So don't we tend to associate "cruising" with getting on a huge ship filled with thousands of people and sailing to foreign ports of call in the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Alaska or Far East. But what are if any, the other options?
Well it is interesting that most people ignore the most original form of travel on water, river cruising. It is safe to say that mankind was moving goods and people up and down rivers and canals long before ocean travel came into fashion. In fact, the majority of cities and towns throughout the world (up until 100 years ago or so) were constructed on or near a river or major water source, so before the railroad, rivers and canals were the lifeline to commerce and travel.
So instead of looking at an Ocean Cruise, how about thinking about a River? Not just the Danube or the Rhine, you can go to China, Russia, Vietnam and even USA. I did write about an article on The Mighty Mississippi, but here I am going to concentrate on Europe, where there has been an explosion in the size of the market over the last 10 years.
European River Cruising
There are a number of companies that operate ships on the Danube, Rhone, Moselle, Rhine, Seine and Duoro in Portugal. With the European riverboats being purpose-built for modern river sailing; typically they are a long, sleek, narrow vessel with no more than four decks, which allows them to navigate the various locks and bridges found on European rivers.
A river cruise in Europe is all about the history of the land, in most stops each day there will be a Castle or Cathedral and many other historic sights to see, and you find with some lines that the days excurisons are included and usually they have options to suit the needs of all their passengers.
There are a number of European River Cruise Operators, including Viking River Cruises, Avalon River Cruises and AMAwaterways to name just a few. If you follow this link, you will find my views of the few days I spent on AMADante last year.
Advantages of river cruising
Convenience - On a river cruise, you have the ability to visit several cities, perhaps even in multiple countries, without having to pack and unpack each time you move from one place to the next. You literally wake up in a new city every day and, in many cases, you can step off the boat and walk into town or even take a bicycle ride!
Inclusive - Unlike ocean cruises, the fare your pay for your river cruise will include most, if not all, land tours and excursions, and in some cases all gratuities and pre-/post-cruise hotel stays. This makes river cruising an exceptional travel value.
Smooth sailing - You never have to experience motion sickness on a river cruise. In fact, you probably won't even know the ship is moving! It's that smooth.
No long lines - Riverboats typically carry only 100 to 150 passengers, so you will never find yourself standing in long lines.
Adult-oriented - River cruises tend to attract a more mature clientele. There are no facilities or staff dedicated to entertaining children. Therefore, a river cruise is probably not the best choice for a family vacation with the kids.
Casual - You can leave your suit and tie at home. River cruises tend to be much more casual and relaxed than ocean cruises. There are no formal nights.
So, if you are interested just give me a call to get my impartial views on what you can find.
