A-Z Overview of river cruising
River cruising is one of the hottest vacation concepts of this decade, and continues to go from strength to strength as new cruising options are developed by innovative partners. While not new, river cruising continues to be popular for the breadth and variety of the typically spectacular landscapes the exciting river ships pass through. River cruising is the perfect ‘unpack-once’ solution for travellers seeking a more intimate all-inclusive experience than can be found on ocean cruising; typical river cruise passenger complements range from only 130 to 200 passengers rather than in the thousands on ocean cruises.
In most cases a river cruise will deliver you to the heart of a city destination after an overnight cruise, opening the potential for a full day exploring the cultural, historical and social attractions of each port, either fully independent or guided by local experts. While various providers may operate on similar itineraries, e.g. Rhine or Yangtze cruises, you will find that each operator delivers unique packages based on value or special interest principles, so it always pays to check the inclusions and special-interest offerings, shore visits and sidetrips to select the most appropriate cruise for your specific requirements.
In most cases a river cruise will deliver you to the heart of a city destination after an overnight cruise, opening the potential for a full day exploring the cultural, historical and social attractions of each port, either fully independent or guided by local experts. While various providers may operate on similar itineraries, e.g. Rhine or Yangtze cruises, you will find that each operator delivers unique packages based on value or special interest principles, so it always pays to check the inclusions and special-interest offerings, shore visits and sidetrips to select the most appropriate cruise for your specific requirements.
APT
Flagship Itinerary: Magnificent Europe 15 days Budapest to Amsterdam New in 2014: APT’s Royal Experience New Dining experience at the River Bistro Erlebnis Chef’s Table Restaurant now available on both Aria and Concerton river ships. New itineraries including Danube, Rhine and Moselle rivers. New Signatures Experiences including a behind-the-scenes experience of Burg Namedy castle and a lavish banquet in the Hall of Mirrors, Oktoberfest in Vilshofen and a visit to City Palace in Vienna and a private soiree featuring select members of the Mozart Boys’ Choir. Demographic: Established households living in attractive suburbs 50 +, high income, high consuming, well educated. Tours specifically designed for Australians and New Zealanders. Seasonality: March to December departures Accommodation: APT offers a range of suites from twin window suites, to Panoramic balcony suites and owners’ suites on all ships. Concerto ships feature the revolutionary Twin Balcony suites with a panoramic balcony and an outside balcony Dining & Beverages: All meals included. Up to seven different dining experiences including the exclusive Erlebnis Chef’s Table. Complimentary beverages served throughout the cruise including beer, wine. sparkling wine, soft drinks, cocktails and Europe’s finest tea and coffee Inclusions: Tipping Complimentary bikes (including some electric models) Expert Tour Directors and Local Guides Airport Transfers Pool or whirlpool Freedom of Choice Touring in many ports. Dine around Dining Personal computer & Wireless Internet access at no extra cost Many unique and exclusive Signature Experiences Passenger Extras: Gold and Silver Butler service for guests in select suites on Concerto ships - 98% Satisfaction rating Entertainment and late starter/active walking tour options Themed itineraries such as Food Safari Airline Partners: Singapore Airlines (or another airline of APT’s choosing) Price Range: 15 Day Magnificent Europe starts at $6595.00 |
Avalon
