Our author, Fay deHaas, world travel expert, shares her amazing adventure with us. Fay, who is a Service Provider on our site, recently told Solo Agers Connect all about her Expo excursion in Vienna. Anyone curious about river cruising in Europe or looking for solo travel or a travel adventure with a group, read on!

This year, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Vienna to attend the River Cruise Expo—and what an experience it was. Imagine 14 river cruise ships docked side by side along the Danube, welcoming us aboard for tours, training seminars, and meals. It was a rare and immersive way to truly get to know the ships, the service, and the spirit of each brand. This year’s American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) River Cruise Expo wasn’t just a trade event; it was a masterclass in the art of river cruise travel.

My Front-Row Seat to Innovation 

I’ve sailed many times with AmaWaterways, Avalon, and Uniworld, and this trip gave me my first hands-on experience with Viking. Even with that background, seeing everything side by side brought a whole new layer of understanding. It allowed me to really fine-tune how I guide my clients—not just based on brochures, but from real-time experience.

Walking the decks of ships like Viking’s Rinda, with its sleek Scandinavian design and glass-walled Aquavit Terrace, I saw how river cruising balances tradition with modernity. Viking’s Longships—pioneers in the industry—showcase open  layouts and destination-focused excursions, including UNESCO site visits and hands-on cultural experiences (think cuckoo clock workshops and beer dinners). Meanwhile, Uniworld’s S.S. Maria Theresa dazzled with opulent Baroque interiors, proving that river ships can feel like floating palaces.

AmaWaterways has built a strong reputation for combining innovation with heart. It offers destination-focused dining, thoughtfully designed excursions, personal fitness trainers, and pickleball. From guided bicycle tours to sipping wine on a sundeck enjoying a panoramic view, there’s something for everyone. Rudi Schreiner, CEO of the cruise line, has a deep love of travel and has trekked across the world on extraordinary adventures. His pioneering vision has helped shape the modern river cruise experience, and for AmaWaterways, resulted in 31 modern ships carrying travelers across rivers throughout Europe, Asia, and Africa. Today, Rudi remains co-founder and co-owner of the cruise line.

Human Connection is at the Heart of River Cruising

And here’s what I walked away with: every river cruise line offers something beautiful and social. Whether you’re cruising through the Douro, the Danube, or the Rhône, there’s a sense of community on board—you meet people, share meals, and by the end, it almost feels like family.

You can even make lifelong friends—many travelers end up planning future cruises together.

Tailoring the Journey

Some lines lean a little more toward boutique or luxury in style. Uniworld, for example, with its high design and artistic flair is luxurious. Others, like AmaWaterways, may offer more active excursions and contemporary touches. But all of them share that special river cruise magic: connection, culture, and camaraderie.

That’s the heart of river cruising—and that’s where I come in to fulfill your travel dreams. I know that it’s not about which cruise is “best.” It’s about which cruise is best for you. Your pace, your interests, your travel style. And that’s what I love about what I do. Working with a professional who’s been there, sailed it, and walked the decks makes all the difference in having a good vacation and an exceptional adventure.

 

 

 

 

Why Expertise Matters  

Having sailed with AmaWaterways, Avalon, and Uniworld, I thought I knew river cruising—but seeing 14 ships side by side revealed nuances no brochure could capture.

Why work with a travel advisor?

• I’ve experienced the ships myself and know the differences that matter.
• I can match you with a cruise that fits your vibe, your pace, your budget.
• I help you navigate pre- and post-cruise planning with ease.
• And most of all—I’m here to make sure the experience feels personal and seamless.

I work with clients all over the United States. My goal is to fulfill your travel dreams. Let’s find the river cruise that feels like it was designed just for you. I would love to hear about the next amazing adventure you want to have and be part of making that dream come true. I am inspired to start planning trips for people over 60 – couples, solo travelers, and groups – looking for exceptional travel experiences.

About the Author

Fay DeHaas is a Certified Travel Associate and Master Cruise Counselor with a passion for experiencing the world. She believes that the best way to travel is by connecting with the people and cultures of the places we visit. She is based in Connecticut and plans travel for clients living all over the United States.

Meet Fay and contact her for more information about her travel services HERE .

You can stay informed of upcoming trips by following Fay on Facebook HERE and on Instagram HERE.