Touring vs River Cruising – What’s the Difference?
Riviera Travel offers both escorted tours and river cruising; it’s essential to understand the key differences between the two, so you can help your clients make an informed decision when planning their dream getaway.
A Snapshot
A Riviera Travel river cruise offers a relaxed, immersive journey with guided excursions, stunning scenery, and exceptional onboard service. In contrast, an escorted tour is more dynamic, using various transport options to explore multiple destinations, with full-day itineraries and diverse accommodations and activities included.

Two Unique Travel Styles: A Comparison
Explore the key differences between river cruising and escorted tours with Riviera Travel, divided into key areas for easy comparison.
01. Travel Mode & Itineraries
Escorted Tours
Riviera Travel’s escorted tours typically involve coach, rail, and flight travel between cities or regions, with a well-paced, well-structured itinerary, perfect for clients who love exploring multiple landmarks and attractions each day.
River Cruising
Riviera Travel’s river cruises focus on a more relaxed and immersive experience. Clients cruise along scenic rivers, enjoying panoramic views with relaxed excursions to picturesque towns. There is plenty of time to unwind and enjoy the facilities on board.
02. Stay Experience
Escorted Tours
River Cruising
03. Pace & Itineraries
Escorted Tours
River Cruising
04. Destinations
Escorted Tours
River Cruising
05. Comfort vs. Adventure
Escorted Tours
River Cruising
With river cruising, clients return to the same ship and its stunning interiors after each day’s exploration, unpacking once and enjoying familiar amenities and excellent service. This creates a sense of stability and comfort despite sailing to new destinations each day.
Key Differences & Tips For Agents
Quick sales-boosting insights to keep in mind when recommending Riviera Travel itineraries.

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Escorted Tours: Ideal For Fast-Paced Travellers
If your client prefers a fast-paced, active holiday with multiple destinations and lots of sightseeing, an escorted tour is a great fit. -
River Cruises: A Relaxing Journey
Meanwhile, a river cruise offers a more relaxed journey where the journey itself is as much a part of the holiday as the destinations. -
Sail In Style: Comfort On Riviera Travel's Ships
If your client values comfort and the convenience of staying on a beautiful Riviera Travel ship, river cruising is the ideal choice. -
Touring: Destination-Focused Adventures
For those who prioritise the destinations and overall experience, with the hotel as a complement, touring is the better fit. -
River Cruises: Consistency Without the Stress
If your client values comfort and consistency, a river cruise offers the ease of exploring new destinations without the stress of constant change. -
Escorted Tours: For The Thrill Of Discovery
An escorted tour, however, is ideal for those seeking adventure and the thrill of discovering new places. -
Solo-Friendly Tours With A Community Spirit
Solo clients might feel nervous at first - reassure them that Riviera’s solo tours have no single supplements and a built-in community feel. -
River Cruises: Ideal For All Generations
River cruises are great for multi-generational travellers — comfortable, scenic, and less tiring than land-based tours. -
Choosing Between Cruise and Tour: Onboard Time vs. Sightseeing
If your client is deciding between the two, ask whether they want more time on board or more time sightseeing.
Key Similarities
Whether your clients choose a river cruise or an escorted tour with Riviera Travel, both offer a high level of convenience and inclusivity. Here are the key similarities:
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Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions agents might hear - or be asking themselves.
Can clients combine both in one trip?
Yes! Many agents build tailor-made holidays combining a river cruise with a pre- or post-tour land extension. Riviera Travel’s flexible itineraries make this easy.
What’s the average group size on each?
- River Cruises: Around 140 guests, with a relaxed and sociable onboard experience.
- Escorted Tours: Typically 25–40 people, offering a more intimate group dynamic with plenty of guide interaction.
Are these products suitable for solo travellers?
Absolutely. Riviera Travel offers dedicated Solo Tours with no single supplements and a welcoming group format. Many standard tours also include a limited number of solo cabins or rooms.
How active are the tours vs. cruises?
River cruises are lower-paced with mostly optional walking tours. Escorted tours involve more travel and sightseeing but are designed with comfort and accessibility in mind.
Is everything included?
Yes. Both include flights, transfers, accommodation, daily excursions, and expert guides. Cruises also include full board; tours include selected meals (usually breakfast and some dinners).
Types of Travellers
Luxury Seekers
Active & Leisurely Travellers
Cultural Explorers
Organised Tour Seekers
Customers who want a stress-free experience with everything planned, from guided tours to meals.
Active Retirees
Older travellers who prefer a structured itinerary with a balance of sightseeing, light adventure, and relaxation.
Families & Multi-Gen Groups
Travellers who appreciate the ease of having accommodations, meals, and activities all pre-arranged.
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