Apr 21, 2018
European river cruising has grown in popularity and the choices can be overwhelming. So where do you start? This guide will help you navigate the choices for your dream holiday.
1. Exceptional Experiences
Avoid old cruise ships with dated facilities. Evergreen’s award-winning Emerald Star-Ships are sleek, bright, spacious and modern with the innovative features that make your floating hotel home away from home. Creature comforts include a heated indoor pool, cinema, delicious dining and spacious suites and staterooms with power showers and fluffy bathrobes, plus free Wi-Fi and bottled water too. Onshore, discover unique local experiences or simply explore on your own. For active travellers, hikes to castles, bike rides, yoga and even canoeing are included depending on your cruise! Many opt for the classic Amsterdam to Budapest route, but the romantic Southern France, Portugal, or the rugged lower Danube and Eastern Europe, and Russia are also available.
2. Exceptional Value
Value can be subjective, but at its most basic, it’s getting more than what you paid for, without the surprises of hidden extras that some companies may charge. With Evergreen’s exceptional value river cruises all onboard meals are included, complimentary wine and beer is served with lunch and dinner, and you’ll enjoy daily onshore excursions. Tips and gratuities are included, too, as are airport transfers, taxes and much more.
3. Exceptional Price
Unlike ocean cruises and hotels, Earlybird offers make the launch of a new brochure the best time to book a river cruise on Evergreen’s award-winning Emerald Star-Ships. Enjoy your choice of cabins and sailings. Ask about early payment discounts if you pay in full sooner. Make sure you check any fly free deals to ensure they offer good value! Shop around to save on flights, or cash in your frequent flyer points and save even more when booking with your preferred airline.
4. Exceptional Quality & Service
It can be hard to define ‘quality’ but you know it when you see it, or rather, you know when you don’t see it. For holidays, it’s about reliability and trust that comes with an experienced company, well-planned itineraries and the support of exceptionally friendly and knowledgeable staff and crew. Evergreen and Emerald Waterways have been taking guests cruising and touring around the world for over 40 years with an average guest satisfaction rating of over 93%.
5. Exceptional Freedom to Explore on Your Own
First time river cruisers with other companies often feel they need to squeeze in as much into each day as possible, considering they have paid for extra tours. After 14 nights, it can be exhausting! With Evergreen and Emerald Waterways, you’ll enjoy the included must-see sights and experiences you’ve been dreaming about, plus you’ll have free time to just relax. Wander the streets to find that little gem of a souvenir, people-watch over a coffee, or soak up the sun while you finish that book. This time is yours and you choose how to spend it.
