Why You Need To Book Your River Cruise Early

River Cruising is one of the hottest and fastest growing trends in the travel industry.  After having cruised Europe’s coastal ports many ocean cruisers are looking inland; smaller ports, less traveled authentic experiences and boutique comfort are drawing people to Europe’s great rivers.  While European river cruises (the Rhine and Danube in particular) remain the most popular, exceptional cruises are available throughout Asia, Africa and even the Mighty Mississippi.

“It’s a slower, more relaxed and intimate experience,” says Susan Bluhm, Co-President at Stellar Travel.  With less than 200 passengers, river ships provide a heightened dose of both culture and comfort.  You’ll never encounter “open sea” views; expect small towns, villages and vistas of beautiful countryside. River cruising tends to be port intensive, with one and up to two ports almost every day.   Complimentary shore excursions are typically included in your cruise price; join the group, set out on a walk through the local  village or borrow one of the ship’s bicycles usually available to passengers while in port.

All the river cruise lines are expanding quickly with most launching new ships every year, yet supply hasn’t met with demand.  We’re finding the most popular cruises are sold out, sometimes a year in advance.  Your cruise experts at Stellar Travel recommend booking your cruise early to ensure availability and your preferred stateroom

The advisors at Stellar Travel have chosen three of their favorite and most popular river cruise lines.