Ocean Vs. River Cruise, a Real Life Comparison, Dollar for Dollar

If you’ve ever been on an ocean cruise, you might think you know what to expect when setting sail. Massive ships with thousands of passengers, endless dining options, multiple pools, live shows, and a bustling atmosphere are hallmarks of traditional ocean cruising. While these ships offer plenty of entertainment and excitement, river cruising provides a very different — and often more personal — experience.

Ocean cruises are like floating cities. They’re perfect for travelers who love variety, nightlife, and an abundance of onboard activities. Families, groups of friends, and those seeking nonstop entertainment often gravitate toward these larger ships. However, ocean liners usually dock at commercial ports, which can be far from the city center. That means you’ll often need extra transportation, like buses or taxis, to reach the main attractions and sightseeing areas.

River cruises, by contrast, focus on intimacy and convenience. These smaller ships typically carry 150 to 200 passengers, creating a more relaxed and personal atmosphere. With fewer people onboard, it’s easier to connect with fellow travelers and receive attentive service. Plus, river cruise ships often dock right in the heart of historic towns and charming villages, allowing you to step off the ship and start exploring immediately.

The pace of a river cruise is slower and more scenic. Instead of long days at sea, you’ll glide along picturesque waterways, passing castles, vineyards, and storybook towns. The journey itself becomes part of the experience, with many itineraries including guided excursions that bring local history and culture to life.

What’s Included: River vs. Ocean Cruises

One of the biggest differences between river and ocean cruising is what’s included in the fare.

• River Cruises – Most river cruise fares are designed to be nearly all-inclusive. They typically include:

  • Daily shore excursions and guided tours

  • All meals onboard

  • Wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner (sometimes unlimited beverages)

  • Wi-Fi

  • Airport transfers (on many lines)

  • Gratuities (on select cruise lines)

  This means you’ll pay more upfront, but there are fewer surprise costs during your trip.

• Ocean Cruises – Ocean cruise fares often cover only the basics, such as:

  • Accommodation

  • Standard meals in main dining rooms and buffets

  • Basic entertainment and shows

  
  

• Extras like specialty dining, drinks, Wi-Fi, shore excursions, gratuities, and spa services usually come with additional fees. While this can make the initial price look lower, these add-ons can quickly increase the total cost of the trip.

Below is a side-by-side look at what’s included vs. extra on a 7-day river cruise vs. a 7-day ocean cruise, using entry-level inside cabins.

• River Cruise Example: Viking 7-Day Danube Cruise (window included)

• Ocean Cruise Example: Celebrity 7-Day Mediterranean Cruise (departing from Rome, Italy)

Note: Costs do not include airfare.

River Cruise – Viking

• Base Fare: $3,299 per person

• Total for Two: $6,598

Item	Cost Per Person	Total Cost
Specialty Dining	Included	$0
Daily Excursions	Included	$0
Wine, Beer & Soda (Meals)	Included	$0
Bottled Water (6/day)	Included	$0
Wi-Fi	Included	$0
Gratuities	$140	$280
Airport Transfers	Included	$0
Grand Total	—	$6,870

Ocean Cruise – Celebrity

• Base Fare: $1,346 per person

• Total for Two: $2,692

Item	Cost Per Person	Total Cost
Gratuities	$126	$252
Wine, Beer & Soda (Meals)	$80 per person, per day	$1,120
Bottled Water (3/day @ $3.25)	$68.25	$136.50
Wi-Fi	$30 per person, per day	$420
Daily Excursions (avg. $125 each)	$625 per person	$1,250
Airport Transfers	$60 per person	$120
Grand Total	—	$5,990

Summary

While the ocean cruise starts with a much lower base fare, the extra costs for drinks, Wi-Fi, excursions, and gratuities add up quickly.

• Viking River Cruise Total: $6,870

• Celebrity Ocean Cruise Total: $5,990

That’s only an $880 difference, but with the river cruise you get:

• All daily excursions included

• Drinks and bottled water included

• Wi-Fi included

• Specialty dining included

• More intimate and culturally focused experience

For travelers who prefer an all-inclusive, hassle-free vacation, a river cruise may offer better overall value, even at a slightly higher upfront price.

Choosing Your Ideal Cruise Experience

Ocean cruises are perfect for those seeking variety, nightlife, and a lively social atmosphere. River cruises, on the other hand, are ideal for travelers looking for a slower, more meaningful journey with a strong focus on culture, history, and authentic experiences.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your travel style — whether you want a vibrant, activity-filled floating city or a more intimate, immersive voyage through the heart of a region.