Forbes Travel Guide to Launch Unique Star Rating System for River Cruises

Forbes Travel Guide Announces Star Rating System for River Cruises

In an exciting development for the travel industry, Forbes Travel Guide (FTG), recognized globally for its esteemed rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, and spas, has unveiled plans to introduce a star rating system specifically for river cruises. This marks a significant milestone in the cruise sector, as FTG aims to set new standards for quality and service in what has become an increasingly popular choice for travelers seeking elegant and immersive experiences.

Amanda Frasier, President of Ratings at Forbes Travel Guide, emphasized the importance of this move, stating, "River cruises are rapidly becoming one of the most coveted ways to explore the world in comfort and style. We are witnessing an exciting evolution in this category, with cruise lines providing high-quality service and specializing in immersive itineraries that cater to today’s discerning travelers. As the demand for luxury travel grows at a more relaxed pace, FTG takes pride in extending its trusted ratings to this flourishing segment."

The first round of river cruise ratings by FTG is set to be announced in 2027, when they will reveal their highly anticipated Annual Star Rating across more than 100 countries. This innovative rating system aims to honor river cruises operating on renowned waterways such as the Danube, Rhine, Nile, and Mekong, highlighting acclaimed brands including AmaWaterways, Aqua Expeditions, Avalon Waterways, Riverside Luxury Cruises, Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours / Emerald Cruises, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, and Viking River Cruises.

Forbes Travel Guide currently evaluates over 2,000 properties annually, awarding them Five Star, Four Star, or Recommended recognitions. The star ratings are achieved through in-person, anonymous inspections based on hundreds of objective standards, with an emphasis on exceptional service. Notably, no entity can purchase a rating, ensuring the integrity of the evaluation process without any fees, commissions, or business relationships influencing the outcome.

The 2026 star ratings will soon be disclosed on forbestravelguide.com on February 11, 2026. This forthcoming addition to FTG's offerings is expected to elevate the river cruise industry, encouraging companies to enhance their service delivery and customer satisfaction.

As river cruising continues to grow as a favored travel option, the introduction of a structured, recognized rating system will provide travelers with a reliable framework to make informed decisions. Meaningful ratings can serve as a guide in navigating the diverse offerings of river cruise providers, ensuring that travelers can select experiences that best fit their desires for luxury and exploration.

Connect with Forbes Travel Guide on social media to keep updated on their latest announcements and initiatives. Follow them on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook to engage with their travel community and share in the excitement of what’s to come in luxury river cruising.

About Forbes Travel Guide

Forbes Travel Guide is the only global rating system for luxury hotels, restaurants, and spas, as well as their dining venues. Their team of professional inspectors conducts thorough evaluations based on a stringent set of standards focusing on exceptional service to guide discerning travelers towards the best experiences worldwide. To learn more about Forbes Travel Guide, visit ForbesTravelGuide.com.