River cruise

River cruise ships are smaller than ocean-going cruise ships, typically holding 90-240 passengers (though there are ships that take only 5 passengers, and others can carry 1, 000 passengers). Due to their smaller size and low draft, river cruise ships can go where ocean cruise ships cannot, and sometimes to where no other transport is practical: rivers are an excellent way to reach some attractions.

During river cruises the countryside is usually in view, so they are especially relaxing—and interesting—to those who prefer land nearby. River cruises usually last from 7 to 15 days, although some can last 3 weeks or longer.

Some river ships resemble 5-star hotels, with sun decks, dining rooms, lounges, fitness facilities, swimming pools, casinos and other entertainment. Accommodation, meals onboard, entertainment and special events (holidays, festivals, contests, concerts, etc.) are usually included in the cruise price, while bar expenses, sauna, massage, laundry and cleaning, and phone calls are not.

Most cruises have a variety of onboard and onshore activities. The latter include guided tours to historic and cultural sites, visiting local attractions, museums and galleries, and other points of interest. Guides give a running commentary while sailing.

A river cruise provides travelers a unique way to travel. A river cruise represents life in the slow lane, sailing along at a gentle pace, soaking up the scenery, with plentiful opportunities to explore riverside towns and cities en route. It is a supremely calming experience, an antidote to the pressures of life in a fast-paced world, in surroundings that are comfortable without being fussy or pretentious, with good food and enjoyable company.

A river cruise is very different from an ocean cruise. For a start, you are in almost constant sight of land and stops are far more frequent than they are at sea. The vessels are like small, friendly, floating inns, whereas ocean-going ships tend to be bigger, flashier, busier and livelier, the crew practised in the art of moving up to 4, 000 people from one port to another and getting them on and off the ship. In contrast, when your river cruise vessel docks you simply walk up the gangway and into the town or city—in many cases the dock is located right at the heart of things. Despite these differences, however, most people who enjoy ocean cruising and the relaxing rhythm of life afloat are attracted to river cruises as well.

2. Read the information about cruise ships. Using it as a guide make up a dialogue about cruising.

Is cruising affordable and good value?
Yes! There are cruises to suit every pocket, from economy to the most luxurious. And they are great value, as the price includes all meals, cabin accommodations, onboard daytime activities, nighttime parties, and all onboard entertainment. The only extra expense will be for alcoholic drinks (and even these are paid for on some inclusive and ultra luxury cruises) and carbonated beverages, optional shore excursions, personal services such as the onboard beauty salon, and any items of personal nature.

How long are cruises?
About 2, 000 miles on average! Or, timewise, as long or short as you want them to be. Itineraries vary from a three day weekender to a three-month world cruise.

Are there different classes of service?
Just one - top class. Most cruise ships are " one-class" nowadays, with everyone able to use all the facilities. But concierge class is being introduced on some. Regardless of the cabin booked, you'll enjoy the same courteous service, menus, activities, and entertainment as everyone else.

Will I get bored?
Well, if you find cramming every activity under the sun into 24 hours boring, then yes, you'll be bored out of your brain. On the other hand, a cruise gives you a feeling of freedom few places can offer. There's plenty of room, and it'll probably take you two or three days just to discover what's onboard. You can be by yourself and lie back in a lounge chair, breathe in the sea air, soak up the sun, read good books, or watch the ever-changing view. You also get the added adventure of exploring new and exciting ports of call. Go on, go and get bored.

What are the dining arrangements?
On some ships, especially the new mega-liners being launched, dining rooms can accommodate all passengers in one seating. But most ships have early and late seatings. Request the seating you would prefer when you boo. In addition, some ships offer alternative dining options with onboard reservations.

Can I get a special diet?
Most ships can accommodate salt-free, low-carbohydrate, Kosher, or other diet preferences. However, make arrangements in advance..

Can we stay in touch with the outside?
Who wants to! Most ships have a daily newsletter with news, headlines, and selected stock quotes and sports scores. Staterooms on many ships are even equipped with televisions. You can make phone calls from most ports. In addition, many ships have fax capabilities and newer ships offer cybercafes with Internet access and e-mail capabilities.

Are there medical services onboard?
Virtually every cruise ship (except for some smaller vessels operating in coastal waters) has a fully equipped medical facility and staff to handle almost any emergency. But you won't find a dentist.

Are there laundry services aboard?
Most cruise ships have laundry and dry-cleaning services, but there is an additional charge for this. Many ships also have self-service launderettes.

I am frightened of being sea sick
Don't be. Stabilisers on modern ships and effective preventative medications have, for the most part, eliminated the incidence of motion discomfort. SeaView's recommendation is that if you feel seasick, visit the ship doctor and ask for an anti-nausea medicine.

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