The rivers of Europe have served as boundaries, avenues of transportation and commerce and sources of sustenance. Many European rivers have been celebrated in song and prose and have played a major role in both commerce and history. In early civilization they provided a means of sustenance and trade. During conflicts, they were used for invasion and conquest. During the Renaissance they carried trade and knowledge. As a result, many of Europe’s most important cities are located on one of these rivers. There you will also find most Europe’s culture and history attractions. These rivers include the Seine in France, the Rhine in Germany, the Rhone in France and Spain, and the Danube in central and Eastern Europe. What better way to visit Europe than to travel these rivers?
How is river cruising different from ocean cruising?
The most obvious difference is the size of the ship. While the capacity of an ocean cruise ship can vary greatly they usually hold 2000 to 5000 passengers and half that number in staff. A newer river long boat has a capacity of 150 to 200 passengers and a crew of 50.
With a modern ocean cruise ship the experience is very much about the ship and what is new on board. With a river cruise it’s all about the destinations. The riverboat is your luxury hotel that travels with you from to city. You will not find a casino, rock climbing wall or amphitheater on a river boat but you will take in the amazing sights in Europe’s finest cities.
What are the staterooms like on a river cruise longboat?
The modern river cruise longboats are designed for comfort and luxury. Staterooms, ranging from 200 to 300 square feet either have verandas or floor to ceiling glass windows that allow you to take in the scenery. Staterooms are between 200 and 300 square feet and have been designed with luxury in mind.
What are the dining options on a River Cruise?
Because you are cruising through mainland regions and cities, river cruise boats can stock up daily on the local ingredients giving an authentic dining experience. Your chefs specialize in the local cuisine and create an atmosphere of a 4-5-star restaurant. Because of the size of the boat meals are scheduled and dinners are usually at a fixed time for everyone.
What are the itineraries and do they have any special cruises?
There are hundreds of itineraries to choose from to fulfill whatever bucket list desire you may have. Are you a history buff? Try a WW1 or WW2 themed itinerary or one that takes you to Renaissance era castles. If you are a foodie check out itineraries that focus on local food, wine or beer. If the arts are your passion look for itineraries that focus on music, architecture or works of fine art. Or if you want a really unique experience, seasonal cruises, especially the Christmas cruises should be on that bucket list.
What about excursions?
With river cruises expect to leave the boat at each port. Every day you will visit a new place and since rivers flow through the center of the cities, you get off the boat in the heart of your destination. You choose your pace and see what you want. Take a tour in small group excursions with a local expert tour guide to get the inside scoop of the city. You can also dive into the local culture with some of their exclusive tours. You can make goulash in Budapest go to a beer and bratwurst tasting in Nuremburg or indulge in Belgian waffle and chocolate at lunch in Antwerp. Had too much gourmet food last night? Most ships offer bikes that you can ride, so you can explore the region on two wheels while taking in the local culture and burning off a few calories.
Isn’t a River Cruise Very Expensive?
When you first look at the price of a river cruise you may come away thinking that this is an expensive way to see Europe but you need to consider what you get for that price. What you will find will surprise you. Wine, beer and non-alcoholic drinks are included with your meals. Most shore excursions are free. They will offer some exclusive experiences, such as a wine tasting or cooking outing that will be extra but these would be your choice.
Let’s take a look at the numbers:
For a Cat C Veranda Stateroom on an Ama Longboat traveling from Paris to Normandy and Back with 3 Days post cruise in Paris The cost with Ama’s current Promotion is $3898PP which is ~ $390 per day.
Let’s break that down
|
|
Land Vacation |
River Cruise |
|
Hotel (4 Star) ($300 Per Night) |
$150 |
Included
|
|
Meals (Breakfast $20, Lunch $30 Dinner with Wine ~$75) |
$125+ |
Included |
|
Snacks, water … |
$30 |
Included |
|
Transportation (Train, Car Rentals …) |
$60 |
Included |
|
Day Tours |
$50 |
Included |
|
Evening Entertainment |
$50+ |
Included |
|
Transfers |
$20+ |
Included |
|
Time Spent Traveling Between Cities packing unpacking waiting for trains, checking into hotels |
Priceless time and aggravation |
Relax and enjoy every part of the journey |
|
Total (Per person, per day) |
$435+ |
$389 |
This is why river cruises have become so popular. They offer you a more pleasant and relaxing experience at a lower price. For more info on River cruises click on one of the links below
