of vessels is taking river cruising to new heights, opening up far-flung destinations such as the Zambezi, the Nile and the Amazon, and taking European river travel in an exciting new direction. Tempted? Here are some of the best on offer this year and next.

The Mississippi

There’s no better way to experience the nostalgia of paddle wheel ships than on the mighty Mississippi. American Cruise Lines has four classic ships (hosting between 110 to 180 passengers) plying both the Columbia and Mississippi rivers. They boast the largest staterooms in this river ship category, so expect generous balconies and extensive sun-decks, as well as rocking chairs, cosy reading nooks and roomy lounges.

Book it

American Cruise Lines (0800 988 3369) has the seven-night Lower Mississippi cruise on American Splendor from £5,899pp, including return UK flights, two nights’ accommodation in New Orleans, two nights’ accommodation at Graceland and VIP tickets to Graceland. Departs July 6 2026.

The Zambezi

From the spacious to the intimate, AmaWaterways’ Zambezi Queen accommodates 28 guests in suites designed to give unobstructed views of the Chobe river (a Zambezi tributary) and surrounding landscapes. Expect to be gently woken by the sight and sounds of elephants enjoying a morning splash. The eco-friendly Zambezi Queen uses water jet propulsion, low-emission power and solar heating, while its floor-to-ceiling windows maximise wildlife watching.

Book it

AmaWaterways (0800 520 2250) has the nine-night Discover Africa itinerary which includes three nights in Cape Town, a four-night cruise and two nights at Victoria Falls. Prices start at £10,946pp including return flights from London or Manchester. Departs November 20, 2026.

The Ganges

With elegant Indian colonial-style interiors, dark woods and traditional textiles, the Ganges Voyager is a grand option if the idea of being transported to a bygone era appeals. The boutique river ship accommodates 35 guests in roomy suites with panoramic balconies. Daily cocktails are included, while the teak-floored Maharaja suite also includes butler service.

Book it

APT Touring (0800 012 6683) has the 12-day Kolkata and Lower Ganges Cruise, featuring three nights in Kolkata and seven nights onboard the Ganges Voyager, from £5,795pp including home-to-airport transfers and return flights. Departs September 13 2025.

The Nile

The name of Tui’s Bahareya river cruise ship means “belongs to the river”, and with its modern Arabic-inspired interiors, French balconies and pristine white exterior, it certainly looks the part. Aesthetics aside, it’s also a fraction of the price of most other Nile river ships. Its Ancient Gods and Famous Pharaohs cruise includes excursions to the Temple of Horus in Edfu and the Kim Ombo Temple.