Why your next vacation should be a river cruise
The next generation of cruisers wants a river cruise. Why are river cruises becoming so wildly popular? River cruises allow you all the excitement of a full itinerary and cultural enrichment without the hassle of a complicated itinerary.
Have you ever felt like you need a few quiet days to recuperate from vacation? Vacations are supposed to be relaxing. But so often our busy travel itineraries leave us feeling more tired than before we left. A river cruise might be your answer. Scenic and peaceful with a vast variety of niche cruise options to choose from, you are sure to find a river cruise that meets your style. Here’s why a river cruise is a can’t-miss experience for your next vacation!
1. A river cruise is the most scenic way to cruise
The wide, open ocean has an unparalleled beauty of its own. But if you enjoy a more constant change of scenery (or if you simply feel more comfortable being in sight of land), a river cruise is the way to go. Drift past quaint villages, rolling hills, or sunny farmsteads. Explore the diverse wildlife of the Amazon or unlock the secrets of ancient Egypt on a Nile cruise. Due to the smaller size of the river cruise boat, you are less likely to find inside rooms aboard and chances are good that you will have an excellent view right from your room.
2. It’s the most relaxing way to see a new destination
Do you dream of exploring far-off destinations, but balk at the idea of piecing together a complex itinerary? A river cruise allows you to a great variety of sights and cities with little hassle! No planning meals, activities or excursions. And best of all, your accommodations float right along with you so there’s no need to settle into a new hotel every night.
3. Food on a river cruise is usually locally-sourced
While larger, ocean-faring cruise lines stock their ships with food before the voyage, the smaller river vessels are able to pick up local produce, fish, and beverages throughout the journey. This has a twofold benefit for cruisers. Travelers will get to experience the most authentic local flavors as they travel from port to port. But this also means your meals are fresher and sourced in a more sustainable way.
Related: Responsible Travel: 9 Ways to Preserve the Destinations We Love
4. You’ll get to know your cruise companions
Since river cruise lines use much smaller vessels, many cruisers get to know their travel companions well. Sometimes even forming lifelong friendships from a week of cruising together. Travel and shared experiences bring people together. Even if you don’t exchange numbers or stay in contact, meeting new people is an enriching and fun experience. Stay open to meeting new people wherever you go.
Related: Why You Should Meet Locals While Traveling
5. A river cruise is smoothing sailing
Rivers know this: there is no hurry. We shall get there some day.
-A.A. Milne
If the idea of a cruise sounds nice, but sailing on the high seas makes you nervous, a river cruise is a great place to start. A smaller boat, with a slower pace, less rocking, and land always in sight… You can do this!
With such a great variety of river cruises and experiences available, it’s nice to talk through your trip with someone who has been there (especially if your cruise is abroad). Booking your river cruises through a qualified travel agent is the best way to ensure you are making an excellent choice. Talk to your travel agent about booking a river cruise for you this year!
Bon voyage!
I totally agree