The Romance of River Cruises in Europe

Newer ships with upgraded amenities have prompted new interest in what river cruising is all about. As a matter of fact, river cruising in Europe is the fastest growing cruise segment in the market.  Floating down a scenic river and taking in the lush scenery framing the banks, you’ll always notice the river cruise difference.

Why do we call it the romance of river cruises in Europe?  Picture this…as the stars shine overhead and the moon casts its reflection, romance and excitement fill the air along the riverbank.  Toast your friends and savor perfectly paired free-flowing regional wines and a taste of local cuisine as you share your discoveries and highlights of the day.  After dessert, go to the lounge to watch live entertainment and if you wish, dance the night away, or take a romantic moonlit stroll along the deck.  Then relax as a new destination comes to you. Awaken each morning embraced by a new world…places that whisk you back in time, yet where you’ll find yourself completely in the moment.

Travelers are realizing that river cruises offer comfort, convenience and variety. The ship is both a hotel and a means of transportation. You don’t have to get up early like you do when on a traditional tour or cruise to see the sites. Your ship will be in a new and exciting place every day.  Ranging from picturesque villages, breathtaking riverbanks with castles, colorful fields with windmills or vibrant capitals, every day will be a unique experience on your European waterways cruise.

Over the years, we have found that consumers desire more choices when traveling. Cruise lines responded with open dining, tour operators with more leisurely trips, but until recently, the river cruise industry did not offer the choices that seem to attract new clientele. Now the newer river cruise ships with modern decor, Wifi, larger cabin options including suites, and added amenities have helped the river cruise industry experience considerable growth in a short amount of time.  Staterooms are spacious and most include floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors with French balconies. You can enjoy fine linen on your hotel-style beds, flat screen satellite TV and radio, safes, hairdryers and many other amenities that make you feel at home. Suites have wall-to-wall panoramic windows and an open air balcony.  On many ships you even have the convenience of elevators. Many river cruise companies even offer you the freedom to choose from several shore excursions so that you personalize your cruise from beginning to end.

From the time you arrive to your first destination you are escorted, guided and waited on by English speaking staff. Once you unpack you are ready to enjoy your wonderful adventure. From medieval castles, to Monet’s Giverny gardens or perhaps Egypt’s Mysterious Nile, you will not only be awed by the sights but you will also have qualified tour directors and specialist to guide you during your excursions. Many ships also offer theme departures that provide you with a unique opportunity to experience a destination focusing on its music, food and wine, to enrich your subject knowledge by including expert presentations, special concerts and top chefs.

All meals on board are carefully chosen to give you the variety of the region you are visiting along with many of your favorites. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included daily. The meal presentation is outstanding as is the service.  You can also enjoy the complimentary wine with dinner along with coffee or tea. After dinner you will be pleasantly surprised by the on board entertainment provided by both local entertainers and the crew.

It is small ship cruising at its best. It provides you with the opportunity to experience history, art and culture unhurried and at a relaxed pace. Rather than having to take a bus to see the sites, in most cases you walk right off of the river cruise and you are already in the center of it all.

Iconic Europe beckons with its rich blend of culture, art and history, where sleek cities are nestled within lush folds of natural beauty.  Partake in the timeless magnificence of the continent, winding through countryside, rolling vineyards and picturesque villages on an elegant, relaxing river cruise.  See castles and bridges that were built to impress royalty, as the rivers were the main method of transportation.

Here is an overview of the Rivers of Europe

Rhine River:  Flowing from the Swiss Alps to the North Sea, the Rhine is renowned for its legendary Lorelei rock and medieval castles lining its banks.

Moselle River:  Passing through France, Luxembourg, and Germany, the Moselle is known for the superb wines produced along its banks as well as its lovely medieval castles.

Seine River:  One of Europe’s greatest rivers since the Middle Ages, mere mention of the Seine conjures up images of Paris, yet also an important waterways for commerce, recreation and artistic inspiration.

Rhone River:  An important trade route since Greek times, the Rhone flows south to the Mediterranean, winding through fertile orchards and vineyards.

Danube River:  An essential transportation route for 2,000 years, the Danube is Europe’s only major river to flow from west to east.

Main River:  Everyone knows about the beauty of the Rhine and Danube’s lovely Wachau Valley, but the Main River, an important Rhine tributary is a little known scenic treasure.  Picture-perfect vineyards and unspoiled hamlets line the river as you sail along.  The views are particularly stunning when fall foliage puts on its annual display.

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