In the last few years, river cruising has gained remarkable popularity. Luckily, you don’t even have to leave the country to enjoy this wonderful way to travel. Start planning your summer river cruise today!
Why River Cruise?
River cruises tend to be smaller and more intimate, and they can get into ports that sea-worthy megaships cannot. Fewer passengers mean shorter lines, and on-shore excursions tend to be included. One of the great aspects of river cruising is it takes you to places and sights that you can’t see any other way.
To pick the cruise that’s right for you, consider who you’re traveling with and what interests your party most. For example, if you’re traveling with your grandchildren, you’ll want to pick a cruise that welcomes those under 18 and offers on-board activities and on-shore excursions that will appeal to their age groups and interests, as well as your own.
Endless Options
In AARP’s article “3 Great River Cruises,” the first cruise on the list takes you back in time on a paddle wheeler down the mighty Mississippi with stops in New Orleans and St. Louis, with guided excursions at each port.
In Fodor’s “10 Best River Cruises,”several U.S. cruises made the list, including a Chicago itinerary mixing history and culture.
The Travel Channel’s “Best U.S. River Cruises” list includes a variety options depending on your voyage taste:
- A seven-night adventure perfect for Civil War and history buffs aboard a 52-stateroom floating hotel with South Carolina stops at Daufuskie Island/Hilton Head and Beaufort, and Georgia stops at St. Simons, Jekyll and Amelia Islands, as well as a stop in Jacksonville, Fla.
- Head to southeast Alaska for an eight-night small-ship cruise from Sitka to Petersburg, and get the chance to spot whales, eagles, bears, moose and seals, as well as glaciers.
- A 12-night Erie Canal to Saguenay River cruise allows 96 lucky passengers to see the best of the fall colors with stops along the Hudson River.
Another paddle-boat option will traverse the Columbia and Snake River for a seven-night voyage from Portland, Ore., to Clarkstown, Wash.
- Or, sail the Chesapeake Bay on a 40-person tri-masted tall ship.
No two river cruises are alike. The size and style of ships and the scenery varies far more than most sea cruises. You’re able to choose the unique experience that’s a perfect fit for your wanderlust.
Resources:
5 Great U.S. River Cruises – AARP.org
River Cruises – CruiseCritic.com