Who is River Cruising for?

I had the fantastic opportunity to visit the 2014 River Convention in Amsterdam last weekend. I really love my job! Who wouldn’t?

I have to admit I was really looking forward to it as I don’t know as much about river cruise ships as I do about the ocean liners I sell, having never experienced one before.

I got to spend 2 nights on ships which were very different from each other as well as looking round quite a few other ships as well.  Over the next couple of weeks I will give you a more in depth insight into the ships I visited and the destinations on offer if you fancy a river cruise but just now I wanted to tell you a little bit about River cruising and who it appeals to.

River cruise ships sail along at a slow pace allowing you to drink in your surroundings, relax and enjoy the view and when they do stop they stop in the heart of the cities or right outside a castle or plantation so you can get off the ship and be right in the heart of the culture or history of the place you are visiting. Do you love city breaks, culture, art and museums?  Do you like to find out as much as you can about a destination before you go and then immerse yourself completely when you do arrive? Then a river cruise could be for you.

The on-board lectures mean you can learn about the places you are going to as well as lots of other topical subjects to improve your intellect.  As well as that the guides use wireless headsets so you can wander around the places you visit whilst listening to the guides insights and tips about the place you are visiting. Many river cruises include excursions as standard.

On board the cabins are comfortable, spacious and practical with lots of options from small windows lower in the ship to full width balconies and French balconies to allow you to make the most of the views. The staff on-board are very attentive and get to know you quickly as most river cruise ships only have from 12 to 100 cabins on average. Don’t expect west end style shows and constant amusing as this is not what this type of cruise is about. If you love fine dining, excellent wine, stylish ambience and great conversation, then that is a different matter.  River cruising could definitely be for you. The fact that most ships have a mixed international clientele means you get to mix with different cultures and nationalities making way for more great discussions.  The entertainment on-board is low key. A pianist, a singer or just background music. The people make the entertainment themselves and great friendships along the way.  Don’t forget most River cruises include food, drinks and gratuities as standard so there are no huge bills to pay at the end of your cruise either, unless of course you spend a fortune in the Spa!

As well as art and culture you are sailing through some of the most beautiful landscapes whether on the Rhine or Danube or further afield like the Nile of Mekong. There are lots of opportunities for exploring, with either walking or cycling available from many ships either organised or on your own. If you love to explore and love scenery a river cruise could be for you.

So does most of this sound interesting? Does it strike a chord with what you enjoy doing?

Why not give me a call and I will be happy to discuss this with you further.

0800 408 6166

Don’t forget to watch this space for a more in-depth look into the ships I visited and the destinations on offer.

I would love to hear from you if you are a regular River cruiser.