Avalon Waterways, one of the newer companies on the scene, has
three ships and big plans. "We're definitely growing, not just in
ships, but also in destinations," says managing director J. Patrick
Clark Jr. "The river-cruise business is rapidly expanding to
cater to the growing demand, much like the ocean-cruise industry
has grown and improved over the last 10 to 15 years."
River cruising is meant to be a restful experience. It's about
stashing your luggage and having time and
energy to explore without
the hassle of packing and unpacking, searching for hotels, and
navigating unfamiliar roads. Some say river cruises are the new bus
tours of
Europe - only better. "Actually, river cruising is perfect
for those who would dread a traditional motor-coach tour," Clark
says.
If you've cruised this way in the past, you may be surprised at how
things have changed. Once quite spare, the ships are now loaded
with amenities such as terry bathrobes and European-style duvets;
in-room phones and satellite TV; minibars, balconies, and sliding
French doors. Many now have
Internet access, hair salons, massages,
Jacuzzis, and even small
swimming pools.
While some itineraries rely on nighttime motoring to gain more
mileage, all ships cruise for at least part of the day. "Ninety
percent of what you see will be exceptionally scenic," says Ellen
Sack of The Barge Lady Collection, a Chicago-based broker of
European canal and river cruises (
www.barge
lady.com). "Routes are planned so the most beautiful parts of each
river - such as the Rhine Gorge - are visible during the day."
In each port, you have the choice of spending the day on your own
or signing up for a variety of excursions, usually via tour coach,
and always with a guide. Some companies include shore trips in the
fee, others charge a supplement. While history, architecture, and
local culture figure prominently in all itineraries, most cruise
companies offer theme cruises as well: classical music, wine,
biking,
golf, etc.