U.S. News Releases Its First-Ever River Cruise Line Rankings

For the very first time, U.S. News & World Report – publisher of Best Hotels, Best Vacations and Best Cruise Lines – has released the Best River Cruise Lines list. 

The inaugural 2026-2027 river cruise line ranking names AmaWaterways, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, and Viking River Cruises as the top three, respectively. U.S. News’ creation of the new ranking category is a testament to the recent explosion of the river cruise segment in the U.S. travel market. 

“River cruising offers travelers a unique and intimate way to explore the world’s most beautiful destinations,” said Nicola Wood, senior editor of Travel at U.S. News. “Our inaugural Best River Cruise Lines ranking provides a data-backed, comprehensive evaluation – combining expert analysis with traveler sentiment and a deep dive into crucial features like all-inclusive pricing and onboard amenities – to help travelers confidently select the perfect voyage for them.”   

The full 2026-2027 Best River Cruise Line rankings from U.S. News are: 

1. AmaWaterways 
2. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises 
3. Viking River Cruises 
4. Avalon Waterways 
5. Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours 
6. Riverside Luxury Cruises 
7. American Cruise Lines 
8. Tauck 
9. Emerald Cruises
10. CroisiEurope 

U.S. News analyzed the 10 river cruise lines and ranked them based on seven criteria scored by U.S. News editors and industry leaders. Panelists also factored in industry accolades, all-inclusive pricing, shore excursion inclusions, onboard amenities, and itinerary diversity. Inclusion in the list of 10 means that these river cruise lines are deemed best in the industry. 

Here’s what the publication had to say about what made each of the top three river cruise lines stand out. 

AmaWaterways 

“The line offers unique onboard amenities like spas and pickleball courts. A standout feature is the convenient ‘twin-balcony’ stateroom design, which includes both a French balcony and a walk-out veranda.” 

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises   

“The line includes more than one complimentary shore excursion per port and provides an appealing staff-to-guest ratio of one crew member for every 2.4 travelers.” 

Viking River Cruises 

“The line operates a large fleet of 80-plus river ships, offering a wide selection of sailing dates – especially in Europe. Viking also features domestic river routes along the Mississippi River and maintains a luxurious, adults-only atmosphere.”