In a nutshell: yes, river cruises in Europe are worth their cost if your main concern is not the price tag itself but instead the value of what you’re getting in return. Clearly this is not the cheapest possible way to travel around Europe; you get good value, yes, but let’s not beat around the bush here.
What is the average cost of a European river cruise? Europe River Cruise Prices
Fares start at about $200 per person, per night, for budget-priced river cruises and range up to $500 per person, per night, for an all-inclusive luxury experience. Cruise tours typically span seven to 21 nights.
Then, Why are European river cruises so expensive? River cruises often appear expensive because they include a lot compared to land-based vacations or mainstream ocean cruises. As a general rule river cruises include food, excursions, and drinks. River cruising is a luxurious way to travel and the price reflects this.
Is it worth getting a balcony on a river cruise? Bottom line: On a river cruise, a balcony may offer good value when it means an upgrade to a larger suite, but not when a French balcony gives you more interior space, or when you will be spending little time in your cabin.
FAQ
How do I get the best deal on a Viking river cruise?
Here are nine tips to help you get the best value out of your river cruise:
- Book early for selection or book late for discounts. …
- Ask questions about what’s included. …
- Consider opting for a “French balcony” for more space. …
- Compare apples to apples. …
- You can save by booking a lower deck cabin. …
- Organize a group and save.
Is it worth the money to get a balcony on a cruise? If you’re sailing in the Mediterranean or to another scenic destination, the view is definitely worth the money, Driscoll says. « If you’re doing an Alaska cruise, it’s so nice out on the balcony, watching the glaciers, » he says. « You see all the people on their balconies watching the beauty go by. »
Are river cruises worth it? Most river cruises are not a good choice for families or for people who enjoy extensive on-board entertainment. The daily costs for these trips generally are higher than for ocean-going cruises, although that is not always the case.
Are Viking River cruise prices per person? Prices are cruise only, per person, double occupancy. Taxes, fees and port expenses not included. Rates are valid for US and Canadian residents only.
Do Viking River Cruises have casinos?
Viking Ocean Cruises’ ship have no casinos. « We can bring you to many destinations that have casinos, though, » Hagen quips.
What can you not do on a river cruise? Here are our tips of what NOT to do on a river cruise.
- Don’t think you’re going to have a lot of downtime. …
- Don’t try to pack too much in. …
- Don’t feel the need to schedule extra excursions. …
- Don’t skip trying the food and drink in local ports. …
- Don’t ignore when the ship sails — and from where. …
- Don’t underpack.
What deck level is best on a cruise ship?
The lower and more central you are in a ship, the less roll and sway you will feel. Even if you choose a balcony room, choose a low level and a room closest to the ship’s center. The higher decks and cabins at the front (forward) or back (aft) of the ship will rock and roll the most.
Where is it best to have a cabin on a cruise ship? Best for a Great View
Cabins at the very front or very back of a cruise ship are most likely to have the best views, as they offer the widest vistas of the ocean stretching out behind or in front of the ship — or in the case of forward cabins, your next port of call.
Are Viking River Cruise Prices per person?
Prices are cruise only, per person, double occupancy. Taxes, fees and port expenses not included. Rates are valid for US and Canadian residents only.
How far in advance should I book a Viking River cruise?
Early reservations
Many cruise lines announce their itineraries up to 18-months in advance, usually with the best prices included, meaning you can get a great deal with luxurious amenities, accommodations and first pick of the exciting excursions offered on-board.
How much is the 245 day Viking cruise? Viking Cruises is trying to set a record for the world’s longest cruise with a 245-day journey that costs over $90,000 per person.
What is the best floor to be on a cruise ship? The lower and more central you are in a ship, the less roll and sway you will feel. Even if you choose a balcony room, choose a low level and a room closest to the ship’s center. The higher decks and cabins at the front (forward) or back (aft) of the ship will rock and roll the most.
Can you refuse to pay gratuities on a cruise?
Q: Can you refuse to pay gratuities added to your bill? Yes, though cruise lines highly discourage it and will work with guests if they are not satisfied with the service on their voyage to adjust the fee to lesser gratuities if necessary.
What’s the best deck to be on a cruise ship? The best deck on a cruise ship to avoid seasickness is the lowest passenger deck. This is because the top of a ship sways from side to side much more than the bottom. To avoid motion sickness, choose a cabin close to the waterline.
How do I get the best deal on a Viking River cruise?
Here are nine tips to help you get the best value out of your river cruise:
- Book early for selection or book late for discounts. …
- Ask questions about what’s included. …
- Consider opting for a “French balcony” for more space. …
- Compare apples to apples. …
- You can save by booking a lower deck cabin. …
- Organize a group and save.
What is a French balcony on river cruise? A French balcony is a balcony that you cannot step out onto. It has floor to ceiling sliding doors that open to a railing, but no space for furniture. Also known as a Juliet balcony, a French balcony offers fresh air and the feel of a veranda, but with no outside space.
Are river cruises rough?
You will not get motion discomfort, as river cruises are slow paced with little to none rough water. Remember, every cabin has a view—there are no inside cabins like on an ocean cruise vessel.
Are all meals included on Viking cruises? Are all the meals included? All onboard meals and food during specified shore excursions that straddle mealtimes are included in the fares.
How good is the food on Viking River Cruises?
Are Viking cruises good value? At the end of the day, when it comes to river cruising, you get what you pay for. Viking is certainly not the cheapest option on the water, but, they may just be the best. It may take a bit longer to save for a Viking cruise, but, it is definitely worth it – because YOU are worth it!
