Choosing between an ocean cruise and a river cruise can shape your entire travel experience. Whether you’re dreaming of sailing the open seas or drifting through Europe’s historic rivers, this guide will help you discover which type of cruise fits your vacation goals best.
And no matter what you choose, use iCruiseApp’s CruisVisor™ Recommender to get personalized cruise suggestions tailored to your preferences. You can also compare ships, cruise lines, and itineraries using the iCruiseApp Compare Tool to find your perfect match.
🚢 Ship Size & Atmosphere
✔ Ocean Cruises: These are massive floating resorts that carry thousands of passengers. Expect onboard theaters, pools, casinos, shopping, and dozens of restaurants. It’s a great fit if you enjoy lots of activity and variety.
✔ River Cruises: These smaller, more intimate ships hold between 100–200 passengers. They’re designed to navigate narrow waterways, creating a relaxed and scenic travel experience with personalized service.
🎯 Pro Tip: Prefer an energetic atmosphere? Go ocean. Want calm, curated luxury? River’s your route.
⚓ Destinations & Itineraries
✔ Ocean Cruises: Visit coastal cities, island chains, and large ports, with sea days in between. Great for longer itineraries and tropical getaways.
✔ River Cruises: Stop in quaint towns and major cities, often docking right in the heart of the destination. Great for exploring Europe, Asia, or even U.S. rivers like the Mississippi.
🎯 Pro Tip: Explore by region using iCruiseApp’s Explore Feature to view cruise destinations and see which rivers or oceans you can sail.
🎭 Onboard Entertainment & Amenities
✔ Ocean Cruises: Think big productions, water parks, zip lines, movie theaters, and spas. There’s something for every age group, including kids’ clubs and nightlife.
✔ River Cruises: Onboard entertainment is lighter and more culturally focused—think wine tastings, local musicians, and guest lectures.
🎯 Pro Tip: Use the iCruiseApp Compare Tool to see which ships have the features that matter most to you.
🌍 Shore Excursions & Immersion
✔ Ocean Cruises: Excursions are a la carte, ranging from beach breaks to jungle adventures. Time in port is more limited.
✔ River Cruises: Excursions are often included and offer immersive experiences like walking tours, castle visits, and cooking classes. You’ll often spend more time ashore.
🎯 Pro Tip: See what past cruisers recommend in their iCruiseApp Reviews and filter by cruise line, ship, or itinerary.
🍽️ Dining Experience
✔ Ocean Cruises: Wide variety of cuisines, from buffets to steakhouses and international restaurants. Specialty dining may have additional fees.
✔ River Cruises: Fewer dining venues, but with an emphasis on local flavors and regional cuisine. Often includes beer and wine with meals.
🎯 Pro Tip: Whether you’re craving global gourmet or local delicacies, your dining expectations can help determine your cruise style.
💵 Cost & Inclusions
✔ Ocean Cruises: Often cheaper upfront, but you’ll pay extra for shore excursions, drinks, specialty dining, and gratuities.
✔ River Cruises: Typically more inclusive—covering excursions, drinks with meals, Wi-Fi, and sometimes gratuities.
🎯 Pro Tip: Use iCruiseApp’s CruisVisor™ Recommender to discover the best value cruise based on your needs and travel style.
👪 Who Should Go on Each Type of Cruise?
✔ Ocean Cruises: Ideal for families, groups, and first-time cruisers who want a fun, resort-style vacation. Great for kids, thrill-seekers, and multi-generational travel.
✔ River Cruises: Ideal for couples, solo travelers, and mature audiences who want history, culture, and slower-paced travel.
🎯 Pro Tip: Customize your match using the CruisVisor™ Recommender—it takes your preferences and finds your best cruise fit!
