European river cruising offers something for all types of travellers. From wine lovers to history buffs to hiking fans, any personal interest can be met with a customized, themed itinerary. Travel in your own personal style while also meeting like-minded cruisers.
For Flower Fanatics: Tulip Cruises
Each spring, Belgium and the Netherlands erupt in a sea of color as the tulips come into bloom. From the seven million flowers at the Keukenhof Gardens to the one million bulbs at Floralia Brussels to the vast swaths of blooms in the Dutch countryside, tulips can be found in abundance. A tulip season cruise is a treat for the senses whether you’re a gardener, flower-lover, or simply enjoy a riot of color.
For Market Mavens: Christmas Market Cruises
Europe is known for its enchanting Christmas markets. During the darkest month of the year, there’s nothing brighter than sipping a warm cup of mulled wine while you wander through a market of wooden stalls where vendors sell beautiful locally-made arts and crafts. Exploring the markets on a cruise lets you experience a variety of seasonal foods and crafts as you move from port to port—because one Christmas market is never enough.
For Savvy Sippers: Wine Cruises
Whether you’re a wine expert or simply enjoy a great glass of rosé, you’ll get to taste your heart out while on board a wine cruise. Learn about sweet Sauternes in Bordeaux, Port in the Douro Valley or Riesling along the Rhine while sailing past picturesque vineyards and chateaux. Your onboard experience will feature wines local to the region and a ship’s sommelier to continue your wine education while at sail.
For Perfect Putters: Golf Cruises
Several cruise lines now offer opportunities to golf at various ports along European river cruise journeys. Playing some of Europe’s top courses will give you plenty to talk about over dinner as you compare techniques and scores with your new friends.
For Get-Up-and-Goers: Active Cruises
For those who prefer a more active approach to river cruising, several lines now offer active cruising options with hiking, biking, running and canoeing excursions (plus more). It’s a prime way to get up close and personal to your port cities while also working up a sweat.
For Lovers of Learning: Lecture Series, Jewish History, or Art Cruises
No matter what subject area interests you, there’s a river cruise available to explore it in depth. Through onboard lecture series or art lessons, you can immerse yourself in the timeless knowledge of your European ports of call. On a Jewish History cruise, you’ll discover thriving Jewish communities across Europe while gaining a deeper understanding of the horrors of the past at holocaust and World War II memorial sites.
Article Written By Christina Newberry
