are river cruises boring

Are River Cruises Boring? Some People Say Yes – I Don’t! Here’s Why.

If you are considering taking a river cruise you may be wondering if you’ll find the onboard experience boring.

I’m in my twenties and I’ve taken three river cruises to date and have another currently booked.

During this post, we will look at life onboard a river cruise so that you can decide if it’s the right type of vacation for you.

Is Riving Cruising Boring?

Most people who take river cruises do not find them boring.

A river cruise is usually more relaxing than an ocean cruise but those looking for a more active river cruise are able to find cruise lines to cater to this. 

The experience of a river cruise is very different from that of a land-based vacation or an ocean cruise – but the majority of people won’t find river cruising boring.

Whether you’ll find river cruising boring or not really does come down to what you personally want to do when travelling.

Some people do report being bored on river cruises but these people are usually the people who booked a river cruise without really knowing what to expect.

River cruises definitely aren’t for everybody.

Find out all about my cruise on Tui Skyla below – we went to some wonderful places – and *spoiler alert* it was anything but boring!

Most river cruise ships only hold around 100 passengers. River cruise ships are much smaller than ocean ships and as a result, don’t have as many amenities to offer.

Reason #1: Long Days in Port

One reason why I believe that guests don’t get bored on river cruises is that river cruise ships are usually docked for longer than ocean cruise ships.

On most rivers, you can expect a full day in port almost every day. Of course, there are some exceptions to this but the majority of the time the days in port are long.

Included Excursions

Last year I took a river cruise from Arles to Lyon onboard the Emerald Liberte, we were often docked from 8 am right up until 10 pm or later.

We would wander off in the morning to take part in the included excursion, come back for lunch, and maybe relax for a little by the pool before heading off again after dinner.

Many river cruises include some type of excursion. Often these are walking tours, but some have coach tours.

When I cruised with the budget river cruise line Tui , they didn’t include excursions as standard. They did however give you £140/$175 credit to spend on excursions.

This enabled us to pick the excursions that suited us best.

Included excursions are just one example of how river cruises are brilliant value for money.

Short Distances Between Ports

Cruise ships are often able to stay docked in port longer because, generally speaking, there isn’t normally a very long distance for the ships to travel between ports.

On our Arles to Lyon cruise, we actually had one journey between ports which was only 20 miles!

The ship sailed very late at night (3am-ish) so guests were free to enjoy the port late into the evening.

This, of course, does depend on the river, during my cruise on the Danube we travelled considerably further between each port as we were crossing multiple countries.

As a result, the days in port were much shorter than that which we had when cruising on the Rhone.

Checking In and Out

On river cruise, ships guests are free to come and go as often as they would like when in port.

The first river cruise I took was with Emerald Waterways, guests simply scanned their cruise cards to leave the ship.

The second was with Saga where we had to physically exchange your room key so that the cruise line knew when you were on land.

On Tui, you needed to hand in your key to reception as you went out. This was so easy to do, there was never a queue at the Reception desk.

The ability to be able to get on and off the ship whenever you wanted to was brilliant.

Being in port for so long definitely stopped us from ever getting bored. There simply wasn’t enough time to be bored …

Reason #2: River Cruises are Destination Immersive

River cruises really give guests the ability to become immersed in the local culture.

We spent a lot of time on our cruises learning about the places that we were visiting and the ways of life of the people who lived there.

There are often port talks where the cruise host will talk about the port you will be visiting the next day.

You learn practical information about the currency that we would need, where you could buy certain things, and what were the best things to see and do in the port.

Onboard the ship the food in the main dining room would usually reflect the place that we were visiting with different themed menus.

The food on river cruise ships is locally sourced and as a result, there is a lot more variety than that on an ocean cruise or in a land-based resort.

Local Entertainment

The entertainment onboard would often feature performers who were from the port that we were visiting.

During my Saga cruise, we had a local dance act onboard who were amazing. They danced for us in the small lounge of the cruise ship and we all felt so close to the action – because we were!

The dancing was accompanied by talks about the history of the dance and we learned about what each element represented and meant.

I personally really enjoy history and learning about new cultures so it was always interesting to get to see local entertainment.

Reason #3: You’ll Make Friends!

I don’t know what it is about river cruises exactly but the people that you meet are so friendly.

On an ocean cruise or in a land-based resort it’s easy to go your whole vacation without talking to anybody.

On a river cruise, you’re almost guaranteed to make friends, if not with the other guests, you’ll make friends with the staff!

You will see the same people every day, because there are so few passengers onboard, compared to Ocean cruise ships .

My First River Cruise

Ahead of my first river cruise, I’d read lots about making friends on river cruises.

I’m not a typical river cruise passenger, I’m in my 20s and river cruise passengers tend to be quite a bit older. I was a bit nervous about this .

I shouldn’t have been though I made so many friends on board. I’m usually quite reserved when it comes to things like this but everybody made me feel so at ease.

On my Saga River cruise, we table-shared with 4 other lovely ladies and we became such good friends that by the end of the cruise we actually took part in the open mic night together singing “Delilah” by Tom Jones!

I NEVER thought I’d be doing something like that at the start of the cruise but everybody was so friendly that we really relaxed and had a lot of fun.

River Cruise Crew

The crew onboard river cruises are also incredibly friendly. River cruise ships tend to only have around 100 passengers or so, this means that the crew is really able to get to know their passengers.

On Emerald Waterways river cruises, there was an activities manager who looks after the activities for the guests.

On our Saga river cruise, the entertainment manager offered to walk guests into the centre of the town, so they didn’t get lost. He also offered to come back and find them if they ever did get lost! I thought that was going above and beyond .

Reason #4: Onboard Activities

The number of onboard activities does depend heavily on the cruise line you choose. Some will have busy schedules and some will be more relaxing.

The river that you choose will also affect this since some river cruises will have ‘river days’ without any ports.

Activities Onboard

Many ships have a variety of entertainment onboard to keep you occupied. This could include:

– Gameshows – Trivia – Cinema Movie Nights – Aqua Aerobics – Yoga – Port Talks – Live Music

Reason #5: River Days Start Earlier!

On a river cruise, the day tends to start quite early as guests disembark for their included excursions. We often left the ship at 8 or 9 am.

This is quite the contrast to ocean cruises and land resorts where many guests choose to stay up late and sleep away the morning.

In the morning there may be an included excursion. Attendance to these isn’t mandatory but most guests do get up and go on the excursions.

On my Emerald Waterways river cruise, there were often other excursions in the afternoons – like a guided hike up a mountain or a walk into town. We took part in these as much as we could.

Quieter Evenings

Due to the fact that guests are up early and usually worn out by the early evening there simply isn’t the need for so much late evening entertainment.

That said, on our Saga river cruise the live music did go on until midnight on a few nights! The karaoke night was particularly popular with guests.

Will I be Bored on a River Cruise?

The answer to this question depends completely on what you want to do on your vacation.

By picking the right cruise line and the right river you can make the cruise as busy or as relaxing as you’d like.

If you’re somebody who wants to be hiking up mountains in the afternoon or enjoying a BBQ on the deck for dinner – there is a river cruise line to suit you. If you’re somebody who would prefer to sit by the pool with a good book, there are river cruise lines for you too.

Other Things To Think about

There are some other important things to think about if you are considering a river cruise:

• If you have reduced mobility a river cruise may not be for you. There aren’t usually any elevators and you may have to walk across multipleother ships to get to your own.
• Itineraries may be changed if river water levels are reduced, sometimes you may end up travelling by coach instead!
• You may be disturbed at night when the ship passes through locks.

Find out more about this in the video below:

Before You Go

Find out why river cruises are expensive compared to Ocean cruises in the post below:

Why Are River Cruises EXPENSIVE? – The Truth Behind The Price

Find out all about the river cruise I took with the 50+ cruise line Saga. I was invited along by the company and was easily the youngest guest onboard – by decades! We had a fantastic trip…

Saga River Cruise – Review and Guide (Food, Entertainment, Ships, and More)

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Travelling Without a Passport

You Asked, We Answer: Are River Cruises Boring?

Updated on August 17, 2022

When it comes to river cruises , there’s one question that always seems to come to the surface: aren’t river cruises boring? Today there’s an undeniable stereotype that river cruises are for aging retirees who want to relax on a small boat and only embark on overly organized, touristy excursions. But today, that’s simply not the case.

Travel on: A river cruise

The industry is changing

If you’re interested in a “boring” river cruise, you’ll likely be able to find one, because they definitely exist – there’s no denying it. But at the same time, there are a number of river cruise operators that are shifting their focus, adopting more unique and authentic itineraries and experiences. From culturally immersive tours to foodie-themed adventures, there’s something for everyone. So, whether you’re a 20-something looking for adventure or a couple looking for a romantic honeymoon, river cruises are available that cater to specific interests, activities, and lifestyles.

