River Cruise Or Ocean Cruise? How To Choose The Best One For You
Here’s what to know before you book.
Choosing a cruise is about more than the destination. That's just the beginning. Once you've decided whether you want to visit sandy Caribbean beaches , dash away to historic ports, cruise past massive glaciers, or go island hopping along tropical coasts, there are still some important choices. All-inclusive options combine everything into one neat package, or you can opt for a more à la carte route. The size of the ship also matters. A large ocean cruise is like a city out at sea, complete with nightly shows, dozens of restaurants, movie theaters, water parks, spas, and more. River cruises offer a more intimate stay where guests can unwind and have convenient access to smaller ports where they can immerse themselves in local culture. Which type of cruise is right for you? Here's a closer look at the differences between ocean cruises and river cruises for a voyage that fits your travel style.
What To Know About Ocean Cruises
Size
Ocean cruises carry thousands of passengers, ranging from mid-size ships with 2,000 guests to megaships with more than 7,000 travelers. Cabin sizes start around 200 to 300 square feet and go up from there. Multi-room suites can be as large as 2,000 square feet or more. The ships' larger size allows them to cross oceans and sail on open seas to reach destinations that aren't nearby, but it also means their access to land destinations is limited to larger ports that can handle a large number of disembarking passengers.
Amenities And Entertainment
If resort-style vacations are your preference, ocean cruises have similar offerings. To accommodate thousands of cruisers, a larger ship needs a lot more restaurants, pools, and entertainment venues than a smaller river cruise. You may be able to do some shopping onboard or spend the morning at a full-sized spa or gym. Nights can be spent on the dance floor, at the casino's blackjack table, or taking in a Broadway-style show. There are enough dining options for guests to enjoy something new each night, from steak to sushi, and mealtimes are flexible so you can dine when you want to.
Ports And Excursions
Ports for large cruise ships are limited to areas that can accommodate their size. This means guests disembark outside the city center and need shuttles, taxis, or buses to reach attractions. Other ships may arrive at the same time, so areas can be crowded as thousands of passengers disembark. Many cruise excursions aren't included in the base fare of an ocean cruise, but adventures like scuba diving, zip-lining, hiking, and sightseeing are offered.
What To Know About River Cruises
Size
River cruises are a more intimate way to explore. Their smaller size allows for far fewer passengers, around 150 to 600. With fewer guests, there are also fewer lounges, pools, and restaurants. The smaller setting makes it easy to get to know other guests. Room sizes also differ. Staterooms are generally smaller than those on large ocean vessels, but they still have all the necessary comforts for travel. Cabin sizes typically begin at 150 to 200 square feet for standard rooms to suites that are 400 square feet. All rooms come with a view. The smaller size means the ships can access ports that larger ships can't. They can sail under bridges and through locks, and reach inland destinations that bring passengers directly to the center of cities and towns. No shuttles are needed to reach the action.
Amenities And Entertainment
One main lounge may offer limited nightly entertainment rather than multiple shows and activities. Amenities typically include gathering areas and activities like a swimming pool, track, lounge, library, or sun deck, and with fewer spaces to sit back, you'll get to know everyone on the ship. Buffets are set up for breakfast and lunch, and dinner is served at a set time in the main dining room . There may be a few casual alternatives, like dinner on the terrace. Because these smaller ships have direct access to ports, they feature fresh ingredients and cuisine from these locales.
Ports And Excursions
River cruises usually include daily excursions in the base price. Destinations are easy to reach, just walk off the boat and you're in the center of town. These may be guided walking or bike tours, food and wine tastings , or visits to local markets or breweries. Some excursions can be added at an extra cost, such as painting or cooking classes or behind-the-scenes access to museums and other cultural attractions. Advance registration is usually necessary since these can sell out.
How To Choose Between River And Ocean Cruises
Choosing between ocean and river cruises depends on the destination, as well as how you travel. Do you prefer a variety of entertainment and activities, or is the destination your focus? If history, cultural experiences, and convenience are important, river cruises with daily stops may be the best fit. If you're prone to seasickness, river cruises are also a bit smoother than their ocean-traveling counterparts, and most of their cruising is done at night so there's a new place to visit each day. A river cruise ship has enough to make you comfortable, but it's a means of transportation. If you prefer a variety of activities and don't mind days at sea, an ocean cruise may be the call. Time on the ship is just as exciting as time off the ship.
Still can't decide? Some cruise lines like Viking offer ocean and river cruise combinations that visit both inland and coastal destinations.
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