Who We Are

Rivers Are Our Passion

Your Canadian River Cruise Experts
Based in Edmonton, Alberta

Welcome to One River at a Time, your boutique travel planning agency specializing in European river cruises for Canadians. We help travelers from Edmonton and across Canada discover the joy of slow, meaningful travel—where every bend in the river reveals new history, cuisine, and culture.

Our curated journeys with trusted partners like AmaWaterways, Avalon, Emerald, Scenic, Viking, and Riverside Luxury Cruises blend comfort, connection, and discovery. Whether you dream of sailing through the castles of the Rhine, the vineyards of the Danube, or the flower-lined canals of the Netherlands, we take care of every detail so you can simply show up and enjoy the journey.

When you travel with us, you’ll enjoy:

Expertly planned European river cruise itineraries tailored for Canadian travelers
All-inclusive experiences with local excursions, fine dining, and cultural immersion
A personal touch from your River Cruise Specialist, who has sailed these rivers herself
Peace of mind knowing all logistics—from flights to transfers—are seamlessly handled

Unpack once, and let each sunrise bring a new story. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or as part of an escorted group, we’ll match you with the perfect itinerary to suit your interests in history, wine, music, art, or relaxation.

Because for us, it’s not just about where you go—it’s about how the river changes you along the way.

Hi there!

Meet Penny Matthews – River Cruise Specialist for Canadian Travelers

As a wife, mother, and passionate traveler, I understand that there comes a time when we start planning journeys that go beyond our family vacations — the ones that speak to our own dreams and long-held bucket list destinations.

My first European river cruise changed everything. Experiencing the world from the water — drifting past castle-topped hillsides, historic cities, and timeless vineyards — was unlike anything I’d ever done as a Travel Planner. It inspired me to build One River at a Time, a boutique travel brand dedicated to helping Canadians discover the world through the art of slow, immersive river cruising.

Today, I take immense joy in helping my clients explore the legendary rivers of Europe, Asia, Egypt, and Africa aboard luxury lines such as AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Emerald, Scenic,Viking River Cruises, and Riverside Luxury Cruises.

Imagine waking up to a view of crumbling castles on the Rhine, temples along the Nile, or elephants drinking from the Chobe River — all from the comfort of your elegant stateroom. A river cruise isn’t just a vacation; it’s a way to see the world deeply and beautifully.

I personally travel the rivers at least once a year to ensure I can recommend each itinerary and cruise partner from a place of authentic experience and confidence. Every journey I plan is guided by the belief that travel should feel effortless, personal, and transformational.

Let me help you find your perfect river — one that inspires, restores, and connects you to the world in unforgettable ways.

— Penny Matthews, River Cruise Travel Planner, Edmonton AB
Owner, One River at a Time | Hidden Gems Travel

CLIA - Accredited Cruise Counsellor- 8+ years in the travel industry
River Cruise Specialist Certification (multiple river cruise lines)
CLIA - Luxury Cruise and River Cruise Certificate
Personally sailed on 10+ cruises with a variety of cruise partners
Expert knowledge of Danube, Rhine, Douro, Seine, Rhône, Mekong, Nile, and Chobe rivers
Preferred Partner status with AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Emerald Cruises, Scenic River Cruises, Viking River Cruises, and Riverside Luxury Cruises
Member of ACTA - Association of Canadian Travel Agencies
Member of CLIA - Cruise Lines International Association
100+ clients successfully guided through personalized cruise experiences
Annual river cruise industry training and FAM trips to maintain current destination and product expertise