Flagship Itinerary: Magnificent Europe 15 days Budapest to Amsterdam New in 2014: 3 new Suite ships in Europe - Avalon Impression, Avalon Illumination & Avalon Poetry. 6 new theme cruises – Beer tasting, Festive time, Golf, European history and Politics, Wellness and WWI history. 1 new itinerary & ship in the Peruvian Amazon – MV Aria. 1 new ship in the Galapagos Islands -MV Santa Cruz Demographic: Primarily 60+ age group. Shifting to a younger age range, mostly within Australian market Seasonality: Europe: March - December Egypt: January - December China: April - October SE Asia: January - December USA: March - December South America: January - December Accommodation: Outside Staterooms with hotel-style beds Open-air & French balconies on European ships Dining & Beverages: Complimentary regional wine and beer served with dinner in Europe Choice of dining options on European Suite ships. Full buffet breakfast and lunch. Four course a’ la carte dinners. Self-serve beverage station with complimentary tea & premium coffee. Inclusions: All Meals while cruising Port charges Gratuities for Cruise Director and Crew Local guided sightseeing with choice of pace Complimentary WI-FI access Nightly entertainment Airline Partners: Emirates Etihad Singapore Airlines Cathay Pacific Qantas Passenger Loyalty Program: Journeys Club (Member receive 5% off any Globus Family of Brands tour) |
Evergreen Tours
Flagship Itinerary: 21-day Paris to Prague and Splendours of Europe River Cruise 24-day Eastern Europe and Splendours of Europe River Cruise New in 2014 NEW custom built ships with exclusive indoor/outdoor pool (24 square meters) that transforms into a cinema at night and new outside alfresco dining terrace Russia River Cruising and France River Cruising. 2014 Fleet 2 NEW Custom built Evergreen River Cruisers. Demographic 45+ mature couples and retirees Itineraries customised for Australians and New Zealanders Seasonality April – November Accommodation NEW deluxe Royal Concerto Suites (315 square feet) with Lounge Room NEW Grand Full Balcony Suites (210 square feet) NEW Balcony Suite with drop down window (180 square feet) Dining& Beverages All cruise meals are included Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks with dinner Alfresco Dining Terrace for casual dining Inclusions: All tipping and gratuities and port taxes All meals on cruise Guided tours of towns and cities Expert Local Tour Directors Cruise Tour Director Nightly entertainment Sightseeing and admission fees Airline Partners Singapore Airlines Swiss Airlines Price Range From $5,995 - $16,485 (per person, twin share) Passenger Loyalty Program Evergreen Explorer - access to exclusive offers, free upgrades, free extra accommodation & more |
Scenic Tours
Flagship Itinerary: 15-day Jewels of Europe River Cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest 15 day Romantic Rhine and Moselle River Cruise to Switzerland from Amsterdam to Basel New in 2014 Northern France itinerary cruising the Seine River roundtrip from Paris to Honfleur over 10 nights. Munich & Passau to the Danube Delta River Cruise. Treasures of Europe’s Waterways from Budapest to Hoorn. 15 day touring itinerary highlighting the best of Spain and Portugal. Steam train journey through the Black Forest and Swiss Village experience on our Romantic Rhine and Moselle River Cruise to Switzerland. Exclusive Scenic Tailormade:‘All-in-one’ GPS guide with up to three different audio tours per city, onboard commentary an a group guide system to enable use on all excursions. Fleet 9 Scenic ‘Space-Ships’ 8 with 169 passengers and 85 cabins PLUS Scenic Gem with 128 passengers and 64 cabins Demographic 55+ self-funded and semi-funded retirees Seasonality Europe: March - December France: March - November Accommodation Scenic ‘Space-Ships’: 84% of cabins with full-size private outdoor balconies Dining & Beverages Six dining experiences on Scenic‘Space-Ships’. Exclusive Portobellos Italian fine dining Crystal Dining – fine dining, buffet including regional culinary delights, à la carte, themed dinners with entertainment Table La Rive – Chef’s Table degustation River Café – all day grazing and casual fare Sun Deck – alfresco barbeque and high tea Unlimited complimentary beverages on Scenic ‘Space-Ship’ (including mini-bar replenished daily) Inclusions All touring & sightseeing including Scenic tailormade Airport transfers All tipping, gratuities and porterage Most meals (all meals on Scenic‘Space-Ships’) Private butler service for every guest Airline Partners Singapore Airlines, Emirates Airlines Swiss Airlines Price Range Europe River Cruising: 15-day Jewels of Europe from $6,395pp twin share (E category cabin) to $10,990pp twin share (Royal Suite) Passenger Loyalty Program Scenic Club: ScenicClub Gold, ScenicClub Platinum, ScenicClub Diamond and ScenicClub Emerald |
Tauck River Cruising