No two cruises are the same

Every cruise line and the itineraries they offer are completely different. If you’re looking for a low-key and relaxing cruise, you’ll likely need to look at a different company or cruise than if you’re looking for an adventure cruise. Always do research or reach out to the tour operator to explore their various cruises, itineraries, excursions, and inclusions they offer. That way you’ll be confident that the tour you select will meet your expectations.

Types & themes of river cruises

River cruises have begun to shift their offerings to include a number of curated experiences or themes, ranging from but not limited to:

• Wine Tasting Cruises
• Couples or Romantic Cruises
• Family Cruises
• Food-Inspired Cruises
• LGBTQ+ Cruises
• Solo Traveller Cruises
• Culturally Immersive Cruises
• Luxury Cruises
• Christmas/New Year’s Cruises
• Historical Cruises
• Architecture Cruises
• Adventure Cruises

The list goes on and on, but regardless of your interest, you can be sure there’s a cruise with your name on it. There are even tattoo and drag queen-themed cruises, so really, anything is possible.

See Also: 11 Things You Didn't Know You Could Do on a River Cruise

Why you’ll love a river cruise (and never be bored)

If you’re still worried you’ll be bored on a river cruise, have no fear. River cruises offer the perfect combination of organized activities and free time, meaning you can make the most of your experience by tailoring it to what interests you. Here’s what you can expect and why you’ll love a river cruise.

It’s hassle-free travel

Imagine your river cruise as a hotel on wheels – you experience fabulous cities and pass through different countries, yet only unpack once. Don’t worry about catching trains or missing flights, dragging baggage through dozens of hotels, or making complicated reservations. On a river cruise, it’s one booking with the experience of a dozen.

Plan your day as you please

Whether you find yourself wanting to relax on board, explore city streets on your own, or embark on a guided excursion, it’s entirely up to you how and where you spend your time. As long as you’re back in time to set sail to your next destination, what happens day to day is entirely up to you.

See multiple cities at once

Imagine being able to cover a handful of cities on your bucket list, all in one trip. On a river cruise, you can do just that; explore multiple cities (sometimes countries) throughout the duration of your trip. You don’t even have to worry about getting from one destination to the other, just board the ship and enjoy where it takes you.

Participate when you want

River cruises offer onboard activities along with excursions in cities when you reach your destination. Yoga sessions, cooking classes, city tours, museum visits – you decide what you want to participate in and what you’d rather pass on. This allows you to shape your experience to make the most of what a cruise has to offer.

Enjoy amazing food

Whether you opt to eat onboard or at artisanal restaurants in the cities you visit, the food is going to be amazing. With top-quality chefs cooking for you while you cruise and the added bonus of indulging in local delicacies when you dock, you truly get to experience the best of both worlds when it comes to food from around the world.  

See Also: Is Travelling Solo Fun?

Where to cruise

River cruises are now available in a number of destinations around the world, including those totally underrated cities you’d never expect to be included. Some of t he most popular river cruise itineraries include:

Romantic Rhine : Amsterdam to Basel

This eight-day tour includes the best the Netherlands and 10 other beautiful destinations have to offer, including trips to Holland’s Muiderslot Castle, an excursion to The Black Forest, and strolls through the Petite France District.

The Legendary Danube : Prague to Budapest

Tour through the legendary Danube River with this 10-day river cruise. Enjoy a folklore dinner show in Prague, walk through the “City of Three Rivers” and take a dip in the famous thermal baths of Budapest.

Egypt Nile Jewel : Cairo to Cairo

Indulge in a luxury 5-star river liner with an in-depth cultural tour through Egypt’s most famous destinations. Read ancient hieroglyphs at Abu Simbel, tour the East Bank of Luxor, and enjoy the sunset over the Nile River.

Mekong River Experience: Ho Chi Minh City to Siem Reap

Get to know Asia a little better with this eight-day river cruise through over 11 breathtaking destinations. Coast casually along the Mekong river, explore charming floating villages, and ride a bike through Vietnam’s countryside.

See Also: 9 Reasons to Take an African River Cruise

The idea that river cruises are boring has become an assumption of the past. New destinations, itineraries, activities, and excursions have made river cruises popular amongst many different age groups and types of travelers. The key is finding the one that’s perfect for you!

Jesse Warner

Jesse is a blogger and content creator who loves travel, the outdoors, and her dog, Molly. When she isn't planning her next trip, she can be found watching Netflix documentaries, enjoying time by the water, or eating soft-serve ice cream. Follow her on Instagram , Facebook , or check out her blog .

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Busting The Myths About River Cruising

Although the popularity of river cruising is soaring, especially among boomers, old myths about river cruising still prevail. But a proliferation of new ships with new itineraries and a slew of interesting shore excursions is making river cruising more enticing than ever.

According to data from Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) , river cruising is the fastest-growing segment of the cruise industry overall, with 10 percent annual passenger growth over the last five years. 

If you are one of the last holdouts who hasn’t succumbed to its lure, it is time to dispel six common misconceptions:

Jump ahead to...

Myth # 1: Passengers are “old married couples”

Yes, most passengers are married couples between the ages of 55 and 70, but the demographics are slowly changing as cruise lines have begun to woo younger passengers, solo travelers and multi-generational family groups.

They’re doing this in a number of ways: By getting rid of extra charges for singles, changing cabin configurations, and adding more active excursions.

A bonus for solo travelers: “They find instant companions on board because riverboats are more intimate and relaxed than larger ships,” says  Mike Kempinski , a travel advisor with NorthStar Cruises in Montclair, N.J.

To bring families into the fold,  AmaWaterways collaborates with family vacation tour operator Adventures by Disney . In 2016, the line introduced seven summer- and holiday-themed Danube cruises on a new riverboat specifically configured with connecting staterooms and three- and four-person cabins.

Excursions and onboard programs are geared to teens, tweens and young adults.

Abercrombie & Kent USA appeals to kids through activities like searching for sloths and caimans on the Amazon, and painting Chinese opera masks and making paper lanterns on the Yangtze, says the company’s president, Phil Otterson.

For more active travelers, a growing number of riverboats carry bicycles on board, offering both independent and guided cycling excursions.

Myth # 2: River cruises are boring

River cruises are relaxed, for sure: Cruisers don’t have to change hotels, they only unpack and pack once, and they don’t have to deal with the hassle of arranging (and paying for) transportation between cities. But that doesn’t mean they’re dull.

Unlike ocean cruising, the scenery on a river cruise is constantly changing as the boat sails between ports, almost always with the shoreline in sight.

They are “port-intensive,” with most itineraries including at least one port stop per day. Passengers wake up in a new locale each morning and can head out soon after breakfast to tour a new city, town or village (either by bus or on a walking tour) or choose from a menu of other excursions and activities. Passengers don’t have the long days at sea that punctuate ocean cruises .

Some tours are daylong; other times, a second tour (sometimes at another port) is scheduled after lunch or in the evening. When boats are docked close to a city overnight, passengers have the freedom to disembark and enjoy local nightlife, food and culture. After busy days, there may be some evening entertainment on board (e.g., a piano player, or local singers, dancers or musicians) but most passengers fold their tents after dinner or a nightcap at the bar.

There has been a trend towards more intriguing activities, too.

For example,  Viking River Cruises  has curated a number of  educational enhancement programs  that bring local culture to life, such as apple-strudel-making workshops on Danube River cruises, lectures on the Romanov czars along the Volga-Baltic Waterway, and on-deck tai chi classes on the Yangtze River in China. Additionally, the line offers passengers access to hard-to-snag Bolshoi Ballet tickets in Moscow or the experience of enjoying tea at a Tibetan family’s home.

“Just like an ocean cruise, there are always opportunities to do something more adventurous,” says adviser  Marni Becker  of Protravel International in New York, part of the  Travel Leaders Group .

“On  Uniworld ’s  SS. Catherine , sailing between Avignon and Lyon, you may choose to go kayaking on the Gardon River or, while cruising the Seine and visiting Les Andelys, you may choose to hike to Chateau Gaillard, the home of King Richard the Lionheart,” she adds.

Myth # 3: River cruises are sedentary

“Walking is a big part of any river cruise,” says Becker of Protravel. “In fact, there is a lot of walking involved and much of it can be on old, cobblestone streets.”

To accommodate activity levels, guides usually divide passengers into subgroups, including one for “gentle walkers” whose mobility may be  more limited .

