European Cruises

When one hears the words European cruise the last phrase that leaps to mind is budget travel. However, though a Silversea cruise on the Mediterranean might cost a pretty penny there are some great discount cruises to be found on some of Europe’s most famous rivers. The rest of the world is slowly waking up to a fact Europeans have known for decades: river cruises are a cheap and easy way to travel, with flexible itineraries that appeal to even the most independent backpackers.

The possible itineraries you can choose are virtually limitless, from a 3 night wine tour on the Saone to a 28 day odyssey adventure from Amsterdam to the Black Sea. The most popular waterways are arguably the Danube, Seine, Rhine and Rhone rivers, but there dozens more rivers and tributaries throughout Europe that can be traveled by riverboat. In fact, you’d be hard pressed to name a European country without a navigable river. Portugal, Italy, and Hungary all offer river tours, and even in the British Isles you can travel on a barge canal through England, Ireland and Scotland.

France is arguably the most popular destination for those wanting to take a European river cruise. The country boasts major rivers like the Seine, Rhone and Rhine all within its borders, and one can explore the wonders of Paris or the beauty of Southern France all in a single vacation. Explore the gorgeous regions of Burgundy, Alsace and Provence all while floating lazily down these magnificent waterways.

Once upon a time these river cruisers were nothing more than cargo barges converted to carry passengers, and they quickly gained favor with backpackers and budget travelers as a unique way to see the continent of Europe. Cruise lines quickly capitalized on that popularity, building proper ships to attract a wider range of clientele. However, many of those companies didn’t forget about the customer base that made them so popular in the first place, and European river travel is still surprisingly expensive when compared to the cost of a cruise on the Mediterranean or Baltic Seas.

However, the incredible value for money isn’t the only draw of this form of travel. On a ocean voyage the massive liners are forced to dock far from the hub of the cities they visit, and it is difficult for passengers to explore the heart of these ports. On a river cruise the smaller boats can navigate their way right into the action, and as soon as you step off the boat you are immersed in the culture of the city proper. Once in port, your free time is your own and you can go off and explore on your own, or if you are looking for a little culture or adventure book one of the numerous shore excursions available either through your cruise company or an independent company operating in the area.

Another great benefit of a river cruise is the sights you can see along the way. On an ocean voyage you really don’t see much but the open sea until you arrive in port. While cruising down the river however there is always something to see, from ancient castles and monasteries to quaint villages and wildlife. The shore is always just a few hundred feet away and you can relax on the deck and take in the glorious view as you drift by thousands of years of history and culture.

European river cruises are also more private and intimate, and even the largest river boats hold little more than 200 passengers. Want an even more exclusive vacation? Try a barge cruise. These smaller vessels can be chartered by small groups and you can enjoy the wonders of Europe with just your family and friends aboard.

The ships themselves are nicely appointed and comfortable. Due to the small size all the cabins are on the outside on the boat, so even when you are in the comfort of your own room you can enjoy the view from your large windows. Cabins are equipped with TVs, air conditioning, as well as radios or iPod docks. They are small, but cozy, with plush linens to ensure you get a good night’s sleep to recharge for you for the next day’s adventure.

The food and wine is delectable, and as you travel you will enjoy cuisine that matches the local culture. Breakfast is usually served buffet style, but lunch and dinner will most often be seated affairs, though less formal than the meals on the large cruise ships.

Entertainment is much more intimate as well, with local musicians or actors performing for you following dinner. The performances again reflect the local culture, and are a nice relaxing way to wind down your day.

Choosing a cruise line will depend on your itinerary, but there are a number of quality companies operating on Europe’s rivers. Two of the most popular are Uniworld and Viking. You can read our Uniworld river cruises review here and our Viking cruise lines review here.

As you can see a European river cruise is a fantastic way to travel Europe on a budget. If you are looking for a little luxury and adventure then give this unique mode of travel a try. I promise it will be a vacation experience you will remember for all your days.

Related posts:

1. River Cruises in Europe - A Great Alternative
2. River Cruises In Europe
3. European River Cruises - Some Tips Before You Go
4. River Cruises In Europe
5. Viking River Cruise Review

Filed under: European Cruises, European River Cruises, Planning a Cruise