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Forbes Travel Guide Introduces Star Ratings for River Cruises

In a groundbreaking announcement, Forbes Travel Guide (FTG) has decided to venture into the realm of river cruising by introducing its unique Star Rating system for this category. This move is particularly remarkable as it marks the first time a prestigious rating system will evaluate river cruises. FTG is known for its thorough evaluations of luxury hotels, restaurants, and ocean cruises, and now it is extending its esteemed ratings to river cruises—one of the fastest-growing segments of the travel industry.

Starting in 2027, FTG will unveil its inaugural river cruise ratings, which will encompass assessments in over 100 countries. This initiative reflects the rising popularity of river cruising among discerning travelers seeking immersive and luxurious travel experiences. According to Amanda Frasier, President of Ratings for Forbes Travel Guide, “River cruising has quickly become one of the most sought-after ways to explore the world in comfort and style.”

A New Era for River Cruising

The decision to establish a rating system for river cruises comes at a time when these journeys are experiencing remarkable growth in demand. As travelers increasingly seek slower-paced luxury experiences, cruise lines are delivering heightened service quality and exceptional itineraries. FTG aims to recognize and reward these companies in the river cruise sector, which includes prominent routes such as the Danube, Rhine, Nile, and Mekong rivers.

Potential brands that will be rated include well-known names in the river cruise industry, such as AmaWaterways, Aqua Expeditions, Avalon Waterways, Riverside Luxury Cruises, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, and Viking River Cruises. With these ratings, responsibility for establishing high standards in service will similarly fall upon river cruise companies, who will need to engage with FTG's rigorous evaluation process to achieve recognition.

The Evaluation Process

Forbes Travel Guide awards its ratings—Five-Star, Four-Star, and Recommended—based on meticulous in-person inspections carried out by anonymous inspectors. These inspectors assess properties against hundreds of defined standards with an emphasis on exceptional service. Importantly, FTG maintains a strict stance against conflicts of interest; no organization can purchase a rating, nor does the company charge fees for its reviews. This ensures that consumers receive the most genuine and thus reliable insights into their travel choices.

The meticulous evaluation process is also transparent, aimed at giving travelers confidence in their selections, ensuring they choose from the absolute best in luxury travel. The company's next significant announcement will be the 2026 Star Ratings, which set to be unveiled on February 11, 2026, on their official website.

What This Means for Travelers

For travelers, this new rating system means a solid benchmark for evaluating river cruise options on the market. With the diverse offerings available, potential travelers can now consult FTG's ratings to make informed decisions about their river cruise experiences. As more cruisers look for unique experiences that go beyond traditional ocean cruises, the ability to access reputable ratings will enhance consumers' confidence in selecting high-quality service providers.

For those who love world travel via waterways, the debut of FTG’s river cruise ratings is not just a rating but a reflective peek into what is becoming a notable sector within the travel industry. With river cruises combining comfort, culture, and breathtaking scenery, their forecasted growth seems to ensure they will become a mainstay in the travel offerings available to luxury travelers. As the announcement of these inaugural ratings approaches in 2027, anticipation grows for consumers excited to explore the future of river cruising with verified assurance of quality through FTG’s distinguished ratings.

For further updates and insights, travelers can follow Forbes Travel Guide's channels on various media platforms or visit their official website.