Recently, river cruises have become more and more popular. Different from ocean cruises, river cruises is an intimate experience that offers the travelers chances and opportunities to see the riverside views along the way. But river cruises don’t come cheap, so if you’re going to, you have to know some smart ways to score the best deals. With a bit of advance planning, research and flexibility, you can do a sumptuous river cruise without breaking the bank.

1. Book Early or Last Minute

When it is about the best river cruise deals, timing is everything. Many cruise lines provide early-bird bonuses for guests who reserve their sailings months in advance. These deals often come with things like free upgrades on cabins and free shore excursions or onboard credits. Cruise lines eager to fill cabins, meanwhile, may be offering deep discounts on last-minute bookings. That may take a certain amount of flexibility, but if you’re a crazy traveler it can be a great system.

2. Travel During the Shoulder Season

Prices of river cruise vary based on the season. Peak seasons (summer in Europe or holiday periods) also tend to get the highest prices. To save money, consider scheduling your trip in the shoulder season, the period between high and low season. For instance, in Europe, spring and fall provide moderate weather, smaller crowds and reduced rates. Also, visit during off-peak season to get a very different, more intimate experience.

3. Compare the Different Lines

There's large variation in price depending on the operator and itinerary and not all river cruise lines are equal. Compare what the different cruise lines have to offer, what is included, and the prices. Some luxury lines offer these extras as part of the experience, while others add charges for them. Also look to less-traveled itineraries or emerging destinations, as they can often be less expense than more popular routes, like the Danube or Rhine.

4. Leverage Special Promotions

Cruise lines often have special offers like “buy one, get one free” rates, special prices for solo travelers or lower deposits. To learn about these offers, sign up for newsletters from and follow cruise lines on social media. Cruise-specific travel agencies and online sites might also offer exclusive deals or package discounts that one cannot find booking directly with a cruise line.

5. Work with a Travel Agent

When looking for the best river cruise deals, an experienced travel agent can be a powerful ally. They usually have access to the best deals, group prices, and industry knowledge about future sales. Travel agents also have a way of explaining the stages of cruise pricing, which can be complicated.

6. Consider Group Travel

Group travel can save you a lot of money. Most cruise lines provide group rates for eight or more, which might include discounted rates, free cabins or onboard credits. This can be a great way to save money if you're considering a family reunion, destination wedding or group getaway.

7. Seek All Inclusive Packages

Although the sticker price for all-inclusive river cruises can appear steep, they tend to be more cost-effective over a period of time. They often come with meals, drinks, excursions and gratuities, too, so you shouldn't have to spend any money on your trip outside of your package.

So if you book in advance, shop around what’s on offer and use promotional offers to your advantage, the very best river cruise experience need not come at a price you can’t afford, in summary. From floating down the vineyards of France to touring the ancient castles of the Rhine or soaking up the myriad cultures of Southeast Asia, a river cruise offers a singular way to experience the world. Keep these tips in mind; soon, you'll find been doing the perfect deal for having your next adventure.