Here are nine tips to help you get the best value out of your river cruise: Book early for selection or book late for discounts. Ask questions about what’s included.
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How to find the cheapest river cruises in Europe?
European River Cruises: Tips for getting the best deal on your cruise Book early for selection or book late for discounts. Ask questions about what's included. Consider opting for a “French balcony” for more space. Compare apples to apples. You can save by booking a lower deck cabin. Organize a group and save. Click to see full answer.
How do I select the best river cruise line?
4 Night Cruise to Europe. View 10 deals and more information. 2. Seine River Cruise from Paris to Normandy What a great trip Pais - Honfleur - Paris on the …
Do you offer discounts on river cruises?
Nov 10, 2021 · Here are nine tips to help you get the best value out of your river cruise: Book early for selection or book late for discounts. Ask questions about what’s included. Consider opting for a “French balcony” for more space. Compare apples to apples. You can save by booking a lower deck cabin. Organize a group and save.
When is the best time to cruise Europe's rivers?
Being the only River Cruise Line inducted into the Chaînes Des Rôtisseurs, the oldest & largest food & wine society in the world—most observers feel they have the best food & wine in Europe River Cruising. Small group Excursions led by expert local guides. Providing Complimentary Limited Edition Tours
How do I get the best deal on a Viking river cruise?
Here are nine tips to help you get the best value out of your river cruise:Book early for selection or book late for discounts. ... Ask questions about what's included. ... Consider opting for a “French balcony” for more space. ... Compare apples to apples. ... You can save by booking a lower deck cabin. ... Organize a group and save.More items...
What is the best month to take a European river cruise?
The European River cruising season runs from March through December, though the best time to take a river cruise in Europe is during the late spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October).
What is the average cost of a European river cruise?
Europe River Cruise Prices Fares start at about $200 per person, per night, for budget-priced river cruises and range up to $500 per person, per night, for an all-inclusive luxury experience. Cruise tours typically span seven to 21 nights. Seven-night Rhine or Danube cruises are the most affordable.
How do I get the best value on a cruise?
13 Tips for Finding Cheap Cruise DealsDon't Wait for Last-Minute Cruise Deals on High-Season Sailings. ... Hunt Down Shoulder Season and Repositioning Cruise Deals. ... Use Cruise Critic's Deal Score to Know When a Deal is Really a Deal. ... Bundle Up for the Best Cruise Deals. ... Ask for a Price Drop Credit When Cruise Fares Change.More items...
What is the most picturesque river cruise in Europe?
The Top 10 Best European River Cruises For 2020Tulip Cruises. A Tulip Time cruise is one of the most iconic (and picturesque!) river cruises you can take. ... Douro Cruises. Scenic Azure on the Douro. ... Moselle Cruises. Crystal Bach on the Moselle. ... Main Cruises. ... Christmas Markets Cruises. ... Elbe Cruises. ... Danube Cruises. ... Rhine Cruises.More items...•Dec 11, 2019
Is a balcony worth it on a river cruise?
Bottom line: On a river cruise, a balcony may offer good value when it means an upgrade to a larger suite, but not when a French balcony gives you more interior space, or when you will be spending little time in your cabin.Feb 3, 2016
What is the best time of year to cruise the Danube River?
The Danube River is a charming destination to visit at almost any time of the year, though most travel experts agree the that best times to take a Danube cruise are Spring (April and May) and Fall (September and October).
What does 2 for 1 deposit mean on Viking cruises?
Yes Excellent way to go on Viking on the two for one, it means that the normal price is for example 2500.00 is what you will pay instead of regular price of 5000.00 so they take your price cut it in half which includes your air from the states and gives you the two for one price.
Will Viking river cruises sail in June 2021?
Viking Cruises has announced that its river and ocean operations will remain on hold through May 31, 2021, which means cruises won't resume until June at the very earliest.Feb 20, 2021
What day of the week do cruise prices drop?
ThursdaysAccording to a new study, there may be a best day of the week to book a cruise. On average, prices for cruises drop the most on Thursdays, according to CruiseWatch.com. The data also revealed Wednesdays to have the greatest price hikes during the week.Aug 18, 2016
Do cruises get cheaper closer to sailing date?
