Don't knock it until you have tried it!

It is a well known fact that over the last 10 years cruising has gone from strength to strength, and the old stereotype that cruising is only for the rich and elderly is now almost a distant memory. But what about river cruising? Is this inaccurate judgement still following river cruise brands around, like a bad smell that wont go away? I don't think so. Take Viking River Cruises for example, last week they announced plans to construct an entirely new series of four ships, all of which are set to launch in time for the start of the 2012 river cruise season. Considering Viking have only been around since 1997 and in that time have managed to amass a fleet of 19 ships, is proof the market is defiantly growing and with good reason.
Some could argue that, the same group of cruisers are going on different rivers each year, and there are very few clients new to river cruising. This can't possibly be true as the numbers don't add up plus Viking are not the only company doing well, AMA Waterways, Avalon and Uniworld to mention a few, are also increasing their fleets, more rivers are being explored, different itineraries are being introduced and more and more people are getting their hooks into river cruising.

Granted River cruises do attract a certain type of traveller to begin with. Usually by the time people get around to trying a river cruise, they have probably been on a few ocean liners before, and are looking for something different from the mass market. The normal expectations are that the river vessels are small but is that such a bad thing? There is a high client return rate, but what does that tell you?

We cant really compare river cruising vs cruising as the experiences are completely different, but if docking right on the door step of a city and being walking distance from attractions appeals to you, then try it. Most of the river lines do include all tours also, so that is something else you don't have to worry about. Cuisine on board is easily as good as many of the 4-5 star lines, plus you get to experience something very unique in terms of ports of call and sampling more authentic local culture.

River cruising is not for everyone, but it is coming in a big way. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to call, as you know what they say, don't knock it if you haven't tried it! I'm sure you will not be disappointed.