Honest comparison
Riverside vs. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
The closest comparison in the category. Choose Uniworld for the wider choice of rivers and its maximalist, antique-filled interiors; choose Riverside for a butler in every category, larger suites and the ability to sail for three nights instead of seven.
The short answer
Which is better, Riverside or Uniworld Boutique River Cruises?
The closest comparison in the category. Choose Uniworld for the wider choice of rivers and its maximalist, antique-filled interiors; choose Riverside for a butler in every category, larger suites and the ability to sail for three nights instead of seven.
Side by side
| Riverside | Uniworld Boutique River Cruises | |
|---|---|---|
| Butler service | Every suite, every category | Top suite categories only |
| Accommodation | 100% suites | Mix of staterooms and suites |
| Shore excursions | Unlimited, included | Included |
| Journey lengths | 3–14 nights, combinable | Typically 7+ nights |
| Fleet size | 3 ships | Much larger fleet |
| Rivers covered | Danube, Rhine, Rhône | Most of Europe, plus Nile and Asia |
Where Uniworld Boutique River Cruises wins
- A far larger fleet covering many more European rivers, plus Egypt and Asia
- Distinctive, heavily-decorated interiors with a real point of view
- Longer track record and a deeper bench of itineraries
- Included excursions and drinks, much like Riverside
Where Riverside wins
- Butler service in every suite category, not just the top tiers
- Larger average suite size, and 100% suites across the fleet
- Roughly one crew member per two guests
- Journeys from three nights, combinable back to back
- Five dining venues on a 110-guest ship
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Riverside or Uniworld Boutique River Cruises?
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