Everybody loves a bargain

Did you ever purchase something because it was less expensive than an alternative and regret it down the line?

You know, that off brand of orange juice because it was on sale this week. Maybe you didn’t order the sun roof on your new car even though you really, really wanted it. I know I sure have…

With travel, oftentimes the initial sticker shocks keeps customers from realizing all of the value built into the pricing. They buy less than what they want, and end up disappointed.

It happens a lot when I discuss river cruising with my customers. River cruise pricing can be “off-putting” at first glance, but you really owe it to yourself to consider all of the added values.

First and foremost, unlike traditional cruises, river cruises are truly all inclusive. Meals, excursions, special events and even a nice array of adult beverages, all included.

Let’s take a close look at the number one selling river cruise, Viking. Let’s break down their number one selling itinerary, the Rhine Getaway.

For a cruise price beginning at $1830 (in a river view cabin) this itinerary includes 8 days, 4 countries, 6 guided tours with audio headsets, 5 UNESCO world heritage sites, a classical music performance, free Wi-Fi, all port taxes and fees, as well as all meals including complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner.

You simply can’t touch that price if you try to see all of those sights, participate in all of those guided tours, eat all of those meals, drink those drinks, and enjoy luxury accommodations on land.

River cruising is a destination oriented, culturally rich experience. River cruise ships take you right into the heart of the destination, just like the commercials say they do. You don’t waste time traveling to the land destination, you’re already docked there.

River cruise ships are small, intimate vessels. You know everyone onboard by the end of the welcome cocktail party, and there’s no waiting in line for anything. I’ve waited in line for over 20 minutes on crowded staircases trying to disembark an ocean ship. With a river cruise you’ll be off of the ship in 2 minutes and busy exploring your newest destination.

You have to love the capability to traverse Europe while enjoying your luxury home away from home. You’ll unpack once, and know where everything onboard is located within minutes.

Instead of a bumpy loud rental car, or a rolling ocean vessel, you’ll enjoy a smooth, quiet ride. By the way, statistics prove river cruisers are over 80 percent reformed ocean cruisers. How about that?

Doug and I absolutely loved our Danube River Cruise.

Right now most river cruise companies are offering some amazing sales for river cruising in 2016. Can you get excited about saving $3,000 per couple? That’s just the beginning.

If you’ve ever considered a river cruise, now is the time to go for it. Remember to book it very early for the best deals, and go with a group for an even better price.

Back to the main point — don’t be fooled by the price. A river cruise is truly a fabulous value for your travel dollar.

The Gayly - 11/2/2015 @ 11:36 a.m.