The closer you get to the departure date, the cheaper the cruise becomes. Why? Because cruise ships don't want to depart with half-empty boats, so they drop prices steadily until that boat is leaving port, since for them empty cabins mean less money.Jan 18, 2022
What is the cheapest month to go on a cruise?
The cheapest times to cruise are typically in the late summer and fall because of hurricane season, but you can often find patches of bargain sailings, especially during the early weeks of December and in the spring.
7 Night Cruise to Europe
Viking River Cruise along the Danube aboard the Egil from Budapest, Austria to Nuremburg, Germany (April 2019) The Viking River cruse was our First Cruise.
5 Night Cruise to Europe
Seine River Cruise from Paris to Normandy What a great trip Pais - Honfleur - Paris on the river Seine!
What is the best month to take a European river cruise?
The European River cruising season runs from March through December, though the best time to take a river cruise in Europe is during the late spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October).
Are European river cruises worth the money?
In a nutshell: yes, river cruises in Europe are worth their cost if your main concern is not the price tag itself but instead the value of what you’re getting in return. Clearly this is not the cheapest possible way to travel around Europe; you get good value, yes, but let’s not beat around the bush here.
What is the average cost of a European river cruise?
Europe River Cruise Prices Fares start at about $200 per person, per night, for budget-priced river cruises and range up to $500 per person, per night, for an all-inclusive luxury experience. Cruise tours typically span seven to 21 nights. Seven-night Rhine or Danube cruises are the most affordable.
What is the dress code for dinner on Viking River Cruises?
There are no “formal nights” in the evening; recommended evening dress is “elegant casual.” For ladies, this may include a dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse; and for gentlemen, trousers and a collared shirt. A tie and jacket are optional.
What is the average cost of a Viking River cruise?
Prices vary according to the cruise duration and destinations, but typically, they fall within the $1,699-$4,999 range. Note that there are many Viking River Cruises in Europe that fall under the $2,000 price point, which makes them surprisingly affordable.
Why are river boat cruises so expensive?
Since river ships aren’t buying cucumbers by the cargo container, costs like food and drink (a major component of cruise fares) are higher. Because most river ships are newer (many debuting between 2014 and 2017) than their ocean-going counterparts, they feature all the latest innovations and décor.
Is it worth the money to get a balcony on a cruise?
Balcony cabins are great for giving you that much needed bit of personal space when you’re both in the room. If he wants to nap but you’re wide awake, a balcony offers you a place to hang out without worrying if you’re making too much noise or using too bright lights.
What is the next generation of river cruises?
Emerald — sometimes refers to itself as the next generation of river cruising. Scenic “ 5-star, all-inclusive luxury river cruises throughout Europe and Asia”. Tauck —“ Never Settle for Ordinary”. Uniworld -- “The world's only authentic boutique cruise line”. Viking – “Exploring the world in comfort”.
How much does a balcony cabin cost on a cruise?
Here is a price range (all 8 cruise lines) for a balcony cabin in August 2019--$3,880 to $5,769 per person for a 7 day Danube cruise (based on my personal research for a client).
What are the amenities on Emerald Waterways?
Emerald Waterways features include: Complimentary wine, beer & soft drinks at lunch and dinner; all on board meals; balcony cabins on the upper 2 decks; bikes (without electronic assisted feature); & complimentary Wi-Fi. As with most river cruise lines, there are included tours in every sailing.
How many decks does a river cruise ship have?
River cruise ships have some limitations in width & height. To fit under bridges, they generally have only 3 decks (not counting the sun deck which is basically a roof). All are generally 38 ft wide but the AmaMagna is the only double wide ship. The big difference is their length.
What is hardware in a boat?
The next slide needs a little explanation. Hardware includes the condition and maintenance of the vessel, its age, and public areas. It also includes floor & wall coverings, passageways and stairwells. The last item evaluated is pools (or lack of them), and lifts (elevators—or lack of them).
