If you’ve only experienced ocean cruises, river cruising may surprise you in ways you never expected. From docking steps from cafés and castles to watching ships navigate tight locks and low bridges, discover 10 unique river cruise experiences that make this style of travel feel immersive, relaxing, and completely different from ocean cruising.

Sailing the U.S. rivers has continued to grow in popularity resulting in more ships being built here for that purpose. But due to Covid,...