On river cruises, the world’s most spectacular destinations come to you!
If the idea of a massive cruise ship doesn’t entice you, river cruises may be the perfect solution! Small vessels, gourmet dining experiences, and enlightening journeys across Europe epitomize the allure of river cruises. They’re one of the fastest-growing travel segments today for a reason. Connect with one of our travel experts at Allied Travel for a consultation, and discover why everyone is talking about river cruises!
Nile river boat cruising through Luxor
River cruising takes you right to the heart of Europe via its grand waterways, providing you with an intimate look into the continent’s cultural and historic treasures. Immerse yourself in the quaint villages, vibrant cultural centers, and picturesque landscapes of The Netherlands, Austria, Germany, France,
Hungary and Switzerland, and unlock a whole new world of discovery.
Embarking on a river cruise across Europe is more than just a journey; it’s a leap into a treasure trove of discovery, a transformative experience that leaves you with memories and stories that last a lifetime. Let the rivers of Europe be your guide to an unforgettable adventure.
The popularity of River Cruises has swept across Europe, yet their allure isn’t limited to that one continent alone. Ever thought about how you could also embark on river cruises sailing through the mystical landscapes of Asia, the historic realms of Egypt, or even the scenic routes within the United States? Unearth wonders like grand pyramids, timeless cities, breath-taking temples, and serene pastoral vistas. Whether it’s ancient history or natural beauty, there’s an expansive world waiting to be discovered – surprisingly, some of these treasures might just be nestled right in your own backyard!
Unique features of river cruising
- A world of destinations at a more relaxed pace, giving you time to appreciate the landscapes,
culture, and people - Smaller, less-traveled ports that the bigger cruise ships can’t access
- Curated yet flexible itineraries and activities at every stop
- Exclusive shore excursions and land programs led by locals
- More time to explore cities with late-night stays
Why Allied Travel?
Allied Travel is the #1 Viking agency in the Midwest region! However, we work with all the major river cruise brands as well and our experts can help you find the perfect cruise line fit AND the perfect itinerary:
Make Your River Cruise Even More Memorable
A river cruise already promises unforgettable moments—but the right extras can make it even more personal and special. Many of our clients love adding these touches to take their cruise from amazing to truly unforgettable.
Whether it’s extending your journey with a land tour, traveling with loved ones, or making it a romantic escape, we’ll help you plan the extras that turn a great trip into your best adventure yet.
Meet Diana Rosenberg, CTC — Leisure Navigator
With over 30 years in the travel industry — including 20 years with Allied Travel — Diana Rosenberg helps travelers experience the world through culture, food, and history.
As a Certified Travel Counselor (CTC), she brings a wealth of insight to every river cruise she plans. Whether you’re sailing through Europe’s iconic waterways, exploring the castles along the Rhine, or discovering the charm of the Danube, Diana ensures your journey is seamless from the first booking to the final port.
Her favorite part of travel? Helping clients discover destinations that feel both relaxing and deeply enriching.
“I love helping clients plan trips that turn dreams into reality.”
— Diana Rosenberg, CTC
Real Stories from Our Travelers
“Just returned from a trip to London & Paris that Allied Travel helped us plan. They arranged flights, hotels and train links. Their travel specialist was very accommodating and was happy to help us keep searching till we found the hotels we wanted. These ended up being nicer than we expected. This is the second time we have used Allied Travel to help us arrange a trip to Europe. We plan on using them again for future overseas trips.”
“My husband and I were connected to Allied Travel through a friend and we could not have been happier we did. Outside of booking our own flight, they helped us find our hotels and activities while in Hawaii for our honeymoon. When one hotel put us in a different room than what we paid for, Allied Travel was on top of it and had the situation worked out within an hour…at 11 pm CST. Not being someone that enjoys trip planning, we will absolutely utilize their services for future trips!”
“Our wedding was perfect! We had around 40 family and friends at our wedding in Cancun. That was a lot of coordinating! Thankfully Allied Travel took all of the stress and worry off of our plates! They really allowed us the opportunity to enjoy our wedding and our honeymoon at another resort! The hardest part will be deciding where we want to go next! Allied Travel will do all of our resort and vacation planning from here on out! Thank you again!! 5 Stars, A+, 10/10, truly the highest praised rating available!”
