River cruises in Europe, Southeast Asia, Russia, China and the Nile River are fast becoming one of the most popular and affordable experiential vacation options for Baby Boomers and Pre-Boomers alike. Selecting the right river cruise line is the most critical part of your decision-making process.
Finding the cruise line that best suits your personal needs, wants and lifestyle will ensure the “perfect fit” and a river cruise experience that will provide wonderful memories for a lifetime. Pick the wrong cruise line and it’s like a bad pair of shoes, you paid for them but they never feel quite right.
For many, the idea of an exciting and affordable river cruise is something to embrace and look forward to. While fun and excitement are on the horizon, the question of how to select the right cruise line may be your most daunting challenge.
The challenge for a first time buyer is created due to a number of reasons including:
• Each and every river cruise line feels their product is the best and has universal appeal.
• Each line naturally paints a somewhat skewed picture of your product offerings.
• While most river cruise lines appear similar, there are important and subtle differences between them.
• Is it not known if the cruise line owns its ships or just charters them along with the crew?
• Pricing, special offers, and logistics can be very confusing for first-time travelers.
• The nature and quality of “included” shore excursions can vary dramatically between cruise lines.
The good news is that, for the most part, almost all of the lines that sell their products here in the United States are excellent, but there are subtle and significant differences between each one, and if you’re not very knowledgeable, it’s the subtle differences that that can make the difference between a great vacation and a truly memorable experience.
It really comes down to choosing the option that works best for you and your fellow travelers. For example, why do you think your parents probably bought a Ford, a Chevy, or an Oldsmobile, and why are you most likely not? Why do some vacationers choose to stay at a Holiday Inn or Marriott, while others prefer luxury hotels like the Ritz Carlton or the Four Seasons, which focus more on one’s comforts?
Most likely, you’ll answer: “it’s just what they liked” or “fits their lifestyle and/or budget”, right? You are spot on! That’s exactly why new or less experienced river cruise travelers should use the services of a professional travel agent to help them navigate through their selection process.
Here are some ideas to get you started on discovering the perfect cruise line for your vacation.
• Your first decision can be the most fun, where do you want to go?
• So when do you want to travel? Remember, many of these cruises operate from March through December.
• Spend some time on cruise line websites, as many are a good starting point for gathering ship and itinerary information.
• Don’t be fooled into thinking you’ll get a better deal by buying directly from the cruise line – you won’t!
• Purchase your river cruise from an experienced river cruise specialist who has the knowledge to ensure you are properly matched to the right product to meet your personal needs, wants, desires… and budget.
Before you buy, think about why you have selected a particular destination and/or cruise line. Don’t cut corners and shop solely on price, as your long-awaited vacation is NOT the place to go for “cheap.” Holidays are special moments; they should create memories and special moments, not nightmares created by the wrong product choice for you and your fellow travelers.