Ocean Cruise vs. River Cruise - 8 Reasons Ocean Cruisers Will Love A River Cruise

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When considering a cruise vacation, many envision cruising the deep blue sea. Perhaps it is time to shake up the ocean cruise experience for an entirely new way to explore the world. River cruising is an excellent choice for several reasons, and each one will inspire you to say yes to a river voyage.

Here are the top 8 reasons you will love river cruising.

1. Intimate Experience

River cruises offer a more intimate setting. Most ships range from 144 to 196 passengers. From ordering a beverage to getting on and off the ship, you’ll enjoy the absence of long lines. Without long lines, you will have more time to enjoy all the amenities, get on to a first-name-basis with the crew, and have a more personal experience with other passengers.

2. Unique Itineraries

While ocean cruises take you to countries, river cruises take you through them. Where ocean liners are confined to primarily coastal cities, passengers love river cruising for the accessibility that takes you to the heart of the cities and the charm of quaint villages. There is no way to reach river cruise destinations on mega cruise ships.

3. No Waves, No Seasickness

If you’re the type who usually feels a bit queasy while sailing, the smooth cruise along the river will make you forget you’re on the water, and the nearby views of the passing scenery will make you feel not so far from land.

4. Dive Into Local Culture

Culture comes alive when we can see it firsthand. River cruises bring cultural entertainment onboard to experience music, art, crafts, and food to experience the local culture. While in a river cruise port, you enjoy hidden gems rather than crowded touristy areas. Large ocean cruise ports can receive up to 20,000 visitors on the same day. With a river cruise, you’ll arrive at the dock with only a few hundred visitors. You will be able to take in the local culture and history of every unique town you visit.

5. No Need to Rush Back

With many departures from the destinations occurring later in the afternoon or evening, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the nightlife in select ports of call. Whether you choose an evening walk through cobblestone streets or one last glass of wine after dinner while listening to a local musician, immersing yourself in the evening culture with the locals is a unique experience.

6. Scenery on the Water

Hands down, river cruises beat out ocean cruises on the scenery while sailing. River cruises always have scenic views, not just one of an expansive ocean to the horizon. All you can see while sailing on ocean ships is most likely…the ocean. On a river cruise, however, you will watch the countryside, vineyards, and villages pass by. Along the Rhine River, you will see castles that will blow you away.

7. River Cruise Entertainment

Although you won’t find a rock-climbing wall or giant water slide as featured on ocean cruises, rest assured, there will never be a dull moment on a river cruise. Most river cruise lines host a variety of entertaining activities for the guests throughout the journey. From enlightening cultural presentations, culinary classes, wellness or yoga classes, cocktail parties, and local performers. There are also various onboard facilities, including the spa, hot tub, sundeck pool, putting green, and bars and lounges perfect for socializing.

8. Taste the Difference

Whether you’re into wine tasting or local street food, a river cruise provides an exceptional culinary experience. The onboard culinary team focuses on utilizing fresh, local ingredients and pairs the dishes with local wines. There is no mass-produced and basic buffet food on a river cruise.

So, there you have it: eight great reasons to love a river cruise.

I’d love to match your travel style with the right itinerary and river cruise ship to make your experience truly special. Reach out to me to plan your river cruise.