River Cruise vs. Ocean Cruise

Many times I have been asked, "How is a river cruise different from any other cruise?" or "What is a river cruise?" and "Isn't a river cruise more expensive than an ocean cruise?" So today I am going to answer these questions to help you understand how river cruises are different from ocean cruises.

First and foremost, and not to be sarcastic, but the obvious difference between a river cruise and an ocean cruise is river cruises are on rivers. You may be thinking, no kidding, how does that matter?  

Well, if you have motion sickness, or you like being able to see land, then it matters. On a river cruise, there is constant scenery on both sides of the boat, and the shore is yards away, not miles. The boat flows along smoothly like the ebb and flow of the river, no big waves or rocking motion. River cruise boats are smaller allowing for a maximum of about 150 passengers, as compared to the ocean liners, which in some cases, host up to 4,000 passengers.

This is a major difference and one that matters if you like to meet fellow travelers, be treated to more personalized service, and has easy access to your stateroom. River cruise boats have the ability to dock right in the heart of the world's most desirable destinations, allowing you the opportunity to see and do more.

Then there is the dining, all open seating, and no formal attire required. Smart casual is the accepted dress for dinner. Food is plentiful but unlike the ocean cruises, there is not a 24-hour buffet. However, there is always bottled water, coffee, tea and fresh fruit and cookies available, and the meals are served buffet style for breakfast and lunch and four or five-course dinners.  

Included sightseeing is another major point of difference, the big ships don't have it, and river cruises do! That's right, at every stop there is included guided sightseeing  One thing both have in common is you see multiple destinations and only unpack once.

Now for the question of river cruises being more expensive than ocean cruises. On the surface it would appear that a river cruise is pricier than an ocean cruise, however, when you factor in the inclusions of a river cruise, the cost is really a great value. Included in a river cruise are your accommodations in an outside stateroom, all meals while onboard, wine, beer and soft drinks with dinner and on some vessels with lunch. Also, daily bottled water, coffee, tea and snacks, guided sightseeing at each port stop, onboard entertainment, lectures and demonstrations, and an all English-speaking crew.  

I hope this answers some of your questions, and helps you have a better understanding of what I believe is simply the best way to travel, river cruising.  Please feel free to comment or write us about questions you may have, or call us at 314-293-1050.