Planning your first cruise starts with one question: river or sea? Both mean a holiday on board, but the rhythm, the ship and the people on it are quite different.
The differences at a glance
| River cruise | Ocean cruise | |
|---|---|---|
| Ship size | Small, usually under 250 guests | Often 2,000 to over 5,000 guests |
| Where you dock | Usually central, in town | Cruise terminal, often outside the centre |
| Rhythm | A new place almost every day | Ports alternating with sea days |
| On board | Calm: restaurant, lounge, sun deck | Many restaurants, pools, shows, kids' clubs |
| Motion | Practically none | Noticeable depending on region and weather |
| Main season | Spring to autumn, Christmas markets in Advent | Year-round, Caribbean and Canaries in winter |
Choose a river cruise if you …
- want to see many towns and enjoy quiet evenings on board,
- are prone to seasickness,
- prefer culture, wine and scenery to big shows.
Choose an ocean cruise if you …
- travel with children and value kids' clubs,
- like relaxing sea days,
- want to combine several countries, even from German ports without flying.
Scout tip: Not sure yet? Try a short cruise of three to five nights first. Many lines offer taster trips on rivers and at sea.
More: River cruises · Ocean cruises