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Best River Cruise for First Timers (2024): 7 Criteria to Enhance Your Adventure (with 8 Tips)
Introduction
New to river cruising? If you want to escape from daily life, explore new things and experience something different, a river cruise may be the way to go. Making a decision on the best river cruise for first timers is crucial in creating an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Choosing the ideal river cruise for first-timers is critical in creating a memorable and enjoyable vacation for new travelers. With this comprehensive guide, novice cruisers will have a multitude of choices to choose from when searching for the perfect river cruise to suit their needs.
Best River Cruise for First Timers : 7 Selection Criteria
Choosing the best river cruise line is critical and depends on a number of criteria, including your destination, money, and the type of experience you want. Following are few important factors you must consider for booking your first river cruise.
Criterion #1: Season
For first-time visitors, finding the best time for a European river cruise trip is a crucial task due to the wide range of experiences each season provides. From vibrant spring blooms to bustling Christmas markets, each season has its own unique charm.
The season of your European river cruise journey has a significant impact on both comfort and activity options as well. Spring and fall frequently provide pleasant weather and attractive scenery, with spring showing blossoming flowers and fall displaying bright leaves in many places.
Crowd on river cruises vary greatly depending on the season, influencing both the onboard environment and port experiences. Peak summer months (June to August) often attract the most visitors, resulting in livelier atmospheres, more crowded attractions, and higher pricing.
Criterion #2: Destination to Visit
If you are new to river cruising, you should choose more popular river cruise destinations. The Rhine, Danube, and Seine are three of Europe’s most popular rivers for first-time cruisers.
The Rhine has fairy-tale castles and lovely villages, whilst the Danube takes visitors through several countries with rich history and distinct cultures.
The Seine River offers a charming tour through the heart of France, with stops in Paris and Normandy. If you’re unsure whether to take the Rhine or the Danube on your first river cruise, check here for clarification.
Criterion #3: Cruise Line’s Reputation
Another important consideration when booking your first river cruise is selecting an established cruise line. Viking, AmaWaterways, and Avalon Waterways are known for providing excellent service, pleasant accommodations, and well-planned itineraries. Checking consumer feedback and achievements can also help you find the best solutions.
Criterion #4: Trip Length and Itinerary
For first-time cruisers, vacation duration of 7 to 10 days is excellent, giving them ample time to fully enjoy the voyage without feeling overwhelmed. Look for itineraries that cover both large cities and smaller, lesser-known sites to ensure a well-rounded experience.
Shorter weekend or 5-day excursions are also offered for individuals looking to try river cruising before committing to a longer expedition.
Criterion #5: Facilities for Restricted Mobility
- If you are an adult with restricted mobility, organizing a great river cruise requires careful consideration of the cruise line, itinerary, and your travel companion’s individual needs.
- By choosing a river cruise for disabled adults with restricted mobility, you can ensure a comfortable and delightful experience which will provide you with lasting memories of the journey.
- When embarking on a river cruise, one critical factor to consider is having a doctor on board, which can make a world of difference in any medical emergency, such as a sudden illness, injury, or accident.
Criterion #6: Facilities for Active Adventures and Shore Excursions
There is often an assumption that European River Cruises are only for the elderly. However, there are several European River cruises for young people that allow them to visit picturesque European riverfronts while also participating in activities that challenge their energy levels to the utmost.
For young adults who want to see European picturesque cities along their famed riverfronts rather than party all the time on ocean cruises, there are numerous options in the active river cruising categories provided by different European River cruises. Here are several examples:
- Cycling
- Active Adventures: Hiking, Kayaking, etc.
- Fitness activities.
Aside from Active River traveling, several river cruises offer themed trips, such as wine or Christmas market cruises, which include additional specialized activities.
Shore excursions are frequently included in cruise fares, and may include everything from guided city tours and museum tours to hiking and cycling activities.
Criterion #7: On-board Alcohol Policy
First time river cruise travellers ask many questions about the on-board alcohol regulation on European river cruises. River cruise ships often contain one or more bars, however the hours of operation may vary.
If your group enjoys playing cards and drinking late into the evening, you should be aware of the bar’s closing time. Many river cruises stop early, about 10:00 p.m., however other companies may extend their hours or even provide 24-hour self-service.
Cocktails and other premium beverages are typically not included on the regular menu, so you will need to purchase them individually. Some cruise companies include drink packages, which can be worthwhile if you anticipate on drinking numerous cocktails during your voyage.
Many river cruise lines feature a bring-your-own (BYO) wine policy, though this varies. For example, Viking is well-known for its permissive BYO policy. Bringing your own wine is an excellent way to sample local wines from the locations you are visiting.
Cruise Line Recommendations
Considering the above mentioned factors, following are some of the best river cruise for first timers.
1. Viking
Viking is an excellent option for first-time river cruisers, with many cheering the smooth experience they offer. From booking to onboard service, Viking makes sure everything is taken care of, offering a stress-free option for those new to river cruising.
Many passengers enjoy their best cruise experiences with Viking, particularly on routes such as the Danube.
