See more of the world on a river cruise in Europe, Egypt, India, Africa, Asia, and the USA
Top Ten Reasons To Choose River Cruising
1. Destination Immersion
You’ll stop in the must-see cities and explore off-the-beaten track villages and towns along the way, giving you a fuller view of the destination.
2. Ease of Travel
Your intimate boat, carrying fewer than 200 passengers in Europe and usually many fewer in Asia*, Egypt, India, and Africa, moves between ports while you enjoy dinner or sleep. This saves you time and effort that would otherwise be spent checking in and out of hotels, finding your routes, and making your way from place to place. On a river cruise, your day is free for exploring . *Yangtze River boats carry up to 256 passengers.
3. Convenience
River boats often dock right in the center of town, meaning you have easy access to the most important sights, shopping, and restaurants.
4. Local Insights
A tour, led by local guides, is included in every port. Small-group walking tours showcase the highlights, and allow free time to wander, shop, or visit a local museum if you choose. Local guides are like having a friend in every port, ready with tips and suggestions you may not find in guidebooks.
5. Choice
The choice of what you do on any day is yours: join the walking tour, choose an alternative tour, head off on your own with GPS guides, go for a hike, take a ride on one of the on-board bicycles, or stay on board and relax. You choose your schedule.
6. Exclusive Access
Excursions can include private access to events and locations not available any other way, such as dinner in a castle, entrance into a renovated private home dating to the 14th century, a tasting tour through a gourmet market, or sundowner (sunset) cocktails from a spot with a spectacular view.
7. Unrivaled Scenery
Scenic cruising gives you the best view of picturesque valleys lined with vineyards, villages, ruined castles, and centuries of history. Maps and guides to the itinerary are provided every night for the following day.
8. Exquisite Dining and Drinks
All meals are included in your fare. Local specialties, farm-to-table cuisine, American favorites and healthy options plus attention to dietary restrictions make dining on board a highlight of river cruises. Open seating means you can dine when you want, where you want, and with whom you want. Alternative restaurants include casual fare, al fresco dining, and Chef’s tables. You can also check out local restaurants. The concierge is happy to make reservations for you. Wine, beer, and soft drinks are included in your fare on most lines. Specialty teas and coffees are also available at all times. Some lines include all beverages 24/7.
9. Casual Atmosphere
Bring your walking shoes, but leave formal-wear at home unless you plan a gala evening off the boat. Dress on board is casual. For dinner on board, wear what you would choose for dinner at a local restaurant. No jackets or ties for men, and no gowns for ladies.
10. Entertainment and Enrichment Come to You
Entertainment on board includes performances by local musicians and dancers, presentations on various topics, cooking demonstrations, wine tastings and more.
My travel agency specializes in river cruising and serves Concord, Acton, Marlborough and surrounding areas. To learn more about river cruising, please call 978-460-5642 or email peggy@cruiseplanners.com
Click here to receive our free "Insider's Guide to River Cruises" and check my blog for river cruise reviews and information.
