River Cruising with Smithsonian Journeys

Sail Into the Heart of Your Destination

Smithsonian Journeys River Cruises ply the waters of Europe offering an exceptional travel experience noted for engagement, flexibility, comfort, and style. Aboard one of our small ships, you’ll unpack once and enjoy an informal, relaxed ambiance as you cruise from one destination to the next. In many towns and cities you’ll find a selection of included excursions to choose from to meet your personal interests,* in addition to other tours and programs designed to appeal to everyone. Throughout your river cruise you’ll be accompanied by a Smithsonian Journeys Expert who brings depth and insight to your destination. You’ll easily become acquainted with your expert and fellow travelers in the ship’s lounges and dining rooms. And you’ll get to know members from other leading cultural institutions who may share the ship with us. Yet, special gatherings such as a Smithsonian Journeys welcome reception and special Travelers Corner discussions allow for smaller, more intimate group activities. Plus, a devoted tour director will assist you in making arrangements for excursions and aboard ship. (Smithsonian Journeys groups are generally around 35 travelers, with a couple river cruises of 75 members.)

*Please note that a choice of excursions can vary from art museums or chocolate or beer tastings to bicycle or hiking tours. Activity levels for excursions requiring more rigor are noted on our website for the specific cruise.

Below: Amadeus Silver III, Cologne, Germany

Everyone on our tour—from the captain and lecturers to fellow passengers—provided friendly companionship for this beautiful adventure.

– Martha S.

Top left: Happy travelers and their Smithsonian Journeys expert Middle left: Vineyard wine tasting | Bottom left: Enjoying the camaraderie Top right: Amadeus wine bar | Middle right: Exploring the city by bike Bottom right: Exciting shore excursions

The cruise was a truly wonderful, joyous experience—the places visited were interesting and often awe-inspiring, the ship was a lovely base, and the leaders were all marvelous—and, I might add, we had a thoroughly delightful group of fellow travelers! – Becky R.