Since 1976, CroisiEurope has charted a unique course through Europe’s waterways and beyond offering travelers a charming, relaxed way to see iconic cities and hidden gems alike. Born in Strasbourg as a small river cruise operator, today the company stands as Europe’s leading river cruise line.
A Legacy of Family, Intimacy and Innovation
Originally known as Alsace Croisières, the company was rebranded as CroisiEurope in 1997. Founded by Gérard Schmitter, the enterprise has remained family owned and independent now captained by the next generations.
From the very first vessels in the early 1980s, CroisiEurope focused on operating smaller scale ships a principle that continues today. Their fleet of around 50 vessels accommodates modest passenger numbers (16 to 200 depending on the ship), ensuring tranquil cruises, easier access to city centers, and an atmosphere that feels more personal than typical mega liners.
That same spirit of intimacy is paired with innovation: the company designs and constructs its own ships, tailoring each to the specificities of rivers, canals or seas and evolving constantly to meet environmental, technical and guest comfort standards.
Where Can CroisiEurope Take You?
One of the biggest strengths of CroisiEurope is the variety of destinations. Their cruises sail on major European rivers the Rhine, Danube, Seine, Rhône, Douro, Loire, and more and weave through charming canals and scenic waterways.
But that’s not all: CroisiEurope also offers coastal and sea cruises. Their Mediterranean Adriatic itineraries and Adriatic Mediterranean ships make possible voyages along the coasts of Croatia, Italy and other Mediterranean countries.
For travelers craving something further afield, CroisiEurope extends beyond Europe to rivers such as the Mekong in Southeast Asia or unique safari cruises in Southern Africa.
With more than 170 itineraries across about 38 countries, the breadth of options is impressive and continually expanding.
What the Experience is Like on Board
Life on a CroisiEurope cruise tends to be relaxed, scenic and convenient. On their small to mid-size ships, you can expect: panoramic windows, intimate lounges, comfortable cabins, and closeness to ports often docking right in the heart of cities, making sightseeing before or after dinner easy.
Another plus: many cruises come as “all-in” packages. Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) are typically included, with a variety of local and regional dishes a great way to discover regional cuisine while gliding along a river.
CroisiEurope’s team emphasizes friendly service and a family style atmosphere. Because the company remains independent and family run, there’s often a personal touch in guest care that can be missing on larger ships.
Why CroisiEurope Stands Out
- Unmatched Destination Variety: From the Seine in Paris to the Douro in Portugal, and from the Mekong in Asia to a safari cruise in Africa CroisiEurope offers both classic European routes and exotic adventures.
- Value for Money: Thanks to in-house ship ownership and direct management of operations, CroisiEurope can price their cruises more affordably than many large cruise lines, while still delivering quality service.
- Intimate, Relaxed Atmosphere: Small to mid size ships mean fewer passengers, easy disembarkation near city centers, and a calm, friendly onboard ambience ideal for travelers who prefer peace over crowds.
- Flexibility & Range: Whether you want a short 3-night getaway, a cultural tour, a full European river journey, or an exotic overseas cruise there’s a CroisiEurope itinerary for you.
Who Should Consider a CroisiEurope Cruise?
- Couples or small groups who prefer quiet, relaxed travel rather than large ship hustle.
- Culture lovers and slow travel fans who enjoy exploring cities, countryside and heritage sites by boat without packing and unpacking across hotels.
- Travelers seeking value quality cruises at more accessible prices than many luxury lines.
- Adventurers craving unique destinations those wanting to combine cruising with a safari, or explore rivers outside Europe.
Final Thoughts
If you dream of gliding quietly through European landscapes while enjoying local food, history and culture or want to explore distant rivers or coastlines in comfort CroisiEurope offers a compelling mix of intimacy, variety and value.
From the canals of Alsace to the waters of the Mekong, from heart of city docks to serene countryside moorings, CroisiEurope shows that cruising doesn’t need to mean crowds and megaships. For a travel experience that’s personal, scenic and enriching, it remains one of the top choices for river and sea cruise lovers.
