Inside the ASTA River Cruise Expo: My Experience in Vienna
In March, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the ASTA River Cruise Expo in Vienna — the world’s largest event dedicated to European river cruising. As a river cruise travel advisor, this was a chance to connect directly with top river cruise lines and get a first-hand look at the latest in luxury travel along the Danube, Rhine, and beyond.
Over several days, I explored 16 different ships from companies like AmaWaterways, Viking River Cruises, Amadeus, Riviera River Cruises, and Avalon Waterways. I toured suites, sampled onboard cuisine, and discovered exclusive river cruise deals that I can now offer to my clients. Some ships even featured salt therapy rooms, rooftop pools, and panoramic lounges — redefining what it means to cruise through Europe in style.
One of the highlights of the event was meeting Rudi Schreiner, the visionary co-owner of AmaWaterways. Speaking with someone who helped shape the modern river cruising experience was truly inspiring — and it gave me even more insight into what makes AmaWaterways one of the top choices for luxury river cruising.
I also attended expert-led workshops and networked with cruise executives to learn about upcoming itineraries and insider tips for destinations like Budapest, Amsterdam, Vienna, and the fairytale villages along the Danube and Rhine Rivers.
This experience reaffirmed what I already knew: the best way to explore Europe is by river. With small ship intimacy, immersive shore excursions, and no need to unpack more than once, river cruises offer unbeatable value — and I’m here to help you find the best European river cruise deals for 2025 and 2026.
Exciting news: I'm currently planning a hosted Danube River cruise group for May 2026, and you’re invited! Whether you're new to cruising or a seasoned traveler, now is the time to plan your journey.
Looking for Danube River cruise deals, Rhine River cruise specials, or expert guidance from a certified river cruise travel advisor? Let’s talk — I’d love to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.