Rhine cruise newbie - any hints and tips?

nanapop1977

We have been on several ocean cruises in the past and are now considering a Rhine cruise in June or July 2015. Any recommended operators, please as some (eg Viking) seem very pricey. Are they worth the extra? Any comments appreciated.

tocsin

Haven't done the Rhine, but did a Danube cruise last year.

Some differences to sea cruises: very few river cruisers have 'proper' balconies to sit out on (many cabins have fully opening french windows, and there's plenty of open space on the top); smaller range of entertainment on board (think piano bar and possibly small ensemble playing in the evenings - the entertainment is on the range of tours and stops); passengers tend to be older/ retired, but this is changing and some lines are targeting younger groups; weather is important, both for the trips and navigating the river (think water levels too low, or too high to get under bridges).

If not already done, check out the cruise critic forum: http://www.cruisecritic.co.uk/memberreviews/styles/river-cruises/?src=nav

Hope that helps a bit!

Edited to add - we're (wife and I) below retirement age, thoroughly enjoyed the Danube cruise and would do another - maybe next year after this year's expedition cruise!

Goldiegirl

Hi, I just noticed this thread.

We have also done several ocean cruises, and tried our first river cruise last year, with Viking, sailing on the Danube.

It was a very enjoyable experience.

At first glance, it does appear more expensive, but something to remember is that, on most river cruises, lots of excursions are included, and wine, beer or soft drinks are included at lunch and dinner.

As the ships are smaller, there is a friendly atmosphere on board, and everyone (crew and passengers) get to know each other quickly.

Dinner is open seating at 7pm, so you just sit where you want each night, with different people.

The dress code is smart casual - no formal nights.

There was a good mix of ages on board and about 50% Americans, 40% Brits, and 10% Canadians, plus a couple of Norwegians.

We hope to do another river cruise within the next couple of years, would recommend them.

The only downside I can think of is that the ships sometimes double park along the bank, so you might have a ship parked right next to you, plunging your room into darkness, so having a balcony is not really so important, as there will be times when you can't use it.