Quiz: AmaWaterways River Cruise vs. Ocean Cruises—Which Is Right for You?

Ready to set sail but torn between the intimate charm of a river cruise and the endless possibilities of an ocean cruise? We get it—the allure of both is undeniable. Maybe you’re craving a cultural immersion with AmaWaterways, or perhaps the excitement of onboard casinos and sprawling decks calls your name. Let’s break it down to help you decide which cruise style fits your travel vibe.

Smooth Sailing vs. Ocean Adventures

River Cruise (AmaWaterways): If you’re not a fan of choppy waters, river cruising is your ticket to smooth sailing. Rivers are calm, and there’s minimal motion, which means no seasickness and plenty of tranquil gliding. Plus, you’ll always have the comforting sight of land on both sides.

Ocean Cruise: Love the thrill of open water? Ocean cruises offer expansive sea views and the excitement of cruising across vast oceans. However, some routes may bring rough waters, so if seasickness is a concern, this could be a deciding factor.

Included Excursions vs. Pay-As-You-Go Adventures

River Cruise (AmaWaterways): With AmaWaterways, excursions are often included, taking you to charming towns, hidden gems, and historical sites without the hassle of extra planning or expense. From wine tastings in Europe to cultural tours in Asia, the details are handled for you.

Ocean Cruise: While some ocean cruises include basic shore excursions, many come with additional costs. Think scuba diving, parasailing, or jungle treks—adventurous but potentially hard on your wallet.

Local Immersion vs. Onboard Action

River Cruise (AmaWaterways): Dive straight into the heart of culture! AmaWaterways docks in the center of towns and cities, giving you ample time to explore cafés, markets, and local traditions. Days end leisurely, with boarding typically scheduled for late evening.

Ocean Cruise: Ocean cruises are floating resorts filled with entertainment galore—casinos, water parks, nightclubs, and even mini-golf. While some ports offer cultural experiences, the onboard activities often take center stage.

Intimate Luxury vs. Buzzing Crowds

River Cruise (AmaWaterways): AmaWaterways keeps it cozy, with ships accommodating fewer than 200 passengers. Expect personalized service, peaceful common areas, and the chance to bond with fellow travelers. It’s luxury travel with a touch of exclusivity.

Ocean Cruise: Big ships mean big crowds—think thousands of passengers and endless options for entertainment. While the lively atmosphere is exciting, it might feel overwhelming if you’re looking for a quieter escape.

Scenic Feasts vs. Open Horizons

River Cruise (AmaWaterways): Every moment on a river cruise is Instagram-worthy. From rolling vineyards and medieval castles to quaint villages, the views change daily, and they’re always stunning.

Ocean Cruise: Nothing beats an ocean sunset, but be prepared for stretches of endless horizon between ports. The dramatic vistas are breathtaking, but land sightings are less frequent.

Leisurely Pacing vs. Action-Packed Fun

River Cruise (AmaWaterways): River cruising embraces slow travel, with a focus on cultural immersion and relaxation. Excursions cater to all activity levels, from easygoing city tours to invigorating hikes, making it a perfect choice for travelers who like to go with the flow.

Ocean Cruise: Prefer an adrenaline rush? Ocean cruises deliver with rock climbing walls, surf simulators, and high-energy onboard activities. Whether you’re dancing, diving, or simply lounging poolside, there’s always something happening.

Gourmet Dining vs. Culinary Variety

River Cruise (AmaWaterways): AmaWaterways shines with regionally inspired cuisine crafted from fresh, local ingredients. Meals are often paired with complimentary wine or beer, creating a truly indulgent dining experience.

Ocean Cruise: Ocean cruise ships boast diverse dining options, from casual buffets to upscale specialty restaurants. While regional influences are occasionally featured, the focus is on catering to a wide range of tastes. Specialty dining often comes at an extra cost but can offer memorable experiences like chef’s tastings or wine pairings.

Which Cruise Style Is Right for You?

Take our quick quiz:

• Do you prefer tranquil, scenic travel over expansive ocean views?

• Is cultural immersion more appealing than onboard entertainment?

• Do you value intimate luxury over bustling atmospheres?

If you answered “yes” to most of these, a river cruise with AmaWaterways might be your dream vacation. On the other hand, if you’re all about action, variety, and a lively vibe, an ocean cruise could be your match.

Whichever you choose, we’re here to help plan your perfect getaway. Ready to explore AmaWaterways or book your next cruise? Let’s make it happen!