The rivers keep growing !

Have you considered a river cruise?

River cruising is still a growing trend and is 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 more than 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, Asia and beyond 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 is a great way to cruise is for the adventurous.  You are often 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.   Some think this is for the “Bucket List” crowd, but let’s not forget about the romance of it all!  European culture and experiences can be very romantic!

River cruising is such a fast-growing trend that over, 175 new ships have been built since 2000.  Having said that, supply does still not keep up with demand!  It is not uncommon for ships to sell out a year or more in advance!  For example, Viking River Cruises is already 80% sold out for all of 2016!  Advanced planning is definitely a must for river cruising!

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.

Forget buffet dining with 2,000 strangers. River cruises average approximately 200 passengers per ship, so the wait staff will likely know your name by the end of the first meal (and so will your fellow travelers).

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)