by If you think river cruises are only for adults, two companies are working to trick you into thinking of them as kid-friendly. Emerald Cruises and Adventures by Disney now offer family-friendly experiences.
“Feedback from our guests was the main reason behind this decision,” said Denitza Dimitrova, product manager at Emerald Cruises. “There has been a high demand for family cruising for some time and we strive to offer our guests the best possible experience. For many, that means going on adventures with their children and grandchildren.
Adventures by Disney has partnered with AmaWaterways to create a luxurious experience with or without children. Guests can explore some of Europe’s most popular cities on a river cruise.
Emerald Cruises
Children must be at least 10 years old to participate in a family river cruise. There are two routes, the Danube Explorer and Jewels of the Rhine.
The Danube Explorer is an 8-day cruise and offers new family-friendly excursions as well as some of the regular itineraries. Excursions include a geocaching treasure hunt through Passau’s old town and a trip to the Prater in Vienna; a tour of the Schallaburg, which includes an archery course in the inner courtyard; and a stop at 3D Gallery Budapest, an interactive art gallery where guests can become part of the artwork.
The 8-day Jewels of the Rhine itinerary includes canoeing, an impressive tour of the Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg, a mini-train ride through the forests of Mount Königstuhl and a trip to the ADA’M Lookout Observatory.
Adventures of Disney River Cruising
Disney River Cruises adventures are designed for families traveling with or without children. Itineraries include experiences for adults, teens and children.
Rheinschifffahrt offers family-friendly excursions on the 8-day trip, including tobogganing through the Black Forest, a Heidelberg Castle tour, and a Rüdesheim gondola ride.
The Danube Cruise takes families on an 8-day trip to the Lazar Equestrian Park, walking across suspension bridges in the Austrian Alps and discovering the Hallein Salt Mine.
Onboard activities for families
Each cruise line also offers onboard activities for the whole family.
Adventures by Disney includes activities such as:
- Lots of program for young sailors like a welcome party
- Dinner for teenagers and junior adventurers
- Movie nights with Disney movies.
Emerald Cruises has activities such as:
- game at the pool
- A guided tour of the wheelhouse led by the Star-Ship’s Captain
- Cooking demonstrations with the chefs
- Family-friendly movie nights
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