One of the biggest differences between ocean and river cruises is that most river cruises include at least one complimentary shore excursion per port of call in their fares.
Do I have to take the included tour? If I don't take the free tours, do I get any money back?
No one will make you take a tour. If you're worn out from an all-day excursion the day before, you can opt out and relax on the ship (keeping in mind that river cruise vessels do not have the myriad activities that you find on ocean ships). A caution, though: You might feel left out that night at dinner when everyone is discussing what they saw that day! If you skip out, you will not get a refund. If you choose to do your own thing in every port of call, remember it is absolutely critical you pay close attention to what time you are supposed to be back on board the ship. If you miss it, you may have to drive to the next port at your own expense to catch up to the ship.
Traditionally, river cruise shore excursions center on walking or bus tours, or a combination of both. That's beginning to change, as river cruise lines realize that their passengers are active and want variety on their vacation. So, you might see bike tours, wine tastings, choral concerts and more on the excursion list.
Are all shore excursions included in the fares?
Most river cruise companies, including Viking, Vantage, Crystal, Uniworld, Avalon Waterways, Grand Circle, Emerald Waterways and Ama Waterways, have a few in-depth or special excursions that require an extra fee. Often, these are experiences that require a smaller group, such as an organized bike tour through Austria's Wachau Valley or truffle hunting in Bordeaux. If you don't like the idea of paying extra for shore excursions, go with Tauck or Scenic, which include all the choices in your fare.
Are the free tours good? Are the ones that cost extra better?
Because many river cruise lines are either owned or have partnerships with land companies, they have a vast network of local guides with good command of English and a lot of experience under their belts. So, chances are, you'll have as good an experience as you would expect from any group tour. (On most river cruises, tour groups are topped at 30 people.) Most of the tours hit the highlights of the port, so if you're looking to see the main attractions, included tours are the way to go.
Because they cost money, the extra fee tours are generally more intimate than the ones that are included, with fewer people. They are also usually more specialized than the complimentary ones, often involving cooking, a specific historic event, wine and beer or an excursion to places that are farther away from where the ship is docked.
