Ocean vs. River Cruising.. Which is the best choice for you?

Floating your Boat: River Cruising Vs. Ocean Cruising

 

Taking a cruise is one of the best ways to travel and still get a solid value for your vacation. In fact, cruise travel has outpaced general leisure travel by 22 percent in the U.S., according to the Cruise Lines International Association. While ocean cruising – think cruises to the Caribbean, Bermuda, Alaska and the Mediterranean – remains popular, river cruising is continuing to grow in popularity as well, with 18 new river cruise ships set to debut this year.

In my experience both river and ocean sailing cruise options are a lot of fun and make for a very enjoyable vacation, however, each cruise style offers a very different vacation experience.

Below are a few things for you to consider before booking your next cruise:

1.    Features:  River cruise ships are small and intimate, giving travelers a relaxed environment to socialize after a day exploring on land. Large ocean cruise ships have a wide variety of activities and attributes to fit the needs of any traveler – from a sky diving simulator for the adrenaline seeker to wine tasting rooms for the oenophile.

2.    Target Demographics: The demographic for river cruises has traditionally been passengers who are well traveled are looking for a more intimate vacation, although in recent years the ages are becoming younger. Recently, Disney has developed a river cruise partnership with AMA Waterways so family river cruising is definitely an option. Many ocean cruises are geared for families with children, featuring onboard activities such as kids clubs, teen game rooms, and family friendly suites. 

3.    Vacation Experience: Both river and ocean cruises can be relaxing, exhilarating, and all around enjoyable depending on what you are looking for. River cruises usually involve a daily walking itinerary and more intimate visits with locals.  Many of the itineraries sail by or visit historic UNESCO sites. Local entertainment is provided but is often smaller productions. Ocean cruises involve a more diversified experience with multiple bars, buffets, specialty restaurants and Broadway-style production shows. 

4.    Size of Vessel: River cruise ships carry an intimate 150 to 300 passengers, as they are smaller in order to navigate the locks, bridges and passageways of the rivers. Many river cruise cabins feature large windows or French balconies, allowing you to sit in the comfort of your room while enjoying the passing scenery. Ocean cruise ships on the other hand can carry 750 to 5,000 passengers, so cabin accommodations can vary from solo cabins, to balcony cabins, to large connecting suites for groups.  

5.    Inclusions: Both river and ocean cruises offer all-inclusive and a la carte options. Talk to your travel advisor to find the option that best fits your desires as these differ by cruise line and individual ship. Many river cruises include the majority of amenities such as beverages (alcohol at lunch and dinner), Wi-Fi, and excursions in the cost, with upgrades available. Ocean cruises tend to have fewer amenities included in the upfront cost, since the larger number of passengers and bigger ships allows for more customizable experience while in port and on board.

6.    Itinerary:  River cruise itineraries are becoming more diverse and traversing all over the globe. Once docked, guests are able to walk right off a river cruise and into the heart of town. Local guides lead both walking and bus tours designed to immerse you in the destination’s culture and heritage. Ocean cruises can sail to countries all over the world, though their ports of call vary depending on what size ships the docks can accommodate. In port, cruisers may have access to a bigger variety of shore excursions, including everything from snorkeling to city tours to helicopter rides over volcanoes and glaciers.

7.    Accessibility: Accessibility standards vary in foreign countries so make sure your travel advisor knows all passengers needs. Wheelchair bound travelers may want to consider a stateside cruise – both river and ocean going vessels and ports in the U.S. are accommodating for accessibility.

8.    Culinary experiences: Each cruise line offers their own unique dining experience. On board ships you’ll find buffets, specialty restaurants, and bars, as well as menus crafted by local chefs or wine and food pairings themed to the region you’re traveling in. A smaller number of passengers means culinary experiences onboard can be authentic customized based on the goods purchased each day at local markets. The size of ocean cruises allows for more restaurants and specialty dining experiences to be featured onboard. Regardless of your ship, there’s sure to be delicious food on board! 

Ready to book your next cruise? Contact Lori Haigwood, Cruise Planners Franchise Owner 770-845-6411, lori.haigwood@cruiseplanners.com, www.vacationplanners.biz