Viking is well-known for its bring your own (BYO) policy, which permits you to bring your own wine onboard. If you want more premium beverage alternatives try “silver package” offered by Viking River cruises. Free beverages are usually limited to house wines and beers and only accessible in the dining room.
Viking is well-known and widely advertised, thus it is frequently the first option for many. It’s a terrific choice if you want a well-rounded experience that includes high-quality service and amenities.
2. Avalon
Avalon is ideal for first-timers looking for flexibility and a range of activity options. Their “Active & Discovery” cruises include a range of excursions tailored to different interests and fitness levels, making them a versatile option.
Their suites with floor-to-ceiling windows provide an immersive experience, allowing you to take in the scenery from the comfort of your room. Avalon offers a good balance of comfort and value, often with unique excursion options and flexible dining times.
3. Scenic
Scenic offers an all-inclusive experience, which can be reassuring for first-time cruisers who want to know exactly what they’re paying for. Everything from airfare to excursions is included, making it a hassle-free option. Guests have praised Scenic for its exceptional food, drinks, and well-planned excursions.
4. AmaWaterways
AmaWaterways is an excellent option for first-time river cruisers because to their exceptional service and attention to every detail. They provide a selection of included trips that appeal to different fitness levels, making it simple to find activities that match your level of fitness.
AmaWaterways, like other river cruises, spends more time in port and less time sailing, making it suitable for tourists looking to explore places more extensively.
They frequently offer free pre- or post-cruise activities, adding value to your vacation. AmaWaterways also provides bicycles for visitor use, which can be an enjoyable way to explore onshore.
5. Tauck
Tauck is another popular choice for first-time river cruisers, known for its high quality and excellent service. Tauck provides a more luxurious experience, with numerous trips and excursions included in the price of the reservation.
6. Viva Cruises
Viva Cruises is a newer, more affordable option for first-time cruisers. It has a mix of English-speaking and German-speaking passengers, providing a unique cultural experience.
7. Riviera
Riviera is another budget-friendly option with a strong following among UK travelers. It could be a good fit for first-timers looking for quality without breaking the bank.
Tips for First-time River Cruisers
Pack essential travel items, including toiletries and prescriptions. It’s also a good idea to bring travel-sized laundry detergent if you want to perform any hand washing on board.
Tip #1: Pre and Post Excursion
To make the most of your trip, consider taking pre- or post-cruise tours. These tours are an excellent way to thoroughly explore cities, and they are frequently well-organized, allowing you to enjoy the experience without worrying about the specifics.
Tip #2: Go On Active Excursions
Some river cruise lines provide active options including hiking, cycling, and kayaking. Others provide unique experiences, such as private concerts.
Tip #3: Go for Themed Outings
Look for river cruises that focus on your hobbies, such as art, wine, or history. Some cruise lines invite celebrities to lead themed river cruises.
Tip #4: Use the Services of Travel Agents
When arranging a cruise, whether you are a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, hiring the services of a reliable travel agency can considerably improve your overall experience. Partnering with a reputable agency provides access to experience and excellence in the travel business.
A reputable travel agency handles the entire process, from picking the best river cruise for first-timers to arranging flights, lodgings, and unforgettable excursions, allowing you to enjoy your trip worry-free.
Tip #5: Think About Lessening the Cost
Consider booking during the offseason. This can result in fewer crowds, more personalized attention from workers, and potentially lower prices.
Tip #6: Pack for a Smooth Sailing Experience
Carry light footwear for shore excursions, casual clothing for daytime activities, and more formal attire for evening dinners and festivities. Ensure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and a water bottle. A compact backpack or tote bag is ideal for carrying stuff on day travels.
Tip #7: Familiarize and Take Advice
Upon arrival, familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout and amenities. Attend the welcome orientation and safety briefing to become acquainted with the staff and other passengers.
Take use of the cruise line’s daily itineraries, and don’t be afraid to approach the staff for suggestions or assistance.
Tip #8: Select the Right Cabin
Stateroom sizes vary, so assess your space requirements carefully. The view options range from picture windows to entire balconies; consider how much time you will spend in your accommodation.
Unique features, natural light, and accessibility to dining rooms or lounges are also important considering. Remember that riverboat staterooms are often smaller than those on ocean trips.
Final Thoughts: Best River Cruise for First Timers
For first-time river cruisers, AmaWaterways, Viking, and Avalon are highly recommended. Each provides unique benefits for beginning cruisers, such as outstanding service and varied excursion options.
Your first river cruise will undoubtedly be memorable and fun if you select a cruise line that matches your interests and level of activity. River cruises offer an excellent travel experience, particularly for first-time cruisers embarking on their inaugural excursion.
The best river cruise for first-timers has the appropriate balance of convenience, elegance, and cultural enrichment, making it an excellent choice for those new to sailing. Inexperienced visitors can ensure a smooth and enjoyable voyage by considering the criteria mentioned in this article.
Set sail on a river cruise adventure today and experience the wonders of exploring the globe from a new and unique perspective.