Book excerpt: A river cruise is undoubtedly the most civilized way to see the best of Europe; you can relax in the comfort of a small vessel as you glide through picturesque towns and spectacular scenery. But how do you choose which cruise company, which kind of rivership, and where to go? This thoroughly updated and expanded new edition of the Berlitz guide to River Cruising in Europe will tell you everything you need to know about taking a cruise along Europe's beautiful rivers and waterways. The book cuts through the brochures' hype - almost every river cruise company promises you luxury. But what does 'luxury' really mean? The guide gives you unbiased advice on the different kinds of river vessels and the facilities they offer, helping you to make an informed choice. We take you on a journey along Europe's rivers and waterways, describing the highlights along the way - the historic cities and majestic scenery of the Danube, the castles and vineyards of the romantic Rhine, and much more. Also included are listings for over 200 riverships, which are described and impartially rated, so that you can easily compare them and their facilities.