For more active travelers, a growing number of riverboats carry bicycles on board, offering both independent and guided cycling excursions. For example, AmaWaterways has bikes and helmets aboard each of its European ships.

While the design and size of most riverboats preclude lengthy walking or jogging tracks (often found on ocean cruises), many have small gyms. Avalon Waterways  has introduced themed  wellness and golf cruises with stretching and yoga programs, lectures on healthy lifestyles, and healthy dining options.

AmaWaterways recently joined forces with  Backroads , a land tour operator with over 36 years of active travel experience, to offer cruisers immersive hiking, biking and walking itineraries as they travel between towns on riverboats.

Myth # 4: Riverboats are downscale compared to luxury ocean vessels

True, riverboats are generally much smaller in size and scale than ships that traverse oceans, and typically carry fewer than 200 guests. Cabins are somewhat smaller and the ships have fewer public spaces than oceangoing vessels with their restaurants, lounges, theaters and pools. Riverboats just don’t have the “bling” associated with their bigger brethren: Where they exist, crystal chandeliers are diminutive in size; spinets substitute for baby grand pianos and there are no casinos or rock-climbing walls.

“River cruisers are much more focused on what they can experience off the ship than on any fancy bells and whistles on board,” says O’Reilly of Grand Circle.

However, to remain competitive in a growing market, newer river ships are giving ocean-going vessels a run for their money with more luxurious cabins and public rooms.

For example, the fleet of Viking Longships feature fluffy hotel-style beds, mini-refrigerators and heated bathroom floors. The line’s Veranda Suites offer the first two-room suites on riverships. Newer AmaWaterways ships have swim-up bar pools, spas and salons, fitness centers and walking tracks. Some Avalon Waterways cabins have panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to balconies.

Across the industry, meals have gotten more sophisticated, incorporating local dishes and ingredients to reflect the culinary traditions of different ports.

Myth # 5: River cruises only sail in Europe

“Rivers were here eons before roads were created and have always been vital to human settlement and survival,” writes cruise authority Douglas Ward in the Berlitz guide River Cruising in Europe . “Among the many of Europe’s great cities that grew up on the banks of the river are London (Thames), Paris (Seine), Cologne (Rhine), Frankfurt (Main), Prague (Elba, Vltava), Budapest (Danube) and Vienna (Danube). Thus, riverboats have long been popular in Europe, functioning like floating hotels transporting tourists from one city to another.”

That said, “the industry is expanding to other parts of the world because Europe is becoming saturated and with so much demand they need to think of other regions,” says travel writer  Jeff Titelius . For the past several years, too, some European rivers are experiencing low water levels , which is having an effect on cruises.

So cruise operators are adding itineraries across the globe — including ones along the Yangtze in China, the Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia, the Ayeyarwady in Myanmar (Burma), the Amazon in Brazil and Peru, and the Mississippi, Snake and St. Lawrence rivers in North America.

Myth # 6: Cruise lines will nickel and dime you

River cruise pricing is “mostly-inclusive,” so there aren’t likely to be too many unexpected expenses. Pricing generally includes the cost of transportation between ports (via the ship); onboard accommodations and entertainment; three meals a day — and usually, but not always, complimentary house wine, beer and soft drinks with dinner; coffee, tea and bottled water, and basic daily excursions with guides.

To compete with oceangoing vessels and with each other, many are adding free Wi-Fi, airport transfers and flights into their pricing.

Similar to ocean cruising, optional costs that need to be paid out of pocket often include surcharges for premium wines and liquors; gratuities for crew, tour guides and drivers; upcharges for optional excursions; health and trip delay/cancellation insurance; and add-ons for pre- or post-cruise extensions.

As with any travel product, it’s prudent to read reviews, compare prices and read the fine print. A river cruise specialist can help a consumer understand the subtle differences among products that are becoming not only more refined but also more complex.

Six Common Misconceptions About River Cruising  was published on NextAvenue.org on August 17, 2015. This is an updated version of that article (12/1/19).

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Me! Me! I am one of the last holdouts. But perhaps it’s time to reconsider…off to read your article now.

I think you would have a great time, Sheryl!

We’ve enjoyed several river cruises – and we can definitively agree with you that they are NOT boring! Our most recent river cruise was on the deluxe “Belmond Orcaella” cruising on Myanmar’s Irrawaddy River between Yangon and Bagan. The bouncy oxcart ride to see an old fort was a highlight. As was the horsecart ride around Bagan’s 3,000+ ancient temples.

Sounds like an incredible riverboat cruise!

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GET THE LOWDOWN ON RIVER CRUISES—ITINERARIES, FOOD, FELLOW TRAVELERS, AND DESTINATIONS

Erica lamberg | april 17, 2023 | 4 min read.

If you’re not a fan of large cruise ships because of crowds, you may find that river cruising can be a better choice. Because river cruise vessels generally hold less than 200 guests, many travelers prefer them for a more intimate sailing experience. I have taken four river cruise trips, and it's an enjoyable vacation option.   

MYTH: A RIVER CRUISE IS SLOW, UNEVENTFUL, AND BORING 

The pace of a river cruise is leisurely, and that's a good thing. You won’t experience seasickness like you might on larger ships because the rivers are smooth. Plus, the slower pace offers panoramic, up-close views of scenery and several port cities.     

MYTH: THE RIVER CRUISE IS ALL SENIOR TRAVELERS

The belief that river cruisers are all retired guests is another myth. “River lines have made great strides over the past few years to offer sailings, activities, and excursions that appeal to a wide audience—which has helped introduce the concept of river cruising to a younger audience,” says McDaniel. “From active excursions to itineraries that tap into things like local wine or overall wellness, lines are really making river cruising appealing to travelers of all ages and interests.”   

MYTH: FOOD IS BUFFET-DESIGNED AND BLAH

McDaniel with Cruise Critic reports the cruise industry as a whole is very well-positioned to serve travelers with various dietary needs, more so than land-based restaurants with static menus. “River lines are also known for their phenomenal dining offerings and sit-down restaurants—often taking into account the destinations they’re visiting, and bringing those flavors on board,” she continues. “Visiting Vienna? You’ll probably find authentic wiener schnitzel on your river cruise,” McDaniel says. “Chefs have been known to disembark in port to shop local markets to use in dinners that same night and they often invite guests to join them so they are part of the journey. If you’re a foodie on a river cruise, you’re unlikely to be disappointed.”   

Martinez with AAA agrees about the top-notch culinary experience onboard a river ship. “Food quality and service is amazing,” Martinez says. “River cruises also include soda, beer and wine with lunch and dinner.”    

MYTH: YOU CAN’T TRULY EXPERIENCE THE DESTINATIONS YOU’RE VISITING

River cruises offer a travel experience unlike any other, says McDaniel, as you sail directly into the heart of a town or city, disembarking and immediately starting your adventure. “Cruise lines have also done a phenomenal job of designing itineraries that take the more limited time in port into consideration and allow their guests to have once-in-a-lifetime experiences there,” she adds. “Whether taking a local cooking class, dining in a castle or hunting for truffles, the experience is incredibly special.”

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4 Myths About River Cruises that Stop People from Setting Sail

When you think about the word “cruise,” what images pop into your mind?

Do you imagine sitting on your balcony, glass of Chardonnay in hand, watching the Greek islands passing in the distance? Do you picture arriving in an exotic port in South America, waiting to explore a wonderful new city? Or, are your thoughts pulled to the wonderful cuisine that is served on many ships?

Regardless of your exact thoughts, you may not have immediately pictured a river cruise – unless, like me, you recently had the opportunity to join one.

The truth is that ocean ships dominate our imagination so much that their smaller cousins are rarely considered. This is a shame because, as I recently discovered, river cruising can be a fantastic experience. In fact, in many ways, it can be more satisfying than ocean cruising .

The more I think about it, the more I come to the conclusion that there are several myths about river cruising that hold people back from giving them a try. Instead, people tend to default to an ocean cruise because it is what they feel comfortable with.

So, based on my recent experience with Viking River Cruises, I wanted to debunk some of the most common myths about river cruising.

Here are 4 myths about river cruising that are completely false.

Myth: River Cruising is Expensive

This is one of those myths that is based on a half-truth. As with ocean cruises, there are all kinds of river cruises, ranging from budget trips to the luxurious experiences that Viking Cruises provides. As with so many things in life, you get what you pay for.

Let’s look at Viking as an example. Based on my experience, I can see that they are focused on providing the best possible value for their clients. Rather than charging the lowest possible price up-front and charging for “extras” at every turn, they provide a comprehensive experience.

