How to Get The Most Out of Your River Cruise

River cruises are among the most popular forms of vacation, offering virtually every amenity available on larger cruise ships but at an affordable price. They also feature enticing, unique itineraries often unavailable with their bigger rivals.

My favorite river voyages range from 8 to 23 days and include mostly European itineraries highlighting Europe’s Rhine, Main, Danube, Seine, Rhône, Douro, Moselle, Elbe, Dordogne, Garonne, and Gironde rivers.

My last voyage was aboard the Viking Idi, part of the luxurious Viking River Cruises fleet. It sailed from Paris to Prague with stops in idyllic German cities such as Heidelberg, Wurzburg, and Rothenburg, before concluding in Nuremberg and departing by bus for Prague and a potential post-tour.

After my introduction to river cruising with Viking, I found myself booking with them on several occasions due to itinerary considerations and the overall fantastic onboard and onshore experiences available during each sailing.

Viking has been named Best Cruise Line for rivers and oceans and number one for expeditions in Conde Nast Traveler Reader’ Choice Awards, and it’s tops in those categories in Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards. The line has scored on the top of the list every year for 19 years in Conde Nast and 20 years in Travel + Leisure.

I’ve sailed with Viking on four occasions and three times with other lines, which has enabled me to learn a great deal about what to expect and how to get the most out of my river cruise vacation. Here are a few insights to river cruising to help you get the most or out your sailing vacation:

Book Early

Once you determine where and when you want to go, don’t hesitate and wait until you get too close to the actual sailing date. I found that out the hard way and almost missed out on some of the featured itineraries offered because they were booked to capacity. That also holds true for the optional excursions. I had to be placed on standby on some desirable options because I waited too long to make my choices.

You will find that Viking excursions are among the very best available, and even the included ones are just as good as those that cost a little extra. So browse the list, and book them immediately. It’s quite satisfying to know you won’t miss out on anything that looks appealing to you.

Shore excursions are fun and pleasant because of the small size of the group. I do recommend using the provided headset because the guides are quite knowledgeable, and you’ll get more out of the tour if you listen to the narrative.

Shipboard Amenities

I always consider my ship cabin as my top amenity, and there are several options to choose from. The opulence you get with a suite or anything that’s preceded by the word “deluxe” is sure to be a guaranteed guest-pleaser. But make no mistake: the accommodation options are designed to make the sailing experience a memorable one, and the choice of cabin is usually dependent on a number of considerations.

It comes down to budget and comfort level. Many passengers are quite content to stay on the lower decks where a fixed window is the only avenue to a view. Being close to the waterline, the windows can’t be opened, and when docked next to a pier or another ship, there isn’t a desirable view at all.

Cabin terminology can vary, but cruise lines feature staterooms and suites of various sizes, including some with a French balcony, which is my preference. Suites generally have floor-to-ceiling windows and a small balcony containing two chairs and a small table. It’s ideal for sitting and watching the world go by, while sipping a cocktail or taking incredible photos rather than ascending to the top deck.

Other amenities onboard, which vary but are generally included the sale, are:

            • Complimentary shore excursions led by knowledgeable guides

            • Premium toiletries, plush robes and slippers, safe, refrigerator, bottled water, and free WiFi

            • Enrichment lectures and destination performances

            • Ground transfers with Viking air purchases

            • Beer, wine, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner

            • Specialty coffees, teas and bottled water 24 hours a day

            • Flatscreen TVs with movies on demand

Onboard Dining and Entertainment

Dining on river ships is free, with open seating and no reservations required. I sometimes scope out a table with limited seating where I would be less likely to be forced to be sociable early in the morning at breakfast. I prefer a quiet time at that meal, sitting with my wife and enjoying private reflection on the day’s upcoming events.

The meals offer every option, including vegetarian, and chefs can usually accommodate gluten-free diets and any other restrictions. It’s best to outline these dining choices on the cruise forms prior to the trip.

Throughout the day, smalls snacks, desserts, coffee, tea, and water are available at various stations located on the ship. Limited room service options are also available.

Don’t plan on seeing major entertainment productions onboard. The size of the ships’ interior simply won’t permit these kinds of shows. Most lines, including Viking, offer live music in the lounge, themed show nights featuring cultural presentations, and occasional lectures or demonstrations highlighting the region.

If an upcoming presentation strikes your fancy, be sure to arrive at the lounge early, as seating is at a premium, and ship guests aren’t shy about “saving” seats for their newfound friends or relatives. It’s annoying, but a fact of life.

Shore excursions on Viking River Cruises offer a blend of local acts, musical performances, and engaging activities that immerse passengers in the cultural tapestry of each port of call. While exploring these destinations, passengers have the opportunity to participate in traditional dances, witness folklore storytelling, and even try their hand at local crafts like pottery or weaving.

The vibrant energy of bustling markets and colorful street performances further enrich the journey, allowing travelers to interact firsthand with the customs and traditions of each unique community.

Pre- or Post-Cruise Options

On a river cruise, you have the opportunity to explore multiple destinations in one trip. However, I’ve found that often, you find a city, town, village, or area that you want to delve into more intensely. That’s where the pre- or post-cruise option comes in handy. Most options center on a port of call that has a rich history, vibrant tradition, notable architecture and monuments, or simply stunning beauty. The pre- or post-tours are reasonably priced and only serve to enhance the overall river cruise experience.

I have selected pre- or post- tours on more than one occasion and was delighted by the experience. There are captivating destinations beyond the waterways, and I recommend considering one of these to get more than a glimpse into these dynamic regions.

Lastly, throughout your journey, you will explore the world’s most beautiful rivers and the captivating destinations that reside along their banks. Each port of call offers a unique adventure, whether it’s exploring historic landmarks, indulging in local cuisine, or immersing yourself in the cultural traditions of the area.

Enjoy it. The river is like a moving sidewalk, taking you through a world full of enchantment.

For more on Viking River Cruises and its offerings visit https://www.vikingrivercruises.com/search-cruises/index-a.html. Other top river cruise companies include Uniworld, Tauck, Avalon, AmaWaterways, and Emerald.