New to River Cruising? Here’s What to Expect on Your First Journey with Emerald Cruises
If you’ve ever imagined gliding through Europe with castles on the horizon, sipping local wine as you arrive in a new town each morning, and never once having to repack your suitcase — river cruising could be your perfect travel style.
But if you’ve never taken one before, you might be wondering:
What’s it really like? How does it work? And is it right for me?
Let us walk you through it.
Why River Cruising Feels Effortless
Unlike traditional touring where you're always on the move, river cruising is relaxed, intimate and slow-paced. You only unpack once, enjoy the comforts of your boutique Star-Ship, and explore a new destination almost every day — often docking right in the heart of Europe’s most beautiful towns.
Emerald Cruises’ small ship experience means fewer guests, more space, and a team that quickly learns your name, your coffee order, and how you like your eggs in the morning.
Comfort, Style & Personal Touches
Whether you’re in a stateroom or a suite, you’ll enjoy thoughtful touches like luxury toiletries, plush bedding, and floor-to-ceiling windows for watching the world drift by. Many suites even feature a clever all-weather balcony system — perfect for all seasons.
With amenities like a wellness area, pool, cinema, and fine dining onboard, Emerald’s Star-Ships feel more like a floating boutique hotel than a traditional cruise vessel.
🍷 What's Included (and What's Not)
Emerald Cruises offer exceptional inclusions:
All meals onboard (with beer, wine & soft drinks at lunch and dinner)
Guided daily excursions
EmeraldPLUS cultural experiences and EmeraldACTIVE options
Onboard Wi-Fi, tips, and even airport transfers
Optional DiscoverMORE excursions and onboard spa treatments are available for those who want to personalise their experience further.
🚴 Activities for Every Traveller
Want to stay active? You’ll love Emerald’s guided hikes, cycling tours, yoga, and wellness programs. Prefer a slower pace? Enjoy walking tours, local tastings, cultural experiences, or simply relax on the sun deck with a glass of wine.
With the perfect mix of structure and free time, Emerald Cruises suit solo travellers, couples, and small groups alike.
🛳️ Why Not Join Narelle and Doug in 2026?
If you’re thinking about trying river cruising for the first time, our hosted group departure in May 2026 is the perfect introduction.
We’ll be travelling with a group of like-minded guests from Australia on the Splendours of Europe River Cruise — 15 days of immersive travel from Budapest to Amsterdam, with an optional 3-night Prague extension to begin your journey in one of Europe’s most enchanting cities.
You’ll enjoy:
Personal hosting by Narelle and Doug from Holiday World
The comfort and connection of a friendly group
A worry-free travel experience with expert support every step of the way
This journey includes 14 nights aboard the Emerald Astra, 41 delicious meals, 14 guided excursions, cultural highlights like coffee with a Slovakian family and a Bavarian band onboard, plus countless once-in-a-lifetime moments.
