It would appear the modern day European traveller has grown weary of the vast cruise ships of yesteryear and is instead embracing the exuberant luxury of Europe?s boutique river boats. In the latest issue of Business Destinations, journalist Nash Riggins delves into the many and various reasons behind this phenomenon and considers the multi-faceted allure of river cruises.
Riggins looks at the reasons behind the ocean liner?s emerging reputation as an attraction-laden journey of distraction, too often providing little incentive or opportunity for cultural exploration. ?I like to say ocean cruising is a drinking man?s cruise. River cruising is a thinking man?s cruise,? says Torstein Hagen, the founder and chairman of Viking River Cruises. ?With river cruises, a destination is the destination.?
Far from its congested counterpart, river cruises often accommodate no more than 150 guests – as opposed to the ocean liner average of 2,300 – and boast the added option of exploring Europe?s greatest waterways. ?Over the last five years, Europe?s meandering waterways have evolved into luxury routes,? writes Riggins. ?While cruising along the mighty Danube or the majestic Seine, travellers in superior vessels are given the unique opportunity to revel in the fresh air of remote valleys – only moments later ducking under the mighty bridges of Paris or Prague.?
The Business Destinations article is available in print and online now and is essential reading for those seeking an unrivalled experience of Europe?s finest waterways.
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