Would You Rather Go To A Country Or Through One?

Photo courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Here are several reasons why so many travelers are switching to River Cruising!

1.  The boats are smaller and more intimate, 120-170 passengers,  so you can actually get to know your fellow guests.  You may eat with whom ever you choose each evening and have a choice of a few onboard dining venues for variety.

2.  It is as close to hassel-free as you can get. There are no lines to get on or off the boat, and when you arrive at your next stop, you can usually walk right off and be immersed in your destination.

Photo courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

3.  The trip can be totally all-inclusive, depending on the cruise line and ship you choose. Generally, all transfers, all meals and most beverages, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions, like the beautiful Schonbrunn Palace in Vienna or bicycles to explore with a group or on your own, are all included.  In addition, many of the river cruise lines offer room service.

Photo courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

4.  Seasickness is not an issue since there are no waves on the river — you just glide!  Also, most cruises include transferring through a series of “locks” to accommodate the changes in elevation, which most people find super interesting to watch.  You can literally touch the walls of the locks from your balcony as you pass through.

5.  Entertainment is provided by the locals.  Don’t expect Broadway-type productions on the River Cruise!  There is usually live music in the evenings, such as the OomPah Band we enjoyed in Passau, Germany, the Sound of Music Singers in Salzburg, Austria, or the Gypsy dancers in Budapest.   Sometimes optional excursions are offered, like the wonderful evening of music we enjoyed in Veinna!

6.  River Cruising is a good value, when you consider everything you are getting for the cost. Viking River Cruises is the most well-known of the River Cruise lines because they have spent lots of money on television and print advertising, and they have done a lot to introduce travelers to the River Cruise concept.  They are a good line, and I have several groups traveling on Viking this year.  However, there are many other River Crusie lines to consider when choosing a River Cruise — AMA Waterways, Uniworld, Tauck, to name a few.  Adventures By Disney even partners with AMA Waterways for exciting Family River Cruising!

A travel consultant who specializes in European River Cruising (like me), and who has actually experienced river cruising, can be incredibly valuable in helping you sort through all of the options and find the perfect fit!

7.  River Cruising is a great option for small groups of friends, family, or even work colleagues who would like to travel together.  When I  book a River Cruise, I always ask if there is anyone who might want to join the client on the trip — sometimes the word spreads, and several other couples or individuals come forward!  Who would you like to cruise with through the incredible Wachau Valley in Austria?

96% of first time cruisers say they would recommend the experience to a friend!  Watercolor Boutique Travel is authorized to sell all the lines, and we would love to help match you (and your friends) to the perfect experience!  Get onboard the “River Cruise Movement!”  I know I am already planning my next ones!  Why not join me?