This is a collaborative post.
Cruising is a wonderful way to explore the world. Cruising holidays and in particular, private charter cruises have everything you need to sit back and relax while taking in the scenery with your only obligation to eat, drink and make unforgettable memories. In fact, the mental health benefits of cruising can be quite profound.
Whether you’re checking out popular destinations around the globe or discovering new and unique places, ocean and river cruises offer something for everyone.
If you’re not sure whether to pick an ocean or a river cruise for your next big trip, maybe this post will help to make your mind up.
Ocean cruise
Ocean cruises usually take place on larger cruise ships, which can usually accommodate around 3,000 to 4,000 passengers. Some ships can have up to 6,000 people on board at a time.
An ocean cruise is ideal for people who like to stay active because of the numerous activities offered onboard. You’ll find a variety of activities and things to do on-board, from rock climbing to dancing. The onboard experience is the major advantage of ocean cruises; cruising companies will go out of their way to make sure their passengers have a good time.
Indeed, you’ll never feel bored on an ocean cruise. It’s the ultimate relaxing experience and once that not only enables you to see beautiful destinations, but to meet amazing people and to enjoy yourself.
Ultimately, an ocean cruise liner can be likened to a floating luxury resort in the middle of the ocean complete with beaches and pools, restaurants and shops, bars and clubs. Dreamy!
What’s the food like on an ocean cruise?
Ocean cruises are usually a big hit with passionate foodies, as the food is usually very impressive.
Whether you want to eat traditional British cuisine or tuck into a spicy curry or saucy stir-fry, all tastes will be catered for. You can choose to eat in various parts of the cruise shop, including in multiple restaurants, bars and cafes or in the main dining room.
Where do ocean cruises sail?
Ocean cruises sail around destination coastlines and tend to make a variety of stops in different countries and locations.
However, they’re not the best for travellers looking to delve a little deeper into each destination they visit, since most of the activities are centred near the coast or on-board.
River cruise
If you choose a river cruising experience, expect to see a much smaller number of passengers, usually in the range of around 150 to 225 people. River cruise ships do not have casinos or big shows, and tend to have limited activities. This is because the focus is more on the destinations, rather than on the on-board experience. Some river cruises may feature smaller performances from local artists, however.
A river cruise is a great choice if you’re eager to experience a destination while sailing along a beautiful river. All of your senses are engaged as you explore new places from the water, with very little to get in the way of you and nature.
What’s the food like on a river cruise?
Like ocean cruise liners, river cruise ships usually serve a high standard of food on-board.
Although it varies between companies, generally speaking, expect a buffet served for breakfast and lunch and a three-course meal with a choice of options in the evenings.
If you’re someone who likes to taste food from different countries, a river cruise is a perfect choice for you; many times, you will be offered to experience the country’s food and culture by trying out some of their local favourites.
Where do river cruises sail?
Generally speaking, a river cruise can sail almost anywhere where there’s a big river. Interestingly, Europe is one of the most popular destinations for river cruises, with ships cruising down the likes of the Danube, Rhône, Seine, and Main.
There are popular river cruises in other parts of the world too, though. Just take the well-known Volga River in Russia or the impressive Yangtze in China, for example.
If you’re a fan of distant places, you may be excited to hear that there’s a river cruise that sails on Cambodia’s Mekong. The US isn’t very far back when it comes to river cruising. In fact, it’s an increasingly popular experience, particularly on the rivers like Mississippi or Tennessee. There are also more intimate river cruises organised on the smaller rivers throughout the US.
This is a collaborative post.