Everything from the fabulous cuisine to their stimulating shore excursions is included as a standard part of the package. As a result, from the second you step on board, you can relax and enjoy your trip.

Myth: River Cruises are Boring

As a general rule, most river cruise ships do not have on-board casinos, rock-climbing walls, infinity pools or many of the other amenities that passengers have come to expect from the larger ocean cruise ships. But, this doesn’t mean that there is nothing to do.

In reality, river cruises put more of an emphasis on shore excursions, cultural opportunities and guided tours. They also do their best to bring the best from each of their stops onto the ship. For example, on my recent Viking river cruise , we had an on-board glass-blowing demonstration, cookie-making presentation, Christmas tree trimming session, German music concert and much more!

Other activities included a beer-tasting tour, exclusive tours of famous medieval castles and visits to some of the most spectacular Christmas markets in the world.

River cruising is definitely a more refined cruise experience, but, it is still a lot of fun!

Myth: River Cruises Aren’t Social

Many people picture river cruise travelers as quiet and perhaps even a little anti-social. Nothing could be further from the truth! In fact, in my experience, the intimate setting on a river cruise is much more conducive to making friends than the crowded environment on a 4000-person mega-ship.

To be clear, every single person that I met on my recent river cruise was fascinating. I talked with people who have lived in more countries than I have visited. I met a wonderful older gentleman who was traveling with his granddaughter. I chatted with bubbly engineers and wacky teachers. If anything, the people on my latest river cruise were more willing to engage with me than the passengers that I met on ocean ships.

Myth: Cruise Ships Are at the Mercy of the River

Since rivers are unpredictable, some people worry about whether their ship could be delayed by low-water levels. In reality, this very rarely happens. Most of the time, river cruises take place on well-managed waterways with locks. In addition, modern river cruise ships are able to travel in remarkably shallow water. As a result, it is almost certain that your cruise will according to plan.

If I’m honest, I had my doubts about river cruising, before I joined Viking Cruises on their Rhine Getaway . Now, I am completely converted! River cruises really are the most sophisticated, relaxing way to travel!

What have you heard about river cruising? Are there any concerns that you have about taking a river cruise? Let’s get a conversation started!

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Margaret Manning

Margaret Manning is the founder of Sixty and Me. She is an entrepreneur, author and speaker. Margaret is passionate about building dynamic and engaged communities that improve lives and change perceptions. Margaret can be contacted at [email protected]

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Are river cruises boring.

Many people who have never taken a river cruise ask if they are boring.  In fact that was my impression before I took my first one.  I kind of associated the word "cruising" with sedentary people watching the world go by from their window.  So I was delighted when we realized nothing was further from the truth And after a dozen or so river cruises, I know more than ever this is true.  So in this blog, I'll share with you some examples I've observed that make river cruises NOT boring.

10,000 steps or bust

You've probably heard that 10,000 steps a day is a reasonable goal to stay active.  On a river cruise you have the opportunity to blow past this goal virtually every single day.  If you do nothing else but the included tour each day, there's a good chance you'll put in a few miles per day.   We've clocked as much as 15 miles of walking on some days.  Boring and sedentary?  I don't think so.

Bikes and hikes

On many itineraries (and some cruise lines) you'll be able to take a bike ride whenever you want.  Tired of listening to a tour guide?  go off and take a bike ride no problem. Want to hike to the top of the castle instead of take the bus ride up?  absolutely, hike away.  Nothing boring about that.

Romans, Middle ages, communism at the same time

Where else can you walk from a Roman built coliseum to Impressionist art work within the same day?  Interested more in politics?  on a river cruise you can go from ex communist countries to some of the strongest democracies in teh world.  Want to walk in the foot steps of D Day soldiers or the Battle of Arnhem?  take a river cruise.

Foodies and river cruises

Like to try and compare wines from different regions and even countries on teh same trip without packing and unpacking?  If you're into wine, there's nothing boring about tasting a Hungarian wine one day and a German wine the next.  Nothing beats a fresh Parisian baguette or a classic french meal.  On a river cruise, each day brings new menus and tastes

Culture and locality

Interested in Opera?  Take a river cruise.  Interested in art work?  Take a river cruise.  Interested in lavender in France and tulips in Holland?  Take a river cruise.  Interested in how to navigate the lock system?  Want to explore towns and cities on your own?  Want to learn about history and culture from local experts?   Nothing boring here.

River Cruise passengers and conversations.

Perhaps the most surprising thing to me was that the other passengers I've met on river cruises have been the opposite of boring.  I've never been around so many interesting people in one place in my life.  You'll meet businessmen and retirees; people from oil and gas as well as pharma; the self employed and the corporate types; the artsy experts as well as the very well traveled; the wine lovers, the beer lovers, the lovers of life.  You'll meet great conversationalists and gracious individuals.  Sure you're bound to meet some people that rub you the wrong way but our experience has been that those people are in the minority.  Once you engage your fellow passengers in meaningful conversation, the word "boring" will cease to exist in your vocabulary.

Still think a river cruise is boring?  Everyone is different and if you're someone that needs to go 100 mph every minute of every day, then maybe a river cruise is boring for you.  All I know is that whenever I go on  a river cruise, I sleep very well at night from all the activity, I am constantly seeing new exiting and interesting things, I'm learning things about people that I've never known and I'm never bored.  Ever.

Now, certain itineraries, timing and cruise lines are more or less active than others.   A great travel agent can help you pick the right cruise, river, time of year that best matches your expectations and interests.  And after all, that's the best recipe to avoid boredom.

One last point - although we've emphasized on this post the activities available it doesn't mean you have to be active all the time.  There's plenty of opportunity to relax if you want.  We've intentionally stayed on the boat while most others go off onto excursions so we could just chill out and relax.  There's something wonderful watching hillsides and small towns go by while you graciously cruise the river.  Sometimes boring is exactly what you need and want and that's certainly available on a river cruise.

Susan Wolfson

Related posts, river cruise comparison part i - 10 considerations, river cruise comparison - 10 considerations plus bonus part iii.

In the first and second parts of this series, we listed 10 river cruise comparison points. To...

Is a River Cruise for You? Ten Things to Know Before You Commit

By Wendy Perrin

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Remember how I took to three European rivers—the Rhine, the Danube, and the Seine—on three different ships last spring? You can now read the article I was on assignment to report: “ The River Cruise Revolution ,” just published in Condé Nast Traveler ’s August issue. Americans are flocking to river cruises in record numbers, making it one of the hottest trends in travel and leading river lines to launch a whopping 11 new ships on European waterways this year and 12 more next year. But will river cruising float your boat? You can click to see photos from my trips on Grand Circle Cruise Line’s M/S Bizet on the Seine , Uniworld’s S.S. Antoinette on the Rhine , and AmaWaterways’ AmaBella on the Danube , and you can read my article, but I thought I’d also lay out ten specific pros and cons to consider before committing to a river cruise:

1. River cruising removes the work and the risk from travel.

It's a no-brainer vacation, which is either a good thing or a bad thing, depending on the level of adventure and challenge you want from your trips. On a river cruise you need never struggle with a foreign language, decipher a map, read a road sign, or even pick up a guidebook. The down side is that your fellow passengers may be the sorts of people who don’t want to struggle with a foreign language, decipher a map, read a road sign, or pick up a guidebook.

2. You can’t plan around the weather.

The ship has to leave port when the ship has to leave port—which means you can’t wait till the fog clears to visit the castle with the stunning vistas or tailor your indoor versus outdoor activities to the weather forecast. Also, river water levels rise and fall; your ship could literally get stuck because the water level is too high or low.

3. You needn’t schlep from hotel to hotel.

You check in and unpack once.

4. Your time in port is limited to a few hours.

You get a tasting menu of many different places, but you can’t dive deeply into any.

5. There’s always something new to see out your window.

The shoreline is always changing, as are the vessels gliding by.

6. Depending on the cruise line, the port sightseeing can be slow-paced and tour guides mediocre.

There can be waits and delays while everyone is loaded onto and off buses, handed off to local guides, and moved as a group through famous landmarks. With most people aged 60 to 80, some ships—the Antoinette, for instance—offer a “gentle walkers” group for the less mobile. AmaWaterways sometimes offers an “active walkers” group, but that doesn’t necessarily guarantee a great guide. For me the exception to the lackluster sightseeing was on the Bizet : Passengers were always punctual, and the superlative guides orchestrated the exploration so that you could always go as quickly or slowly as you wanted and easily venture off on your own.

7. You spend a lot of time eating. And not in local restaurants.

Most people dine onboard because they’ve paid for three meals a day on the ship, and dining is at communal tables with other cruisegoers. Usually at breakfast and lunch there is a buffet as well as a menu, so you could grab something in 30 minutes, but dinner always takes two hours.

