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River Cruises – a journey to the heartland!
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Cruise ships, by and large, stick to "same old" coastal routes -- and yet, much of Europe's charm is a far distance from the logistical possibilities of a one-day stop at a port of call.
As a niche of cruising, river and canal voyages are an increasingly popular option, particularly for travelers who enjoy the comforts and variety of cruising, but want to see more of the heartland.
European river cruising has become the most enjoyable way to explore the Old World in truly grand style. River cruises will bring you to the heart of Europe’s most spectacular rivers and waterways, to unspoiled nature and unique river landscapes.
Riverboats cut through the heart of many historical and cosmopolitan cities that just so happen to be landlocked. Venerable cities like Munich, Vienna, Prague and Budapest come to mind with the Danube and Rhine rivers acting as a conveyor belt to the delight of wanderlust vacationers. You will visit at least one port a day on virtually every itinerary and you can explore small villages off the beaten path that are inaccessible via an ocean cruise.
The Danube is a super choice for first-timers; a typical voyage would sail through countries such as Austria, Hungary and Germany. The Rhine leads to Amsterdam, Cologne and Coblenz. France is increasingly popular, and most companies offer Lyon-based trips down the Rhone and Saone rivers, with highlights including the region of Provence and wine country.
River and canal cruising is not limited to Europe, either. Indeed, easily the hottest itinerary these days is a "Journey of the Czars" sailing between Moscow and St. Petersburg. Travelers can also sail America's Mississippi, Columbia, and Tennessee rivers. And one of the fastest growing desti-nations for river boats, in particular, is China's Yangtze. The typical Yangtze River cruise is paired with a land-tour as well; expect to visit Beijing and Shanghai (and lots of little villages along the way). Not only is the Yangtze a most-exotic trip for even well traveled cruise travelers, it also lacks limitations -- such as low bridges -- posed by Europe's rivers. So U.S.-based operators, such as Viking River and Victoria Cruises (both of which are building and designing ever-newer ships), are throwing in a lot of traditional cruise amenities -- cabins with balconies, Internet cafes and coffee bars.
Unlike the traditional cruise industry, most river and canal ships operate seasonally -- during spring, summer and fall months with a hiatus during December, January and February. Some Asian operators will go year-round. Another fabulous exception is Christmas season in Europe, where several river cruise operators offer voyages that stop in towns and cities with Christmas markets.
River cruises may carry higher price points than some ocean-going cruises, but when you factor in that most river cruise companies bundle shore excursions and wine, the prices become more palatable. Instead of having to pay á la carte for a city excursion, they are included in the price. Several lines offer complimentary continental wine with dinner that is often prepared by the chef using provincial fare.
It's becoming exceedingly clear why river cruising is receiving such high marks: size of ships and the passing scenery. Past mainstream clients find the smaller passenger capacity intriguing and the overall experience more relaxed and intimate:
"You dock in these small villages, the bakeries are just opening and the church bells are ringing - it's so different, a great way to travel."
For river cruisers, the ship isn't the destination; the country is and river cruising, however, is not for passengers seeking an active nightlife; you will find neither a nightclub nor a casino onboard. It's about relaxation and the opportunity to experience the workings of the rivers and the local culture. This includes floating by medieval castles and other bastions of the Old World.
Please visit our web site for a look at river cruises available. Not all of them are listed on our site. If you find a cruise of interest, please email us for more information and cruises available.
Each cruise line has something different to offer. We would love the opportunity to find the one cruise for you:
River Cruise companies we represent: Peter Deilmann Cruises, Viking River Cruise, Uniworld, Amadeus Waterways, Victoria Cruises and Avalon
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