There are now hundreds of river cruise ships sailing around the world. Whether you’re looking to explore inland destinations through Europe, Asia, Africa and America, there is now so much on offer when it comes to activities. To celebrate the rivers of the world, we’re breaking down the myths of river cruising.

1. River cruises are all the same

Most river cruisers have traversed the iconic Amsterdam to Basel route, which is offered on lines like Avalon Waterways, APT, Travelmarvel and Scenic, but there are many more destinations which these lines offer. Travel along the Mekong River and you’ll visit the ancient site of Angkor Wat with its beautiful temples with Pandaw. Or you can cruise the Chobe River and see elephants, lions, hippos and more. There are also specialised cruises through Europe like wine voyages, opera, golf and even visits to World War I and II sites in northern France.

Angkor Wat
Travel along the Mekong River and you’ll visit the ancient site of Angkor Wat.

2. River cruising is not for the active

The activities off river cruises don’t only cater for the more relaxed cruiser, but also to the more adventurous and active cruiser, explozding our first myth. Avalon Waterways has a specific program, dedicated for those who want to do some intense hiking and bike riding. Tauck also offers its guests guided rides along the Seine in Paris as well as the gardens at Versailles. Uniworld has a Well-Being on the Water initiative which not only includes lighter meals but also classes like yoga onboard the ships.

Bike riding on the Danube
A young couple ride bikes along the Danube.

3. River cruising is expensive

While many river cruises average between $200 to $500 a night, there are some lines which are more affordable. The British river cruise company Riviera Travel offer seven-night cruises from as little as $2,000. But remember, even if you’re river cruise is still towards the pointy end of the price range, it covers your transport, shore excursions, meals as well as accommodation and use of facilities. And especially in Europe, all of these things on land can add up in price.

4. I’ll be bored

While river cruise ships might not offer the same number of activities as facilities onboard ocean ships, there is plenty to do. Aside from relaxing on the ship, getting a massage or relaxing on the top deck, river cruising is all about immersion. You can do as little or as much as you like. The beauty about river cruising is that you are virtually at a new port every day and because you are close to your ship, you have plenty of time to explore.

5. There’s only the Danube in Europe

There are plenty of rivers in Europe to discover. You can cruise Portugal’s Douro River, the Volga in Russia as well as some of the more obscure rivers like the Guadalquivir in Spain or the Tisza River in Hungary. Lines like Viking River Cruises and Scenic offer these more unknown itineraries.