River Cruising Masterclass

In this episode, join us as we dive into the world of Viking River Cruises with special guest Mary Trotter from Viking. Discover what makes Viking a standout choice for river cruising enthusiasts, from its adults-only policy to its focus on English-speaking travelers. Learn about Viking's fascinating history and how it has grown to become a leader in river cruising with 80 ships sailing European rivers.

Mary shares insights into the unique experiences Viking offers, including exclusive tours and privileged access to iconic destinations like the Vienna Boys Choir and Highclere Castle. Explore bucket list destinations, such as the Rhine Getaway and Antarctica, and learn about the unforgettable cultural connections Viking provides to its guests.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or new to river cruising, this episode offers a glimpse into the exceptional service and immersive experiences that Viking River Cruises delivers. Get ready to be inspired to embark on your own Viking adventure!

Join us for an exciting episode featuring Mary from Viking Cruises as we embark on a journey down the Lower Mississippi aboard the Viking Mississippi. Mary shares her recent experiences and highlights from this unique cruise, offering insights into the ship's design and accessibility features. Discover how Viking stands out with its sleek, Nordic-inspired design, contrasting with the traditional Americana look of other U.S. river ships.

Explore the captivating "New Orleans and Southern Charms" itinerary, a round trip from New Orleans running from November to January. Immerse yourself in the culture and history of the South with tours of stunning mansions, battlefields, and exclusive access experiences like a soul food and music tour. Enjoy the vibrant nightlife of New Orleans with overnight stays, and explore the city's rich cultural heritage.

Mary delves into how the Viking Mississippi brings the region's culture to life on board, with daily local entertainment, a diverse selection of regional music, and a culinary focus on Cajun cuisine. Learn about the ship's unique features, including a two-story Explorers Lounge, an infinity pool, and a library filled with American tales.

Whether you're a history buff, a music lover, or a foodie, the Viking Mississippi offers something for everyone. Discover the allure of the Mississippi River and the charm of the South with Viking Cruises.

Join Sydney and Brian from AmaWaterways as they dive into the fascinating world of river cruising with AmaWaterways. With 31 ships navigating rivers worldwide, AmaWaterways offers a unique experience that combines luxury with a welcoming atmosphere. Discover the story of Rudy Schreiner, the "godfather of North American river cruising," and the passion that drives the AmaWaterways team.

Brian shares insights into the diverse destinations you can explore, from the historic rivers of Europe to the exotic Mekong River in Southeast Asia and the adventurous Chobe River safari in Africa. Learn about the signature experiences that set AmaWaterways apart, including unpretentious luxury, gourmet dining, and wellness activities onboard.

The episode also highlights the evolving demographics of river cruisers, with AmaWaterways attracting a younger, well-traveled audience eager for cultural immersion and historical exploration. Discover the exciting new ventures AmaWaterways is embarking on, including the introduction of cruises on Colombia's Magdalena River.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or new to river cruising, this episode provides an engaging look at what makes AmaWaterways a standout choice for exploring the world's waterways. Don't miss out on the chance to learn about the unique experiences and upcoming adventures that await with AmaWaterways.

Join Sydney Schellinger, owner and travel advisor at The Poodle Booked It, as she delves into the captivating world of U.S. river cruises. This month, her Facebook group, "Sail the Rivers: Tips and Destinations," focuses on the lesser-known treasures of U.S. river cruising. In this episode, Sydney highlights a fascinating journey along the upper Mississippi River, from St. Louis to St. Paul, sharing insights into the historical significance and unique attractions of each port along the way.

Discover the rich history of St. Louis, from its founding in 1764 to its role as the gateway to the West. Learn about iconic landmarks like the Gateway Arch and indulge in local delicacies such as the gooey butter cake. As the journey continues, explore Hannibal, Missouri, the hometown of Mark Twain, and its ties to famous figures like the unsinkable Molly Brown. Sydney shares intriguing historical tidbits and culinary delights, including fried catfish, that await travelers in this charming town.

The adventure extends to Burlington, Iowa, a city steeped in railroad and river port history. Sydney guides listeners through must-see attractions, like the Garrett-Phelps House Museum, and offers insights into optional excursions such as exploring the Church of Jesus of Latter-day Saints' history. Discover the vibrant Quad Cities, home to the iconic John Deere and a hub of cultural heritage and agriculture. Sydney highlights key attractions, including the John Deere Pavilion and the renowned Bix Brodenbuck Memorial Jazz Festival.

