When it comes to river cruising, regardless of which ship you choose, your trip is guaranteed to be an effortless one. Gazing out of your stateroom window as the perfect scenery glides by, before arriving right in the heart of another fantastic town or city is arguably the best way to see the world. However, there is always a way to make these holidays even more luxurious.

Choosing a ship that is entirely made up of suite accommodation means that you’ll have everything you need. You can look forward to premium toiletries, the finest linens, attractive mod-cons, and spacious balconies on board ships like these.

AmaPura, AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways offer luxury river cruises in Europe and Asia and had the 11 highest Berlitz-rated European ships in 2014. AmaPura, however, is built to sail through Myanmar on the Irrawaddy River. The all-suite ship takes its name from the former capital of the country, Amarapura, a name which can be translated from Sanskrit as ‘City of Immortality’.

As well as 28 stylish suites, this beautiful vessel offers a variety of different balcony options. Guests can opt for a French balcony, a more spacious walk-out balcony, or even the largest suite grade which offers twin balconies. You will also have robes and slippers in your accommodation, along with a seating area, air conditioning, and an electronic safe.

Avalon Siem Reap, Avalon Waterways

Recently launched, Avalon Siem Reap joins a fleet that already consists of a number of all-suite ships that operate in Europe. She is set to offer eight to 22-day itineraries along the Mekong River which flows through the beautiful backdrop of Vietnam and Cambodia. Her specific design means that she is the only ship on the river capable of travelling the entire distance between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap; cutting out around seven hours that guests would normally have to travel by coach.

One of the most innovative features of Avalon Siem Reap is something that has become a signature for the operator. All of the suites have what are referred to as open air balconies. This means that instead of stepping outside to enjoy dramatic views, the vistas will come inside to you. The floor-to-ceiling windows that make up the outside wall of your suite are entirely retractable, meaning that your room actually becomes a balcony. This provides you with more space and the ability to enjoy unrivalled vantage points in any weather and any season.

Ganges Voyager II, Uniworld

The Ganges Voyager II is a brand new vessel that was custom-built by Uniworld to sail the company’s new itinerary on the river Ganges. As they take their first steps into India in 2016, the Ganges Voyager II will provide the most luxurious surroundings for guests to explore this iconic waterway.

The ship itself is designed to reflect British colonial style and offers a choice of four different types of suite. All accommodation will feature a French balcony, rainwater shower heads, and premium bathroom products from Molton Brown, whilst those staying in either a Viceroy or Maharaja Suite will receive butler service. In addition to this, guests opting for the latter of these two will also be able to dine in their room and have access to an in-suite deep soaker tub. The Ganges Voyager II will debut in January 2016.

Sanctuary Ananda, Sanctuary Retreats

The Sanskrit word ‘ananda’ means extreme happiness, and that is exactly what Sanctuary Retreats aim to provide their guests with when they step aboard one of the most beautiful ships on the Irrawaddy River. As Myanmar continues to grow as an adventure tourist destination, there is increased demand for ships like the Sanctuary Ananda, but few are quite as luxurious.

There is a wonderful mix of modern and local touches on board, as inspiration is taken from Burmese culture in the kitchen, public areas, and your own suite. There are four different categories of accommodation, from standard suites to the lavish Owner’s Suite, and all have large furnished balconies. Butler service is offered to anyone staying in a Luxury Suite or higher, but everyone will have access to an iPod docking station and a TV with iPod connectivity. Staff to guest ratios of almost 1:1 will mean that you’ll want for nothing and there’s even the opportunity to discover the rarely traversed Chindwin tributary on the ship’s longer itineraries.

If you would like to experience the luxury of an all-suite ship for yourself then Fred. River Cruises can find you the perfect trip. Enquire by phone today or fill out our online contact form.