Amadeus Silver II

Well-Designed Cabins: The 188 square-foot staterooms have panoramic windows, and an additional 12 suites (which clock in at 284 square feet) have balconies, plus a generous walk-in closet and a bathroom with a glass shower that is remarkably large by river cruise standards.

Dinner and Unlimited Wine: High-quality meals are accompanied by a superb selection of complimentary German and Austrian wines.

Relaxing Ambiance: The Panorama Lounge and Bar is the focal hub by day and night. And when it’s warm enough, the sun deck — which has a shuffle board, chess board, and loungers — is a great place to watch the scenery unfold.

À La Carte Excursion Package: You can book all of your excursions for the trip in advance at a discounted rate, but reasonably priced tours are also available for individual purchase at each destination.

Culture Vultures: This ship takes you to some of Europe's most stunning scenery from Amsterdam to Basel, including the Lorelei stretch of the Rhine River, with its mythological associations of luring sailors with a siren's song. The ship's concierge will help you plan travel arrangements, and you can borrow the bicycles on board to explore at your own pace.

Few Entertainment Options: Everyone is welcome to attend the cultural performances that take place in the Panorama Bar (classical music specialists or traditional German bands that highlight the region, for example) — just don't expect to be blown away.