8. You meet few locals.

When you have only a few hours in a place and you’re with a group, you end up spending more time talking to people from the ship than to locals.

9. There may be bikes.

Some river ships carry bikes that you can use for free in port. In some spots AmaWaterways lets passengers bike from one port to the next and rejoin the ship.

10. There are no kids.

There may be the occasional teenager accompanying a grandparent, but child-friendly river cruises are uncommon: Cabins fit two occupants only, there’s little play space, and dinner is a drawn-out affair.

Next I’ll share my take on river cruising versus ocean cruising—for those of you who’ve sailed on big ships at sea and are wondering how river cruises differ. Stay tuned.

A sampling of my photos from my river cruises:

Grand Circle Cruise Line’s 120-passenger M/S Bizet , docked on the Seine River in Vernon, France.

Wondering what I saw from my cabin balcony as we sailed between stops in Normandy? Here’s a typical scene.

Here’s the S.S. Antoinette docked in Boppard, Germany. It was a bit of a walk into town.

Harrison Pierce

Alex Erdekian

Charlie Hobbs

The S.S. Antoinette has an indoor pool.

Castles on the Rhine, including medieval Marksburg Castle, tend to look prettiest from May through October.

By the time I got to the AmaBella , I had figured out my favorite spot on any river ship: the wheelhouse up top. Officially it’s off-limits to passengers, but friendly captains will let you in for a peek and a quick chat.

A typical Wachau Valley church.

So we could see Melk’s famous Baroque abbey from the water, our captain sailed past the dock and rounded a bend onto the branch of the Danube where Melk Abbey sits. The only reason I know this is that I was on deck at 7:15 a.m. when he did it. Not all captains do this for passengers; the Scenic Ruby behind us did not.

Photo at top: CORMON Francis/Getty; slideshow photos courtesy Wendy Perrin

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The Pros and Cons of Cruises

Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This influences which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money .

A cruise can satisfy the greatest wanderlust, satisfy your favorite (and newfound) food cravings and open new horizons and interests you never thought possible. But you can also fall for tourist traps or miss the authentic culture of the places you visit.

If you’ve never cruised, talk to others who have more firsthand insights. Their perspective can shed even more light on the experience you can expect.

Going on a cruise has pros and cons, and it may be worth reviewing them before your next sailing. Let’s look at the pros and cons of cruises.

A good deal

Cruises can be costly, but you get more than just a great view of the ocean. Cruise bookings often include your:

Accommodations.

Some drinks.

Entertainment.

Recreational amenities like pools and waterslides.

Other onboard activities.

You can step aboard the ship and not spend a penny if you play your cards right.

There are plenty of ways for cruises to pull more money out of your pocket on board (think: spa, specialty restaurants, upgraded drink packages, shore excursions, shops and casino), but you can still have plenty of fun without spending an additional dime.

Cruise lines are reinventing their onboard options, and specialty restaurants tap in to the talents of well-known chefs and restaurateurs. This can take some of the boredom away from the same dining rooms, but it comes at a cost.

For the most part, however, if you find a good price on the cabin, the number of inclusions that come with it can quickly drive down the cost of an overall vacation. Of course, the more you spend on the cabin (some of those luxury suites, for example), the lower the bargain you'll get.

» Learn more: Are cruises all-inclusive?

Entertainment and education galore

You read that right — you can learn something educational on a cruise.

Many cruises have port talks, destination immersion lectures covering the history and culture of a place, art galleries and trivia games. You can learn something on board, and then when you’re ashore, you can explore the destinations you visit.

Cruises are a great way to learn more about the world, meet new people and learn from them, too.

And there is more entertainment than you can shake a stick at on board and ashore. From musical performances to game shows and cinemas, you can easily fill up your schedule.

Every ship is different, so it is important to review what is available on your sailing if staying busy is your goal. Otherwise, bring a book and watch the world float by from the deck.

On sea days (when the ship is traveling between ports), it’s like having your own resort with pools and activities included in the overall cost of your vacation.

» Learn more: The best cruise lines

Maximize your time

A cruise can introduce you to many places at once without your worrying about unpacking and repacking between destinations or paying for transportation between cities.

You unpack once and then are on your way, with all of the details handled for you — from immigration protocols to where to go and when.

The cost of a cruise includes a preplanned journey to some of the most popular points within a region and your transportation between them.

For example, your itinerary may have multiple Mediterranean cities or several European capitals.

There’s something quite relaxing about waking up each morning in a new city. And when you return after a day of exploring, housekeeping has cleaned your room.

A cruise may be a great option for less-frequent travelers because the cruise line is essentially “holding your hand” along the way.

Even better, some stops may be hard to reach by land — like many Alaskan ports — or expensive to reach independently, like some Greek islands or pricy ports in the Caribbean like St. Barts.

» Learn more: 6 cruises where you don't need a passport

Family and group travel come easy

Cruises are an easy option for groups traveling together. Unlike on land, where it can be hard to find restaurant reservations for large groups or find one activity that suits every interest, cruises have something for everyone.

People can branch off to do what they like on the ship and then meet back up an hour later without worrying about traffic or safety issues for kids.

» Learn more: What's the best deck on a cruise ship?

Lots of people

While this varies by ship — some enormous ships have so much space that there are plenty of areas where you’ll be one of only a few people — crowds may flood popular areas.

For example, people vying for their moment in the sun may swarm the pool deck and families may descend on the water park area simultaneously.

Lines can form at popular buffets or restaurants at meal times, and when it’s time to go ashore (or disembark after the cruise), you’ll be one of many waiting in line.

If you’re not willing to pay for specialty venues or you’re on a smaller ship that doesn’t have many free dining options, you may find that the dining rooms become repetitive. Menus change daily, but the setting does not. The window views at dinner will vary by destination, though, adding a bit of pizzazz.

If you make an effort, it is possible to find different things to do each day on almost all larger ships. River cruises, on the other hand, are much smaller and tend to feel more repetitive.

The same premise appears with the destinations for repeat cruisers. Because the cruise line plans itineraries, you may visit places you have been to multiple times if you sail often enough. It becomes harder to exclusively visit “new-to-you” places.

If it’s the latter you’re after, planning your own trip may be a better option.

» Learn more: Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival: Which is right for you?

One price is not always just one price

If you loosen your purse strings easily, spending more than you realize aboard a ship is possible.

A few cocktails by the pool each day, an extra tour or specialty restaurant dinner another, and before you know it, you’ve paid twice as much as you thought. It’s wise to board a ship with a budget in mind and plan your sailing accordingly so you don’t overspend without realizing it.

» Learn more: Best credit cards for cruises

Tourist traps

Cruise lines are often important economic engines for destinations. You may find yourself dealing with tourist traps, such as shops by the port, and beginner tours organized by the cruise line.

If you want the most authentic experience, it might be worth studying local guides and tour options online in advance to find something more authentic without falling for what’s waiting for you right at the port.

If you’re going on a shore excursion through the cruise line, you can count on being carted to places designed for large groups rather than hidden gems. Many tours often include a stop at a local shop or business that may be presented as authentic, but locals will tell you it is not.

This trend is amplified because travelers usually have only one day at each destination. As a result, time is of the essence to visit the most important sights without wasting it at tourist traps.

Frequent cruisers, however, will tell you that you should use a cruise to determine places you want to return to by using it as a sampler to explore many destinations. They also suggest planning what you want to do so you can hit the ground running.

Exploring independently or with a local guide (not booked through the ship) can often be your best bet. It also has the added benefit of directly supporting a local business or guide rather than funneling that cash through the cruise line.

The pros and cons of cruises, recapped

It’s unfair to decide how you feel about a cruise without trying one. Even those who insist they wouldn’t like one may end up having a good time.

Perception is not always reality, and you can be better prepared by considering all of the pros and cons of a cruise in advance. Talk with people on either side to get answers to your questions.

Not every type of travel is for everyone, but the ever-expanding cruise industry keeps adding amenities, perks and destinations. That alone speaks for itself.

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Are you too young to take a river cruise? Here's why the under-50 crowd is getting onboard

Slow-motion cruising on gentle rivers in Europe isn’t for everyone. Certainly, it’s not for those who need or require 24-hour access to food, entertainment or bars like mega-ship ocean cruises. But, if a traveler wants an easy pace, intimate settings, small-ship experiences and leisurely history lessons with excursion guides, a river cruise may be the choice – whether or not you’re retired.

Picking a cruise ship:  What's good and bad about every size, from mega-ships to riverboats

The demand is there

The market shows interest in river-cruising is swelling.

