Let the sights come to you on a river cruise – there's so much to see as you sail along at a leisurely pace and every morning brings a new destination to explore. Riverboats, however roomy and opulent, have an intimacy of scale, and many cruises include wine with meals, creating the perfect atmosphere to make friends at dinner as you talk over the day's events. And in 2012 there are new ships and itineraries to choose from. Here is our pick of some of the best river cruises in Europe and farther afield... If the idea of taking a holiday on a Viking longship conjures up a journey on high seas in an open boat manned by ferocious bearded men in hats with horns, think again. Viking River Cruises is launching four 443ft 'Longships' next year. One feature is the Aquavit Terrace, an all-weather indoor/outdoor observation lounge with retractable floor-to-ceiling glass doors. Each ship has two very spacious Explorer Suites with a separate bedroom and sitting room, and a veranda giving 270-degree views. Two of these, Viking Idun and Viking Njord, will be sailing on Grand European Tours on the Rhine, Main and Danube from Amsterdam to Budapest (and Budapest to Amsterdam). Among the many highlights of the 14-night itinerary are the chance to take a Second World War excursion in Nuremberg, city tours of Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest, and cruising the beautiful Wachau Valley. Departures are from April to November 2012. The cost in an Explorer Suite is from £9,945pp and from £3,695pp in a cabin with French balcony (saving £500 on brochure prices if booked before November 30). Prices include flights from a choice of UK airports, wine and beer with lunch and dinner, and 12 guided tours (020 8780 7995, www.vikingrivercruises.co.uk).