One of the great things about luxury river cruising is the range of high quality ‘home-comforts’ you can look forward to on board your river vessel. From sumptuous toiletries to plump pillows and more tasty snacks than your eyes can devour, there is no doubt you will be spoilt during your time on board.
Yet to enhance your experience further, the team at Amadeus River Cruises has put together a list of essentials you may wish to consider packing into your suitcase…
Clothing
Amadeus operates a casual dress policy to help you feel at home, but a river cruise is a special experience so you’ll want to pack a couple of smart outfits for the evenings, and for any excursions you have booked such as a classical music concert.
Jackets and evening dresses are not expected in the restaurants, but if you do like to dress up, you certainly won’t be alone should you choose to go glam.
When it comes to outerwear, consider the time of year you are travelling. The European cities are beautifully balmy in the summer months, however it is recommended that you bring a jumper or cardigan with you so that you can still enjoy the fresh air on the sun deck after the sun goes down.
Whilst umbrellas are available on board, it’s wise to pack with you a waterproof jacket or cagoule, so that, should it rain, you can still enjoy any excursions or sightseeing tours you have booked.
Footwear
If you are planning on lots of sightseeing, flat, comfortable walking shoes are essential. You certainly won’t want to cut short any of your time on shore due to aching feet. Onboard too, whilst river cruising is renowned for smooth-sailing, you may wish to opt for flats as you travel throughout the ship, particularly when it comes to using staircases in the foyer or up to the sundeck.
In the summer, sandals will provide some welcome fresh air, whilst in the evenings, a pair of heels or smart shoes will help you feel the part as you sip on freshly-made cocktails in the Panorama Bar.
Gadgets
It almost goes without saying that you will need to bring a camera with you on your luxury river cruise. Smartphones often can’t do the fantastic scenery justice and you’ll want to capture plenty of memories of your trip to reminisce over once you return home.
In addition to this however, a pair of binoculars is highly recommended. Nothing beats relaxing on deck in the sunshine, watching the world go by. Your river vessel will be sailing at a gentle speed, giving you plenty of time to explore the river banks with your eyes, and who knows what you might spy beyond that lense. If you are travelling through the Danube Delta, you won’t want to be without this essential gadget – look out for cormorants, white tailed eagles, wildcats and even wolves!
Accessories
Europe boasts such a fascinating history, and if you are booked on to any excursions you will be delighted by the knowledge our local guides can share with you on the local area, history and customs. Many passengers enjoy taking notes on some of the facts and local phrases they learn along the way, so if you are the type of traveller who simply loves to soak up knowledge (and share it with friends and family back home), be sure to pack a notepad.
All Amadeus cabins feature at least two sockets for guests to plug in cameras, phones and other electronics. If your electronics are standard UK plugs, don’t forget to bring a European adaptor or two. A great tip is to bring an small extension cable with you too, just in case you have any additional gadgets you wish to connect.
When you’re not exploring Europe’s riverside towns and villages, you’ll have plenty of time to relax in the AMADEUS Club, the River Terrace, or the Pool Deck if you’re on board Amadeus Provence, so bring a good book with you and enjoy your downtime.
A secure across-body bag or small rucksack is also recommended for excursions – these help to keep your hands free so you can use your camera or audio-guide pack unhindered.
For more information on the itineraries available across Amadeus River Cruises’ luxury fleet, visit amadeus-rivercruises.co.uk.
