Uniquely River

ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT RIVER CRUISING

First time river cruisers are often surprised — and delighted — by the unique experience that is a European river cruise, and by all the ways in which river cruising is so entirely different than traditional ocean cruising. While the all-inclusive luxury and genuine hospitality for which Crystal is known remains the same across all of our Experiences — Ocean, River, Yacht and Expedition — a Crystal river voyage, by its very nature, brings travelers intimately close to the rare riverscapes and landscapes of the Rhine Main, Danube and Moselle rivers: so close you can almost reach out and touch the trees, castles and charming city centers passing by right outside your window.

DOCKS AND GANGWAYS

After journeying through some of Europe’s most scenic interior waterways your Crystal River ship will arrive at docks that are typically located in the heart of the city or town. As such, the docks are open and uncovered, yet conveniently close to restaurants, shopping and public transportation.

Depending on water levels, the gangway may be positioned at a much greater angle than on an ocean ship, which adds to the adventurous nature of a river cruise itself.

ITINERARY CHANGES

Unpredictable weather events, river currents and lock traffic can sometimes necessitate a change in the timing or order of the ports of a published itinerary. Thankfully we have numerous contingency plans prepared so that you are always cruising and enjoying your river cruise vacation as much as possible.

“RAFTING”

Rafting is another unique aspect, and age-old practice, of river cruising where multiple ships “park” alongside one another. In order to reach land, guests must walk across — or through — other ships. The rafting of ships positions them so closely together you might even be able to reach out a window and literally touch the ship alongside your own. LOCKS

One of the most fascinating parts of a European river cruise is the transiting of locks along certain stretches of the rivers. In order to move from one level of the river to the next, river ships transit one or more locks. This process often involves the ships queuing up to be guided into and secured within the lock, and then either raised or lowered as river water floods or partially drains out of the enclosure. The busy atmosphere of a lock transit is often livelier than most guests expect and creates some great photo moments of your journey.

ENTERTAINMENT

The relaxed and friendly environment of a Crystal river ship — which is smaller than one of our ocean vessels — provides the perfect setting for intimate musical performances. We regularly host trios, jazz artists and instrumentalists in Palm Court, the social hub of each ship. Local talent often comes aboard to entertain with regional favorites and engaging, cabaret-like performances.

ACCESSIBILITY

Dedicated to providing a comfortable and safe environment for all of our guests, Crystal River Cruises makes every effort to accommodate the needs of persons with disabilities. Guests with reduced mobility often have difficulty with narrow gangways, uneven surfaces, and limited port access.

rivers of TIME & ROMANCE

Flowing through the very heart of landscapes both inspiring and enchanting are the grand European waterways that have carried kings, defined borders and nourished lush vineyards and hillsides for centuries. Along the shores of the Rhine, Main and Danube, as well as Moselle rivers, royal fortresses of centuries past mingle effortlessly with modern symbols of prosperity. Encompassed by these waters are thousands of years of history, hundreds of impossibly charming hamlets and vibrant cities, and dozens of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, all beckoning you to come and explore their stories.