Ocean cruises have been a popular way to vacation for decades, and with good reason. They tend to be affordable, convenient (with the unpack once option) and they offer travelers peace of mind knowing that everything they require for a great getaway is available in one location. What could be better than that? Well, how about a river cruise...
River cruises combine all the comfort and convenience of an ocean cruise with the excitement of easy access excursions at each port of call, whether in Europe, Asia (on the Mekong River), Egypt (on the Nile River) or even in Russia (on the Volga River).
To all cruise-lovers, maybe it’s time for you to consider an entirely new way to explore the world’s waterways. How about a river cruise that will take you inland for a unique and relaxing tour?
Here are the top 10 reasons to love river cruising:
1. Consider Other Options
As they say ocean cruises take you to countries, river cruises take you through them.
2. No line-ups
River cruising tends to offer a more intimate setting. Most river cruise ships range from 144 to 196 passengers. This means you’ll have more time to enjoy all the amenities as well as have a more personal experience with other passengers and crew. No need to worry about lining up for dinner, drinks, excursions, or anything!
3. Immerse Yourself With the Culture
Many of the larger ocean cruise ports end up receiving up to 20,000 visitors on the same day but with a river cruise, you end up arriving into port with just a few hundred visitors. This will enable you to take in the local culture and history of every unique town that you visit.
4. Longer Times in Port
Many departures from the river destinations tend to be later in the afternoon or evening, enabling you to have a chance to enjoy the nightlife in some ports of call. You can take in a local show or performance, enjoy another glass of wine after dinner, walk the cobblestone streets in the evening or immerse yourself with the locals a little longer in the evening.
5. Great Castle Views
Plenty of castles on many of the European waterways... On the Rhine River from Basel to Amsterdam and the Danube River around Budapest, Bratislava, Durnstein and Passau, the architecture and castles are phenomenal. You can also hike, ride bikes, or drive to them and explore their brilliance with a knowledgeable guide. These places are all steeped in history.
6. A Relaxed Mode of Transport
You can relax with a glass of wine or cocktail on the sun deck, enjoy a quiet night under the stars or have a great port excursion with a knowledgeable local tour guide. There are so many wonderful options with river cruising without a lot of hussle and bussle that you may be more likely to encounter with other modes of travel.
7. Entertainment for the All Ages & Groups
River cruising is a great option for multi-generational family travel or other groups since there’s something for everyone to do either separately or together. Everything from food to history to town and countryside excursions plus some on board options like spa services, the sundeck pool or just some quiet time with a book and a coffee or drink in hand. At dinnertime, everyone in the group can come back together again after a rewarding day discovering new parts of the world.
8. Great Culinary & Wine Tasting Options
Again, with the smaller river cruise ships, great culinary & wine or beer opportunities are a given, especially on so many of the different rivers where fresh local ingredients and great local wine is acquired for serving and tasting. The meals are wonderfully paired with the local wines and nothing is prepared in a mass-produced manner. There are also plenty of on shore options with the local street food as well while touring about in the lovely ports.
9. Unique Experiences
Each town and city visited along the river offer unique experiences and are so close to the river making it easier for touring. So many special places to visit including local breweries, wineries, castles, museums, heaps of wonderful local culture and history.
10. Top Quality Accommodations
Most accommodations on river cruise boats have balconies either in the “French” style balcony way (with floor to ceiling windows) or full balconies enabling you to watch the world as you sail past. They all tend to be very luxurious and enable you to have a wonderful home away for home for the duration of the experience. You’re guaranteed a wonderful room with a view!
I’d love to help match you and yours to the perfect itinerary, ship and experience when you’re ready to try a river cruise for your first time or if you’ve already experienced one and want to try another. I’m at the ready to help you, whether it’s a special milestone occasion on your own or with a group, I’d be happy to ensure that your travels are absolutely perfect!