I hear so many times how river cruising is only for "older" people. (Watch out now...I'm creeping up into that category! LOL) But seriously...it's totally NOT for a specific age (okay except for maybe kiddos younger than 12 as they'd more than likely be bored out of their minds).
But don't rule out this amazing adventure because it's truly incredible and here are 5 reasons why I think you definitely must try a river cruise at some point in your lifetime!
1. It’s the best way to see a large area in the least amount of time.
Because you pull up right in to the heart of a city, each morning you'll typically have a quick (about an hour to an hour and a half), small group tour of the local village then have the rest of the day to be on your own. A few hours rest perhaps up on the sun deck (weather permitting of course) and then your ready for the delicious gourmet dinner on board. The river ship will typically travel at night and in the morning, there's a new city to explore. Many times if you port in one city at night...that's a great time to go out into a local pub and see what the locals are up to.
2. You only unpack once.
This is obvious but again, you don’t really need more than one day to see these cities and villages. It’s a quick tour but you get to see many places easily and can decide where you want to spend more time on your next vacation. The boat itself is like a floating, boutique hotel on the water and usually has fantastic views from each cabin and the public areas. I do highly recommend you stay a few days before or after your cruise to explore the origin/final destination ports more and to acclimate yourself to the time difference.
3. It’s almost all-inclusive.
All the meals, most alcoholic and regular drinks are included, as well as most of the tours each day. Depending on the cruise line, there may be a beverage package or additional excursions and spa or salon services available to purchase.
4. Meet people from all over the world!
Most ships only hold about 100 guests so everyone might feel like family when your voyage is over. You'll love the chance to mingle with people from all over the world.
5. There are several types of river cruise adventures from which to choose.
From the amazing European Christmas Markets cruise along the Danube River, to seeing castle after castle along the Rhine to touring the D-Day Landing Beaches in Normandy, to an Adventure by Disney river cruise with your kiddos...there is a river cruise for whatever travel you want to experience.
Of course you think of the Danube & the Rhine Rivers when you think river cruising but there are so many others to explore. The Volga in Russia, the Douro in Portugal & Spain, more in France, Asia, and don't forget the Nile River...there is no better way to see this some of these amazing regions of the world.
I have no doubt, dare I say to even promise, that you’ll love experiencing your first river cruise! And I'll even go so far as to say you might just get hooked. And the next thing you know your Bucket List just got MUCH bigger with so many rivers to see!!
Click the link below if you would like some expert advice as to what type of cruise would be best for you. Thrilled to assist you with putting everything together to have your river cruise experience run smoothly!