Cruises
From Riverboats to Ocean Liners: Traveling by Ship
Experience the joy of travel aboard your floating hotel. Cruises, whether navigating expansive oceans or meandering scenic rivers, offer overnight stays onboard, allowing you to effortlessly discover multiple destinations without unpacking more than once.
A Bit About Cruises
Cruise ships range from boutique vessels of under 50 guests to mega-ships carrying thousands. There are some destinations that are accessible only by cruising such as the Galapagos and the Dalmatian Islands. Other destinations may be easier to access with cruising such as towns along the Rhine. That said, some people love cruising and choose their destination based on the cruise options while other people avoid cruising. If you have a specific destination in mind, consider if taking a cruise for all or part of it provides a good option. Boutique and river ships foster convivial dining around a single communal table or just your own party, while larger ocean liners offer dozens of restaurants—from casual buffets to upscale specialty venues—where you can choose to mingle or dine privately.
Ocean & Sea Cruises
These voyages take you across open waters—whether the vast expanse of the Atlantic, the tropical playground of the Caribbean, or the dramatic fjords of northern Europe. Ocean ships tend to be larger, with multiple restaurants, theaters, pools, and onboard activities. You’ll usually sail for several days between ports, enjoying full-service dining (often with assigned tables shared by new friends or private tables reserved just for your party), evening shows, and a full complement of amenities—everything from spa treatments to rock-climbing walls. Click here to read our blog: What to ask before taking an ocean cruise
River Cruises
Glide along the world’s great rivers—from the Danube and Rhine in Europe to the Mekong in Southeast Asia—on vessels designed to slip beneath low bridges and dock right in the heart of historic towns. Unlike ocean cruises, river cruises stop at a new port nearly every day, allowing you to disembark for guided tours, strolls through local markets, or lunch at a cozy café onshore. Ships are smaller, more intimate, and dining often feels like a gathering of familiar faces, though you can always opt to join larger tables if you’re in the mood to meet fellow travelers. Click here to read our blog: What to ask before taking a river cruise
Half-Day, Full-Day, & Excursion Cruises
If the full onboard experience isn’t your style, consider a short cruise as a day trip. Half-day or full-day excursions on scenic waterways or coastal routes let you enjoy stunning views—perhaps a sunset sail or wildlife-spotting voyage—without committing to overnight accommodations. It’s the perfect add-on for land-based travelers who want a taste of life at sea (or on the river) without joining a multi-day cruise with strangers. Click here to read our blog: What to ask before taking a sightseeing cruise
