Cruising the Rivers of Italy – What to Expect

There’s not much that sounds better than a combination of river cruises, Italy and the height of luxury. All that is available on river cruises through the diverse waterways of this beautiful country.

But when it comes to river cruises, Italy is becoming a very popular destination. So, if you're sharing your vessel with others, you might be wondering whether or not you’ll get on with them. Well, it’s impossible to say for sure of course. Yet you probably have very little to worry about and here’s why.

The wonderful life on the waterways

For river cruises, Italy is virtually heaven. You'll have the benefits of fantastic cuisine, beautiful scenery, stunning history and some of the friendliest people you’ll find anywhere. Yet if that sounds a little like a travel brochure, it is in fact quite relevant to the main question. That’s because this type of holiday tends to attract holidaymakers who are, shall we say, a little more discerning.

If, for example, you’re on a cruise starting near Venice and visiting magnificent cities such as Mantua, then it’s most likely that your fellow travellers are going to be lovers of history and antiquities. So, probably, will you be if you’re on such a holiday. As a result, you and your fellow travellers are highly likely to have a lot of interests in common, and that can make for the development of some great and long-lasting friendships.

You don’t need to share a vessel of course. If your party is large enough, perhaps a family group, then you can book it out privately. This might be ideal for a special event, such as an anniversary or birthday.

What will you see and do?

When you’re out and about exploring the sights of Italy away from your vessel, you won’t find yourself herded around either, like some tours. You’ll have plenty of time on your own to explore quiet backwaters as well as incomparable historic and chic towns along the route. You certainly won’t feel like you’re part of a mass organised tour because these holidays are built around the concept of individual requirements and satisfying individual interests.

Expert guidance

The operators of the vessels are expert in the history and culture of the town and regions they’re travelling through, and can help put what you’re seeing and exploring into context. That’s important, because over just about every single mile on the boat you’re going to be seeing things that will keep you and your fellow travellers fully occupied.

So, if you’re thinking that such cruises are a form of mass holiday where lots of very different people will be forced into each other’s company, there’s no need. On such river cruises, Italy's waterways and the convivial company you'll travel with will put your mind to rest on all scores. It’s a marvellous way to relatively sedately enjoy travelling around the country, and a marvellous experience all round.

Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, a provider of luxury, all-inclusive barge holidays. If you're looking for river cruises, Italy has some of the world's most picturesque waterways. We also offer experiences in France, Holland and the UK.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.