Ocean cruising’s smaller yet-perhaps even more distinguished sister, the grand river cruise can be the perfect option for those wanting to try a different type experience.
This week we are rolling out KarryOn’s Guide To River Cruising- series where we are looking into river cruising experiences across Asia, Europe, South America and America.
So what’s river cruising all about?
The rivers of the world are fast becoming hotspots for travellers. European river cruising has boomed in the last decade, and cruise lines are expanding to more exotic and interesting parts of the globe every year. So whether you’d like to sail gently along as medieval castles float by your balcony or you prefer the hustle and bustle of a trip through an Asian metropolis, river cruising appeals to a wide audience.
However, river cruising isn’t for everyone – in fact, it only fits about 200 per voyage. It’s a niche product that travellers should be aware of before boarding – especially if they’ve seen other bigger ships pass their shores. There are similarities though, meals are a focus point for the day and entertainment is offered – though could be more of a ‘talk’ rather than a full Broadway show.
If river and canal cruising are the perfect fit though, it’s important to note it’s not just limited to European rivers. There’s countless offerings in other parts of the world, and we discover where’s hot right now.
Here’s what you should be on your radar:
Onboard, river ships feel like smaller versions of seagoing ships. Where they are limited is in onboard features and amenities, particularly in Europe, where ships must be low-slung enough to sail under low-lying bridges.
On some cruises (particularly in Europe and China), you can expect to sail with a very international passenger mix.
Itineraries may incorporate major cities as cornerstones, but your experience will focus as much on smaller towns and villages that you come across along the way.
One big difference between river cruising and ocean cruising: In the former, operators often include shore excursions, typically guided walking tours, in the overall cruise fare. (Double-check though, as policies may vary.) Some lines do charge for specially planned tours (cooking classes, trips to the market and other more offbeat adventures). Your ship may also carry bicycles onboard for complimentary passenger use in port.
Due to the short distances between ports, full days of river cruising are rare. However, there is usually commentary over the public address system during sails along extra-special river banks, such as the Wachau Valley in Austria and the Iron Gate gorge between Serbia and Romania.
Beyond mealtimes, entertainment onboard may be limited to shuffleboard or book-reading. These ships carry no casinos and offer little in the way of evening entertainment, except, perhaps, a piano player or a local act brought onboard to perform.
Inland waterways are much calmer than those on ocean-based trips – which is great news for those prone to seasickness.
Finally, while these vessels are comfortable to be sure (and the newer the riverboat, the more amenity-laden the cabins will be), staterooms tend to be smaller and more basic than those on oceangoing vessels. The river lines have recently embraced upgraded staterooms and are building ships with elaborate suites and real balconies (as opposed to the French balconies that used to be the best you could get). Because cabin configurations may vary from ship to ship within a fleet, be sure to get all the details on how your stateroom will be set up before you book.
What do you prefer? Ocean or River cruising?
This article has been adapted and originally appeared on Cruise Critic by Carolyn Spencer Brown.