August 2023: Plan Your Next River Cruise
Are you a longtime fan of ocean cruises? My family is too!
This summer, we all had a chance to cruise together and it was so much fun sharing in the memories together! We had theme nights for our dinners - of which you can see we nailed Hawaiian Night!
We celebrated my Mother's 75th Birthday while riding horseback and Christmas in July on the 25th not only wearing Christmas tee shirts while ziplining - but dressing the part for Christmas Dinner!
I also got to hold a sloth! Totally Awesome!
In addition to cruising, I managed to take some time to see parts of the Good Ol' USA!
A friend of mine (who is also a fan of True Crime) hopped in the car with me and we drove to Pigeon Forge Tennessee for a couple days to spend time in the Alcatraz East and Titanic Museums. We made sure along the way to stop at Buc-ee's! And when In Pigeon Forge - you have to attend a Hatfield's and McCoy's Dinner Show!
My husband and I took a quick trip to St Louis as well!
We rode all the way to the top of the Arch - which is an engineering feat in itself!
We also set aside time to tour Anheuser-Busch and got to sample a few of the 34 beers/seltzers the brew and bottle at the factory. The best part of the trip was checking in with the Clydesdales. You don't realize how big they are until you see them up close and not just on the Budweiser Christmas Commercials!
Enough of my summer travels.
Are you a longtime fan of ocean cruises, but now looking to explore the rivers of the world? Have you already discovered a passion for river cruises, but are looking to branch out with itineraries that take you to the far reaches of the globe? Let’s chat river cruises!
Why is river cruising such a beloved form of travel?
Let’s look at river cruising and why it might be perfect for your next vacation.
5 Reasons to Love River Cruises
The Itineraries: River cruises emphasize the destination, and many incredible historical and cultural experiences await you in port. While visiting the cities that dot the rivers, themed itineraries can really enhance your vacation! Immerse yourself in one of your passions (photography, wine, beer, garden & nature, etc.) while sailing through scenic countries. Christmas market cruises and tulip time cruises are also popular and sell out quickly. Are you looking to celebrate Christmas and immerse yourself in a whole new culture?
Smaller Ships: Smaller ships means fewer passengers, thus providing a more intimate cruise vacation. If large ocean cruising feels too busy and daunting, a small river ship might be just the ticket. It’s easy to get to know the crew and other passengers too!
Food & Wine: On river cruises, everyone dines at the same time. Cuisine is lovingly prepared, and often reflects the countries and cultures of the itinerary. Beer, wine, and soft drinks are usually included during meals.
Personalizing the Experience: River cruise lines have begun customizing their itineraries to meet a variety of travel styles. For those looking for a lot of activity, more rigorous excursions are available in port. For those wanting to take it slow with a walking tour, options are available for that too.
Service: Attention to detail and a crew that really gets to know you makes your home away from home feel like exactly that.
An Overview of Europe’s Rivers
Danube: The Danube flows through 10 countries in Central Europe and past 4 major capital cities. There are 16 national parks along the river’s path. Riverside castles and vineyards, medieval fortresses, and churches dot the river. Bike riding is a great excursion because of the fantastic cycling path along the river. The Danube is known as a great river for those new to river cruising but is also perfect for past cruisers who have sailed elsewhere.
Rhine: The Rhine flows through 5 countries from the Swiss Alps to the Netherlands, passing many castles in Germany, craggy cliffs dotted with castles, and a variety of UNESCO World Heritage sites. This river is also popular with both new and seasoned river cruisers.
Rhone: The Rhone is for those who wish to experience the France of Van Gogh, Cezanne, and Gauguin. Passing lavender fields and hilltop villages, eating delectable French cuisine, and sipping local wines is both romantic and enchanting. It’s the perfect river for those who are captivated by the magic of France.
Seine: The Seine combines urban and rural France for a comprehensive dip into the country’s history and culture. Itineraries here appeal to history buffs who are interested in the Middle Ages and World War II. Passing beneath 37 bridges and viewing iconic landmarks of Paris (Notre Dame, The Eiffel Tower, and The Louvre) provides ample oohs and aahs.
Moselle: The Moselle is the little sister to the Rhine and passes through France, Luxembourg, and Germany. It’s quiet and peaceful with a beautiful wine region and fairytale scenery. Wine aficionados plan cruises on the Moselle because the region caters to this passion.
Douro: The Douro passes through pretty Portugal, allowing for time to explore some of the country’s most iconic cities like Lisbon and Porto. Sipping Port wine while passing terraced vineyards and small villages among the rolling hills of the country is the perfect way to end a day, and these itineraries are growing in popularity.
