If you're receiving this newsletter, chances are you've been on an ocean-going cruise (or two), and you know the basic differences between Carnival and Cunard. With river cruising topping the wish list of many a current traveler, you may be thinking about a river cruise next but don't know where to start? Let's list just a few of the major players:
- AmaWaterways
- Avalon Waterways
- Scenic Cruises
- Tauck
- Uniworld
- Viking River Cruises
There are lots of other lines (ARosa, Emerald Waterways, Pearl Seas, etc.) but let's stick for the moment with the major players. So what sets them apart? Several things: number of ships, ship design, rivers traveled, passenger demographics, price and amenities. Here's a quick, general overview:
AmaWaterways: Founded in 2002, AmaWaterways has played a large role in re-shaping the river cruising industry. With a fleet of 20 ships, AmaWaterways features inviting lounges, swimming pools or whirlpools, salons and fitness rooms. They attempt to accommodatea wide range of activity levels with "Gentle Walkers" and "Active Walkers" shore excursions as well as a "Late Starter" group for those who like to sleep in. And AmaWaterways carries a fleet of bicycles on board for those interested in some even more active sightseeing. In 2016 AmaWaterways will partner with Disney to offer family friendly cruises on several of its departures. Their client demographic skews slightly younger and more energetic than that of several other river cruise lines.
Avalon Waterways: Now 25 ships strong, Avalon Waterways is a member of the Globus Family of Brands, known for their attention to detail and world wide reach. Avalon sails in Europe as well as China, Southeast Asia, the Amazon and the Galapagos. Look for luxury in marble bathrooms and L'Occitane bath products. In Europe Avalon's Panorama Suites are 30% larger than the industry standard and feature full floor-to-cieling windows. Beds are situated facing toward the windows so you don't miss a minute of the breathtaking views.
Scenic Waterways: How about the complimentary use of electric-powered bicycles in port to help out with those pesky hills? Scenic is an Australian based company that only began marketing to the US a few years back. Now boasting about a dozen ships, with more on order, the majority of Scenic's passengers are from Australia, the U.K., Canada and South Africa, so the offerings are not all American-oriented. As with AmaWaterways, the average passenger tends to be more adventurous and slightly younger than that of other cruise lines. Scenic is full luxury and ultra-inclusive,with optional dining venues, complimentary mini-bar and itineraries rich in cluture and content.
Tauck River Cruises: Tauck currently is currently the only line with dedicated multi-generational cruises, including shore excursions designed to capture children's interests (this will change with the Disney/AmaWaterways partnership being inaugurated in 2016). Known for it's high quality tours, you’re in good hands as you cruise with three Tauck Directors and a Tauck Cruise Director on every cruise – the most director-level staff on Europe’s rivers. Tauck is well known for its exclusive cultural experiences (i,e. private palace evenings with live music and dancing). And for solo travelers there is no "single supplement" in Category 1 cabins!
Uniworld: Offering 38 itineraries on 22 rivers around the world, Uniworld brings the boutique hotel experience to cruising. Staff to guest ratio is 1:3 and like Scenic, Uniworld is all-inclusive, so there is no shelling out extra for gratuities, beverages, airport transfers, etc. although some optional shore excursions may be at an additional charge. The most tangible difference on Uniworld ships is the ship's interiors, designed by the Red Carnation Hotel Collection, each ship is unique and fashion forward. From the Leopard Lounge to the stylish, inviting lobbies, Uniworld enchants you in every room.
Viking River Cruises: The behemouth of the industry Viking has made river cruising a household term. Now boasting more than 54 ships, Viking presents the most popular choice in river cruising in the US market. Viking's Longships are designed to maximize space while minimizing ecological impact - they even boast solar panels and herb gardens on the top deck. Their loyalty program keeps guests coming back, and satisfaction ratios are very strong. Viking holds the Guiness World Record for greatest number of ships inaugurated at one time - which gives you an idea how much they've grown!
To help you make the best river cruising decision please contact us at (305) 361-6772 for a free consultation.
