Europe’s waterways criss-cross regions of breath-taking natural splendor, guiding you through landscapes free from roads, where nature reigns supreme. And it’s within these remote, peaceful lands that you can encounter the continent’s beloved winged visitors – from pelicans to cormorants, and everything in between.
The beauty of cruising Europe’s rivers is that many birds are attracted to the water, so you stand every chance of seeing a stork snatch a fish from the depths or a swift circling on high with its eye on the fertile riverbank. You’ll also have the perfect vantage point from which to raise your binoculars, with the open-air Scenic Sun Deck granting a 360° view.
So, if you love birdwatching or are keen to learn more about Europe’s precious wildlife, we’re here with a guide to exploring birdlife on the rivers of the continent.
With its diverse landscapes, open countryside and fertile riverbanks, the Danube is very much the principal lifeblood of Europe, supporting a huge wealth of life. Hundreds of migratory bird species frequent the banks of the Danube each year, making the river a dream destination for passionate bird watchers.
Here are a couple of birds to look for along the river.
The unique climate of the Rhône makes it a highly bountiful breeding ground for a variety of wildlife, with hundreds of bird species among those who find sustenance on its banks. Warm in the south, cold in the north, the river’s proximity to the French Alps brings unique species to the water’s edge – including rare species that are exclusive to alpine regions.
Here are a couple of species to look for.
The lush vegetation and plentiful wetlands of the River Seine contribute to a region rich in wildlife. Striking out west from Paris, the river passes through distinctly flat landscapes dotted with lakes and streams – many boasting banks that support a wonderful diversity of birdlife.
Below, we highlight two of the wonderful birds you can see during a Seine river cruise.