It’s obvious. Folks want smaller ships, less people, less crowds yet still want to maintain the very immersive cultural experience. Not too far off from what Lisa and I have always believed in.
River cruising for the continuing wander luster has always been one of our priorities, obviously. It’s part of the Fitzgerald Travel culture. We are excited about the new enthusiasm people have about river cruising.
Part of our mission in the past 5 years or more has been to bring this mode of vacation to light but thanks to Covid, more and more travelers are discovering the true joy and reason for small ship cruising. Keeping all the positive things in mind and forefront, I want to provide you with our top 8 reasons 2021 is the perfect time to travel
Reduced Capacity
Ships in 2021 are sailing at reduced capacity. For example, if a ship holds 168 guests or has 84 cabins, reduced capacity cuts the number of guests on board by a certain percentage to afford you more ease with social distancing.
Smaller, Intimate Touring
2. Smaller touring groups in Europe. In general, included tours with a river cruise are essentially small to begin with but with a reduced capacity of guests on board, the tour experience is also smaller, deeper, and even more intimate than normal.
Affordability
3. Affordability has never been more promising. River cruise companies want you to experience first hand how safe it is to travel right now. Exceptional savings are happening now to get you on board so you can promote and share with others your experiences and photos so the rest of the World can see how much fun you are having and how easy it is to still travel.
Safety
4. Safety, stopping the spread. Current requirements, all passengers must be vaccinated to travel on a river or barge ship. Keeping the spread under control is a priority. This is the current stipulation and could change in the future. What does it mean for the unvaccinated river cruise enthusiast? Unfortunately, no cruising until (and if) protocols change post COVID.
No Crowds
5. Crowds in Europe do not exist at the moment. Imagine wandering and exploring towns, villages, and cities without having to navigate through thousands of other tourists and Europeans. Imagine finding a comfortable and available cafe chair without waiting and prompt service so you can take in the sights, sounds and beauty of your surroundings.
Comfort, Confidence & Effortless Travel
6. Traveling with the guidance and care of a travel advisor will give you great comfort knowing she has your back for all.the.things and is prepared to help you with pre-travel testing requirements, travelers insurance, keeping you 100% well informed, helping you enjoy your trip effortlessly and making sure your reentry back into the USA goes smoothly and calmly.
Hosted Cruising
7. You want to travel; you want the river cruise experience but just not sure you want to dip your toes in the river on your own? I have the solution travel with me. I am hosting an AmaWaterways Iconic Christmas Market Cruise on December 12, 2021. Come with me and I will help you feel as secure as possible during the entire journey!
Enthusiastic Crew & Locals
8. The crew has never been so excited about welcoming guests back on ship and locals are so happy to have tourist visiting them. It is the crew’s nature always to be excited to see all guests but this year, even more so than ever and you can see in their face and their eyes just how happy they are to see you.
The wisest words were spoken today by my best friend and business partner, Lisa Collins. I want to leave you with her words.
I am a lucky lady to have the honor to work side by side with Lisa Collins. Ocean Cruise phenom and lover of all things Ocean Cruising. Together we are the Lisas.
We are experts in the field of creating lasting memories without the stress and chaos that can often put a strain on your valuable time. Our dedication and commitment to developing an authentic relationship with each client is the cornerstone of our business. That level of service and attention to detail allows busy adults and curious travelers the opportunity to focus on the joy of the journey.
I’m Lisa! Founder of Fitzgerald Travel, lover of all things river cruising and self-proclaimed River Cruise Matchmaker.