We sailed south from Lyon to Arles on France’s Rhone River (and briefly on the Saone) last week – early May 2017. We had a wonderful time on the ship and visiting South-Central France. Lyon is considered the capitol of French culinary tradition and all along the Rhone are Roman ruins showing the ancient history of the area. Wine, wonderful scenery, technology and culture made this a great choice of rivers.
In 2015, the Norwegian owned river cruise line started sailing the oceans with 900 passenger ships offering the same amenities as the riverboats. Viking includes in their fares – select wine and beer with lunch and dinner, a free shore excursion in each port stop, access to the spa facilities, internet, complimentary laundry with washers and dryers and specialty dining.
What makes Seabourn different from the other luxury lines? The ships are somewhat smaller than Regent and Crystal. Wifi is not included. I suspect this will change as all the others include it or have announced it will be included shortly. Unlike Regent, no shore excursions are included. Like Regent and Silversea the ships are all suite and nearly all balcony.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America is unique. It was the only American flagged large cruise ship in almost 50 years in 2005 when it first sailed. That allows the ship to sail within the islands without leaving the US.
It’s the first week of September, so only 49 of the 76 passenger beds are filled on UnCruise’s Wilderness Discoverer. A surprising number of passengers have never taken a cruise before and find the idea of a big ship with shows and 24-hour room service unappealing. There are lots of campers and hikers and cyclists...
