One of the best parts about river cruising is being able to sample a variety of destinations all in one trip! River cruises spend a lot of time in port, sometimes even visiting two cities per day. Since you’ll have many days on land exploring your destinations, we’ve gathered our top 5 tips to help you make the most of your time at each port-of-call.
1. Research ‘Must-Visit’ Places
Whether you’re visiting Europe or sailing through Asia, it’s a good idea to know in advance what you want to see at each port-of-call instead of deciding the day of without any background information. Prioritize your list of ‘must-sees’ so you can pick the best shore excursions to suit your interests and needs.
2. Ask a Crewmember
It’s likely the crewmembers onboard your ship have already explored the ports-of-call that you’ll be stopping at. Many of them are likely to have the best tips for local places to eat and shop, the best times to visit a particular attraction, and more suggestions to help you get the most out of your destination. Don’t be afraid to ask them when you’re onboard about the best places to visit once your ship docks!
3. Pick a Good Pace
Set a pace that works for you. If you are a more relaxed traveler and like to take your time while sightseeing, don’t overload your schedule with excursions. If you love adventure and exploration, make sure to include these types of activities and excursions (hiking, biking, zip-lining, etc.) for your day in port.
If you’re looking for the perfect shore excursion, cruise lines offer a variety of options for different physical activity types (slow, moderate, active). Check out the options that best suit your needs before you embark on your vacation.
4. Arrange Transportation in Advance
One of the worst feelings while traveling is not knowing where you’re going in a foreign destination. Don’t put extra stress on yourself. Plan your transportation well in advance so you have peace of mind while exploring the city you visit. If you know you’ll be taking a cab or public transportation of some sort, be sure to carry cash in the currency of the destination you are visiting.
Most importantly, don’t miss the ship! Cruise lines do not wait for passengers, so you’ll want to make sure you set aside enough time to get back to your ship depending on how far you are from the port.
5. Be Realistic About Your Plans
Since you only have so many hours in port, be sure to find the perfect shore excursion that gives you the most of what you’re looking for. You’ll be surprised with how many ‘must-see’ sites you can visit in one day on select shore excursions! And, for the experiences you didn’t get to have – you can always plan a second trip!
BONUS TIP: When it comes to planning your vacation with Avoya Travel, you have access to extra resources and knowledge. Be sure to ask your Travel Agent to help arrange your plans when you’re in port! Many Independent Travel Agents in the Avoya Travel Network have visited the places you’re traveling to and know the ins and outs of how to make the most of your cruise vacation. Don’t hesitate to ask for their tips and advice!