Flagship Itinerary: 24 Day Grand European Cruise – nine countries, (The Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia, Croatia, Romania & Bulgaria) New Itineraries 2014: Rendezvous on the Seine Cruising the Seine plus Versailles, Paris & London Danube Reflections The Romantic Rhine New Riverboats: Two new riverboats, ms Inspire and ms Savor, cruising along the Rhine and Danube Rivers. With a maximum of 130 guests, the ships are consistent in the design and service of other Tauck riverboats Unlimited complimentary beverages aboard the ship including regional wines, beer and premium spirits in addition to specialty coffee, water and soft drinks. Inclusions: Tauck Value - virtually all River Cruise expenses are included in one upfront price with no options sold: Tauck Private Shore Excursion Value ranges from between US$1,114 to US$2,517 on River Cruises. Time on Tauck: Enjoy one free hotel night pre or post your River Cruise at one of Tauck’s premium hotels. Gratuities Included: All gratuities to Tauck Directors, Tauck Cruise Director, ship staff, local guides and luggage are included. Pre and Post Cruise Transfers Included: Airport and train transfers upon arrival and departure are included in your itinerary. Complimentary Internet access in hotel guestrooms on land trips where available Special Savings for Solo Travellers No Single Supplement in Category 1 cabins on every departure of every European River Cruise. Accommodation: Standard cabins have floor to ceiling window with Juliette balcony, plasma TV, mini bar, L’Occitane amenities, air conditioning and plush bathrobes & slippers. Dining & Beverages: Savour an authentic taste of the region The Lido Bar offers indoor/outdoor cocktail hour and alternative bistro dining Wine included with dinner offers passengers the freedom to relax and travel as an individual because all of their needs and expectations are anticipated. Tauck’s carefully designed and choreographed itineraries are a refreshing mix of sightseeing, leisure, adventure and culture. Passengers will experience spectacular scenery and exciting events other travellers only dream about and every detail is handled seamlessly. |
Travel IndoChina
Flagship Itinerary: 12 day/11 night Jahan ‘Saigon to Angkor’ Travel Indochina has been exploring Asia’s rivers for as long as 20 years and counting and have carved out a reputation based on our passion for creating real travel experiences in Asia. With the introduction of Burma river cruising, exclusive itineraries in Laos, plus a 22-day Indochina itinerary taking in Vietnam, Cambodia & Laos; Travel Indochina sets new standards for travellers seeking a new and unique way to experience Asia. Travel Indochina has an extensive range of cruise itineraries across which you will find in the 2014 Asia River Cruising brochure. New in 2014 Accommodation: All rooms aboard The Jahan & The Jayavarman feature private balconies, floor to-ceiling glass sliding doors and king size beds. The RV Paukan offers the option to Upgrade to a Deluxe Cabin featuring a private balcony. Indochina - 4 x new 10 day cruise/land packages from Saigon to Siem Reap itineraries on the Jayavarman. And a ‘short’ Heritage Line cruise on the Jayavarman, which is either 4 or 5 days long. • LAOS - 5 day cruise package called ‘Mystical Luang Prabang & Cruise’. • LAOS - 16 day cruise package ‘Enchanting Rivers of Indochina’ which operates from Saigon to Luang Prabang. • BURMA - 12 day cruise package ‘Irrawaddy River Cruise to Mandalay’ operates from Yangon to Yangon. • BURMA - 11 night ‘Discover The Chindwin River’, 8 day ‘Jewels of the Ayeyarwady’ or 7 night ‘Ayeyarwady Experience’ on board the new cruise ship Orcaella. • CHINA - 3 Victoria Cruise packages in China. Demographic: 45+ couples and single travellers Itineraries are ideal for experienced or first time ‘cruisers looking for a new & unique cruising experience within Asia. Travellers that want to see all the highlights of Indochina & Burma but like to travel at a leisurely pace whilst still getting off the beaten track. Inclusions: Accommodation All meals on board All sightseeing & entrance fees Entertainment on-board Return airport transfers Transport in air-conditioned vehicles Local English-speaking guides Tips & porterage Dining & Beverages: All meals on-board are included The ships offer gourmet menus of both Eastern & Western delicacies prepared by internationally-trained chefs, using the freshest local ingredients tea & coffee is provided free of charge on board all ships Alcoholic beverages are available both on board and on land, at reasonable prices Seasonality: Departures across January to December (itinerary & departure dates vary dependent on the season & ship) Passenger Extras: Travel Indochina offers exclusive 12-day charter cruise packages on selected departures The Jahan is the most luxurious boat on the Mekong offering private shore excursions and an on-board spa and pool. Price Range: The Jahan ‘Saigon to Angkor’ 12 days/11 nights starts from $3555* pp twin share Airline Partners: Vietnam Airlines, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific & Thai Airways |
