River cruises have exploded in popularity and it is easy to see why. These small, luxurious vessels offer a unique experience unmatched by any other mode of travel.

So what does that have to do with wine country? As it turns out, many world class vineyards are located along rivers. This makes sense when you consider trade routes were historically near bodies of water, allowing for the shipment of wine casks throughout the old world. But rivers also play an important role for the vineyards by moderating severe climates. In the harsh German winters for example, the Mosel River warms the surrounding area to mitigate damage from cold and frost. The heat from the sun's rays reflecting on the river also helps the grapes to ripen, which can be a challenge in cold climates.

The rivers flow through the heart of the wine region, making a small vessel a convenient way to access vineyards and winery estates - with incredible views along the way. Given the size of these waterways, the river cruise ships need to be small enough to pass safely, with most ships hosting about 150 people. Sailing along the Rhône, Danube, Douro and even the Columbia River in Oregon and Washington places you squarely in the midst of the finest vineyards in the world.

Smaller barges hosting as few as four people can sail on more narrow canals through wine regions such as the Loire Valley, Champagne, Burgundy and more. Between a river cruise vessel and a barge, you have endless regions to choose from.

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As river cruising increases in popularity, the secret is getting out: this is a phenomenal way to visit wine country. Here are the top reasons why river cruising is so intriguing:

1. See several different wine regions in one trip - all without having to pack and unpack! This is a huge benefit that not only is less hassle, but maximizes your precious vacation time for exploring and relaxing. Why haul your luggage from one train station to the next, up stairs and on cobblestone streets when you can sail from one vineyard to the next (all with a glass of Champagne in hand!)

2. Drink world class wines on board, with luxury cruise lines offering premium wines all day and rare reserve wines with meals. Buy a special bottle while exploring and enjoy it on the ship with dinner. You can even bring a special bottle on board from home.

3. Learn about local wines and enjoy a variety of regional wines that are perfectly paired with local cuisine. Sample new wines you may not have heard of as well as wines you cannot find back home.

4. Instantly immerse in local culture. Since river cruises sail through interior of the country, they dock right in the heart of the town. Simply step off the ship to explore a historic village, bike through iconic vineyards or enjoy local wine in a cafe.

5. Enjoy authentic cuisine and Michelin-level dining with locally sourced ingredients. Different local dishes are highlighted throughout the cruise as well as international favorites. The best part is that chefs will go to local markets while in port to buy fresh produce and will pair their dishes with local wines.

6. Experience unique food and wine pairing dinners aboard the ship. Each sailing will typically have at least one exquisite dinner, with some boasting La Châine des Rotisseurs chefs and rare wines.

7. Enjoy the stunning wine country landscape in a truly unique way. Savor a glass of rosé on the top deck as you float by historic castles, quaint villages and rolling vineyards.

8. Get pampered with exquisite accommodations and amenities on vessels that are essentially like floating luxury hotels. Experience personalized, intimate service on small ships with large staff to guest ratios.

9. Engage in a wide variety of activities in addition to wine touring. This is especially important if you are traveling with a companion who doesn't love wine. Whether you are interested in cycling, art galleries, historic sites, culinary classes, yoga, spa - or any combination - there is something for everyone.

10. Control your daily itinerary. On a river cruise, you are not stuck with a certain activity on a given day. You will have your choice of complimentary experiences, or you can always choose to just go your own way.

11. Travel with vintners, winemakers and wine experts on special food and wine themed sailings. River cruises are very popular with wine groups because the group enjoys exclusive tastings and dinners not available to others as well a group discounts and other perks.

12. Get incredible value with rates that include accommodations, all meals, shore excursions, unlimited premium beverages, exercise classes, bike rentals, cooking classes and other diverse onboard activities.

When planning your next wine trip, you need to consider a river cruise! Given the unique proximity of rivers flowing through the heart of wine country, a cruise provides an unforgettable experience that just cannot be replicated on land.

If you are interested in learning more about traveling with a wine group, click here to send us a note. Whether you want to join an existing group or create your own, we can help you choose the itinerary and cruise line best suited to you. Cheers!