Discover a New Way to Cruise: Why Your Next Vacation Should Be a River Cruise

Posted on by Kenneth Reece, Agent of Modern Travel Professionals

If you’ve enjoyed the thrill of ocean cruising, I have an exciting suggestion for your next adventure—river cruising! Imagine waking up to stunning landscapes, charming villages, and historic cities right outside your window, with the added benefit of a more intimate and immersive experience. Here are just a few reasons why a river cruise could be the perfect choice for your next vacation:

1. Unmatched Scenery

On a river cruise, the scenery is constantly changing. From your cabin or the deck, you’ll glide past medieval castles, lush vineyards, and picturesque towns. The landscapes are ever-present, offering something new and breathtaking every day.

2. Convenient Access to Destinations

Unlike ocean cruises, where ports can be far from the city center, river cruises dock right in the heart of your destination. You’ll step off the ship directly into the action—whether it’s exploring the charming streets of Vienna, tasting wines in Bordeaux, or discovering the history of the Rhine Gorge.

3. A More Intimate Experience

River cruises are known for their smaller ships, typically hosting fewer than 200 guests. This creates a more intimate atmosphere where you can enjoy personalized service and easily make connections with fellow travelers. It’s a wonderful way to experience a close-knit, community-like feel while exploring new places. (SOLO TRAVELERS TAKE NOTE!!)

4. All-Inclusive Value

One of the greatest perks of river cruising is the all-inclusive nature of the experience. Many river cruises include excursions, meals, and even drinks in the upfront cost. You’ll find yourself stress-free, knowing that nearly everything is taken care of, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey.  On my last river cruise, they didn’t even have my credit card on file!  What a refreshing difference!

5. Cultural Immersion

River cruises are designed to immerse you in the culture of the regions you’re visiting. With guided tours, local experiences, and opportunities to explore off the beaten path, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the history and traditions of each destination.

6. Holiday Cruises

Cruising during the Christmas season offers a magical experience, with festive decorations, special holiday events, and the opportunity to explore enchanting destinations all aglow with holiday cheer. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the season while enjoying the luxury and relaxation of a European river cruise.

7. Smooth and Relaxed Sailing

For those who might be concerned about seasickness, river cruising offers a smooth ride with little to no motion. The pace is relaxed, with no sea days—just leisurely exploration every day.

8. Unique Itineraries

River cruises offer itineraries that take you to some of the most scenic and culturally rich parts of the world. Whether you’re dreaming of exploring Europe’s grand rivers, cruising through the heart of Southeast Asia, or discovering the charm of America’s waterways, there’s a river cruise that’s perfect for you.

If you’re intrigued by the idea of river cruising, I’d love to help you find the perfect itinerary for your next vacation. How about a cruise down the Danube River that ends with dinner in the castle that inspired the story of Dracula, or a cruise in the Netherlands during Tulip season?  With my firsthand experience and deep knowledge of the best river cruise lines and destinations, I can tailor a journey that matches your travel style and preferences. Whether you’re new to river cruising or already a fan, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.

Let’s chat about how a river cruise can provide you with an unforgettable travel experience. As your trusted travel advisor, I’ll handle all the details, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free booking process, so you can relax and look forward to your next adventure.

On my recent Rhine River cruise, I had an absolute blast, and can’t wait to return to cruising the world’s rivers. Here’s what I’ve got planned for my Fiftieth cruise.



Also, if you’re a bit curios as to some of the destinations you can visit while cruising the rivers, Check out my Viking website here!

Do you have any questions, or would like to find an itinerary that works for you? Reach out, and let’s discuss your options!

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Published by Kenneth Reece, Agent of Modern Travel Professionals

Hi, I’m Kenneth Reece — and I help make unforgettable vacations feel effortless. With 50 cruises under my belt (and more in the works!), I specialize in bucket-list travel experiences for grown-up travelers who want something a little more meaningful, a little more personal, and a lot more fun. Whether you're cruising the blue waters of the Caribbean, exploring the stunning coastlines of Alaska, or soaking in the magic of Europe one cobblestone street at a time — I’m here to help you plan a trip you’ll always remember. Lately, river cruising has completely captured my heart. There’s just something special about waking up each morning in a new European town, with your floating boutique hotel waiting to take you to the next charming stop. I love pairing these river cruises with guided land tours for a perfect balance of sightseeing and relaxation. Princess Cruises has long been one of my favorites at sea, but I’ve sailed with many cruise lines and know how to match each client with the right one for them. I’ve also experienced the Disney magic around the world — from Disneyland and Walt Disney World to Tokyo and Paris — and I bring that same sense of wonder and thoughtful planning into everything I do. Whether you're celebrating a milestone, traveling solo, or just need help making sense of all the choices out there, I’m here to be your guide. I love helping clients as much — or as little — as they prefer. From the first conversation to the moment you return home, you’ll know someone has your back. Let’s make your next trip easy, exciting, and completely tailored to you.