Travelmarvel
Flagship Itinerary: 15-Day Classical Europe: Budapest to Amsterdam New in 2014: 2 New world-class luxury ships; the Travelmarvel Diamond and Travelmarvel Jewel, each with 85 spacious well-appointed staterooms and French balconies. Accommodation: French Balconies in over 90% of Staterooms, featuring 172 sq ft floor space and floor-ceiling glass doors. Window staterooms with all the comforts and amenities of a deluxe hotel Owners’ Suites with 258 sq ft of floor space, French balconies and additional windows. Dining & Beverages: A stylish restaurant welcomes with an impressive culinary journey through Europe’s fine cuisines. Naturally, this fine dining at breakfast, lunch and 4 -course dinner is part of the package. Complimentary local wines, beer and soft drink with dinner. Airline Partners: Singapore Airlines (or an airline of Travelmarvel’s choosing) Inclusions: All gratuities aboard & onshore All meals onboard All airport transfers Shore Excursions & sightseeing hosted by English-speaking local experts Complimentary portable audio headsets on shore excursions Complimentary internet and WI-FI Complimentary use of bicycles Onboard entertainment featuring local performers Insightful Presentations on history & culture by expert local guest speakers Unique Insider Experiences to take the guest behind the scenes and away from the tourist trail to experience authentic European adventures Free carry on bag and document kit. Internet stations Complimentary bottled water daily Complimentary 24 hour coffee & tea bar Accommodation: French Balconies in over 90% of Staterooms, featuring 172 sq ft floor space and floor-ceiling glass doors. Window staterooms with all the comforts and amenities of a deluxe hotel Owners’ Suites with 258 sq ft of floor space, French balconies and additional windows. Dining & Beverages: A stylish restaurant welcomes with an impressive culinary journey through Europe’s fine cuisines. Naturally, this fine dining at breakfast, lunch and 4-course dinner is part of the package. Complimentary local wines, beer and soft drink with dinner. Airline Partners: Singapore Airlines (or an airline of Travelmarvel’s choosing) Guests who travel with Travelmarvel will receive the great value-for-money touring for which they are known, as well as the confidence of travelling with APT. Through APT’s co-ownership of AMAWATERWAYS, they’re globally recognised as the leader in European River Cruising. Travelmarvel offers premium travel experiences at exceptional value. |
Uniworld
Flagship Itinerary: European Jewels Budapest to Amsterdam New in 2014: Uniworld has introduced new Super Ship Catherine to be sailing on the Rhone & Saone rivers through Burgundy & Provence. We also introduce two new itineraries through the Bordeaux region, a wine connoisseurs paradise. Accommodation: Riverview Staterooms and Suites have hand-crafted English Savoir beds draped in fine linen. French balconies in most Category 1 staterooms and suites. Dining & Beverages: Buffet breakfast and lunch offering an extensive array of hot and cold selections Relaxed open seating in the evening Menu selections changing daily inspired by the season and region of travel Award-winning signature dishes Inclusions: All gratuities onboard & onshore Unlimited beverages onboard All meals onboard All scheduled airport transfers Shore Excursions hosted by English-speaking local experts Complimentary portable audio headsets on shore excursions Variety of complimentary culinary experiences and onboard dining options Complimentary internet and WI-FI access aboard Complimentary in-stateroom Infotainment Centre Complimentary fitness centre and exercise classes Complimentary use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks for onshore enjoyment Finest Riverview staterooms afloat Onboard entertainment & lectures Award-winning service from trained English-speaking staff on ships with an average capacity of 130 guests and highest staff-to-guest ratio in the river cruise industry Uniworld's Boutique River Cruises has the most elegantly appointed fleet of boutique, hotel-style river cruises in Europe & Russia, Egypt, China and on the Mekong through Vietnam & Cambodia. From the elegant onboard restaurants, inviting lounges and luxuriously appointed cabins; to world class cuisine, award-winning hospitality & the finest amenities, there is no wonder Uniworld has a 98% guest satisfaction rating |
