Have you sailed on Ocean before and are considering a River cruise?

This is intended to be an introduction to some basics and the differences between Ocean and River cruising, with a focus on River.

There will be generalized statements made here that may not be 100% true on every River cruise line as much of the "opinion" here is coming from personal experience sailing Rivers on a few lines.

Let's get into it.

With the rise of cruise travel, more enthusiasts are faced with the decision: river cruising or ocean cruising? Both offer unique experiences, but which one is best for your travel style? Let’s dive into the specifics of each and what makes them distinct from one another.

River cruising offers an intimate experience, often on smaller ships that can navigate the world's most famous rivers. These cruises allow you to explore cities and towns right from the heart of a region. Imagine waking up to the sight of a medieval castle along the Rhine or docking in the centre of Budapest on the Danube. River cruises typically have fewer passengers, providing a more personalized atmosphere and the opportunity to make deeper connections with fellow travellers.

I / we love river cruising and some of what I am going to say now may turn some folks off the notion of River cruising but I find those moving to Rivers from Oceans are not always ready for what is ahead of them.

  • River cruise cabins are smaller.
  • Most River ships only have one dining room and one lounge.  Some have smaller secondary options, but most are focused around one venue.
  • River cruises generally have open seating for breakfast and lunch however generally the entire ship sits for dinner at the same time, so you don't have a choice of when you want to have your evening meal.
     
  • Many River ships do not have any, or many tables for 2 in the dining room.  Many are built around tables for 6 or 8 or 10 which means that on a River cruise, you will most likely be sharing a dining table at least for lunch and dinner.  Breakfast often seems more leisurely and the dining venue does not fill all at once.
  • Entertainment on River cruises can often be a resident pianist or crew members, and sometimes local talent will board the ship if in port overnight.
  • River ships do typically dock in the heart of the city that you are visiting but they can also be forced to dock outside the city and therefore you will have to take a shuttle bus to the city centre.
  • River ships often "raft" when docking in some ports which means that the first ship has direct access off the ship to the city or town and each subsequent ship docks beside, or rafts with the other ship.  This means that you may be walking across 1, 2 or more ships to debark to your city or town destination.  This also means that if you are not the lucky one that has the city view, your view will be directly into another river ship cabin that is so close you can literally reach out and touch it.

Ocean cruising, on the other hand, is grand in scale and offers the chance to explore vast oceans and visit multiple countries in a single journey. These ships are essentially floating cities equipped with a myriad of amenities such as theaters, multiple dining options, pools, and even ice skating rinks. Ocean cruises often appeal to those who enjoy a variety of onboard activities and entertainment.

When it comes to destinations, river cruises excel in exploring Europe, Asia, Africa, and America’s great rivers. They provide a closer look at landscapes and cultures that are often inaccessible by larger ocean vessels. Alternatively, ocean cruises traverse the world’s vast seas, offering itineraries that include remote islands, exotic ports, and well-known coastal cities.

Demographics also play a role in choosing between river or ocean cruising. River cruises tend to attract mature travelers who appreciate cultural immersion and historical exploration. The atmosphere is leisurely, with excursions focusing on local life and traditions. Ocean cruises appeal to a broader demographic, including families and young adults, due to their diverse activities and entertainment options.

A river cruise might be limited in its onboard amenities compared to an ocean cruise. However, what it lacks in size, it makes up for with scenic routes and frequent stops that allow for in-depth exploration. Ocean cruises provide expansive facilities and a wide range of onboard experiences but may involve longer periods at sea without landfall.

In terms of cost, river cruises can be more expensive upfront due to their all-inclusive nature, which often covers excursions, meals, and drinks. Ocean cruises might offer lower initial prices but can incur additional costs for shore excursions and specialty dining.

The choice between river and ocean cruising ultimately depends on personal preference. If you seek a journey with rich cultural encounters and a relaxed pace, river cruising might be your ideal choice. If you desire a lively environment with diverse entertainment options, consider an ocean cruise.

"Anywhere" is an enigmatic destination that can embody both the tranquility of a river cruise and the excitement of an ocean voyage. With its diverse landscapes and cultures, "Anywhere" offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore both styles of cruising.

Whether you prefer the intimate charm of a river cruise or the thrilling adventure of an ocean cruise, Ken Graham is here to help you plan your perfect journey to Anywhere.