10 Things you need to know about luxury river cruising

Just like hotels, there are many different styles of river cruising, from 3-star up to 5-star, but what makes a river cruise luxury? Here are 10 things you need to know about luxury river cruises. 

When you book a luxury river cruise you will be collected from your home by a white-gloved and suited chauffeur, and whisked away to the airport.

Imagine not having the hassle of airport parking, getting the transfer bus and forgetting where you parked. Let your chauffeur drop you off at the front of the terminal and collect you on your return.

After you have checked in, relax in the peace and tranquillity of a VIP airport lounge making full use of the complimentary Wi-Fi, food, snacks, newspapers, magazine and comfy seats.

It's a world away from the hustle and bustle of the overcrowded terminal.

Take comfort in the knowledge that you will be flying on a scheduled airline, rather than a low-cost carrier that could land miles from the town or where the ship is docked.

With a luxury river cruise, you will be met at the airport and escorted to your transfer bus for the trip to your river. No taxis or public buses required.

Today’s modern luxury river ships have really pushed the boat out when it comes to cabins.

No longer does your bed pull down from the wall with the only light coming from a dingy porthole. Now you can enjoy the majestic views from a teak balcony, make full use of your butler, flip a switch for a TV to descend from the ceiling and get a perfect night’s sleep on a sumptuous bed fitted with Egyptian cotton bed linens. 

All your tours are included on your luxury river cruise, so you don’t have to fork out for any once on board.

Plus you will not be herded in large groups—tours tend to be smaller and more personal.

Many luxury river cruises now include a choice of tours and private invites to stately homes and castles—not available to anyone else.

Enjoy a private opera recital in Vienna or an exclusive cocktail reception at a German Castle.

Only the finest ingredients are used in creating delicious culinary offerings on your luxury river cruise, served by well-spoken charming waiters.

Your table is set with fresh tablecloths, crystal glasses and fine china to enhance each and every meal.

Why dine in the main dining room, when you can choose a more exclusive alternative?

Indulge in a feast at the chef's table or a specially prepared epicurean treat where each course is paired with a wine from the region you are sailing in.

All beverages are included in your luxury river cruise, so you do not have to pay for drinks once onboard. Enjoy a G&T on the deck at sunset or a pre-dinner cocktail—it’s all included.

No-one likes the awkwardness of tipping at the end of a holiday, so on a luxury river cruise all your gratuities will be included, taking away the uncertainty and leaving you happy in the knowledge that the crew and staff have been rewarded appropriately.

Visit our travel partner’s website for more information on The Luxury Cruise Company, or call 020 7664 2274