The Not So Lazy River

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River Cruising is one of the fastest growing segments of the travel industry.  It used to be frequented only by those who had been retired for quite some time and had exhausted the ocean cruises that appealed to them.  But that is rapidly changing.  Even Disney is getting in on the river action.  Adventures by Disney has teamed up with a river cruise company and is offering family friendly river cruises.  So what’s the attraction?  Let me enlighten you!

 

Initially river cruises appear to be more expensive but if you take a closer look at what is included in the fare you will quickly see that they are not that different.  With ocean cruises the fare includes your lodging and food; however, alcohol and other beverages are not included you have to buy additional packages or pay by the drink.  Even bottled water is an additional charge.  River cruises include the beverages in the cost of the cruise.

 

Excursions to see the port that you are visiting are an additional charge on an ocean cruise unless you just want to wander around and see what is next to the port.  Guided tours are an extra cost.  With a river cruise they have standard excursions at each port they stop at that are included in the price of your cruise.  If you have been there before, or desire a more enriching experience they do have specialty excursions that you can purchase.

 

Want a room with a view?  On an ocean cruise you will pay a higher fare.  With river cruising all the rooms have a view.  River cruise ships do not have inside cabins.  Admittedly not all views are desirable so there are differences in the fares for a river cruise depending on the view, the size of the stateroom, and it’s location on the ship.  The take away here is that all the rooms on a river cruise have a view, and they are spectacular.

 

I can’t imagine a better way to really see a country than by sailing down their waterways.  Don’t get me wrong, I love the view of the ocean; it’s relaxing, it’s calming, and it’s beautiful.  But I love seeing the charming country side almost more than I like the wide open water of the ocean.  You get a better feel for the country and its people when you see the country side.  This is something you just can’t do on an ocean cruise.

 

I love the idea of cruising; whether it be on a river or the ocean.  You just can’t beat the logistical ease of a cruise.  You unpack once, all of your meals are taken care of, and you get to see some of the most beautiful places on earth.  All without pulling your hair out.