Your River Cruise Questions Answered…………

Since our first ever edition of the River Cruise Brochure started to arrive in peoples homes last week I have been inundated with calls and emails. River cruisiing is taking off big time it would seem. As many people are new to ‘rivers’ I am being asked lots of questions about all sorts of things so I thought I would try and answer a few here for you. If you have any question that I haven’t answered feel free to ask. I am always delighted to help

Is River Cruising suitable for disabled people?
There are no ‘adapted’ cabins on river ships so river cruising would not be suitable for totally disabled people, however, for people who just have limited mobility many of the newer ships do have lifts or stair lifts. Many of the tours are coach tours with the option to either return to the ship or contimue on the walking tour. Wheelchairs can be taken along for shore use only and must be collapsible for storage in the cabin.
What is the dress code?
Casual and comfortable! If you wish to dress up a little for the Captains Welcome or Farewell dinners that is entirely your choice.
Which airport can I fly from?
A wide variety of regional airports, much better than the ocean cruise lines offer, except for Nile cruises which tend to be restricted to Manchestr of London Gatwick.
Is river cruising suitable for children?
Most river cruise companys have a minimum age limit of either 12 or sometimes 8 years old. River boats are relatively small with no childrens facilities on board.
Are meals at set times?
Yes because the days are action packed and also there are only usually about 100 passengers. Breakfast 8am, lunch 1pm, dinner 7pm. Breakfast and lunch are buffet style.
Some lines offer early riser ‘light’ breakfast from 6am and ‘light’ lunch from 12 noon in the lounge.
What is included in my fare?
Shore excursions and sightseeing, Gratuities, soft drinks with breakfast and lunch, tea, coffee, hot chocolate and bottled water all day, and wine and beer with evening meal, transfers to and from the ship, the services of a Cruise Director and local tour guides who speak English fluently. Some lines (Avalon) will also include home pick up/drop off if you live within 75 miles of your chosen airport.
What are the cabins like?
Exactly the same as on ocean cruise ships, with all the same facilities!
How do I get to the ship if I don’t like flying?
Many of the river cruise lines offer Eurostar or coach from local pick up points in the UK as alternatives.
Will I be bored in the evening?
Exhausted more like! The days are full, and after a lovely dinner you can sit in the lounge where there may be a pianist or a local providing regional entertainment, enjoying the company of other guests and a quiet drink. You will probably find that you look forward to some early nights.

These are some of the questions that I have been asked the most but if you can think of any others please ask and if I don’t already know the answer I will find out for you.
Just a tip, speaking as someone who is checking availibility daily – many river cruises are now fully boooked for April, May and June, and September is another very popular month. If you are seriously considering a river cruise it may be worth looking for dates later in the year. River Cruises book up well in advance. Nile cruises are already on sale for summer 2013 whit some very favourable rates if you are intrested – from around £700 per person all in.
I look forward to hearing from you soon!