River vs Ocean Cruising - Which Cruise To Choose?

When it comes to taking a river or ocean cruise, it is pretty tough to go wrong.  Both offer incredible views, luxurious amenities and the opportunity to explore interesting ports.  However, each type of cruise comes with its own unique perks.

​One of the biggest differences is intimacy.  River cruises tend to be much smaller and as a result, you are likely to do much more interacting with other passengers and crew members.  Usually river cruises have under 200 passengers.  The smaller ship size translates to less amenities which normally include libraries, workout rooms and cultural programs.  Wine is normally included in the price of the cruise and some cruise lines include specific excursions as well.  Each day you are introduced to a new port to intimately explore through expertly crafted tours or on your own agenda.  Port destinations offer a chance to learn about and experience the culture of the area.  While river cruises tend to be more expensive, they include more extras.

River cruises are popular for couples seeking quiet and relaxed time together and anyone interested in learning about the culture of an area.  Cabins are catered to couples.  However, there has been an upward trend in families traveling to Europe and river cruise lines have recently been adjusting their accommodations to meet this need.  While Adventures by Disney always has the entire family in mind on their adventures including river cruises, cruise lines such as AMA Waterways are adjusting to meet the family market by adding adjoining rooms.

With more passengers and much larger ships, ocean cruises allow you to moderate your own personal level of intimacy.  Ocean cruises offer many opportunities to socialize with thousands of fellow passengers.  Amenities abound with Broadway shows, skydiving simulators and clubs for the kids.  You may spend some days at sea enjoying ship amenities and then you can expect port days to be exciting with exotic and high adventure excursions or taking it all in at your own pace.  Often ocean cruises are headed to tropical destinations with amazing beaches and water sport opportunities. Although an ocean cruise may have a lower sticker price per person, there are often many extra charges including soda, alcohol, Wi-Fi, excursions and other amenities.

Ocean cruises are a great option for multigenerational travel.  With a larger ships, staff and amenities there is something for everyone.  After all, who doesn’t want everyone to be happy with little effort?  This is one of the biggest challenges of family travel!

Whether you choose to cruise on the river or the ocean, both offer amazing experiences to share with the ones you love. 

Which type of cruise would you choose and why?  Please comment!

Click HERE for my Free Guide to River Crusing!