When you think of river cruises, you might not immediately associate them with budget travel. This is because many river cruise lines offer an all-inclusive experience, with luxurious amenities and extras that come at a price. However, there are some lines that offer more affordable options by providing a more flexible approach to amenities and services.
Some river cruise lines may charge less for their itineraries by offering à la carte services, such as shore excursions, or by using older ships that don’t have all the bells and whistles. Others may be part of a larger cruise line that offers budget-friendly options on older vessels.
Keep in mind that prices tend to be higher during peak season, which runs from June to August. However, if you’re flexible with your travel dates, you may be able to find better deals during the shoulder season. Additionally, some cruise lines may waive or reduce the single supplement fee during this time.
A-Rosa River Cruises
Discover the charm of European river cruising with A-Rosa, a German-based line that’s recently opened its doors to American passengers. Their fleet of ships, recognisable by their bold red lips on the hull, sail along iconic rivers like the Rhine, Danube, Main, Moselle, Rhone, Saone, and Seine.
CroisiEurope
Since 1954, CroisiEurope has been charting new territory in the world of river cruising. With a focus on the lesser-known waterways of Europe, CroisiEurope takes you off the beaten path to explore the Sava, Tizsa, Guadalquivir, Neckar, and French and German canals. If you’re looking for a taste of river cruising but don’t have a lot of time to spare, CroisiEurope also offers shorter four- and five-day Rhine cruises that can be seamlessly integrated into your larger European adventure.
Emerald Waterways
Emerald Waterways is the stylish and sophisticated sister brand of Scenic, renowned for its luxury river cruising experiences. With a focus on delivering exceptional quality at an affordable price, Emerald Waterways offers a range of sailings on Europe’s most iconic rivers, including the Rhine, Danube, Rhone, Main, Douro, and Mekong. On board, guests can indulge in fine dining, relax in spacious staterooms, and enjoy personalized service. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or a luxurious adventure, Emerald Waterways provides the perfect blend of style, comfort, and value.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance will cover you for unexpected events such as trip cancellations or interruptions, medical evacuations or emergency medical expenses, lost or damaged luggage and personal effects, and trip delays or changes due to weather or other external factors. Additionally, some policies offer benefits specific to river cruises, including coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, cancel-for-any-reason coverage, and cruise-specific coverage. By investing in travel insurance, you’ll be able to enjoy your trip with confidence, knowing that you’re protected against unexpected setbacks.
If you have a pre-existing medical condition, please click here for medical insurance.