Preparation

Getting prepared for a trip is always a bit of a harried and confusing endeavor. River cruise preparation involves the usual clothing quandaries, plus the general array of checking passport validity, acquiring necessary visas, knowing what currency will be needed on-board and on-shore, making sure you have ample supplies of important medications, an extra pair of prescription glasses, and of course, packing the appropriate clothing, shoes, and accessories.

Clothing

The key when choosing which clothing to take is to remember to pack and dress for comfort, as comfort can make a huge difference in your enjoyment of the cruise. It is important to be appropriately prepared for the season, activities, excursions, and sightseeing. Life on board the river ships and barges is generally casual during the day, so dressing for day consists of wearing what makes you feel comfortable. Make sure to bring weather-appropriate clothing for the season in which you are traveling and any specific sport or workout gear, if so desired. Dressing for evening will vary depending on the ship or barge, but it is always a good idea to have something special for those occasions. The available closet and storage space on river ships and barges is limited, so if you do not think you will wear it or need, do not pack it.
*Please see the What to Expect: What to Wear section for more detail and dress codes.

Documents

The most practical and necessary proof if identity and nationality is your passport. In some countries a visa will be necessary. Make sure to allow enough time before your departure date to take care of any official documents with the appropriate embassy or consulate.

On most river ship cruises, it is necessary to give the passport to the purser when you embark and check in, which facilitates any customs or immigration issues as the vessel crosses international borders. If you should need it for any reason while in a port of call, just enquire at the reception desk and make sure to return it when you have re-embarked.

Medication

It is important to take any prescription medication and medical supplies that you need and use regularly. It is a good idea to take an extra pair of eyeglasses or contacts. Also, it is a good idea to have a copy of the prescription with you – for medications and eyeglasses – in case you must replace or acquire a new prescription, in the event of loss or long cruises.

Money

The river cruise vessels operating on European waterways primarily use Euros, but some may operate with other currencies or are equipped to deal with multiple currencies. It is a good idea to have cash on hand for the sightseeing excursions and small denominations of bills for shopping in the local markets. Shops may or may not accept credit cards and the open-air food and clothing markets are generally cash only. Most ports of call have cash distributors (ATMs) at all the bank agencies in town and sometimes at post offices, so it is a good idea to be prepared and think ahead, especially if the boat is docked far from the town.

*Please see the What to Expect: Money and Expenses on Board and Money on Shore sections for more detailed information.

Photography

A cruise provides an immense number of photo opportunities. Make sure to have enough memory or film with you, as you may or may not be able to find photo shops that can upload your photos and create a CD for you or provide you with the type of film you prefer. If traveling with a laptop, it is a good idea to upload the photos daily, keeping the memory card free.

Travel Insurance

As with any type of insurance, when purchasing travel insurance make sure to read the policy thoroughly and be informed of what is and what is not really covered.