What is a European River Cruise Boat like?

MS Poetry (Avalon) at Dürnstein

A river cruise boat is a relatively small vessel compared to a cruise ship, with an amazingly low draft (under two metres in normal sailing), able to navigate larger rivers, waterways and inland lakes; the largest carry as many as 200 passengers, although most carry less (see our River Cruise Boats in Europe page for some specifications). These boats can visit both small towns and large cities and can travel greater distances at a higher speed than canal barges. They are generally modern, multi-level vessels with up to three passenger decks, but usually do not often have lifts (elevators).

As river boats can only be of a certain maximum size (approximately 12 metres wide and three passenger decks high) ) to fit through many of the major locks and under bridges along e.g. the Rhine and Danube, most of the latest boats are of very similar design. Expect ever more luxurious facilities as competition increases. For example, nowadays the French balcony (full height, opening windows) in your cabin is really a must-have option.

Most of the latest boats have television and telephones in passenger cabins, and offer films nightly; and a"ship-cam" which shows you where the boat is going is a useful facility for the lazy!

Nowadays river boats offer many onboard amenities, including laundry service, hairdressers, fitness centres, saunas, and medical facilities. Internet access is sometimes available, including wifi, but this is in its infancy, often limited to email and very expensive as they have to use ship-to-shore satellite links. Your best bet is still an internet cafe while ashore.

A European river cruise may be the best way to discover the romance, variety and true character of Europe. Rivers, canals and other waterways in Europe were originally the main highways used to transport goods and produce; as a result they can take you to the heart of many of the continent's cities as well as to some of its most picturesque and atmospheric small towns and villages.

As you cruise along, from the top deck of your river boat (or your cabin window) you can see bridges, castles, vineyards and the ever-changing river scene and countryside.

OUR ADVICE: concentrate on the ship you want to travel on and the route you want to travel, rather than the tour aggregator (of course, there's also price!). Be sure to check out our "Things to watch for" page too!

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