According to the latest Travel Agent Cruise Industry Outlook Report , river cruises are currently a hot trend in the cruise industry. The same report states that 79% of travel agents shared a river cruise is a great way to introduce “new-to-cruise” clients to cruising, noting that river cruises are a nice fit for looking for destination immersion, a smaller ship and a relaxed way to see Europe.

The upward trend of river cruises in Europe, says the outlook report,  has seen a 53% year-over-year growth in eastern waterways (Rhine, Moselle, Danube, Elbe) and a 30 percent growth to western channels (Soane, Seine, Loire) as well as a 24% growth to the south (Douro, Rhone, Dordogne, Garonne, Po).

Viking River Cruises, which has 54 longships on rivers in Europe, acknowledges that younger travelers are discovering the delights of river cruises.

“Historically, river cruising has been most popular with experienced travelers,” says Richard Marnell, executive vice president of marketing at Viking. “However, we are finding that younger travelers are also attracted to many of the aspects that are inherent to river cruising – hotel-like small ships that host fewer than 200 guests; the ability to unpack once and experience multiple countries; and itineraries that provide a mix of scenic landscapes, historic cities and storybook villages.”

Marnell also said Viking has also noticed an increase in the number of baby boomers traveling with their adult children. “A river cruise is a great way for families to create lasting memories and explore the world in a comfortable and convenient way that is appealing to multiple generations,” he adds.

Location, location, location

Viking, as well as many of the competitor cruise lines, tout that central docking locations in European get guests closer to their destinations, often docking right in the heart of a city. This makes it easy for independent exploration, which younger guests might prefer.

Another appeal for younger river cruisers is the opportunity to explore multiple inland destinations.

“The convenience factor is huge,” says Colleen McDaniel, executive editor of Cruise Critic. “You’re able to city- and country-hop in the convenience of a moving ‘hotel’ – no need to struggle with the hassles of various transportation needs or packing and unpacking more than once.”

There’s also been a greater focus from river cruise lines to expand their offerings to reach those younger travelers – adding everything from more active shore excursions to new itineraries and ships, and more onboard activities, says McDaniel.

European river cruises:  Your guide to the major companies and routes

Wellness trips 

For those with an interest in active excursions, Viking offers a variety of excursions for those who are looking for a more active or adventurous experience in port.  Examples include taking a bicycle tour of Cologne on the Grand European Tour itinerary; canoeing the Rhone River on the Lyon & Provence itinerary; taking a helicopter tour of Porto on the Portugal’s River of Gold itinerary; hiking the hills of Würzburg to Marienberg Fortress in Germany on the Grand European Tour itinerary; embarking on a plane ride to Neuschwanstein Castle (which inspired Walt Disney) in Passau, Germany on the Danube Waltz itinerary; or paddling through the Danube Wetlands of Donau-Auen National Park , near Vienna on the Romantic Danube itinerary.

Another pacesetter in the river cruise market is  AmaWaterways which boasts wellness hosts onboard , a fleet of bicycles, healthy menu offerings including vegan options, well-equipped fitness rooms and a swimming pool.

“We are seeing a younger, more active profile of guests onboard our ships. This is due to the popularity of our biking and hiking tour options, wine cruises and the growth in multigenerational families that are attracted by the many options onboard,” says Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-founder of AmaWaterways.

Karst reports about 50% of AmaWaterways’ clients are over the age of 65, and another 46% are between the ages of 35 and 65 years of age. “Regardless of age, our guests are active people who enjoy regular exercise, are health-conscious, have a keen interest in the fine arts and enjoy exploring a variety of locally-sourced, fresh cuisine and regional wines,” she says.

Immersive and inclusive experiences

A trailblazer is U River Cruises , which is the first river cruise dedicated to a new generation of adult travelers, offering a stylish look and feel. Itineraries focus on longer stays in destination, allowing guests to connect with local people, experiences and each city’s vibrant nightlife. The U fleet offers two 120-passenger matte black ships: The A and The B , each boasting two rooftop venues, a spa and locally-inspired, farm-to-table cuisine. “Even with the launch of U River Cruises, there was a clear target for a younger traveler – fully realizing the opportunity in reaching that demographic,” says McDaniel.

Another benefit: more is included in your all-inclusive fare. “River cruising is no longer a sleepy way to travel – it’s seen quite the evolution from just a few years ago,” she says. “River cruises are great for travelers looking for a more all-inclusive experience, as you’ll find far more inclusions on a river cruise than on mainstream ocean ships – things like alcoholic beverages, select shore excursions and WiFi are often inclusions you can expect on a river ship.”

Yoga, on-shore hikes, biking trips, and more: How river cruises are luring active travelers

These luxury trips have long been intimate and engaging. now ships are adding more features to bring younger travelers aboard.

River cruising has exploded in popularity in recent years, and no wonder: Travelers avoid mega-ship crowds, enjoy scenic vistas from the deck, and stop at picturesque cities and towns that might not otherwise be accessible in a larger vessel.

But you may be apprehensive about taking your first river cruise, especially if you consider yourself an active traveler who likes to get out and about. You may worry that a river trip will be too boring, confining, slow-paced, and sedentary.

“The cruise industry as a whole has been pushing back heavily on these fears for the past decade or so,” says Colleen McDaniel, senior executive editor of Cruise Critic , the largest online cruise review community.

That means you’re increasingly likely to encounter active excursions on shore and exercise and wellness programs as you sail.

“Several years ago, river cruise lines started bringing bikes on board, kicking off a sweeping trend in more active river cruises that has made them more attractive to younger cruisers,” says Michelle Baran, senior editor of Travel Weekly .

“River cruise lines have added hiking options, kayaking trips, yoga and workout classes, and more creative and engaging excursions like painting workshops that resonate with younger travelers,“ she says. “All these things are making river cruises seem more hip—and they really are much more hip than they were ten, or even five, years ago.”

So if you’re looking to book your first river cruise, here’s what you need to know.

What to expect on board

Over the past decade, river cruising has been one of the fastest growing segments of the industry. Cruise Critic reports that more than 80 new and refurbished river ships have launched over the past three years. Only eight new traditional ocean ships are set to launch in 2019.

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Much like being on a floating hotel, river cruises eliminate the hassles of arranging all your accommodations, meals, transportation, and tours. You visit multiple towns (and even several countries) without having to pack and unpack every day.

With distances between ports shorter than on sea voyages, it’s not uncommon to stop at one or more harbors each day as the vessels meander through inland waterways that are far calmer than oceans (so you’re less likely to experience seasickness).

Compared to ocean liners, riverboats are relatively small, often carrying fewer than 200 passengers. The vessels travel slowly, typically at speeds of about 10 knots, and cover much less distance than big ships do.

Although staterooms are smaller too, standard cabins on the most popular lines are spacious enough to stow belongings and maneuver comfortably, and most have windows or balconies, all the better to enjoy the views.

Due to their size, riverboats can’t possibly offer the glitzy bells and whistles of big ships (casinos, large theatrical productions, climbing walls, specialty restaurants, and so on). Public spaces usually include just a lounge, bar, and dining rooms. Instead, they are port-intensive.

What you get for the price

Although inclusions vary, river cruises tend to be “mostly inclusive,” so you’ll have a reasonably good idea of your vacation costs before leaving home.

Typically you’ll get three meals a day onboard (or the occasional off-site culinary excursion), at least one complimentary guided tour at each port, and beer and wine with lunch and dinner. Keep in mind that mealtimes are quite rigid. On the plus side, you aren’t likely to encounter the long buffet lines associated with larger ships.

All of this may not come cheap. For example, a stateroom next summer on Viking River Cruises’ 15-day Grand European tour starts at $5,500 per person and runs as high as $13,000 (including airfare from the U.S.).

“When comparing the costs of a river cruise to an ocean cruise, you’ll likely notice higher fares on rivers,” says Cruise Critic’s McDaniels. “That’s generally due to the fact the river lines have a more inclusive pricing structure than those of mainstream ocean lines.” 

Perks like Wi-Fi, shore excursions, and beverages are more likely to be extras on ocean cruises. Still, on river cruises , you may need to add on the cost of optional tours, premium wines and spirits, and tips.

The changes on the horizon

As river cruising catches on, the industry is evolving.

“Historically, we’ve seen the average age onboard river cruises skew higher than that of ocean cruises,” says Cruise Critic’s McDaniel. “Up until just a couple of years ago, river lines weren’t all that family-friendly.”

With excursions and amenities tailored to younger and more active travelers, adds McDaniel, “we are seeing the average age come down.”

