River cruising

Have you considered taking a river cruise? Not sure what a river cruise is exactly?

​River Cruises – Journeys of Exploration
With roughly 70% of the earth being water, there are many places to visit by boat or ship. Let your mind wander and imagine for a moment the cruise of your dreams.  My dream takes place in the Netherlands and visits the country of my ancestors and includes a tour of the Keukenhof Gardens during tulip time in spring. 

When most people think of cruising, they think of a larger ship traveling to several tropical islands in the Caribbean, or visiting Alaska or perhaps Europe while touring major cities and ports. If you have already sailed aboard a cruise ship or want a different type of cruise experience, consider taking a river cruise. Picture the perfect ship leisurely cruising rivers in Europe, Russia, Asia or even South America.  Envision visiting captivating places while having personalized service surrounded in luxury in an elegant atmosphere.

River cruise ships have a smaller passenger capacity than larger ships, 130-230 passengers versus 2,500-6,000. The staterooms are larger, afford a glorious view of the landscape, and offer impeccable style and comfort to every passenger.  With fewer passengers on board, the staff and crew can provide more personalized service, remembering your name and even your favorite beverage.  The waters are calm (no rough seas) and the pace is relaxing.  River cruises offer more added perks like wine, beer and soda at meals, hosted shore excursions, transfers on arrival and departure days, and even more. While perks may vary from specific river cruise lines, these are generally added inclusions.

Since the ports of call are right along the river, you are literally steps away from fascinating places!  No tendering and waiting for 3000+ passengers to disembark.  Each person has the flexibility to choose an excursion that fits their pace and style, or to explore on their own, maybe on bikes or just walking at their own pace.  River cruises are the perfect opportunity to delve into a region’s music, cuisine, landscapes, folk culture and history.  There are a variety of itineraries to please a vast number of interests from history buffs, gardeners, food and wine aficionados, to art and music lovers.  There are also theme cruises available.  Additionally, river cruises are a wonderful place to meet new people from all over the world. 

If there is a special destination on your travel bucket list, now is the time to start planning for that journey of a lifetime! 

 “Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn’t do than by the ones you did.  So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the tradewinds in your sails.  Explore. Dream. Discover”
Mark Twain

Enjoy the journey! 
Karen

Contact me to start planning