River Cruise FAQs for West Des Moines Travelers
What river cruise planning services does Allied Travel offer for West Des Moines travelers?
Allied Travel helps West Des Moines travelers plan river cruise vacations from the initial research stage through final booking and travel preparation.
River cruise planning services may include:
- River cruise line recommendations
- Itinerary comparisons
- Cabin selection assistance
- Flight coordination
- Pre- and post-cruise travel planning
- Travel protection options
Having professional guidance can help simplify the planning process and make river cruise options easier to compare.
How are river cruises different from traditional ocean cruises?
River cruises offer a smaller and more destination-focused experience than most ocean cruises.
Many West Des Moines travelers choose river cruises because they often feature:
- Smaller ships
- Fewer passengers
- More time in destination cities
- Scenic views throughout the journey
- Easier access to cultural attractions
Allied Travel helps travelers compare river and ocean cruise experiences to determine which style best fits their vacation goals.
What are the most popular river cruise destinations for Allied Travel clients?
Allied Travel helps West Des Moines travelers explore river cruise destinations throughout Europe and other parts of the world.
Popular river cruise destinations may include:
- The Danube River
- The Rhine River
- The Seine River
- The Douro River
- The Nile River
Each river has its own views and stories. Travelers can choose a river trip that they like best.
Are river cruises a good option for first-time cruisers?
Yes. Many West Des Moines travelers find river cruises to be an excellent introduction to cruising.
River cruises often appeal to first-time cruisers because they typically offer:
- Smaller ships
- Simpler boarding processes
- More time in port
- Walkable destinations
- Relaxed onboard environments
Allied Travel helps new cruisers learn what to expect on a cruise.
Can Allied Travel help me choose the right river cruise line?
Yes. Allied Travel helps West Des Moines travelers compare river cruise lines based on travel style, budget, and destination preferences.
Factors often considered include:
- Included amenities
- Ship atmosphere
- Excursion options
- Dining experiences
- Cabin categories
Comparing river cruise lines side by side can help travelers select the vacation experience that best fits their expectations.
What is typically included in a river cruise vacation?
River cruises often include more built-in amenities and experiences than travelers expect.
Depending on the cruise line and itinerary, a river cruise vacation may include:
- Accommodations onboard the ship
- Daily meals
- Guided shore excursions
- Onboard entertainment
- Wi-Fi on select sailings
- Transportation between destinations along the river
Allied Travel helps people in West Des Moines look at river cruises so they can see what each one offers.
Can Allied Travel help with flights, hotels, and transportation for a river cruise?
Yes. Allied Travel helps West Des Moines travelers coordinate travel arrangements that work seamlessly with their river cruise itinerary.
Travel planning may include:
- International flights
- Pre-cruise hotel stays
- Post-cruise accommodations
- Airport transfers
- Transportation arrangements
Putting these details together can make your trip easier from the start to the end.
How far in advance should I book a river cruise?
For the best availability and itinerary selection, Allied Travel generally recommends that West Des Moines travelers begin planning a river cruise several months before departure.
Booking early may provide access to:
- Preferred cabin categories
- Popular sailing dates
- Seasonal itineraries
- Promotional offers and incentives
Travelers interested in peak-season European river cruises often benefit from planning even earlier.
Are river cruises suitable for couples, retirees, and solo travelers?
Yes. River cruises are popular because they let people see new places, learn about different cultures, and travel easily.
River cruises are often popular with:
- Couples seeking a relaxing vacation
- Retirees interested in exploring multiple destinations
- Solo travelers looking for organized travel experiences
- Friends traveling together
- Multi-generational groups
Allied Travel helps West Des Moines travelers find river cruise itineraries that align with their interests and travel style.
Does Allied Travel charge a fee for river cruise planning?
No. Allied Travel offers complimentary consultations for West Des Moines travelers interested in planning a river cruise vacation.
During a consultation, travelers can:
- Discuss travel goals
- Compare river cruise destinations
- Review itinerary options
- Ask planning questions
This allows travelers to receive professional guidance before making any river cruise booking decisions.