To remain competitive, cruise lines are putting more emphasis on healthy, locally sourced, farm-to-table foods tied to the destinations being visited. “They’ve embraced the foodie trend, with wine-themed cruises and more authentic and experience-driven culinary experiences such as cooking classes and tastings,” says Travel Weekly’s Baran. 

That’s opening up more options for river cruisers in search of healthy foods and services. “Wellness is definitely becoming a much stronger driver of our leisure clients’ travel choices,” says W. Anthony Huffman, founder of Huffman Travel , a luxury travel specialist in Dayton, Ohio.

For example, Crystal Cruises , the luxury ocean line that introduced its first riverboat in 2016, now has five river ships sailing in Europe, each with fitness centers, spas, indoor pools, and an onboard fitness director leading yoga and stretching classes. Plus, you can sign up for biking and hiking excursions.

Each of the 23 AmaWaterways river ships has a fitness room, walking track, and bicycles; many have heated outdoor pools. The line’s newest and most spacious river ship—the AmaMagna, set to launch in May 2019—will feature a Zen Wellness Studio with exercise and stretching classes, a juice bar, a large heated pool, and a platform at the rear of the ship for water sports.

Scenic River Cruises , which operates 16 river ships in Europe and Asia, has introduced personal audio devices so guests can take independent GPS-guided walks at various ports.

“I think for a lot of people that stereotype of river cruising being boring and for older people really persists ,” says Baran. “But the demographic is definitely getting younger.”

How to find your first cruise

To settle on the right cruise, check out the itineraries, onboard amenities, shore excursions, what’s included and what’s not, and per person costs. You can compare options at sites like cruise.com ,  Cruise Compete , and Seahub .

A travel agent familiar with various cruise lines’ offerings can be immensely helpful. Two major travel agencies that have searchable databases of advisors, including some who specialize in river cruises, are Virtuoso and TravelLeaders . The Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) also has a searchable database of agents .

Remember you’ll be spending most of your time off the ship, so carefully check out shore excursions. (Cruise line websites usually detail them.)

Even though excursions are included, don’t feel compelled to join every one. You can spend your time onboard instead—or plan independent excursions that allow for serendipitous discovery.

By going rogue from the group, you can set your own time and pace (as long as you adhere to the ship’s scheduled departure time). And although meals are included, you may prefer to experience local specialties on land.

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Are River Cruises Right for Kids?

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

While major cruise lines are wowing families with mega-ships with cool features like bumper cars, rock-climbing walls, 10-story waterslides, surf simulators, iFly skydiving and more, river cruise lines are slower to catch up in that department. Especially popular in Europe, river cruises meander slowly down rivers like the Danube and the Rhine, stopping in intimate ports as well as larger cities to offer passengers an easy way to visit multiple countries without packing up bags, dealing with train transfers, flights, etc.

Some river cruises don't allow children at all , but a few river cruises lines — such as Uniworld and AmaWaterways (which partners with Adventures by Disney) — are teasing parents with family sailings on itineraries that take you through the fairy-tale castles of Germany or follow the "Sound of Music" in Austria. But, are river cruises actually a good vacation option for kids? Sadly -- not really.

Unlike Ocean Liners, River Cruises...

Do not have family cabins. Riverboats are much smaller than cruise ships that ply oceans. Riverboats navigate lower depths and narrow passageways so they have to be somewhat small. They also have predominantly been for the older set, so cabins offered on river cruises, even suites, usually lack pull-down berths, sofa beds and bunks in which kids can share a room with their family. On river cruises, families often have to book multiple rooms to accommodate everyone, which increases the cost of the cruise.

Do not have kids clubs. As river cruises do not cater to families year-round, the smaller ships save all of its space for adult lounges and dining rooms. Even when offering a family voyage, the boat often houses kids' programs in spaces originally intended for adults. You won't find video games, movie nights, craft making or fun character interactions — even on an Adventures by Disney river cruise. Not only are there no kids clubs, but save for the upper deck, there simply isn't a lot of space for kids to run around.

Do not have swimming pools. Only a rare few river ships have a "pool." That's in quotations because the pools are often so small they aren't bigger than a large hot tub. Kids will not have a place to splash and play during the day — intentional on river cruises, where passengers are expected to spend the day exploring quaint villages.

Do not have baby-sitting. A perk of ocean cruises and even all-inclusive resorts are the baby-sitting options so mom and dad can enjoy a quiet, romantic dinner on their vacation every once in a while. On river cruises, you do not have the option of having some couple time.

Limited kid-friendly options. River cruises are great for offering bicycles for passengers to enjoy along paved river paths. Alas, these don't come with infant or toddler seats, and kid-sized bikes are a rarity. Also a rarity? Foods kids can easily enjoy at dinner. Kids' menus may be offered, but are extremely limited. Even excursions offered to passengers don't have kids' top of mind. Some excursions require four-hour bus rides and meals with groups can last for hours.

Can be very expensive. While you can pay for a river cruise with a card like the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card or Discover it Miles and then use miles from those cards to offset the charge, there aren't as many options to use miles and points for cruises as there are for flights and hotels. River cruises, often luxury in nature, will generally cost thousands of dollars per person — and do not discount the fare for children.

Still Want to Take a River Cruise? Here Are the Best

Adventures by Disney. Cruising on AmaWaterways ships, the (expensive) Adventures by Disney cruises provide bubbly, family-friendly Disney employees to serve as your own tour guides through the sites along the cruise route. Disney has set up some special excursions on each cruise (like strudel making in Vienna), and also provides that extra-special Disney touch accounting for every last detail. But -- don't let the Disney name fool you as some Adventures by Disney are adult-only and others have a minimum age for the sailing that is much higher than say on the Disney Cruise Line.

If you really want Europe + Disney + cruising, the actual Disney Cruise Line does have some European itineraries on the large Disney Magic ship that may be better suited for young families.

Uniworld. The uber-luxurious cruises provided by Uniworld open up in the summer and holiday seasons for 10-day itineraries for families. These work well for multigenerational groups, offering a little something for everyone during excursions — including cooking classes with the chef for kids. Butler service in the suites is nice, but kids probably won't appreciate the ornate, gold-leafed décor found on many ships.

Tauck. Adventure cruises by Tauck will take families to exciting destinations like the Galapagos and small boat tours of Alaska, as well as some river options. Look for Tauck Bridges sailings, which are designed specifically for families.

"Budget-Friendly" Alternatives

If you've been thinking about a family river cruise, also look into this alternate options.

Instead of a Danube river cruise: Instead of cruising the Danube, consider visiting Budapest and Prague without a cruise. They are lovely European cities where you can find great points deals on hotels. In Budapest , you can check out a castle, swim in the natural hot springs at Szechenyi Thermal Bath and explore the zoo, while in Prague , there are more castles, parks and puppet shows that will entertain the kids. A comfortable train ride through the countryside connects the two, with food and drink service, for a whole lot less than a cruise.

Instead of a Rhine river cruise: A trip down Germany's Rhine river can be done by renting a car, where you can stop at one or dozens of castles. Rhine river tours typically begin in Amsterdam , which is very kid-friendly. Visit Vondelpark for play time, rent bicycles, try a canal sightseeing cruise and explore one of the museums in the city, many with special programs for kids.

Instead of a Po river cruise: Italy has so much to offer families, there's no need to see it by boat. Trains will take you from destination to destination, with kids loving a visit to Rome's Colosseum, a ride in a gondola in Venice and even enjoying kid-friendly wineries in Tuscany, where you can picnic and sample local wines.

Instead of a European river cruise: Europe is filled with all-inclusive resorts for families, from beachfront destinations in Spain and Portugal (the Martinhal resorts are fantastic) to alpine ski resorts in Switzerland and France (think Club Med). At theses resorts, you'll get all of the perks — kids clubs, baby-sitting, larger accommodations — and all of the benefits of Europe. These resorts can arrange sightseeing excursions and are likely much less expensive than a river cruise (and of course at some hotels you could use your hotel points).

Bottom Line

River cruises are truly a wonderful way to see Europe, but until they make a ship that is kid-friendly from head to toe (with discount fares for kids), save your pennies and go for the alternative unless you really think your kids are the right age and temperament for a more adult vacation and you have a hefty budget to work with.