Finally, Sydney unveils the allure of Dubuque, Iowa, a city rich in 19th-century heritage and scenic beauty. From lead mining history to modern cultural evolutions, Dubuque offers a unique blend of past and present. Whether you're a history buff, a culinary enthusiast, or a lover of scenic landscapes, this episode promises to inspire and inform anyone considering a river cruise through America's heartland.

Join Sydney Skellinger, owner of Poodle Booked Travel Agency, as she delves into the captivating world of U.S. river cruising. This episode offers a comprehensive introduction to river cruises within the United States, focusing on the appeal of these intimate and accessible journeys.

Discover why river cruises are gaining popularity, with only two major companies, American Cruise Line and Viking, leading the market. Learn about the unique experiences offered, from exploring charming small towns to enjoying the local culture and cuisine without the hassle of long-haul flights.

Understand the differences between river and ocean cruises, such as smaller, more personalized vessels, included shore excursions, and the luxury of unpacking just once. Sydney highlights popular U.S. routes like the Mississippi, Columbia, and Hudson Rivers, each offering its own distinct attractions, from Civil War history to natural beauty.

Get a sneak peek into next week's episode featuring Mary from Viking River Cruises, who will discuss the Mississippi cruise. Sydney also shares a teaser of upcoming episodes focusing on holiday-themed cruises in Europe.

Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or seeking a unique travel experience, this episode provides valuable insights into the world of U.S. river cruising. Tune in to explore these hidden gems and plan your next unforgettable adventure.

Join host Sydney Schellinger in this exciting episode of the River Cruise Masterclass as she delves into the top river cruises you should consider for 2025. Discover unique destinations like the Magdalena River in Colombia, where you can experience vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes before it becomes a popular hotspot.

Explore the majestic Nile River in Egypt with Uniworld, a perfect way to welcome the New Year amidst stunning ancient temples and luxurious settings. Sydney also shares her experiences from a Rhine River cruise, highlighting the beauty of the Rhine Gorge and the delightful Tulip Festival.

Wine enthusiasts will enjoy the exploration of France's Bordeaux region, while those seeking something different can learn about the fascinating Brahmaputra River cruise in India. Discover new luxury offerings like Riverside Luxury Cruises and Uniworld's sail and rail program, which combines train journeys with river cruising.

For adventure seekers, the Peruvian Amazon cruise offers a chance to explore the rainforest's unique wildlife. And finally, Avalon Waterways presents an exquisite journey through the south of France, featuring cultural and culinary excursions.

Tune in to learn more about these incredible river cruises and find the perfect adventure to add to your bucket list. Share your favorite picks in the comments and join the conversation on river cruising's diverse and captivating experiences.

Join us in this exciting episode as we dive into the enchanting world of Portugal's Douro River with Brian from AmaWaterways. Discover why this stunning river is one of the hottest destinations for travelers and why May 2026 is the perfect time to embark on this journey. Learn about the unique experiences awaiting you, from the vibrant cities of Lisbon and Porto to the serene landscapes of the Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Area.

Explore the cultural immersion offered by AmaWaterways, including exclusive off-ship dining experiences with traditional Portuguese music and wine tasting. Discover the intimate charm of AmaWaterways' smaller ships, designed to offer a more personalized experience with only 100 guests onboard. Get insights into the ship's amenities, including spacious balcony rooms and a pool, perfect for enjoying the scenic daytime cruising.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a first-time river cruiser, this episode is packed with valuable insights and tips for making the most of your Douro River adventure. Don't miss out on the opportunity to learn about the warm hospitality of the Portuguese people and the unforgettable experiences that await you on this captivating journey.

Join me and my best friend, Daniel Martinez, for a fun and candid conversation about European river cruising from a millennial’s perspective. In this episode of The Poodle Booked It Podcast, Daniel shares what it was really like on his first river cruise in Europe — from the highlights and surprises to what he’d do differently next time.

We talk about what inspired him to book a river cruise after COVID, how affordable luxury makes it more attainable than you’d think, and why river cruising offers deeper cultural immersion than most ocean cruises. Daniel breaks down his favorite parts of the experience — like exploring multiple European cities without unpacking, included excursions, local cuisine and wine, and the laid-back pace that lets you actually enjoy each destination.

We also chat about how to choose the right river cruise line, why extra pre- and post-cruise days are worth it, and what younger travelers should know before setting sail. Plus, Daniel shares insider stories from Vienna’s nightlife, his top European destinations, and practical tips for anyone considering their first river cruise.

If you’ve ever wondered whether river cruising is just for retirees, think again. This episode is packed with first-hand insights, travel tips, and honest advice to help you plan your own European river cruise adventure — whether it’s your first trip or your fifteenth.