How many passengers does the Amamagna carry?
the Giant on the Danube—the AmaMagna. Launched in May 2019, the AmaMagna, is a double wide vessel, & carries 196 passengers. It has expanded on board facilities—4 restaurants (included) 5 bars, 2 massage rooms, and a water sports platform.
Is a river cruise good?
Overview. All river cruises are very good values & special trips. There is no official rankings of the best European river cruise lines & many have won awards from various travel organizations. These are my personal ratings & should be considered as such.
How far in advance should I book a Carnival cruise?
1. When you book a 3-5 day cruise three months in advance, or 6 day or longer cruise five months in advance, you are assured the lowest rate. 2. In the unlikely event that you do find a lower Carnival-advertised rate after booking your cruise, we will honor it and adjust your cruise rate accordingly.
What would happen if rates were lowest right before the trip sailed?
If rates were lowest right before the trip sailed, then every passenger would wait until the last minute. The cruise lines wouldn’t be able to plan their needs for the trip ahead of time or predict revenue, costs, or profits. That’s why Royal Caribbean, for example, eliminated last-minute discounts.
What happens if a cruise ship sails empty?
After all, if a room sails empty, the cruise line earns nothing from that cabin. They should want to get you on board for as badly as possible and hope to earn more on excursions, drinks, and shopping. If that were how things actually worked, however, the cruise lines would go insane trying to plan.
Do cruise fares spike during holidays?
Cruise fares see large spikes during holidays and the summer. The basic rule of thumb is that if schools are out, then cruise fares are high. Cruising off season can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Of course, there is so much more to learn about finding the best rate on your next cruise.
Can you search for Carnival cruises in October?
So instead of just searching for Carnival cruises to the Caribbean in October, you can search every cruise line — potentially finding a cheaper cruise with another line.
Can I cancel a cruise with a deposit down?
If you only have a deposit down, and they won’t work with you on the price difference, determine the refund policy to see if it is worth it to cancel your original trip and re-book the cruise at the lower rate. If you’ve already paid in full, it’s still worth calling the cruise line if you see a lower fare.
Do you choose your room location on a cruise?
Rule #6: DO choose your room location carefully. While not every cruise line does it, many will charge you different amounts for the same class of room in different locations of the ship. For example, a room on a higher deck will cost more than one on a lower deck.
When is the best time to cruise Europe's rivers?
One final caveat about cruising Europe's rivers: Aside from special Christmas market and New Year cruises, the season typically runs from April to October. Be aware that heavy rain and spring flooding can make the rivers swell and the locks become impassable.
What is river cruise?
River cruising is the fastest-growing sector of the cruise industry, with new ships being launched each year. On the plus side, this means more choices, including an ever-increasing number of themed vacations, such as food and wine, active and family-orientated sailings.
How long is a river cruise?
The majority of river cruises are a week long -- typically taking in three countries -- with some lines offering longer trips from 10 days to two weeks or more. They almost always start in fantastic cities such as Paris, Amsterdam and Budapest, and most itineraries include an overnight onboard.
How far is Munich from Passau?
Munich is less than two hours from Passau, and the majority of cruise lines include transfers. It is also worth considering adding a couple of extra nights in Munich, the capital of Bavaria and famous for its beer gardens. Related: Oktoberfest River Cruise Tips. Watch Out For:
Where does the Seine River flow?
Rising in Burgundy, the Seine flows north through Paris into Normandy and empties into the English Channel at Le Havre. Related: Seine River Cruise Tips. There is a seven-night itinerary with cruises sailing from the heart of Paris to Rouen or Caudebec or back.
What is the city of Cologne famous for?
City high spots include Cologne, famous for its landmark, a twin-towered Gothic cathedral that took 630 years to build, and Koblenz, overlooked by the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, one of the largest castles in Europe.
Where to cruise on the Seine River?
More Info: Seine River Cruise Tips. Douro. In a Nutshell: If you like scenery, you'll love cruising on Portugal's Douro river, rising in Spain and winding through rugged and dramatic green landscapes until it reaches the Atlantic in Porto, the country's second city and home to famous-name port houses.
