One of cruising’s best kept secrets is a secret no longer. Business is booming on the world’s rivers in 2013 with a rise in exclusive culinary, adventure and wine-themed tours as well as new exciting itineraries throughout Europe and Asia.
River cruising allows travelers to experience old destinations in a new way. Contemporary and comfortable river cruise ships travel at a leisurely pace and dock in the center of town for an experience that combines the convenience of an ocean cruise with the many advantages of a land tour.
River cruising is becoming increasingly more inclusive, making the overall value of a river cruise another popular topic in 2013. New value-packed offers include items such as gratuities, onboard beverages, shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and airport transfers.
A rapid growth in new river cruise ships within the last five years (with most lines doubling the size of their fleet) is encouraging a broader demographic with added amenities like spas, Internet cafes, pools, movie theaters and fitness facilities. These modern conveniences compliment gourmet dining, a welcoming atmosphere, upscale accommodations and comprehensive enrichment programs.
The Rhine, Danube and Rhone rivers are still the most popular waterways, but U.S. Rivers such as the Mississippi, Missouri and Ohio are gaining popularity as well as new exotic itineraries in Vietnam and Myanmar.
River Cruisers tend to be older, experienced travelers that may have taken an ocean cruise before, but are now looking for an alternative to the traditional cruise or motorcoach tour. The typical passenger is 50-years of age with a household income of more than $75,000. However, with the expansion of their fleets, river cruise lines are successfully luring a younger demographic that require shorter itineraries and more active shore excursions.
The river cruise season commences in March and carries on through December, the peak season are summer months June through September. Itineraries range from seven-thirty days in length. Travelers may consider cruising March through May or September through December when the crowds are thinner and airfares may be more reasonably priced.
It is best to book at least a year in advance as desirable departures sell quickly and frequent early booking promotions are available. As it is such a popular cruising trend and competitive segment, working with a knowledgeable travel agent is important in order to find the best itinerary, experience and price. River cruise departures very rarely see any heavy late season discounts.
A river cruise will not only bring you up close to historic sites and natural wonders on some of the world’s most storied rivers, it will provide an enriching and scenic journey that’s sure to be one of the most delightful vacations you’ll ever have.
Popular River Cruise Lines:
Does the idea of a river cruise seem exciting or dull?
About Alara Shannon, Cruise & Travel Writer
Alara has traveled extensively since an early age. After the birth of her daughter, when an opportunity for a career in cruise travel presented itself, Alara decided to re-enter the workforce. She hopped on board with one of the largest cruise agencies and excelled in both cruise sales and customer service. This led to the chance to dive headfirst into the Internet Marketing world; taking on the roles of resident Bloggess, custom content creator and social media expert. Beyond a love of anything travel related, her life revolves around her family of four (husband + 2 little ones), writing, playing piano, coffee, recycling, and crafting (well, attempting to craft). Her dream destination? New Zealand!
