River cruising is still a growing trend and experiencing some of the most rapid growth in the travel industry, and no doubt the most growth in the cruise market. In the past 10 years, the number of passengers taking river cruises has grown by 15 percent; the ocean cruising segment has seen about 5.4 percent growth. The industry has experienced 10 percent annual growth for five years running. River cruising is done predominantly in Europe and other exotic areas of the world, but it is becoming increasingly popular in the United States as well. This is destination immersion at its finest! Some of the world’s greatest cities are accessible only by river – not by the ocean. You visit a different city each day and have the entire day and often the evening to enjoy the local area and culture. Cruising the world’s rivers from Europe to Russia and is truly a special experience.
I for one thought river cruising was for the older generation but I was completely wrong in more ways than one. This new way to cruise is for the adventurous. You are docked right into the heart of the city. You walk on cobblestones. You are eating pho, knockwurst and other traditional foods. You are there to really experience the cultures and sounds of the world. This is for the “Bucket List” crowd. Let’s not forget about the romance of it all! Can you imagine spending your honeymoon immersed in European culture?
Photo courtesy of Uniworld River Cruises. Photo courtesy of Viking Cruises.
Although an increasingly popular and an amazing experience, river cruising is not for everyone. The river cruise ships are not designed with small children in mind; there are no children’s programs, activities or menus available on the majority of the ships and itineraries. Some of the river cruise lines offer specific family itineraries during the summer months, but most report less than 2% of their passengers are under the age of 18.
River cruising can also be a challenge for physically challenged guests as well; the ships are not designed with handicap accessibility for the most part. Many ships have no elevators, or if they do, they may not reach the lower decks on the ship. Cobblestone streets and many stairs throughout Europe can also present challenges.
Even in the US, the ships and destinations can be challenging, but they are certainly more accessible than the global options.
For those only familiar with the rules of big ships, here are three reasons riverboat fanatics come back, time and again, for more.
Dinner
Forget buffet dining with 2,000 strangers. River cruises average about 200 passengers per boat, so the wait staff will likely know your name by the end of the first meal (and so will your fellow travelers).
Evening Entertainment
Instead of dance clubs, karaoke, and glitzy Vegas-style reviews, nightlife on river cruises trends toward string quartets, guest lectures on regional history, local entertainment, and staring out at actual scenery, not just a watery horizon.
Extra Costs
The dirty little secrets of ocean cruises? They always charge extra for excursions, and beer and wine costs are on par with pro sports arenas. River cruise lines opt for flat fees up front. Yes, your excursions are included, as are wine and beer with various meals.
(Each river cruise line has its own version of their inclusive plan)
River cruising is such a fast-growing trend that by the end of 2013, 167 new ships will have been built since 2000.
When will you be ready to experience the world’s great rivers for yourself?
Kelley