JWT Cruises experts share their insights on the popularity of river cruises and select some of the most stunning destinations to explore in Europe and beyond.
“River cruising is a very different experience to ocean voyages, as guests embark on smaller, intimate ships that take them to the heart of the cities,” explains Caroline O’Toole, head of Luxury and Cruises at JWT Travel. “They are becoming increasingly popular among guests both new to cruising and also avid cruisers keen to try something different.”
Popular destinations
The Rhine and Danube rivers are the most requested destinations. These are classic river cruises and guests sail regions of magnificent beauty in Europe, such as the Rhine Gorge, and visit stunning cities such as Budapest and Vienna on the Danube.
Porto and the Douro Valley in Portugal; Provence and Bordeaux in France; and Venice and the Veneto region in Italy are becoming hot new favourites.
Beyond Europe
Beyond Europe, the Nile in Egypt; the Mekong in Vietnam and the Amazon in Peru are three incredible destinations for once-in-a-lifetime river cruise experiences that can also be extended to explore further.
Festive season
From late November, many cities across Europe become a magic winter wonderland, hosting traditional Christmas markets. Embarking on a river cruise, guests sail right into the heart of each city to enjoy their local markets.
Many cruise lines also have special departures for those looking to celebrate Christmas Day or welcome the New Year onboard. JWT Cruises has a special Christmas Markets escorted group departing 2nd December sailing the picturesque Rhine from Cologne to Koblenz.
“There is incredible choice at the moment both for destinations and also cruising style,” adds Caroline. “Guests can opt for a short four-night cruise, sail for a week or longer journeys of two weeks and more. We work with superb cruise lines from five-star to boutique and ultra luxury, and we can help guests pick the perfect one for them.”
Visit jwttravel.ie/jwt-cruises/ and follow JWT Travel on Instagram @jwt.travel for special offers.
To discuss your cruise or luxury holiday, visit JWT Cruises on Upper Salthill Road from Monday to Friday, or Saturday by appointment, or contact the team on cruises@jwttravel.ie, phone 091 394484. JWT Travel is licensed by the Irish Aviation Authority TA 0804 TO 273.
