River cruising
Rivers were the first interstates. This means of transportation supported the founding and growth of Europe’s most famous cities. Kings built castles above the rivers in order to see their enemies advancing, supplies could be shipped expediently across country, and people could travel from town to town efficiently. A River Cruise allows you to immerse yourself in Europe’s incredible history like no other kind of vacation.
River cruises offer an amazing scenic and historical perspective as well as a comfortable and relaxing way to explore places you’ve always wanted to see. You can get closer to the smaller river ports that are impossible to reach on a large cruise ship and enjoy the landscape as you sail from one city to the next often seeing castles, vineyards and hillside villages along the way.
River cruising is quickly becoming one of the most popular ways to travel. Today, there are more ships sailing the world’s rivers, particularly in Europe, than ever before. Many river cruise lines are reporting 97% occupancy. In order to take advantage of generous early booking discounts and ensure your preferred accommodations, you should contact WrightStone Custom Travel as early as 9 months prior to traveling.
Advantages of River Cruises
Plunge into the rich culture of Europe! While cruising the river, a variety of activities await that mirror the cruising region’s local interests. In addition, you’ll love the fine cuisine, lovely entertainment, and beautiful music that reflect local traditions. Cruise lines also may feature lectures – these enable you to be instructed on the history and customs of the territory of Europe you are traveling in.
Up close and personal views
You’ve never experienced Paris like this: The Seine River takes travelers into the heart of Paris, including Paris’ Notre-Dame Cathedral.
Budapest is similar – views from the Danube River are incredible as the lighting nearby accentuates the raw awe of structures like Budapest’s Chain Bridge.
All-inclusive
Don’t worry about food or drink. River cruises include all food: breakfast, lunch and dinner. Wine, beer and soft drinks are À la carte. Plus,
- Enlightening tours at all ports,
- entertainment every night,
- rent a bike to explore quaint villages,
- a fully equipped cabin of your own including tv.
Dining
Dining on river cruises is a gourmet experience; outstanding local wines are paired for you to go with each unique meal aboard the ship. River cruises through Provence are a chance for wine connoisseurs to experience famous vineyards and tastes. In addition to onboard life, you can hop off the river liner in port and visit some of the offerings in the cities along the way.
Size
River liners are much small and comfortable. Normally, a river ship accommodates about 120-140 guests. This allows for a more quaint and cozy experience as you can become aquatinted with shipmates and crew quickly. You’ll experience the intimacy that only a river cruise can provide.
Accommodations
River cruise liners include first class accommodations
- private compartments with ultra comfy beds,
- superb linens
- and marbleized bathrooms with toiletries.
- Other features include:
- hair driers,
- safes,
- bathrobes,
- individual air-conditioners
- and plenty of closet space.
- Other features include:
Smooth Sailing
Most river cruises move about 10 miles an hour. Thus, there is no reason to worry about seasickness. Even those who have had sea sickness on ocean ships report no ill effects on these smooth sailing river ships.
Relaxing
As with ocean liners, you only unpack once. Then relax and leave the “driving” to the captain. River cruising is a fantastic way to see several port cities in Europe in a short period of time.