River cruises are a popular way for travelers to visit multiple cities, and even countries, on a single, all-inclusive trip. The best river cruise companies offer a high-quality, low-stress travel experience for those who are looking for a "grand tour" of an area without having to worry about booking hotels, seeking out restaurants, hiring tour guides, or getting from place to place.
As the name suggests, river cruises are boat tours that travel rivers: The boat stops at city-center ports in notable cities so that passengers can explore the area. The level of accomodation and service varies between river cruise brands and ships, but all provide accomodation, meals, hotel-style amenities, and entertainment.
The most obvious difference between river cruises and ocean cruises is the body of water on which they sail. But there are other key differences that you should be aware of:
Boat size and amenities: Oceans are vast and rivers are not. This means that ocean cruise ships tend to be significantly larger than river boats, which have to be narrow (to get through the rivers) and can't have multiple stories (because they have to get under bridges). Many ocean cruise ships have multiple restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, creating a resort-like atmosphere. In fact, many ocean cruise passengers never even bother to leave the boat.
River boats, on the other hand, are more like hotels: They will have at least one restaurant, a bar or two, a fitness center, and even a pool. But they aren't designed to keep passengers entertained. Instead, you enjoy yourself on land while sleeping and eating on board.
Ports of entry: Because of their size, ocean cruise ships typically dock in ports designed for large ships. These ports are often a signfiicant distance from cities and tourist attractions, so you can expect to spend 20-60 minutes in a taxi, private car, or shuttle before reaching your destination. This eats into valuable travel time. River cruise ports are usually in the middle of cities: You walk off the ship and you are steps away from museums, shopping, and sightseeing options.
Trip inclusions: Ocean cruises are generally semi-inclusive. This means that while your accomodations, meals in the ship's main dining rooms, and on-board entertainment are included in your cruise fare, there are many services and amenities, such as beverages, Wi-Fi, port tours, spa visits, and dining in speciality restaurants, that are not included. The higher-end ocean cruise ships are often more inclusive, but you can still end up with a hefty tab at the end of your voyage.
River cruises tend to be significantly more inclusive, though these inclusions likewise vary by cruise lines and their pricing standards. Typically, however, you can expect the following amenities and services (beyond rooms, three meals a day in the ship's restaurant or at the buffet, and onboard entertainment) to be included in your river cruise fare:
Atmosphere: The onboard atmosophere and culture can vary significantly between cruise brands and ships, and this is true for both ocean and river cruises. However, you will probably find that river cruise ships have a more subdued atmosphere than the "party culture" found on many ocean vessels. This is likely because of the number of guests on each type of ship, as well as whether the passengers are travel oriented or are mostly on board for fun and relaxation.
Crowds: Unlike many large ocean cruise ships, which can accomodate thousands of passengers, river cruise ships have a capacity of 100-200 passengers. This provides a more intimate experience and a chance to get to klnow the cruise staff. If you dislike crowds, a river cruise could be a wonderful trip for you. On the other hand, if you prefer to be more anonymous, try to find a larger ship with suites so that you can maintain your privacy.
One more thing to be aware of: You will not get seasick on a river cruise, nor will you have to worry about what might happen if the boat experiences mechanical options in the middle of an ocean. You will always be within sight of land. This makes river cruising a very safe option, particularly for those who have medical issues.
Determining the "best" river cruise depends on multiple factors and the best cruise line for you might not be a good choice for other travelers. Here are some things to think about when selecting a cruise line:
Ports of call: Unlike ocean cruises where the emphasis tends to be on enjoying yourself on board, ports of call really do matter in river cruising. When considering cruise lines, choose those that operate trips in areas of the world that you are interested in exploring.
Onboard amenities: River cruise ships aren't large, but some offer more onboard amenities than others. If spas, salons, swimming pools, and fitness centers are important to you, be sure to check deck plans before booking your stateroom.
Pricing and inclusions: Different cruise lines have different price points, so its important to find a line that fits your budget. At the same time, it is important to take note of inclusions and whether you will make use of them. For example, if you enjoy alcoholic beverages, you may prefer a cruise that includes all beverages, not just beer and wine at dinner. If you are an independent traveler who dislikes organized group tours, you may not care much about free in-port tours, while those who do like these organized expeditions may prefer a line that offers more than one free tour per port of call.
Boat options: River cruise lines may own dozens of boats, all of different ages, sizes, and configurations. Some boats are specifically designed for particular rivers, which means that the layout and structure of boats may be very different, even if they are owned by the same company.
Adaptability: One downside to river cruising is that water levels can sometimes make it impossible to cruise. In such cases, you may have to spend some portion of your trip in motor coaches or even hotels. Find out what sort of measures a cruise line takes when the river conditions make it impossible to travel via ship. Some may be willing to refund your cruise fare and will get you back home, while others are less flexible.
Keeping the above in mind, here are some of the top river cruise companies in the world:
Viking River Cruises: Viking offers a traditional Scandanavian river cruise experience that focuses on cultural enrichment, comfortable spaces, and fresh cuisine. Viking offers both restaurant and buffet dining options, with free house beer and wine at lunch and dinner. Guests receive one free tour or activity at each port of call.
Uniworld: Uniworld is known as a luxury river cruise line with lavishly decorated ships and many fare inclusions, including gratuities, premium alcoholic beverages which are available at any time, onboard fitness classes, choice of port excursions, airport transfers, and the use of the ship's bicycles and Nordic walking sticks. Uniworld also offers river cruises geared toward younger travelers, under the brand name of "U by Uniworld."
Avalon Waterways: Avalon's European fleet are all-suites and each has a large open window that can turn your suite into its own open-air balcony. Sparkling wine is included at breakfast and beer, wine, and soft drinks are complimentary at lunch and dinner. Afternoon tea is served daily, and your choice of complimentary excursions includes various levels of activity, so you can choose a tour that suits your fitness level and preferences.
AmaWaterways: AmaWaterways is a traditional river cruise line that is known for its high standard of cuisine. Stateroom options include suites with two balconies: A standard balcony and a french balcony, offering wonderful scenery and plenty of fresh air. Ships have salons, massage services, small pools, and a fitness center. Fares include sparkling wine at breakfast, beer and wine at lunch and dinner, along with excursions in each port.
If your idea of a cruise is a large boat with limbo contests, pool parties and casinos, river cruising may surprise you. River cruises offer the opportunity to explore a region without having to worry about coordinating transportation, dining, or accommodations and you may even decide that you like a port city so much that you'll want to return for a longer stay. River cruising offers incredible opportunities for travelers, so it makes sense to review your options and pick the right line, ship, and cruise for you and your family.
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