Have A Question?
Chances are, we have the answer! We are your local river cruise experts and pride ourselves on our first-hand knowledge! Read below for answers to many of our client’s most asked questions…
I love ocean cruising…will I also love river cruising?
Actually, river cruising is not for everyone. River cruises do not include the omnipresent Broadway-type shows and the glitzy casinos on virtually all ocean cruises. You also won’t find overcrowded buffets, sold-out excursions, and hours-long check-in lines either! With river cruising, it is all about the destination – strolling through historic villages, viewing castles along the water, docking near markets, museums, and famous landmarks. Nightly entertainment is often brought onboard from a nearby village. Much of the food and wine served at dinner was purchased at local markets THAT DAY by the chef and his staff…in fact, some cruise lines offer excursions with the Chef as he shops! Many of our clients love that by the end of day one or two the Captain, Cruise Director and even Chef know you by name. With under 200 guests onboard, it is a more social experience between passengers - more like a private yacht than cruise ship!
Aren’t all river cruise companies the same?
No! Each line is different and unique in its own way. There are pros and cons to each line, depending on your requirements, so let us help you plan! Take a look at my comparison page for a further explanation of the differences.
I love getting off the ship in different ports…are the port excursions included in the price?
Most river cruise lines include a choice of one sightseeing excursion for every port of call in the price of your cruise. Some also offer additional or most in-depth excursions for an additional cost. The latest newest trend is river cruise lines including more active excursions - think biking the Danube or hiking a vineyard along the Douro. In fact, Avalon Waterways has introduced an entire line of river cruises known as “Active & Discovery” with a focus towards more active and wellness-focused excursions.
What is the dress code on board?
Many people refer to a river cruise lines dress code as “country club casual”. During the daytime, you’ll find most people in casual outfits like jeans, shorts, golf shirts and sneakers. For dinner, people will dress up a little more with collared shirts for men and dresses/pants for women the norm. Jackets, ties, and other formal wear is almost never required or worn, except by staff and officers. When you’re onshore, a sturdy pair of walking shoes or runner sneakers and other comfortable clothing is always the best option, since you’ll be doing a lot of walking and exploring!
What is the voltage on board? Will I need an adapter or converter?
Most ships in Europe have the 220v plugs so it’s always good to have both an adapter (to plug your device into) and a converter (to convert from 220v to 110v). However - many of the newer ships have now been built with 110v plugs and USB ports. As always, just ask us - we are the experts and can tell you specifics about your cruise line and specific ship’s electrical setup.
Do any of the river cruise companies offer rates for solo travelers without doubling the price?
Yes! In fact, many of the river cruise lines now waive their single supplement for some cabin categories on companies during certain times of the year. There are even some ships that purpose-built single cabins and thus are always available at single rates.
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