Here’s our primer on one of the world’s most storied ways to travel.
By: Donna Heiderstadt-AS SEEN IN BRIDAL GUIDE MAGAZINE-
The romance of river cruising is undeniable — fairytale castles along the Rhine, lush vineyards sweeping down to the Rhône and ancient Egyptian temples flanking the Nile — so it makes sense that sailing the world's most famous waterways holds considerable appeal to many. If you're considering a river cruise for your honeymoon, here’s what you need to know about individual cruise lines, romantic rivers and the onboard experience.
Honeymooning on a river cruise means that you'll unpack once and yet visit several spectacular cities, and because ships dock in central locations, it's easy to explore on your own. Ships are smaller (80 to 190 guests) and cruise fares, while higher than most ocean cruises, are mostly inclusive (covering meals, many or all beverages, some or most excursions and gratuities). Regional cuisine and wines are served onboard.
Your fellow passengers will mostly be couples in their 50s to 80s (who will embrace you like you’re their own children or grandchildren). Most river ships also have somewhat snug staterooms (especially the lowest-fare, windowed cabins on the lower deck), limited facilities (typically a restaurant, lounge and open-air sun deck) and nightlife that’s on the sleepy side.
Top Cruise Lines
AmaWaterways offers active hiking or biking excursions in practically every port, and most of its ships feature a pool on the sun deck and two onboard restaurants.
Avalon Waterways is known for having panorama suites with beds that face the ever-shifting views, as well as sky deck whirlpools and active itineraries.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has ships that are wonders of creative interior design, each uniquely and lavishly decorated with opulent, location-inspired fabrics.
Viking River Cruises is the largest player on the rivers of Europe, and its ships feature sleek and inviting Scandinavian décor — almost all of them identical Viking Longships
Most Romantic Rivers
The Rhine: A cruise from Basel, Switzerland to Amsterdam is full of scenic seduction, from medieval old towns, such as Strasbourg, France, to hilltop castles and wine regions in Germany.
The Rhône: Sailings on this river in Southern France begin or end in the foodie mecca of Lyon and visit must-see cities such as Avignon and Arles, as well as the region's legendary vineyards.
The Danube: History-buff honeymooners will be enchanted by the art and architecture of Budapest and Vienna and by the charm of small Austrian towns in the scenic Wachau Valley.
The Douro: From the port cellars of colorful and historic Porto to the terraced vineyards of the Douro River Valley, this itinerary celebrates Portugal's food and finest spirits.
The Nile: Delve into the wonders of ancient Egypt, from pre-cruise visits to the pyramids and museums of Cairo to the legendary temples of Luxor, Karnak, Kom Ombo and Abu Simbe.
