22 December 2009

River cruising on a roll

River cruising is growing at nearly ten times the pace of ocean cruising. Why?
 

"The relaxed pace and easy access to city centers are just two reasons why river cruising is on a roll," says USA Today. "Even with the recession, Uniworld competitors Viking River Cruises and AMA Waterways are growing at double-digit rates this year."
 

In addition, with fewer than 200 passengers per ship, river cruising is more laid-back and intimate than most ocean cruising, without lines to embark, debark or wait for meals or crowds to overwhelm ports.
 

It can also be more sociable than ocean voyages.
 

Because river ships dock right in the center of town, cruising the inland waterways offers far easier entree to a region's heartland -- whether small medieval villages or grand historic capitals.
 

Unlike on many ocean voyages, cruisers can walk right off the ship into town -- whenever they like. No tendering ashore. No long drives to a destination.
 

Furthermore, the size and configuration of river vessels guarantees that every cabin is "outside" with a coveted river view. And calm, shallow waters prevent any motion sickness of being at sea.
 

By David Wilkening
 

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