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Busting Myths About River Cruises

Show what you know in this quick round of “True or False”


A couple is standing by a flowing river, with two bikes nearby.
PHOTO CREDIT: Avalon Waterways

Thinking of setting sail on your dream cruise? Do huge, crowded ships and tourist-packed destinations instantly come to mind? Luckily, there’s a different kind of cruise that may be just what you’re looking for – the river cruise.

River cruises have long been sought-after by in-the-know travelers, but many misconceptions still exist regarding this popular vacation option. Put your know-how to the test with our quiz on the ins and outs of river cruising.

Question 1 of 5

You can take river cruises all over the world, not just in Europe.

While Europe’s legendary rivers – the Rhine, Danube, Douro, Rhône, and Seine – are well-known cruise favorites, river cruising extends beyond Europe’s waterways. The best river cruise operators also offer voyages flowing down Asia’s Mekong River, Africa’s Nile River, and South America’s Amazon River. River cruising, done the right way, is an adventure beyond borders.

Question 2 of 5

River cruises are just for sedentary folks who like to sit and watch the scenery all day.

River cruises transcend the “floating hotels” moniker to become immersive journeys. Kayak through canyons, meander through medieval villages, roam castle ruins, and taste local delicacies at bustling markets. Not your speed? Stroll with a local guide, explore on your own, or simply soak in the views from your panoramic windows. Wherever you sail, you can be as active as you choose.

Question 3 of 5

Being on a small ship will feel cramped.

Skip squeezing into a tiny stateroom. Instead, stretch out in a riverfront retreat, where the bed faces the view and the windows fling open wide. Many ships also have open-air decks, lounges, and dining spaces with room to roam. If spacious cabins are a priority, Avalon’s Suite Ships® feature Open-Air Balconies and Panoramic Suites that are 30% larger than the industry standard.

Question 4 of 5

The quality of the cuisine is a major highlight of river cruises.

Top-tier river cruises curate regional, destination-inspired menus, crafted with care by expert chefs. Whether nibbling French pastries on the Seine or snacking on schnitzel on the Danube, expect elevated, world-class cuisine. Plus, you have the freedom to dine on your own schedule. Avalon, for example, offers popular FlexDining options, so travelers can enjoy their meals whenever and wherever they like.

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Question 5 of 5

You can extend your river cruise with pre- and post-cruise stays in port cities.

Many cruise lines will work with travelers to extend their journey on land before or after their cruise. That way, guests can make the most of every journey to these bucket-list destinations, both on and off the river. With Avalon YourWay®, guests can extend their trips with ease while Avalon manages transfers, transportation, hotel accommodations, and more.

You have unanswered questions. Please go back and complete those questions to finish the quiz.

A European river cruise is the trip of a lifetime – and when you want an elevated experience, choose Avalon Waterways. You deserve the best vacation aboard a modern, luxurious ship in an Avalon Panorama SuiteSM with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows and an open-air balcony. Avalon has perfected the art of the river cruise, bringing comfortable elegance to the legendary waterways of Europe.

Click here to plan your Avalon Waterways luxury adventure

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