Your European River Cruise Begins Now!

Congratulations on booking your European river cruise! This brief guide will provide an overview of what you can expect on your European river cruise. Get ready for a journey filled with captivating scenery, cultural immersion, and delicious cuisine.

 

Setting Sail Smoothly: What to Expect Onboard

• Embarkation (getting on the ship): The process is usually efficient, with dedicated staff to assist you with check-in and luggage. Be sure to have your travel documents and cruise confirmation readily available. You must be on the ship by the check-in time. Sometimes, there can be more than one ship at the same dock so please pay attention to the signage. 
  • You can also check in early (depending on how early, your stateroom might not be ready) and walk around the ship and/or head off the ship and explore the area (but be back on the ship in time!).
• Your Stateroom: Housekeeping services will regularly ensure a clean and comfortable environment throughout your cruise.
• Life Onboard: River cruises offer a relaxed and intimate atmosphere. Enjoy spacious public areas, sun decks with stunning views, lounges for socializing, and often a library or fitness center. Some may offer a pool or whirlpool (or a combination thereof). Because of the ship’s size, the amount of entertainment on board is more modest compared to that on an ocean cruise ship. You may want to bring a pair of comfortable shoes for walking around the ship. 
• Luggage: You will generally be permitted 1 piece of luggage per person. The travel documents will provide the dimensions and weight considerations. (For Avalon Waterways, it can not be more than 76cm x 53cm x 28cm and a weight not exceeding 22 kg) Please be sure to also check with your flights or other forms of transportation in case they have more restrictive requirements.
• Mobile app: Take advantage of the river cruise line’s mobile app. It shows the schedules, excursions, and many other things that can help personalize and enhance your river cruise experience. You may need internet connection for it. (Avalon’s AvalonGo app can work offline.)

 

Unveiling Europe’s Gems: Shore Excursions

• Exploring on Land: Most itineraries include guided shore excursions in each port of call. These excursions are a fantastic way to delve into the history, culture, and hidden gems of each destination. Some stops may offer additional paid excursion options to complement the included offerings. You would have received the information for all the excursion options ahead of time. Be sure to book the ones you really want early because sometimes, they can get booked up. 
• Independent Exploration: If you prefer exploring at your own pace, free time is usually factored into the itinerary. Utilize local transportation or walkable town centers to discover hidden alleys, charming cafes, or local shops. (For first-timers, the included excursions are usually a good option.)
• Getting Ready: To make the most of your shore excursions, wear comfortable walking shoes. European cities are often best explored on foot, so ensure your shoes are comfortable. And pack a small daypack to carry these essentials:
  • Sunscreen and Hat: Sun protection is important, especially during the summer months. Pack a hat and sunscreen with appropriate SPF for the time of year.
  • Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial throughout the day..
  • Camera: Capture those unforgettable memories! Consider a small camera or leverage the capabilities of your smartphone.
  • Small Handbag/Wallet: Carry your essentials like money, identification, and any necessary medications in a secure and comfortable bag. 
  • Extra Layer (Optional): Depending on the weather forecast, pack a light jacket or sweater in case of cooler temperatures or unexpected rain.
  • Local Currency (Optional): While purchases can often be made with credit cards (Visa/Mastercard are widely accepted; American Express is not always accepted so be sure to have a backup card), having some small euros can be handy for smaller expenses or tipping service providers (see tipping guide below). If you don’t have euros, USD can also work. (Switzerland’s currency is not the euro, but euros can be accepted so you don’t need to carry multiple currencies.)

 

Savoring Europe’s Flavors: Meals Onboard

• Delectable Dining: River cruises are renowned for their exceptional dining experiences. Expect delicious meals prepared with fresh, seasonal ingredients, often reflecting the regional specialties of your itinerary.
• Dining Options: Most ships offer a main dining room with open seating or pre-set meal times. (On Avalon Waterways, there is no assigned meal seating.) Some cruises might include specialty restaurants or casual cafes for a more relaxed setting.
• Dietary Needs: If you have dietary restrictions, inform the cruise line in advance. 

 

Dress for the Occasion: What to Wear

• Casual Elegance: River cruises typically maintain a relaxed and casual atmosphere. Pack comfortable clothing suitable for sightseeing and exploring towns on foot. (Plan accordingly if you need to consider pre and post-cruise days as well.)
• Layering Up: European weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers so you can easily adjust to changing temperatures.
• Evening Options: Generally, “smart casual” is a good rule of thumb for dinners. You can pack a couple of dressier outfits for occasions like the welcome and farewell dinners, although formality is usually moderate.

 

Embrace the Journey: Going with the Flow

River cruises offer a unique travel experience, and like all adventures, sometimes unexpected situations arise. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Adapting to the River’s Rhythm: Water levels can affect the itinerary. In rare cases, if water levels are too low or high, your cruise line might need to adjust the itinerary to ensure safety and navigation. They’ll strive to maintain a similar experience, offering alternative destinations or excursions.
• The Art of Lock Navigation: The intricate network of locks on some European rivers can cause occasional delays. These delays are usually short, and most passengers find observing the lock operation quite fascinating. Consider it an opportunity to relax and enjoy the scenery from a different perspective. 
• Mooring Up Together: Due to limited space at some ports at night, your river cruise might be moored alongside another vessel. 

 

Other Handy Tips for a Smooth Voyage

• Local Currency: While onboard expenses are usually charged to your account (which can be paid for at the end by USD, euros, or major credit cards), having some local currency (euro is fine) is handy for purchases ashore or tipping suppliers.
• Staying Connected: WIFI is available on river cruises but can sometimes be weak depending on the area you are sailing through. Try to download your favorite shows/books ahead of time. (On Avalon ships, you will receive a PIN number for the wifi at check-in. However, you may want to consider an eSIM or physical SIM card for staying connected, especially during shore excursions or during pre and post cruise stays.)
• Tipping: Gratuities are included if you prepaid for gratuities ((tipping for staff and crew members). However, they do not cover tipping for shore excursions. Here are some tipping guidelines:
  • There is not much of a tipping custom in Europe (more like “round it up” if you feel like it)
  • Baggage porter: €1-2/bag
  • Shore excursions: €1/person to driver; €2/person to local tour guide
• Power Adapters: You will find 220v European 2-prong outlets on these river cruises, so be sure to bring power adapters. Staterooms now generally also have USB outlets as well. If you must bring a converter, be sure it is an EU-certified one.
• Onboard Activities: Take advantage of the various onboard activities offered by the cruise line, such as lectures, cultural presentations, cooking demonstrations, or entertainment shows.

 

With this guide in hand, you’re well on your way to experiencing an unforgettable European river cruise.  Relax, explore, and savor the magic of Europe’s enchanting waterways!