When Jenny Cookman reached out to us asking if she could be the go-to person for our UK leads, we couldn’t resist. How could we? With over 40 river ships under her belt and a personality as warm and welcoming as a cup of mulled wine on a Christmas cruise, she’s a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm for all things river cruising.

If you are in the UK or would like to read more about Jenny’s travels, visit www.rivercruising.blog

Note: In honor of Jenny’s delightful British charm, we’ve decided to momentarily suspend our standard grammar and spelling rules (because “favourite” really does look more posh, doesn’t it?)

Let’s dive in as Jenny shares her insights, from the joys of river cruising to her personal favorite itineraries and tips for finding the perfect trip. As they’d say in the UK – Cheers, Jenny! You have the floor.

My fascination with rivers – their history, culture, and beauty – began when I attended a River Cruise Conference in Amsterdam, I was immediately captivated. Shortly after, I took my first river cruise with A-Rosa on the Rhine, and I’ve been hooked ever since. 

Why I Enjoy River Cruising 

There’s something magical about gliding along tranquil waters, surrounded by ever-changing scenery. One of the things that I enjoy the most is sitting on deck, watching the world go by. Exploring new places each day while having one room to stay in is something I also appreciate. Whether it’s the lush vineyards of the Douro or the ancient castles along the Rhine Gorge, each day brings a fresh adventure. For me, the pace of river cruising is perfect. 

What to Expect on a River Ship

Think of a river ship as a floating boutique hotel. Accommodating between 98 and 200 passengers, river ships offer an intimate and relaxed environment. Suites often feature French style balconies, providing panoramic views, and the top deck is perfect for soaking in the scenery. Due to the constraints of river locks, ships are generally similar in size, but their interiors vary significantly. Some boast opulent décor, such as Uniworld’s SS Catherine, while others, like the Scenic Crystal, offer elegant, modern comfort. Facilities may include a small pool, spa, gym, and even fun activities like giant chess or putting greens.

The Food: A Culinary Highlight

Travelling through the French countryside on the Uniworld SS Catherine was a delight. We had the opportunity to taste local specialities every day including locally grown truffles. River cruise lines often choose menus that reflect the regional cuisine and source fresh local produce when possible. 

My most memorable meal was a simple but delicious lunch that was served on the sundeck. The selection of tasty French cheeses, colourful array of salad and freshly baked bread was delightful. To accompany the cheese, I had a glass of the local Hermitage red wine, a perfect combination.

Dining is a standout feature of river cruising. Some ships, including the AmaMagna and Riverside Mozart, offer multiple dining venues for variety. These ships also happen to be larger and have room for those extra dining spaces without sacrificing space for cabins. Breakfast and lunch are often served buffet-style with à la carte options, while dinner is a more formal affair, served at your table. For an extra-special treat, many ships feature a chef’s table or private dining experiences.

River vs Ocean Cruising

While both offer unforgettable travel experiences, they differ in several ways: 

• Size and intimacy: River ships are smaller, hosting around 98-200 passengers compared to ocean liners that carry thousands. This makes river cruising more personal and relaxed. 
• Port access: River ships dock in city or town centres, allowing you to step right into the heart of your destination. 
• Entertainment: Ocean cruises feature large-scale entertainment, such as theatres and water parks. River cruises, however, focus on low-key options like live music, themed nights, and cultural talks. 
• Motion: River cruising is ideal for those prone to seasickness. The ships are stable, and the riverbanks are always in sight.

Which Rivers Should You Cruise?

Ralph and Britton experts and you can read all about their travels on this website, but here are some of my recommendations: 

• The Danube: Discover cultural treasures in Vienna and Budapest, and sail through the stunning Wachau Valley. 
• The Rhine: Explore the fairytale castles and charming villages of the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge. 
• The Douro: Cruise through Portugal’s wine country, with terraced vineyards and scenic riverside towns. 
• The Rhône: Enjoy the flavours of Provence, visit historic cities like Arles, and experience Lyon’s culinary delights. 
• The Mekong: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Vietnam and Cambodia, with visits to floating markets and ancient temples.

If I had to choose a favourite, the Douro River would top my list. The combination of stunning landscapes, vibrant villages, and the charming city of Porto makes it unforgettable. Another favourite is the Rhine Gorge, with its dramatic castles and rich history.

Excursions: Bringing Destinations to Life

River cruising isn’t just about the journey – it’s about the destinations. Excursions are often included, ranging from guided walking tours and active hiking and biking tours to food and wine tastings in renowned vineyards and cafés.

Some personal highlights from my travels include:

• Wine Tasting in the Douro Valley: sampling delicious port wines while cruising through one of Portugal’s most beautiful regions.
• Sailing on the Scenic Crystal: enjoying the panoramic views from the Sun Deck, and dining at the specialty restaurant Table La Rive.
• Exploring with Uniworld SS Catherine: visiting charming towns like Viviers and the vibrant city of Avignon along the Rhône River.

River cruising offers a unique and enriching way to travel, providing unforgettable experiences along some of the world’s most beautiful waterways. 

How to Find the Right River Cruise

If you’re based in the USA, you are in the right place. Ralph and Britton with give you excellent advice – just complete their enquiry form.

If you’re based in the UK, I can help you navigate the options available. Whether you’re drawn to Europe’s historic cities or exotic destinations like the Mekong, I can recommend the perfect itinerary tailored to your interests and budget.

If you’d like to learn more or have specific questions, visit my blog.

-Jenny Cookman