Five Reasons to Do A European River Cruise; Exclusive to Purple Light by Travel Writer Tonya Denmark

1. See more of Europe

Just like with any cruise, the allure of seeing many sites and only unpacking once is a strong one. And the beautiful thing about European river cruises is that you’ll glide through more than one country crossing each of them off your bucket list. While endless ocean blue waters are nice to look at on an ocean cruise, you’ll see countless medieval castles and homes, rows of windmills and endless picturesque terrain depending on your choice of European river.

2. Relaxing Pace

River cruises tend to have a more relaxing pace than the ocean liners, partly so that you may enjoy the scenery as you float from city to city. Additionally river cruises often dock overnight in a few of the ports allowing you to explore the cities and towns longer and in the evening hours. The leisurely pace from town to town allows you to relax and truly enjoy your vacation.

3. Smaller Ships

River cruises are often smaller longboat type of ships. The smaller ships mean fewer people, usually under 200 passengers; therefore, staff can offer more personalized attention. You’ll also get to know more of your cruise mates better. Even though the ships might be smaller, the luxuries are bigger. You’ll enjoy amenities as in room mini-bars, heated pools and gorgeous floor to ceiling panoramic windows to view the countryside from your bed.

4. Good Value

Many people when comparing the prices of river cruises to cruises by sea forget that river cruises tend to be more inclusive. They generally include some if not all of the tours in port as well as beer, wine and soft drinks at dinner at least, and sometimes at lunch. Some river cruise vacations also include pre and/or post cruise hotel nights so make sure to see what is included to determine everything you are getting for the cruise fare.

5. See More for the Same Price

Overall, a river cruise through Europe will allow you to see more of the sights at a lesser cost. Consider how many cities you want to visit along with meals, lodging and transportation and you will not match the same value on a river cruise. Plus your lodging and meals will be top-notch and hassle free. Finally, through in currency conversions and fluctuations you’ll save with an all in one pricing structure that often includes excursions and guides.

Note Regarding All-Gay Riverboat Cruises

If you think the only way to take an all-gay or all-women cruise is on an ocean liner, you have not been paying attention to our offers! There are nearly as many European River Cruise offers as there are other cruise vacations. From observing iconic tulips in the Netherlands to sailing on an all-gay romantic Danube cruise, your choices are endless.

What would you like to see and do in Europe? Check out our featured cruises. If you don’t see an itinerary you want, call us and we will find one for you!