The Basics of Ocean vs River Cruising
When you’re looking for a relaxing vacation that has incredible views, luxurious amenities and the opportunity to visit multiple countries, a cruise can’t be beat. But what to choose, an ocean or a river cruise?
Ocean and river cruises each come with their own unique perks and deciding which option to choose depends on your specific needs. Let’s take a look at the major differences to help you decide what is the better fit for your family.
Size
The biggest difference when it comes to ocean and river cruises is the size. River cruises tend to be much smaller and more intimate, usually with no more than 200 guests on board. This allows you to interact with other passengers and crew members more.
Ocean cruises are significantly larger in scale. The smaller ships hold around 2,500 passengers, while the larger ships hold up to 7,000 guests! These ships can be up to 18 decks high and offer a TON of on board amenities, but lack the intimacy of a river cruise.
Dining & Amenities
Because of their larger size, ocean cruises offer plenty of options for all ages, from young kids to grand parents, making them a fantastic choice for multi-generational family gatherings. There are kids clubs and water slides for the young ones, daring day excursions and adventure filled activities for thrill-seekers, as well as spas, nightclubs and casinos for adults. These larger ships also have nightly broadway-style theater shows and live musicians that are fun for the entire family.
Ocean cruises also offer a variety of dining options on board. From massive buffets to unique sit down meals and exquisite fine dining, there is the option to eat at a different restaurant every day.
On the other hand, the smaller scale of a river cruise translates to all areas of the experience. Typically there are only one or two dining options on board and you dine on a regular schedule at tables with other passengers. Instead of 50 different things to do on board, amenities tend to be more modest with river cruises. Think libraries, a workout room, cultural programs, and free Wifi. Because of this, there tend to be fewer kids on river cruises, making them popular for couples seeking quiet and relaxed time together.
Ports
On a river cruise, you stop at a new port almost every day. You will find yourself taking walking tours through quaint towns with little tourist traffic and experiencing more of the local culture. River cruises are always in view of land and offer a fantastic view of your surroundings as you are moving from port to port.
With ocean cruises, you can go days without seeing land and ports of call tend to be more exotic and touristy. Also, many cruise lines have their own private islands in the Caribbean and excursions can be more high-adventure than what you will find on river cruises.
Price
River cruises do tend to be more expensive per person because of their intimate nature. However this higher price tag often includes more things like wine, special events, excursions, wi-fi and more. Ocean cruises have a lower sticker price per person, but you are often charged extra for alcohol, wi-fi and other amenities. Plus, you typically will not receive the personalized service you do on a river cruise.
What to Consider When Choosing a Cruise
Here are a few questions to think about when deciding which option is best for your family:
How many people are traveling and what are their ages?
What time of the year do you want to travel and where do you want to go?
What amenities are you looking for on board? For example, do you need a variety of food and entertainment options or are you looking for a more relaxed, intimate experience?
What parts of the world do you want to visit?
What is your budget?
As always, Halcyon Travel Company is here to work out all of these details with you. There are a lot of things to consider and we can help you look at all the moving parts. Together we will find a cruise you and your loved ones will remember fondly for the rest of your life.
Happy Travels!
