What's Included in the Cost of a River Cruise

When planning your river cruise, understanding what is included in the cost is key to both your budget and peace of mind. River cruising is designed to feel effortless — with most of the details taken care of before you even step aboard. Here’s what’s typically covered in your fare, so you can unpack once and enjoy the journey.

Accommodation on a River Cruise

Your cruise fare includes accommodation in a comfortable stateroom or suite. River cruise ships typically offer a limited number of cabin categories, making it easy to choose the right option without feeling overwhelmed.

Most ships feature three passenger decks with staterooms, with cabins grouped by both location and features. Options typically range from lower-deck cabins with fixed or porthole windows to mid- and upper-deck staterooms featuring French balconies or full step-out balconies, along with a select number of spacious suites located on the top passenger deck.

Inside your stateroom, you’ll find thoughtful touches like an en-suite bathroom, individual climate control, and a writing desk or seating area. There’s plenty of storage for luggage and personal belongings, with drawers, closets, and under-bed space designed for easy organization. Beds are usually twin-sized but can be separated or combined into one larger bed, offering flexibility whether you’re traveling solo, with a friend, or as a couple.

In some suite categories, laundry service may be included at no extra cost, while other cabin levels often offer it for a small fee. Each space is designed for relaxation — a quiet haven to unwind after a day of exploration, with the river scenery always within close proximity.

Dining and Meals Onboard

Dining on a river cruise is a highlight of the experience. Breakfast and lunch are typically served buffet-style or with à la carte options, offering a relaxed and varied selection each day.

Dinner is a more refined affair — a multi-course, sit-down experience featuring a blend of regional specialties and international favorites. Whether you’re sampling fresh pastries in the morning or savoring local wines in the evening, every meal onboard is included in your fare.

If your ship offers a specialty dining venue, it’s best to make reservations on your first day onboard, as these intimate spaces can fill quickly.

River Cruise Excursions and Activities Ashore

Daily shore excursions are one of the greatest joys of river cruising and are generally included in the cost (however, more premium excursions may be at an additional cost). These guided experiences bring the destinations to life — from walking tours of charming old towns to visits to historic landmarks or scenic countryside drives.

Many cruises offer different excursion levels to suit every pace and interest. You might choose a gentle walking tour, something more active like a guided bike ride or hike, or a cultural experience focused on art, architecture, or music. For food lovers, there are often culinary or wine-focused tours that highlight local flavors in unforgettable ways.

Led by local experts, these outings provide a deeper connection to the culture, history, and rhythm of each port — without any extra planning on your part.

Drinks

Most river cruises include beverages as part of your fare. Enjoy unlimited coffee, tea, and soft drinks throughout the day, along with beer and wine served with lunch and dinner.

Some programs also feature a daily happy hour or cocktail reception before dinner, while select ships offer an open bar with premium spirits. Drink packages may also be available for purchase, though they’re often not necessary, as most additional drinks are quite reasonably priced onboard.

It’s a lovely way to unwind, toast new friends, and celebrate another day on the river.

Wi-Fi and Connectivity

Staying connected while you travel is simple. Most river ships now include complimentary Wi-Fi so that you can share photos, message loved ones, or stay on top of travel plans. Connection speeds can vary by location, but I’ve personally found the Wi-Fi onboard to be good — reliable enough to check emails, attend to business, or even upload photos between ports.

Entertainment and Activities

Evenings onboard are relaxed but enriching. You might enjoy live music in the lounge, often performed by local entertainers, or a talk from a guest lecturer who shares insight into the next day’s destination.

Daytime often brings cooking demonstrations, wine tastings, or light wellness activities like yoga or guided stretching. Some ships feature a small pool, jacuzzi, walking track, or fitness area, and a few even have pickleball courts — thoughtful touches that make life onboard both active and enjoyable.

These moments add depth and balance to your cruise experience — all included in your fare.

Transfers

Airport transfers are often included as part of your river cruise package, ensuring a smooth and stress-free start to your journey. When you arrange your air travel alongside your cruise booking, transfers between the airport and ship are typically included — so you can relax knowing that from the moment you arrive, every detail has been handled.

Gratuities

Tipping policies differ by cruise line. Some include gratuities for onboard staff and guides in your fare, while others provide clear recommendations at the end of the trip. Either way, you’ll know what’s expected in advance — so there are no surprises.

The Beauty of Every Detail Thoughtfully Included

When you combine your accommodations, dining, drinks, excursions, Wi-Fi, entertainment, and service, the true value of a river cruise becomes clear. Everything is designed for comfort, simplicity, and discovery — so you can focus on the joy of the journey itself.

Love learning what makes river cruising so effortless? Subscribe to our newsletter for travel tips, destination stories, and insider inspiration — created to help you plan your next unforgettable voyage.