A Fresh Perspective on Travel Every Day
American Cruise Lineshas launched its most ambitious itinerary ever, featuring a 61-day extravaganza that will explore 20 states and navigate four of the most notable rivers in the United States.
A river cruise might just be the best way to see the world. Though many well-traveled readers have yet to hop aboard a river ship, those that have return home with high praise for this unique style of exploring. It makes sense: river cruises allow for slow and thoughtful enjoyment of a destination, while onboard amenities offer the kind of luxury found in five-star hotels. Moreover, this year’s award winners have a global outlook, with operations not just in Europe but also in Egypt, Southeast Asia, South America, and even closer to home in the U.S.
You don’t need to fly to Europe for a river cruise, with new ships and routes creating even more options right here in the United States. Some of the most scenic itineraries traverse the Mississippi, Hudson, Columbia, and Snake rivers, showcasing natural, cultural, and historical attractions along the way. Passengers can visit wineries in Washington, taste Creole cuisine in New Orleans, or learn about the Siege of Vicksburg right where it happened.
Standing on my private balcony as theAmaSienanavigated the mist-cloaked Rhine River, I had a postcard view of the pastoral German countryside. Terraces of dew-drenched greenery rose to meet a stone-gray sky. Punctuating this tableau was a procession of castles, the sort of soaring medieval fortresses I’d previously only seen on jigsaw-puzzle boxes. One, crowned with a series of ink-black towers, looked straight out of a fairy tale. This was like no other cruise I’d ever experienced, having gone on over 30 cruises, mostly in the Caribbean.
The London Eye River Cruise is a 40-minute circular sightseeing tour on the River Thames featuring live commentary. This delightful journey provides stunning views of many of London’s most famous sights including the Houses of Parliament, St. Paul’s Cathedral, HMS Belfast, and the Tower of London.
River cruising is the fastest-growing segment of the cruise industry. According toThe New York Timesand industry experts, river cruise experiences continue to gain popularity each year. With smaller, more intimate ships and itineraries that take travelers to vibrant cities, charming villages, and stunning landscapes, river cruise lines provide a unique travel experience.
Recently we were invited to joinViking River Cruiseson their Christmas Markets Cruise down the Danube. European River Cruises seem to be all the rage these days and we wanted to see what all the fuss was about.