What to Pack for a 10 or 14 Night River Cruise
Whatever the season for your longer river cruise and no matter the weather holds, here’s our top tips for packing for up to a fortnight on the water.
If you’ve the time to spare and are seeking an escape to pastures new, along with a good dose of luxurious relaxation and fine dining, then our 10- and 14-night river cruises along Europe’s waterways have it all. Sailing with like-minded guests, a sociable ambience pervades on board and you’re likely to make plenty of new friends.
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With more time on board, there’s ample opportunity to unwind and recharge while you make the most of the excellent on-board facilities too. With included expert-led guided tours and fascinating visits, discovering some of Europe’s finest treasures and lesser-known gems, ensures a longer or two-week river cruise is jam-packed with rich experiences and memories to treasure.
Once you’ve made the decision to book, you may start wondering what to pack for a 10- or 14-night river cruises, and how much you’re going to need. No need to worry however, as a river cruise is a relaxed affair, where the dress code is all about being comfortable and casual, so packing should be easy.
Packing For A Longer River Cruise
Packing for a longer river cruise couldn’t be easier. Just think of your holiday as a city break on the water, one where you return to the same luxurious floating hotel every day. Much of the focus is on excursions and cultural experiences, exploring destinations with like-minded people, so when it comes to thinking about what to wear on a cruise, keep it simple. Bring casual clothes that are comfortable – that’s your main priority.
Unlike ocean cruises where guests often dine in ballgowns and tuxedos, the dress code on a river cruise is much more relaxed and informal. When choosing your holiday wardrobe, stick to one- or two-colour schemes. Keep basics such as trousers, shorts or skirts, dark, neutral or plain, as they’ll be easier to mix and match with striped polo shirts, colourful T-shirts or a patterned blouse.
What To Wear On A Longer Cruise During The Day
Whether you’re off on a fortnight cruise from Budapest to the Black Sea or one that takes you along the stunning Rhône over 10 nights including spectacular Lyon, Provençal Rhône and Camargue, daytime wear will be casual.
Pack loose-fitting attire that’s suitable for sightseeing and excursions ashore. Many cruise guests choose to wear clothes they feel relaxed in such as jeans, chinos, capri pants, skirts, or shorts.
Layers are a good idea too, and perfect to deal with any changeable weather – you’ll be thankful of a warm fleece or jumper if there’s a cool breeze, and a lightweight water-resistant jacket will be invaluable if the forecast is rain. Hopefully the sun will be shining though, so pack sunglasses and a sun hat, and a light cover-up to protect your skin.
Regardless of the weather, a longer river cruise allows you to fully immerse yourself in the culture and history of new destinations, so the last thing you want to suffer from is sore feet. When thinking about what to wear, choose comfortable, supportive shoes, perhaps your favourite pair of trainers, walking shoes or sandals to avoid any blisters. Guided excursions are at a leisurely pace, but they may involve a stroll along cobbled streets or an uphill climb – it’s best to be prepared.
What To Wear On A Longer Cruise In The Evening
The dress code can be a little smarter for dinner but only as far as perhaps trousers with a collared shirt or a sparkly top. Even on our longer cruises, there’s no need to bring along formal wear, such as a suit and tie or a selection of cocktail dresses. That said, anything goes and if you wish to dress up for welcome drinks and the Captain’s Dinner on your last night, it’s entirely your choice. Some guests may feel more comfortable wearing a blazer, others will decide it’s the perfect opportunity to don a floaty summer frock – it’s really up to you.
More often than not though, you’ll see other guests simply wearing open-neck shirts and sweaters, with ladies choosing to glam up an outfit with a colourful scarf or some costume jewellery – a pashmina is also handy if you’re up on deck enjoying the passing scenery with a nightcap.
As for your all-important footwear, when you’re cruising for two weeks, comfortable shoes are essential and loafers or boat shoes with rubber soles are a popular choice. Women rarely wear high heels, opting instead for a comfy pair of sandals or flat shoes.
What To Wear On A Cruise At Different Times Of The Year
It goes without saying that much of know what to pack for a 10 or 14-night river cruise will depend on the destinations you are visiting and the time of year you embark on your trip. European summer river cruises can be hot whilst on autumn and spring cruises the weather can be more unpredictable.
During seasons when it’s a little chillier in the mornings and evenings, pack a cosy cardigan or jumper, and a waterproof jacket as well – umbrellas are available on board, though these are generally large umbrellas, so you might fancy packing a telescopic one into your luggage too. On a fortnight’s cruise you might find you’re travelling through several different countries too, in which case you’re certain to experience some changes in the weather forecast, so layering options in your river cruise capsule wardrobe will be essential.
Good To Know
When considering what to pack for your longer river cruise in Europe, check out your cruise ship’s on-board facilities. Remember to pack swimwear so you can enjoy the on-board plunge pool, sauna or steam room – or pay a visit the thermal baths if stopping off in Budapest. Many ships also have a small gym or fitness room, so if you’re planning on working off all those delicious meals with a workout, don’t forget your sportswear!
On some excursions you will be visiting religious sites or places of worship. If you’d like to go inside these buildings, be mindful to respect other cultures and their customs. This may involve you dressing modestly and covering up shoulders and knees – a shawl, light long-sleeved top and zip-off trousers could come in useful. You may also be asked to remove hats and footwear.
It’s worth noting that few river cruise ships will have a laundry service or ironing facilities. As a result, bring clothes that don’t crease easily, made from synthetics such as nylon, Lycra and polyester, or jersey and wool and some find rolling clothes rather than folding them in the suitcase – a very handy tip.
You’ll want to bring a bag, but ladies should leave large handbags at home. A lightweight crossover bag should be all you need while on excursions and is often preferable to a rucksack. Not only will you keep your belongings safe, you’ll also be hands-free to take those all-important holiday snaps.
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