Discover River Cruising: Your Questions Answered
My guest writer, Jenny, brings some valuable insights into the world of river cruising.
If you’re thinking about booking a river cruise and are looking for some expert guidance, Jenny can help. Alongside her team, she also books cruises and other adventures to destinations worldwide.
Discover River Cruising: Some Frequently Asked Questions
Welcome to the fascinating world of river cruising. If you’re considering this serene and scenic mode of travel, you probably have a lot of questions. I have toured or stayed on board 40 river ships, and I’ll share insights and tips to help you set off on your ideal river cruise journey.
You can also find out more and get in touch with me at www.rivercruising.blog.
A river cruise is a journey along historic, inland waterways, stopping at various ports of call along the way. Unlike ocean cruises, river cruises feature smaller ships that can navigate narrow rivers and dock in the heart of cities and towns. This allows for more intimate and immersive experiences at each destination.
What are the main differences between river and ocean cruises?
River cruises differ significantly from ocean cruises in several ways:
- Ship size: river cruise ships are much smaller, often accommodating around 100-200 passengers, most ocean ships are much larger.
- Port access: river cruises dock in city, town or village centres, offering easy access to local attractions and culture.
- Scenic views: on a river cruise, there’s always something to see, from picturesque villages to historic landmarks, as you sail along the river.
- Excursions: included shore excursions are often more frequent and immersive, focusing on local culture, history, and cuisine.
- Entertainment and facilities: ocean cruises offer a wide range of entertainment and facilities, including multiple dining venues, theatres, shops, pools, and sports facilities. They might have activities like rock climbing, basketball, and water slides. River cruise ships, on the other hand, offer more low-key entertainment such as musical performances, quiz nights, and themed evenings. Facilities may include a small pool, gym, and spa.
Which rivers are popular for cruising?
Some of the most popular rivers for cruising offer travellers a wealth of experiences and sights:
- The Rhine: The Rhine River is renowned for its fairy-tale castles, lush vineyards, and historic towns. Travellers can expect to see the picturesque Lorelei Rock, charming medieval villages, and grand castles perched on hillsides. Key highlights include exploring the Gothic architecture of Cologne’s cathedral and the romantic old town of Heidelberg.
- The Danube: Flowing through ten countries, the Danube River is a cultural and historical treasure trove. Travelers can visit grand cities like Vienna, with its imperial palaces and classical music heritage, and Budapest, known for its stunning architecture and thermal baths. The river also passes through scenic landscapes like the Wachau Valley, famous for its wine production and picturesque villages.
- The Rhône: The Rhône River flows through the heart of Provence, offering travellers a taste of French culture, cuisine, and wine. Highlights include the ancient Roman city of Arles, the beautiful landscapes of the Camargue, and the historic city of Lyon, renowned for its culinary excellence.
- The Douro: The Douro River in Portugal is celebrated for its stunning scenery and port wine production. Visitors can expect breathtaking views of terraced vineyards, charming riverside villages, and historic cities like Porto. The Douro Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its unique landscape and cultural significance.
- The Mekong: The Mekong River offers an exotic and culturally rich experience, flowing through Vietnam and Cambodia. Travelers can explore bustling markets, ancient temples, and rural villages. Highlights include the floating markets of the Mekong Delta, the historic temples of Angkor Wat, and the colonial architecture of Phnom Penh.
There are many other navigable rivers that can be explored by river ship including the Nile the Ganges and the Mississippi.
What should I expect in terms of accommodation?
River cruise ships offer a range of accommodations from fixed window cabins to luxurious suites. There are no inside cabins onboard. The Scenic Crystal, for instance, features balcony suites with all-weather balcony systems, sumptuous linens, and modern amenities like flat-screen TVs and mini-bars. The Uniworld SS Catherine is known for its opulent décor and beautifully designed cabins, providing a comfortable and stylish home away from home.
Choosing the right cabin can change your river cruise experience. Depending on your preferences, you can opt for suites with private balconies, larger rooms with additional facilities, or more budget-friendly options that still offer comfort and style. For more detailed guidance, see my blog on choosing the right cabin on a river cruise.
Are meals included on a river cruise?
Yes, all meals are included and are a highlight of the river cruising experience. Dining on river cruises is often a gourmet affair, with a focus on local ingredients and regional specialties. Scenic Crystal offers exceptional dining experiences with multiple dining venues and a wide selection of wines and spirits. The Uniworld SS Catherine also excels with its culinary offerings, often incorporating fresh, local produce.
What kind of excursions can I expect?
Excursions are a key part of the river cruise experience. Most cruises include daily shore excursions led by knowledgeable local guides. These can range from walking tours of historic cities to wine tastings in renowned vineyards, such as those along the Rhine and Rhône rivers. For example, on a Rhône River cruise, you might visit the Hospices of Beaune and enjoy wine tastings in Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage.
Is river cruising suitable for solo travellers?
Absolutely. Some river cruise lines offer dedicated sailings for solo travellers and others offer reduced solo supplements. The smaller, more intimate setting of river cruises makes it easy to meet fellow passengers and participate in group activities and excursions.
Can children travel on a river cruise?
Yes, sometimes. There are some river cruise lines who cater specifically for families and A-Rosa are particularly good at this. Some companies allow children above a certain age but don’t provide extra facilities. I can advise on the best options for families.
Are river cruises all-inclusive?
The inclusions very between river cruise lines. Some river cruises are all-inclusive, covering accommodations, meals, drinks, and excursions. For instance, Scenic Cruises offers a truly all-inclusive experience with everything from fine dining to shore excursions and gratuities included in the fare. Others only include drinks with meals. There are also some options where excursions are not included to allow for maximum flexibility.
What are some of the highlights of river cruising?
Some personal highlights from my river cruising experiences include:
- Wine Tasting in the Douro Valley: sampling delicious port wines while cruising through one of Portugal’s most beautiful regions.
- Sailing on the Scenic Crystal: enjoying the panoramic views from the Sun Deck, and dining at the specialty restaurant Table La Rive.
- Exploring with Uniworld SS Catherine: visiting charming towns like Viviers and the vibrant city of Avignon along the Rhône River.
River cruising offers a unique and enriching way to travel, providing unforgettable experiences along some of the world’s most beautiful waterways. One of the things that I enjoy the most is sitting on deck, watching the world go by. Exploring new places each day while having one room to stay in is something I also appreciate.
How to Find the Right River Cruise
As a river cruise expert, I can help you find the ideal river cruise tailored to your preferences and interests. Whether you’re drawn to Europe’s historic cities or lush wine regions, I can offer personalised recommendations that fit your budget and travel style.
My goal is to help you navigate the many options available and find a cruise that perfectly matches your requirements.
For more information and to start planning your next adventure, visit www.rivercruising.blog or www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/jenny.cookman.
