Ocean or River Cruise? How to Choose the Right Voyage
Navigate Your Perfect Cruise
Travel specialist Claire Murphy from Curated Travel by Claire outlines the range of cruise options available and explains the key differences between them.
Cruising has come a long way from the clichés of shuffleboard and sequins. Whether you’re dreaming of floating past sun-drenched vineyards or docking beside a glittering skyline, there’s a cruise to suit every kind of traveller and knowing the difference between ocean and river cruising could open up a whole new world of possibilities.
River Cruising: Through the Heart of a Destination
If you’ve ever returned from a city break feeling like you barely scratched the surface, a river cruise might just be your ideal upgrade. Unlike ocean cruises, which take you to a destination, river cruises take you through it offering a front-row seat to the ever-changing landscapes and life along the water’s edge.
Think of it as a boutique hotel on the move, gliding through iconic cities and hidden gems. From Europe’s Danube and Rhine to the Mekong, Mississippi, or even the Zambezi, river cruising allows you to unpack once and let the scenery come to you. There’s rarely a moment without something beautiful outside your window - be it vineyards, castles, or elephants at the water’s edge.
River cruising is also an elegant alternative to traditional touring. It pairs exceptionally well with adventure or safari-style holidays, offering a luxurious way to unwind after days of exploration or even a new way to experience wildlife, as is possible on certain African river routes.
Ocean Cruising: More Than Just the Sea
Ocean cruising is more diverse than many realise. While some picture towering mega-ships with waterslides and Broadway shows (and yes, they absolutely exist!), others may prefer a smaller, more intimate ship where fine dining, cultural enrichment, and personalised service are the order of the day.
A cruise doesn’t need to be your entire holiday. It’s increasingly popular to pair an ocean voyage with a city break such as starting with a few nights in Rome or Miami before setting sail. Or consider a cruise as an alternative to a traditional tour: a Japanese itinerary, for instance, offers a seamless way to explore multiple islands and coastal cities without the hassle of internal flights or constant repacking.
And for those looking to make a truly once-in-a-lifetime investment in travel, an Around the World cruise might just be the ultimate experience. These extended voyages often lasting 90 to 180 days visit dozens of countries in a single journey, all from the comfort of one luxurious floating home. Think private overwater bungalows in the South Pacific one week and sunrise over the Sydney Opera House the next. With curated excursions, enrichment programmes, and world-class dining included, it’s a sophisticated and effortless way to see the world and unpack just once.
A Culinary Experience at Sea (or Along the Riverbank)
One of cruising’s best kept secrets? The food. Whether you’re gliding along the Danube or crossing the Atlantic, the dining onboard is often nothing short of exceptional far exceeding many hotel restaurants. Menus are frequently crafted by Michelin-starred chefs or culinary teams with globally recognised accolades. Some cruise lines even partner with celebrity chefs to design entire dining concepts, offering everything from immersive tasting menus to regionally inspired dishes tied to the places you’re visiting. For many guests, the dining experience alone is reason enough to cruise - a floating gourmet journey from start to finish.
Exceptional Value, Without Compromise
Many travellers are surprised to discover that cruising often offers better value for money than a typical all inclusive holiday. When you break down what’s included - accommodation, transport, food, entertainment, and even some excursions, the day-to-day cost can be incredibly competitive. And unlike a static resort, your view changes daily.
If you are considering a cruise it is prudent to take advice from an expert who has access to numerous cruise liners so can ensure your itinerary is perfectly matched to your travel style.
Contact Claire at Curated Travel
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