The Flexibility of Excursions on River Cruises

A common question we receive at Global River Cruising is about the nature of excursions during our river cruise journeys. Many travellers wonder if they are required to participate in all the excursions offered. The simple answer is no. Your river cruise is your personal holiday, and you have the freedom to engage in as many or as few activities as you wish.

Watch this video in which I talk in more detail about choosing the activities that suit your holiday the most or keep on reading.

Your Holiday, Your Choice:

The essence of a river cruise is the flexibility it offers. While there are numerous excursions available for those who wish to explore, you are never obligated to join. You’ve paid for your holiday, and how you spend each day is entirely up to you.

Exceptions to the Rule:

There are a few specific itineraries, such as the Venice Lagoon tour, where leaving the ship is necessary due to licensing or operational requirements. In rare cases, like extremely low water levels, passengers may need to disembark temporarily for safety and logistical reasons. However, these instances are the exception rather than the rule.

Exploring Independently:

Many of our river cruise ships are equipped with bicycles, allowing you the freedom to explore on your own, with a partner, or in a small group. Whether you’re embarking on an impromptu adventure or following a mapped route, the choice is yours.

Included or Optional:

While most of our cruises include excursions in the package, some offer them as optional add-ons. This gives you the flexibility to decide whether you want to participate in organized tours or explore independently. Remember, there’s no pressure to decide immediately – take your time to settle in and see what interests you.

Beyond the Organised Tours:

River cruises can be busy with activities, but we recommend not feeling rushed to book additional experiences right away. There’s usually plenty to do and see. For example, in Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, you might opt to skip the onboard dinner and instead indulge in a food tour around the city, savouring local delicacies.

Enjoying the Ship and Scenery:

Some of our guests find joy simply staying aboard, relaxing, and enjoying the passing scenery. The beauty of a river cruise is that you can have a fulfilling experience whether you’re exploring ashore or soaking in the luxury and service onboard.

Conclusion:

At Global River Cruising, we believe your holiday should be exactly as you want it. Whether that means joining every excursion, creating your own adventures, or enjoying the tranquillity of the river from the ship, the choice is always yours.

Our cruises are designed to cater to your preferences, ensuring a journey that’s as active or relaxed as you desire.

If you’d like to discuss your ideal river cruise with us or would like us to answer any of your questions related to river cruising, please call (0800 471 4754) or send us an email.