I recently had the incredible opportunity to embark on my very first river cruise, and I couldn’t be more delighted to share that it was with the exceptional Emerald Cruises. What made this experience even more special was that it was an exclusive sailing organised specifically for travel agents, right before the official river cruise season kicked off. Agents from all around the world — including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South Korea and Hong Kong — joined us, which added a unique international flair to the journey.
Before this cruise, I had always imagined that river cruising might be slow-paced and somewhat rigid, but my expectations were completely shattered. What I discovered was a completely new way of travel that’s intimate, relaxed and filled with opportunity for spontaneous exploration.
One of the most appealing aspects of river cruising is the slower pace. There’s no rush, no large crowds and no feeling of being constantly herded from one place to the next. With fewer than 100 guests on board, it was an incredibly intimate setting, which allowed for deeper connections and a much more personalised experience. The small size of the ship meant we had more time to appreciate the destinations we visited, rather than rushing through them. The vibe onboard was relaxed and welcoming, which made it feel more like a home away from home.
At 24 years old, I can honestly say that this cruise has completely changed my perspective on travel. Emerald Cruises offers a unique approach to river cruising. Unlike some other lines that are fully inclusive, Emerald gives you the flexibility to create your own journey. This was such a refreshing change! Instead of being locked into a fixed schedule or itinerary, I was able to choose my shore excursions based on my interests and pace, which gave me more freedom during port stops. Plus, I had plenty of free time to explore the cities on my own, without feeling rushed.
What I also loved about this cruise was the flexibility when it came to onboard services and excursions. While some river cruises require you to opt into an all-inclusive package that includes everything, Emerald allows you to pick and choose what suits your style. This means you can enjoy the excursions or amenities you really want, without paying for extras you may not need or use. Whether it was taking a guided bike tour, indulging in local wine tastings or simply relaxing in the spa, the choice was entirely mine.
The ship itself was nothing short of luxurious. Modern, stylish and designed with comfort in mind, every space felt thoughtfully curated for relaxation. From the panoramic windows offering breathtaking views of the river to the attentive crew who made every effort to ensure our comfort, every detail was meticulously planned.
If you’re thinking about trying river cruising, I highly recommend Emerald Cruises. Their approach allows you to experience the beauty of Europe (or other regions) at your own pace, with the freedom to explore, indulge and relax on your own terms. After this trip, I can confidently say I’m a river cruise convert — and I’ll never look back!