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Douro River Cruise - Worth it

Hello: I've been researching Douro River Cruises and have gotten many bad reviews so I thought I would come ask my friends who never steer me wrong. I've watched a ton of videos on YouTube on the Douro River and many have said that they are boring and to bring cards on the boat to help pass the 6 hour boat ride. Our group of 5 will be in Porto from 6/28 - 6/30. Would you recommend the Douro River tour and if so which one, or would you advise us to slow down and take a food tour in Porto or just walk around and enjoy the city? We are used to running around as we like to see as much as possible. I thank you in advance for your help and am looking forward to your responses. Ciao! Suzanne

We spent four days in Porto earlier this month. We had a delightful time exploring the city and its cuisine. We didn't feel we missed out on anything by not taking a day-long cruise of the Douro. Instead, we took a one-hour six bridges cruise in the early evening and then had dinner at a restaurant on the waterfront. We did take a private tour by van through the Douro to Foz Coa archeological park, stopping for lunch along the way, plus a stop for Port tasting. For us, that was fine. As your trip is a day shorter than ours, you should have plenty to do just by exploring the city. Do bring comfortable shoes; the city is very hilly and you will get a good workout.

We did a fantastic Douro river cruise that was 7 days in 2018 and it was great. You only want to do a two day cruise, not sure those are offered.

If you don't want to do a cruise, take the train (it runs down the north bank of the river to Regua or even better to Pinhao.

The river valley is probably the most scenic in Europe.

I'm hoping more people add comments. I am also wondering about the cruise. What is the best part for scenery? Are two/ three hour cruises available?

We booked this Train/Boat cruise...we are staying in the Douro Valley and picking it up there. https://www.roteirododouro.com/en/experience/cruise-regua-pinhao-historic-train

Good reviews and hubby is a train lover.

I wanted to follow-up on my question as I don't think I made it clear. I wanted to know if you have three days in Porto if it is worth it to take a 10-12 hour day trip to the Douro Valley? And if so, which would you recommend.

If you only have 3 days in Porto there is plenty to see and do without spending a long long day up the Douro. Just make sure to include port wine tasting in Vila Nova de Gaia across the river from Porto. Also make sure to take the old tram out to Foz do duoro area by the open Atlantic.

We spent 2.5 days in the Douro River valley. It's gorgeous! We didn't take the train or a cruise. We had a car and just spent our days exploring the scenery and taking long breaks at scenic wineries for a glass of wine or port. If you feel the need for a cruise, you can do a one hour cruise from Pinhao. I did look at doing the train from Porto, and it looked to be a long ride. I felt the most scenic part was from Regua to Pinhao.

In addition to our time in the Douro River Valley, we had two days in Porto. It's a lovely and interesting city.

We typically plan and do things on our own vs. a tour. Because you are in Porto such a short time, if you want to see any of the Douro beyond Porto, I'd look for a half day tour.

I am working on a Douro Valley tour package with a company named Roterio do Douro for April 2024. Jennifer also posted that she was using them for a trip in May They are the only company that I can find that combines the train & cruise and can also arrange accommodations at a hotel or local quinta for a multi-day package. They have been very helpful and flexible to work with-However, I can't find any reviews of this company on Trip Advisor or Google. They have a Facebook page which is all in Portuguese. Has anyone, other than Jennifer below, had any experiences with them? They are based out of Lisbon. https://www.roteirododouro.com/en Where else can I look for reviews? Kerry Anchorage AK

We just returned from Portugal and look a day tour from Porto to the Douro Valley with Wine Venture & Boat Trip in Douro Valley: https://www.airbnb.com/experiences/160799?startDate=2023-10-23&adults=2 . It was one of the highlights of our trip.

This is an AirbnB experience run by a small company of natives of the Douro Valley. It is a small group tour (we had 7 people total) with a knowledgeable local guide. Our guide, Leo, was born and raised in the Douro Valley and was very knowledgeable about wine, history, food, and culture. The tour includes a short boat tour (about 45 minutes) with a Port Tonic (my new favorite drink) and some light bites. Despite the rain, we really enjoyed this short boat ride. We then toured two wineries, both small family owned. Our lunch at the second winery was spectacular and the wine was delicious. We had time to walk through the vineyards. We live near Napa and Sonoma and wine taste quite often and usually are not a fan of tours. However, these tours were really interesting, from seeing the large granite tubs in which people still stomp the grapes with their feet, to seeing an underground storage for a sparking wine.

As a note, we actually did both the day tour in Douro and a port and food tour from Eating Europe: https://www.eatingeurope.com/porto/port-wine-food-tour/ . This tour took us to one of the few Portuguese owned Port houses in Vila Nova de Gaia, touring a cellar with port wines from the 18th century. We also ate at some really unique places, from a little bakery with only counter space to a grocery store where we helped the owner with his English and he helped us learn some Portuguese. Sara was our guide and she was delightful.

We love wine and food and enjoyed both the tour to the Douro and the food tour.

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​​I've been on 110 cruises. Here are 7 myths I want to debunk for hesitant first-time cruisers

• I've spent decades going on over 100 cruises and I've heard a lot of misconceptions about them.
• Cruises don't always have to be super expensive and seasickness isn't a guarantee. 
• I don't think cruises are boring — and they aren't just for elderly people, either. 

I waited 20 years before I boarded a cruise ship and I've now gone on 110.

In my decades of cruising, I've learned there are a lot of reasons people are nervous to go on their first cruise. I can readily relate to some of them, but I now believe this type of travel is worth trying at least once — you, like me, may even get hooked. 

Here's my breakdown of some common myths about cruising that may prevent people from giving this type of travel a chance. 

MYTH: Wealthy people are the only ones who can afford cruises 

I always thought that cruising involved big bucks, so it took me years to look into the actual cost. Finally, as my wife pointed out after researching, the real price was far lower than the figures in the brochures.

Keep an eye out for deals and special offers — a lot of cruises offer discount packages and rates that can make them more affordable. You can also look into shorter cruises that are only three or four days, which tend to be cheaper than ones that are over a week. 

Just be careful to also watch your spending on board — temptation can be everywhere, but a little willpower and a periodic check of your bar tab can help keep you in line.

MYTH: Everyone gets seasick on cruises 

Having traveled across both the Atlantic and the Pacific on Army troop ships, I found being seasick one of the worst experiences imaginable. Plus you're committed to a pretty tight schedule on a cruise, meaning limited stops on land and thus little hope of relief.

But a lot of large cruise ships today have modern stabilizers, so you may not even feel the swaying of the waves. Sometimes the movement feels more like vibrations and passengers can forget they're at sea. 

Seasickness also doesn't happen to everyone — and, should you start to feel poorly, you can try to can manage it with special bands and medications. 

MYTH: Cruises are only for the elderly

Some younger people may not want to go on cruises because they believe only older folks do it. Maybe this was common years ago, but today there are so many different lines and ships that target adults, families, and all sorts of groups. 

For example, a young family might think twice about taking Holland American cruises, which are popular with older adults, but be drawn to Carnival, which is known for accommodating families.  

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If you're not sure if a cruise seems right for you and your group , check out its ports, activities, and itineraries. 

MYTH: Being cooped up on a ship for a week will get really boring 

A common concern that I've heard, but find hard to understand, is that being cooped up on a ship for seven or 10 days will get really boring.

In reality, all of the entertainment features, activities, and ports are more likely to leave you feeling exhausted. I have gone bowling on ships, played bumper cars, zip lined across upper decks, and almost went on a simulated sky-diving tunnel before I chickened out.

Don't worry about being bored — instead, worry about pacing yourself .

MYTH: The cabins are way too small for you to have a positive experience

The cabins on cruises are often really tiny — but if you don't love your room you can just spend more time elsewhere on the ship. There are tons of lounges and activities on board anyway. 

You can also consider if it's worth it for you to pay for more space. Interior cabins are usually the cheapest and smallest . For more money, you can get window or balcony — or you can upgrade to a suite.

For some, it might be better to go on fewer cruises with nice suites instead of many cruises with OK cabins . 

MYTH: Cruise ships are too formal

One of my early concerns was that some ships are very formal in the evenings when it comes to dress codes and activities. 

But even though a lot of ships have formal nights (one or two for a seven-day cruise is standard) you have options if you don't want to participate. You also don't need to rent a tuxedo or buy a floor-length gown — the dress codes can be pretty flexible. Just be sure to look them up before sailing.

Plus you can always eat at a buffet or other dining area on the ship if you truly want to skip the formal nights. 

MYTH: Restricted eating schedules make it hard to get food when you're hungry 

Years ago, cruising was relatively formal, and your dining room and tablemates were preassigned. Today, most cruises have flexible meal schedules or, at the very least, serve at least some kind of food all day long. 

Some lines, like Norwegian Cruise Line , offer freestyle dining where you eat when and where you want, with no fixed times or preassigned seating.

That said, keep an open mind about preassigned dining — you might find it's nicer than you think. I loved meeting up with the same group and having the same server each night who could remember my preferences and quirks. 

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