Why should I choose a river cruise?
A Rhone River cruise is definitely the best way to experience all that this region of France has to offer - in addition to including all of your onboard meals, lodging, and activities, the fact that your accommodations cruise the river with you means that you'll never have to pack or unpack or waste precious vacation time going from one destination to the next. Every morning you will wake up in a new place waiting to be explored.
What should I look for on a riverboat?
The Rhone River vessels are
hand-picked boats guaranteed to offer you comfort during your cruise on the Rhone River. Ample accommodations, multiple social areas, excellent dining, and a panoramic sun deck are all part of the experience. These are not the same as large sea cruising ships, but rather emphasize comfort for your stay and a focus on the local attractions of France on each day excursion.
Should I get a room with a balcony?
It all depends on what your priorities are, but they could be an unnecessary additional expense. The way that riverboats are designed, each room faces out, which means that even rooms without balconies tend to have large picture windows that allow you to see the scenic nature of the Rhone River valleys. Plus, there is ample deck space on the panoramic sun deck where you can take in the majesty of the Rhone from all sides. Unless you have your heart set on a balcony, then a great alternative is getting a room with large windows or a sliding glass door that opens right out towards the fresh air (known as a "French balcony").
What is dining like?
You'll enjoy delicious French food on your Rhone cruise. Also make sure to try the local specialties at restaurants, taverns, and diners along the way as you stop in each town.
Do river cruises ever visit destinations that aren't on the river?
The cruises that are exclusively along the Rhone River tend not to stray too far from the Rhone itself, but since the river lets out into the Mediterranean, there are options to start in Barcelona, Spain before cruising the Rhone.
Will my vessel have WiFi?
Most but not all Rhone Riverboats have WiFi. Most, especially the newer riverboats, have free WiFi access in your room, a few riverboats charge, and some have reception only on deck and not in the rooms. It's important to check with your Adventure Life representative to confirm that your riverboat of choice has WiFi onboard.
What kind of power outlets are there? Will I need a converter?
In Europe the power is 220v, not the 110v like in North America, but typically devices can handle both without the need for a converter. You will need plug adapters for either two round prongs (European style) or three flat prongs (British style).
How can I save money on a river cruise?
If you're hoping to save money on a European River cruise, then check out our
Deals & Promotions page to find the best offers each season. We can also help you track the river cruises of your choice and let you know when there are specials and deals that you might be interested in. We advise travelers to avoid saving money by booking cheaper cabins - cabins that save you a lot of money tend to sacrifice space and often the breathtaking views that make river cruises in Europe such a wonderful experience.
Are Rhone River cruises a good family vacation?
Certain Rhone River cruises are great for family vacations - look for cruises that have activities perfect for the ages of your family members. If you are traveling with kids, then the cruises with lots of easy activities are ideal. If you have adolescents, then consider an active cruise, with opportunities for biking, hiking, and faster-paced exploration. Among adults, the cultural and wine-tasting cruises are a popular option. There's a perfect Rhone River cruise for every family.
Do Americans and Canadians need a passport and visa to travel to the Douro River?
All citizens of North America traveling to and throughout Europe need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months. Due to changes in visa laws in recent years, it is not necessary to apply for a visa before traveling to Europe as long as you plan to stay less than three months. These laws are subject to change in the future. Make sure to check current travel requirements on the
U.S. Department of State website.
