River cruise or sea cruise?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of river and sea cruises?

When you're considering a boating holiday, you have two main options: a river cruise or a sea cruise. These two experiences are very different, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. So how do you choose? We're here to help you make the right choice with this article comparing the two types of cruise!

River cruising: relaxation and freedom

River cruising is often quieter and more intimate than a cruise at sea. By hiring a licence-free houseboat, you can navigate rivers and canals at your own pace, whether in France or elsewhere in Europe.

6 advantages of river cruising

• No licence required : Yes, you don't need a licence or any experience whatsoever to drive a houseboat. A licence-free houseboat cruise** is open to everyone, even if it's your first time.
• Total freedom : Unlike sea cruises, you are in control of your itinerary. You can decide where to stop, what to do at each stop, and take the time to explore the surrounding area.
• Autonomy : When you hire a houseboat, you're in charge of everything, from meals to shopping. You can organise your days as you wish.
• Private experience : Houseboats often accommodate groups of 2 to 12 people, perfect for a trip with family or friends. No crowds like on a big cruise ship.
• Daytime cruising : Unlike sea cruises, which often sail at night, on a river cruise you can navigate from sunrise to sunset, so you can admire the scenery all day long.
• Navigation in the heart of nature : On board, you glide quietly along rivers and canals, in the middle of nature. You're far from the big cities and busy areas, and it's a real break from the hustle and bustle.

Disadvantages of river cruising

• No full board : Unlike a sea cruise, where everything is taken care of, you'll have to cook for yourself on board and do your own shopping.
• Less organised activities : There are no shows or organised activities on board, so it's up to you to find your own entertainment

Sea Cruise: luxury and a change of scenery

The sea cruise offers a totally different experience. You navigate oceans and seas on board ocean liners that can accommodate thousands of passengers. These cruises are generally all-inclusive and offer a wide range of activities and services.

The advantages of a sea cruise

• Everything is included : With a sea cruise, everything is organised. You don't have to worry about preparing meals or making stopovers, everything is included, from full board to on-board activities.
• More activities and entertainment : The liners offer a variety of activities, from swimming pools and casinos to evening shows and children's entertainment.
• Varied destinations : A sea cruise allows you to visit several countries and islands in a single trip. You can discover paradise beaches, coastal towns and even far-flung destinations.

Sea cruises do have their drawbacks

• Lack of privacy : Sea cruises are often very busy. If you're looking for peace and quiet, a large cruise ship with hundreds or even thousands of passengers may not be ideal.
• Mandatory itinerary : Unlike a river cruise, you cannot choose your ports of call or adapt your itinerary. You are bound by the choices made by the shipping company.
• Less nature : At sea, you spend a lot of time away from the coast, so the connection with nature is less direct than on a river cruise.

If you're looking for tranquillity, privacy and the freedom to choose your ports of call, then a river cruise with a licence-free houseboat rental is probably the best option for you. You'll enjoy an autonomous and personalised experience, whether in France or elsewhere in Europe.