Top 5 Questions I Get Asked About River Cruises
As a travel advisor, I often get asked about river cruising. While river cruises are definitely growing in popularity, if you've never done it before, you likely still have a lot of questions.
Here are the top five questions I get asked about river cruising and how I guide my clients to find the trip that's perfect for them.
1. What’s the Difference Between River Cruises and Ocean Cruises?
This is the number one question I hear, and it's a great one! The two main differences between River Cruises and Ocean Cruises is 1)the size and style of the ships and 2)the overall experience you are going to have. River cruise ships are much smaller, typically carrying around 100 to 200 passengers, compared to ocean liners that can accommodate thousands. This means that on a River Cruise, you are going to experience a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere with personalized service. Also, river cruises often dock in the heart of cities and towns, giving you easy access to local attractions, whereas ocean cruises usually stop at larger ports, sometimes requiring longer travel times to reach the main sights.
2. What Are the Activities Like?
With River cruising, you can expect a lot more relaxation onboard the ship with lounges, libraries and scenic views. Many cruise lines also offer special activities such as cooking classes and wine tastings. The pace is unhurried, giving you plenty of time to relax and enjoy your surroundings. Each day typically includes stops at different destinations where you can join guided tours, visit historic sites, or explore on your own.
3. Will I Get Seasick on a River Cruise?
Good news for those prone to seasickness: river cruises are completely different from the feeling of an ocean cruise and are typically very smooth and stable. Rivers are typically calm, with little to no waves, so the motion of the boat is minimal compared to the ocean. River cruise ships are designed to sail smoothly through these gentle waters. If you're worried about seasickness, a river cruise is a really great option.
4. Is a River Cruise a Good Way to See Europe for the First Time?
Absolutely! River cruises are such a great way to experience Europe, especially for first-timers. You'll visit multiple countries and cities without the need for constant packing and unpacking. River cruises are like a floating hotel while giving you the opportunity to explore bucket list destinations like Paris, Vienna, and Amsterdam without the hassle of having to navigate logistics between destinations. You'll actually be able to see Europe's countryside in a way that's not possible with other forms of travel by seeing it from the water AND on land. It couldn't be more perfect.
5. Are River Cruises All-Inclusive?
Many river cruises are pretty close to all-inclusive, but we'll definitely go over this during our vacation planning process. Typically, a river cruise will include accommodations, meals, most beverages, and a range of shore excursions. Some cruise lines also include gratuities, Wi-Fi, and airport transportation. Certain premium excursions, specialty dining, and beverages like fine wines or spirits may cost extra.
River cruising is gaining popularity, and for good reason - it's such an incredible way to travel, offering a mix of relaxation, cultural immersion and scenic beauty.
I can't wait to help you experience the beauty of Europe through a River Cruise!
Jessica Pratt
Destination Wedding Travel Agent
Ever since my husband and I got married in Mexico, we made a promise to ourselves to plan romantic getaways and adults only vacations every year, even after we had kids. Our favorite destinations so far are the Hawaiian Islands, Sandals Resorts - specifically in Jamaica, the Bahamas and Antigua - and our unforgettable Alaskan Cruise. And my newest obsession - ITALY! I’m passionate about helping o... Read More >>>
An expert luxury advisor with five star luxury travel packages. With a luxury travel company, Vincent Vacations.






Ever since my husband and I got married in Mexico, we made a promise to ourselves to plan romantic getaways and adults only vacations every year, even after we had kids. Our favorite destinations so far are the Hawaiian Islands, Sandals Resorts - specifically in Jamaica, the Bahamas and Antigua - and our unforgettable Alaskan Cruise. And my newest obsession - ITALY! I’m passionate about helping other couples plan time away from everyday responsibilities and take time to rest, relax and reconnect. We are committed to continuing to travel, just the two of us, but now we are also introducing our two kids to traveling the world and making memories together as a family. As a Hawaiian Destination Expert, our family's ever-growing bucket list includes visiting every Hawaiian Island, and we are well on our way!
Overwhelmed with travel planning? My job is to take away the work, worry and hours and hours of research, preparation and planning of your getaway so that you can enjoy your much-deserved vacation time. I love getting to know my clients and working directly with them to create a trip that is exactly what they were dreaming of.
I’m excited to work with you to create your dream adults only escape to make memories that will last a lifetime. Contact me so we can get started today!
Jessica Pratt, Travel Agent, Edmond, Oklahoma
Vincent Vacations
Jessica.Pratt@VincentVacations.com