Quick: Picture the first thing that comes to mind when you think about a cruise ship. 

You probably imagined a huge vessel with zip lines, nightclubs, Broadway-style shows and a late-night buffet. In recent years, however, much smaller river cruise ships have become a much bigger deal for travelers of all ages.

AAA members have always loved cruising, but the demand for river cruising in particular has boomed over the past decade, said Carol DiOrio, vice president for travel at AAA Western and Central New York. Compared to ocean cruising, it offers a more intimate experience, plus the ability to explore many of the world's most celebrated cities all in the span of about a week.

Today's river cruise ships, designed smaller to navigate narrow waterways, are able to dock in the heart of famous historic destinations, such as Paris, Amsterdam and Budapest. The ships interior features, likewise, are designed to offer a luxury travel experience for everyone onboard usually only about 150-200 passengers at a time.

Onboard the ships, travelers enjoy fine dining reflecting the flavors of that day's port of call, with evening entertainment often provided by local musicians who board the ship for just a few hours before returning home on land. Although the upper decks are the best place to view the scenic towns as you pass by, most staterooms on a river cruise ship offer private balconies as well.

As river cruising continues to gain popularity, look for more ships, more amenities and more themed cruises, DiOrio said. This year alone, river cruise lines will christen 17 new ships around the world, with another 16 expected in 2019. Combined with themed cruises, the growing number of ships gives cruisers the unique opportunity to see the world in a way that satisfies their own personal interests and curiosities.

Uniworld, for example, offers European itineraries specifically designed for families, food and wine enthusiasts or aspiring travel photographers. Its Jewish Heritage cruise is the only one of its kind on the Rhine River, and U by Uniworld tailors its itineraries and excursions especially for millennials. 

With no end in sight to its growing popularity, river cruising proves that big things really do come in small packages.

2019 MEMBER APPRECIATION TRIP

MAY 12-19

Travel with Tony Spada on board Uniworldís S.S. Antoinette, commissioned exclusively for Western and Central New York travelers sailing on the annual AAA Member Appreciation Trip.

"Castles Along the Rhine Itinerary Highlights"

* Visit four countries: France, Germany, The Netherlands and Switzerland
* 3 UNESCO World Heritage sites
* 6 days of excursions
* Exclusive ìWine Senseî academy in a 300-year-old village
* Optional pre-cruise and post-cruise package extensions

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