VIKING RIVER CRUISES
Flagship Itinerary:
Grand European Tour - 15-day cruise between Amsterdam and
Budapest
2014 Fleet
Total of 48 ships across Europe, Russia and China
110-198 passengers on European ships
New in 2014:
Debut of 12 additional Longship class vessels in Europe. More full-size verandas and full-size staterooms than on any other ship in Europe. Aquavit Terrace with floor-to-ceiling windows that roll aside to create a unique area that combines the comfort of the indoors with the fresh air and exhilaration of the outdoors. Debut of 2 new Longship-style vessels in Portugal: Viking Hemming and Viking Torgil
Demographic:
Active baby boomers interested in history and culture
Couples or friends looking to explore the world in comfort
Often engaged in charitable organisations
Newspaper subscribers
Have travelled overseas in the past
Seasonality:
Europe: Select dates from March to December
Russia: Select dates from May to October
China: Select dates from March to November
Accommodation:
Every stateroom has an outside river view with a window
French balcony or Veranda for viewing scenery, and on every ship most
windows open to fresh air
Hotel-style beds with European linens and duvets, premium bath products
and satellite television
Dining & Beverages:
Menu combines regional specialties with classic cuisine
Inclusions:
All onboard meals and complimentary beverages
Daily shore excursions
On board Enrichment Program
Port charges
All gratuities for Europe and Russia
Deluxe accommodation during land portions
Wifi in Europe and Russia and internet café in China
Price Range:
$2,495pp - $17,295pp dependant on season, itinerary
and stateroom (inclusive of any Early Booking Discount*)
Passenger Loyalty Program
Clients who reserve their next journey within one year
receive $200pp in travel credit; if they reserve within two years,
they receive $100per person in travel credits
Accolades:
World’s Leading River Cruise Operator- 2009,
2010, 2011 and 2012 World Travel Awards
Flagship Itinerary:
Grand European Tour - 15-day cruise between Amsterdam and
Budapest
2014 Fleet
Total of 48 ships across Europe, Russia and China
110-198 passengers on European ships
New in 2014:
Debut of 12 additional Longship class vessels in Europe. More full-size verandas and full-size staterooms than on any other ship in Europe. Aquavit Terrace with floor-to-ceiling windows that roll aside to create a unique area that combines the comfort of the indoors with the fresh air and exhilaration of the outdoors. Debut of 2 new Longship-style vessels in Portugal: Viking Hemming and Viking Torgil
Demographic:
Active baby boomers interested in history and culture
Couples or friends looking to explore the world in comfort
Often engaged in charitable organisations
Newspaper subscribers
Have travelled overseas in the past
Seasonality:
Europe: Select dates from March to December
Russia: Select dates from May to October
China: Select dates from March to November
Accommodation:
Every stateroom has an outside river view with a window
French balcony or Veranda for viewing scenery, and on every ship most
windows open to fresh air
Hotel-style beds with European linens and duvets, premium bath products
and satellite television
Dining & Beverages:
Menu combines regional specialties with classic cuisine
Inclusions:
All onboard meals and complimentary beverages
Daily shore excursions
On board Enrichment Program
Port charges
All gratuities for Europe and Russia
Deluxe accommodation during land portions
Wifi in Europe and Russia and internet café in China
Price Range:
$2,495pp - $17,295pp dependant on season, itinerary
and stateroom (inclusive of any Early Booking Discount*)
Passenger Loyalty Program
Clients who reserve their next journey within one year
receive $200pp in travel credit; if they reserve within two years,
they receive $100per person in travel credits
Accolades:
World’s Leading River Cruise Operator- 2009,
2010, 2011 and 2012 World Travel Awards
