Why opt for a river cruise and which river should you choose?

Photo credit: American Queen Steamboat Company

A river cruise represents one of the best ways to see part of a country. You get to unpack just once, and your hotel is afloat, so it moves from place to place as you do. Of course, this applies to ocean cruising too. But, there are several differences between the two types of cruise.

It’s these differences that have helped river cruising to grow in popularity in recent years. Let’s take a look at why river cruising can be such a good choice.

Why choose river cruising as opposed to cruising the ocean?

One of the big advantages of cruising with a provider such as the American Queen Steamboat Company  is  that you can often be transported right into the middle of some of the most beautiful and vibrant cities around. Do not forget that boats were often the main method of transportation, before the introduction of trains, planes and buses. This is why it’s so easy to travel by boat, along rivers, into the heart of towns and cities. There are none of the transportation issues that often exist, in order to get from a large ocean cruise liner to some of its destinations.

Cruising along a river also gives you the opportunity to admire scenery such as the Catskill Mountains, along the Hudson, or the vineyards that emblazon the banks of the Columbia. These rivers are majestic in their power and grace, and there is always something to entertain the eyes and ears, as opposed to ocean cruising where you can often be met by the sight of expanses of water, rather than anything more interesting.

Generally, river cruising is also a calmer affair than ocean cruising. If you do not like the idea of experiencing sea sickness when you travel, this is a major advantage.

Which river should you choose?

We have already mentioned two of the most incredible rivers in North America; the Hudson and the Columbia.

The Columbia River is 1,243 miles in length, and is one of the most popular choices for travelers, who want to wend their way from the Rocky Mountains to the Pacific Ocean. Choosing the Columbia river, and its tributary the Snake River, means that you can enjoy gazing at vast expanses of unspoilt country, while getting to know wildlife, such as the sharp-shinned hawk.

You can also enjoy the beauty of nature, if you choose to cruise along the Hudson River, especially if you complete the journey when the trees are in their true fall colors. The added advantage you have by opting to explore the Hudson, is that you can enjoy a stop in New York city as part of your journey. Whether you take a look across the skyline from the top of the Empire State Building, or enjoy a romantic carriage ride around Central Park, it’s a city full of wonder.

Undoubtedly, one of the most popular choices for river cruising is the Mississippi. On a lower Mississippi cruise you can experience the night life of New Orleans, while St Louis is one of the historic stops on many upper Mississippi cruises. Do not forget that the area is also famous for its many American Civil War sites, where you can imagine history unfolding before your eyes.

Any of these rivers represent an excellent opportunity to take to the water, and enjoy the relaxation and beauty of a river cruise.