Cruise ships are a relatively new concept.

Before 1900, luxurious ocean voyages were limited to the uberwealthy and their personal yachts.

Today, hundreds of cruise ships populate our oceans, boasting everything from five-star restaurants to world-class theaters.

woman holding glass of wine and looking off balcony of cruise ship

River cruises, too, have become widely popular specifically since the 1990s (viaRiver Cruise Advisor).

Because they’re much smaller than ocean liners, river travel offers a more intimate onboard experience.

Given their smaller size, necessitated by shallow waterways, river cruises advertise fewer amenities than their ocean-treading cousins.

River cruise sailing through London at night

Just keep in mind: the higher your cabin, the better the view.

Fortunately, it’s a lot easier to climb on and off a river vessel.

As noted bySometimes Sailing, it can take as little as two minutes to walk off a river cruise.

River cruise docks in Budapest

Best of all, the line to get back on board is usually nonexistent.