Mar 28, 2019

Differences between ocean and river cruises

Freelance writer, John Roberts outlines his growing fondness for river cruising and compares it to his previous ocean cruising experiences.

Before you choose which type of trip you want, you’ll need to know what sets river cruising apart from large ship ocean cruising. Both provide wonderful ways to see the world, but they are two extremely different styles of travel.

Life on board

Scenic Space-Ships are only four decks high with a central reception area, up to five dining options, Balcony Suites including a private Scenic Sun Lounge and a Riverview Terrace deck. With up to 168 guests on board, these are much

more casual and intimate surroundings compared to more than 4,000 passengers on ocean cruise ships.

Dining is open seating and entertainment usually features a piano player in the Lounge and Bar area including special performances from local entertainers.

Sailing days

In the oceans, the horizon is endless, and you are often surrounded by waters with only an occasional glimpse of land masses. This is relaxing in its own right, but river cruising features stretches of landscape

where the scenery around the ship is the best part of the trip.

River cruises offer periods of picturesque sailing past magnificent and historic landscapes. Guests can gather in the lounge area or on the Riverview Terrace to enjoy viewing the sights, such as castles, vineyards

and charming villages. Transiting the lock systems is always a fascinating process to witness up close.

Scenic Tailormade offers GPS guided tours both on board and providing expert narration about the history, culture and landscape of the regions you sail through.

Hassle-free fares, luxury suites and service

River cruises off er more things that are included in your fare. At Scenic, when they say all-inclusive, that means everything from transfers to tips, to Scenic Enrich once-in-a-lifetime exclusive events and

complimentary top-shelf beverages.

Scenic sets the luxury benchmark for the standard of suites – some of the most spacious on any European vessel. Technology and innovation meet to provide your Scenic Sun Lounge, giving you a private balcony at the touch of a button.

Scenic also offers butler service to every guest, combining 5-star quality with personal attention to detail.

Destinations

River cruises differ from ocean cruises significantly when you consider your time in port. River ships can often dock right in the centre of small towns or large cities. This means you can easily walk on and

off your ship, allowing you to spend more hours on shore than you would with an ocean vessel. This way, you can enjoy much more flexibility.

Many passengers choose a daily Scenic Freechoice excursion, such as a walking tour of town or a visit to a vineyard or castle, before returning to the ship for lunch. This sometimes leaves free time in the afternoon

for a second onshore excursion or anything else you want to do like shopping or visiting a local coffee shop.

These port areas also have wonderful paths that trace the rivers. With Scenic, you also can use an e-bike to explore the region at your own pace.