Rivers World River
What makes a river cruise holiday different?
On a river cruise there are no sea days! Every day brings new sights and enjoyment, with different views to admire, exciting destinations to explore, and no chance of seasickness!
Fewer passengers, more space
River ships are smaller and more intimate than ocean ones. In Europe there are around 100 to 180 passengers. In Asia the ships are often smaller. Lounges and public areas offer plenty of space to relax, with a sun deck offering 360 degree views over the river.
Fine dining with complimentary drinks
Dining rooms are large enough for all passengers to eat in one sitting. Breakfast is usually a buffet, lunch a buffet or served at table. Dinner is often a 4 or 5 course fine dining experience. Many companies now include wine, beer and soft drinks with both lunch and dinner, some include complimentary drinks at all times. Alternative dining areas may be available at no extra cost. Some ships and cabins include a butler service, with an option of in-cabin dining.
All cabins with view
River ship cabins have outside windows with views over the waterside scenery. Many ships have French balconies, with large sliding doors or a drop-down upper section to create an open-air experience. Some ships have full sit-on balconies. Others offer a twin balcony, with both a sit-on and a French balcony.
See the scenery as you journey
On a river cruise much of the travelling through the best scenic areas is done during the day. Unlike a sea cruise, little time is spent in a cabin because it overlooks only one side of the river. Sightseeing is best done from the lounge areas, with their panoramic views, or from a shaded or sunny spot on the sun deck.
Moor in convenient locations
River cruise ships are usually able to moor close to the centre of waterside towns or cities - you can often walk from the ship to explore the sights and sounds. Guided excursions to local highlights and major sights are included with many river cruise lines.
Large choice of rivers and countries
Every year new river cruise destinations become available. In Europe the traditional Rhine and Danube crises have been augmented by many other rivers, the latest being the Loire and the Bordeaux areas of France. In Asia, the Yangtze and Mekong are very popular, and more recently the Irrawaddy in Burma and the Ganges in India. In the USA, the very distinctive steamboats travel the Mississippi river. More distant destinations are usually visited on a cruise-tour combining the river trip with a land tour of major sights. In Europe there are often pre - or post-cruise hotel stays in interesting cities.
New ships with new features
New ships with enhanced features arrive each year. Free shipwide wi-fi is increasingly common, or a gym, spa, library, even a swimming pool. With such a wide range of ship and route choices available there will be a river cruise to suit your requirements - call our experts for independent advice on the best options.