River Cruising: To Go or Not to Go?

More people are being attracted to seeing the world from graceful ships gently winding their way through rivers around the world. River cruises are throwing off the reputation of being a sedate and uneventful vacation option for senior travelers as arts, culture and history lovers of all ages are drawn to this emerging, and increasingly dynamic, way to travel.

There are many questions and misconceptions that travelers have about river cruising. This book draws on experiences and provides insights into what river cruising is, what to expect and answers to common questions about it.

River cruising is a fast-growing segment of the cruise industry. These leisurely tours wind their way down rivers in Europe, Russia, China, Egypt, Vietnam, and the Mississippi in the United States. River cruises appeal to people who like escorted and packaged vacations, where everything has been taken care of. They tend to appeal and cater to passengers in their 50s, 60s and 70s.

Pros

Fares tend to be more inclusive than ocean passenger ships, and may include flights or fly-cruise packages, transfers to and from the ship, meals, drinks, and escorted excursions.

River cruises often waive the single supplement, or reduce it for solo travelers.

Accommodation will be good quality and comfortable, and all will have windows or balconies. The rooms are compact, due to the limitations on width and height to enable the ships to pass under bridges and through locks.

You will receive a high level of service and attention. Ships are limited in size, carrying around 150 passengers, which enables the crew to get to know passengers and their needs.

There will be constant scenery on both sides of the ship.

Stops along the route will be frequent. Ships dock in the center of towns, allowing easy access for tours and exploring on your own.

There will be a very low chance of seasickness.

Cons

Independent travelers may find the pace too sedate. The routes, on-board facilities, entertainment and excursions are geared for a more mature audience.

Entertainment options are limited, especially in the evenings. There are no theaters or casinos, and on-board entertainment will be limited.

Trips can be disrupted by the state of rivers. In times of drought, ships struggle to reach some areas and, at other times, flooding cause severe disruption.

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