River Cruising Vs. Ocean Cruising
Almost every traveler knows about ocean cruising. Let’s face it commercials and advertisements for Carnival and Royal Caribbean are everywhere. Yet, river cruising is not as well known but it’s a growing part of the travel market. Because of that growth I get a lot of questions about river cruises. Today I will not only introduce you to river cruising but let you know how it differs from ocean cruising. Let’s get started!
By Kavonda L. Rogers
How They Are Alike?
- On both, you settle into a stateroom & unpack one time
- Both visit several destinations in one cruise
- Food and entertainment are complimentary
- Room Setups are similar, with private baths, storage, and most toiletries provided
- There is a gym and some exercise classes available
- An Internet center & WiFi are available
- Relaxation Lounges are available
- Both have a main dining room for dinner
- Both have libraries on board
- There are lectures and informational seminars about culture, history, destinations and other topics of interest
- Great service
- They have planned activities on both but less are available on the river cruise
How Are They Different?
- River vessels are smaller and carry fewer guests
- Rooms on river cruise vessels are smaller
- River vessels visit more destinations in a single cruise and can visit areas the big cruise ships cannot
- Shore excursions are included in the river cruise price
- There are no Broadway Style shows or productions
- If there is entertainment it is usually piano or a string quartet
- This is not the best option for children since there are no programs or facilities for children
- There are no pools, spas, or medical centers on river cruise ships
- Internet service is free
- There is no 24-hour food service on river vessels and the menu choices are more limited
- Leave the seasickness meds at home since river cruising is very stable
- River vessels have no lifeboats!
A Few Key Details. . .
Ocean cruise ships stop at fairly large ports while river ships stop right at the town you are going to visit.
The most popular river cruising area is Europe because of it’s many small towns that are peppered along the many rivers. Many times the ships can spend many hours in port so cruisers can immerse themselves in culture.
Many of the shore excursions are guided walking tours that focus on culture, history and of course food. Many river cruises focus on wine, food or even certain types of music making them a favorite of people with those interests.
Since most river cruisers are baby boomers or matures this makes for a not so friendly kid environment. River cruises do not ban or exclude children it just is not the best environment for them.
Lastly, river cruises are a highly. close knit social environment. You will spend a lot of time with your fellow cruisers and get to know them over the 7+ days you are together.
Have you considered a river cruise or is it not your cup of tea? Please share.