5 Advantages Of A TUI River Cruise Over Ocean Cruises

This is a sponsored post for TUI River Cruises.

When it comes to cruising, ocean voyages often get the most attention.

However, river cruises – especially with TUI – offer a completely different experience, with several advantages that ocean cruisers might not have considered.

If you’re weighing up the pros and cons of both, here are five reasons why a TUI River Cruise could be the perfect choice for your next holiday.

1. You’re always close to the action

One of the standout features of a river cruise is that the scenery is always changing, and you’re never too far from the sights.

Unlike ocean cruises, where you might spend days at sea, river cruises offer non-stop views of picturesque towns, stunning countryside, and historic landmarks as you sail.

Every morning, you’ll likely wake up in a new, exciting destination that’s just a short stroll from the ship. Whether it’s a vineyard in the heart of Germany or a bustling market in Amsterdam, you’re always close to the action.

On a TUI River Cruise, the itineraries are designed to maximize your time at each port. Docking locations are often right in the heart of the city, so you can walk straight off the ship and start exploring – no lengthy transfers or tender boats required!

2. A more intimate and relaxed atmosphere

TUI River Cruises offer a much more intimate experience than ocean cruises.

River ships are smaller, typically accommodating around 150 guests compared to the thousands you might find on an ocean liner.

This means you get a quieter, more peaceful onboard atmosphere. There’s no jostling for space at the pool or having to rush to grab a good seat for dinner.

The smaller size also means that the service is more personal. The crew get to know you by name, and the dining experience feels more like a boutique restaurant than a giant banquet hall.

If you’re looking for a relaxing holiday where you can truly unwind, a river cruise is ideal.

3. Destinations are the main event

With a river cruise, the destinations are the star of the show. While ocean cruises might prioritize the onboard experience – with water slides, casinos, and Broadway-style entertainment – a river cruise is all about the places you visit.

TUI offers itineraries that stop at historic cities, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and quaint villages that are often inaccessible to larger ocean liners.

Because river ships can dock in the heart of these destinations, you spend more time immersed in the local culture.

Excursions are often smaller and more focused, giving you the chance to dive deeper into the history and charm of each place.

Whether you’re enjoying a wine tasting in a vineyard or touring a centuries-old cathedral, river cruising offers a more enriching, cultural experience.

To be clear – this doesn’t mean the ships themselves are bereft of entertainment – you can still take a dip in a hot tub, or enjoy fantastic live performances in the evening. It’s just less of a focus because you spend so much time ashore.

4. Smooth sailing – no seasickness!

For those who love the idea of cruising but are prone to seasickness, a river cruise offers a great solution.

On a TUI River Cruise, you’ll experience calm waters, as rivers are much smoother than the open ocean. The gentle pace means there’s very little movement, making it perfect for anyone who might feel uneasy on larger ships.

This also means you’re guaranteed a great night’s sleep – good to know!

It’s a far cry from the unpredictable swells of ocean cruising, giving you a smoother, more comfortable journey.

5. All-inclusive value

One of the great things about a TUI River Cruise is the value for money. While ocean cruises often involve a range of additional costs – whether it’s for drinks, tips, or WiFi – a river cruise fare includes far more from the outset.

On a TUI River Cruise, your flights, transfers, tips, meals, and drinks with meals are all part of the package, and there’s free WiFi across the ship.

There’s even the option to upgrade to an All-Inclusive Drinks package, which means you can enjoy branded drinks and premium extras throughout your cruise without the worry of surprise expenses at the end of your trip.

This makes budgeting for your holiday easier and ensures a stress-free experience.

Final word

If you’re looking for a holiday that’s all about exploring beautiful cities, soaking in the culture, and relaxing in a more intimate setting, a TUI River Cruise has plenty of advantages over traditional ocean cruises.

With stunning destinations, calm waters, and everything included in the price, it’s a fantastic way to experience Europe’s most iconic rivers.

If you’ve always planned ocean cruises for your holidays in the past, you owe it to yourself to at least consider a river cruise for your next getaway – it’s something different, and yet with the same sense of adventure and fun too. And TUI’s river cruise sailings are an excellent option, since you’re so well looked after throughout the entire experience!

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