Have been wanting to go on Europe river cruise for awhile. Booked Uniworld cruise line. Best thing about Uniworld cruises is they are "all inclusive". No tipping, no signing for drinks, included tours every day in port!! There are some "optional" excursions that are not included; but we only went on two and each worth the money. Day trip to Rotenberg, Germany to see the medieval of the city; wonderful tour; and symphony in Vienna, Austria.

I have been on at least 10 ocean cruises and river cruising is completely different. Small ships (ours had 138 capacity); 40 crew; we only had 90 passengers on our cruise so you got to know everyone. Uniworld is at the top of river cruising. A number of passengers had been on 5-6 river cruises before and they all said Uniworld was a level better than any other cruise line. Viking gets the press and spends the most on advertising; but it is not in same class per those that had been on both lines.

The crew on River Empress is outstanding; service is impeccable; food is excellent and prepared as you order it for dinner. Breakfast and lunch are buffet. Beer and wine (very good wine) is free as well as most cocktails before dinner; there are a few "premium" liquors; but the regular brands were just fine. I like a martini before dinner and they served Grey Goose. Read more