While river cruises are considered by most as something to do after retirement, they are actually one of the best ways for multigenerational families to travel together.
Not only you get to see some incredible sites without the hassle of packing and repacking, the small size of the cruise ship makes it easy for the kids to explore easily while the adults relax.
The intimate size of the ship also means the crew get to know guest preferences quickly, thereby succeeding in creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all onboard.
Having said that, with some notable exceptions, most river cruises are adult oriented and age limitations vary widely from one cruise line to another.
However, in an effort to cater to younger passengers, more and more river cruise lines are re-examining their offerings to develop family-friendly sailings designed specifically for kids, parents and even grandparents.
If you are a first-time family cruiser, here are some things to keep in mind when booking your dream vacation on the water.
Are families welcome on a river cruise
The truth is that you will be hard-pressed to find anyone under 50 on a river cruise as it still remains an adult activity.
However, as stated above, most cruise lines have realised families want in and have adapted their itineraries accordingly.
These sailings take place mostly in the summer and at times during the Christmas Markets season.
What are the minimum age requirements to sail?
While age restrictions differ from one line to another, the general accepted age for children is between 8-10 years old before cruising.
That said, even if the ship accepts children onboard, it doesn’t necessarily mean that they may have enough beds, cribs, rollaways for extra passengers or onboard activities for them.
Because of their limited size to get through the locks, very few vessels have a dedicated space for kids and none offer babysitting during a regular sailing. Families should check for connecting rooms, sofa beds or extra berths before booking.
Therefore, before making a commitment, it is advised to check the accommodation available and the minimum age listed on the terms and conditions listed by the cruise line.
Activities differ on a family cruise
Family offerings are much more active in nature and shore excursions on most river cruises are centred around bus and walking tours.
On a river cruise families get to explore historic cities and castles and even take part in cooking classes, without repacking each night.
Family-focused itineraries involve shared activities such as biking, language lessons and local visits, rather than a separate children’s program.
A family-friendly cruise itinerary also features onboard visits from local children and teens tailored to the age of children who book.
Choosing the right river is important
For families new to river cruising, there are big differences between the rivers and the modes of transportation.
Since you are starting off with kids and elderly, forgo the decision making fatigue and simply choose a Danube river cruise, primarily because it passes through so many marquee European cities.
You get to visit Nuremberg, Passau, Linz, Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest apart from a slew of charming villages, historic castles and the iconic Christmas Markets.
Don’t go straight to the cruise port
From flights getting cancelled to luggage gone missing, too many things can go wrong. Since you have the added burden of a family in tow, it is strongly advised to arrive at least one day early.
Use this extra time to relax and see something else along the way, shake off the jet lag and acclimate to the changing time zones, if needed.
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