River or ocean cruise?

Should your next trip be a peaceful drift along a European river or a transatlantic extravaganza on a giant cruise liner? Two cruising experts highlight the benefits of both water-borne styles to Kate Barracosa.

RIVER CRUISE Steve Reynolds Chief executive officer, APT

“River cruises are an intimate way to travel. The ships are smaller than ocean liners so you’re able to dock in the centre of town and simply step off and start exploring places that aren’t necessarily on the tourist trail. Going down the Danube is a great example – there are medieval towns full of character, such as Melk in Austria. The facilities on a river cruise can cater for the whole ship at once, too. We have 186 passengers at most so, if they wanted to, everyone could have dinner in the same space at the same time. Plus the crew tends to pair the wines and the food with the different countries you’re cruising through so there’s more of a regional flavour to your meals.”

OCEAN CRUISE Lisa Pile Vice-president sales – Australia & New Zealand, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

“Transatlantic cruises are popular due to the number of days spent at sea – this is your real time to relax. But there’s also time in ports where you can do a shore excursion or explore the city. Ocean cruises offer so much choice for guests, from specialty restaurants and bars to art classes and a huge variety of entertainment. We’ve seen a significant uplift in multi-generational family cruising because families can holiday together but everyone is able to do their own thing. It’s a cost-effective option compared with a land holiday package, too.”