Paris to Provence Cruise-Which Cruise Line?

[swifs]

We are considering our first river cruise next spring and are trying to make a decision among Uniworld, Viking, and Avalon who all offer similar itineraries. Is there anyone who has tried more than one river cruise lines who could offer some guidance on the different lines-compare the quality of the excursions, on-board lectures, on-board life in general, cabins, price - that might be helpful?

[pacmom]

If you post your question on the river & canal board, you'll get lots of cheerleader type results. Some research will give you the best trip for you. We were on the River Royale during her first season. Can't believe it has been 5 years. She is still getting excellent reviews. Good luck. Pat

[pacmom]

To answer some of your questions....have travelled with both Uniworld and Viking.....the boat of Viking's that we saw had pullman style beds...Uniworld's are hotel style...onboard lectures on our trip on the Rhone were mainly given by our CD, a Viennese University prof....very knowledgeable about the area and WWII....have good things about Avalon. As I said in previous post, you get more answers on the river & canal board. Pat

[swifs]

Actually your comments are more informative than many I received on the other site (where I also posted). Which cruise line had the lectures that you mentioned (or do they all have them)?

[pacmom]

Sorry to be so long in answering your post...we've been away. The line we used on the Rhone was Uniworld. This gentleman was a relief CD. His name is Christian Basel. Thre have been lectures in just about all the lines we've used...the Christmas market cruise had a lecture about German Christmas traditions and there is usually a cooking demo. Will keep checking tis thread to see if you have aby more questions. Pat

[tommui987]

Which cruise line had the lectures that you mentioned (or do they all have them)?

 

Have only been on Viking (3 trips) and can't answer for the other river cruise lines, but all three had lecturers - not only site information but also history, political etc.