Zambezi Queen Collection – Image courtesy of Zambezi Queen

Image courtesy of Sanctuary Retreats

Exploring China via a river route – in particular the Yangzi River – is an utterly unique experience. There is no better luxury mode of transport through China’s largest waterway than aboard the Sanctuary Yangzi Explorer. Unveiling brand new interiors this past month (March 2017), the Sanctuary Yangzi explorer will offer a luxurious yet authentic aesthetic. All twenty-four suites onboard underwent dramatic transformations, now featuring wooden trellis walls, authentic Chinese artwork, stylish textiles and soft furnishings. Equally as impeccably designed, the other thirty-eight deluxe rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows, providing access to private balconies with outdoor armchairs and coffee tables. Cruise itineraries include stops in Fengdu, Chongqing, and Yichang – just to name a few.

Image courtesy of Aqua Expeditions

Launching in 2015, the one hundred forty-foot-long Aria Amazon provides river voyagers with an unparalled level of service and accommodation. Extremely generous dining and lounging areas include an outdoor, river-facing Jacuzzi. Furthermore, each guest cabin boasts floor-to-ceiling windows and are situated close to the water level, bestowing guests with remarkable views that seemingly immerse them into the surrounding nature. If you opt not to relax in the Jacuzzi, you can always hop off the vessel and join one of the four professionally-trained naturalist guides on an expedition through the Amazon rainforest.

Image courtesy of Belmond

Burgundy should truly be about floating and dining, surrounded by wine and decadent food. Belmond, with Fleur De Lys, brings this to a literal level, as patrons explore the beautiful countryside of Burgundy aboard a small one hundred and twenty-nine foot long vessel that only carries a mere six passengers. Guests aboard will travel from Dijon to Vandenesse-En-Auxois, stopping at chateaux and vineyards along the way. While aboard, take a dip in the heated pool or enjoy the stylish Indian accents in your luxurious cabin.

Image courtesy of Zambezi Queen

When one thinks of an African safari, your mind tends to envision the landlocked wildlife across the bush. The Zambezi Queen redefines the notion of an African safari as it brings travellers to the water. On the Zambezi, guests are surrounded by all sorts of wildlife – from elephants and hippopotami, to endangered bird species and zebras. The Zambezi Queen is undoubtedly the most luxurious vessel on the river, dubbing itself “a floating boutique hotel in a class of her own.” The houseboat offers fourteen tasteful and luxurious suites, all with outer decks so you can soak up and appreciate uninterrupted views of the unique African landscape beyond.

Image courtesy of Belmond

Cruising along the Ayeyarwady River, Belmond Road to Mandalay is unrivalled in style. The forty-two cabins in this graceful river cruise seamlessly blend tradition and luxury. The boat also has a large pool on the upper-deck, where guests can take in views of the rolling mountains. Guests can also take advantage of Asian spirituality with the yoga program offered aboard. Cruise itineraries include stops in Ava, Bagan, and Mandalay – just to name a few.