The Hidden Costs of River Cruising
River cruise operators are generally upfront about their all-inclusive pricing but there are genuine additional costs that Australians should factor into their budget before booking. This guide covers everything, so there are no surprises.
1. Gratuities (Tips)
CroisiEurope does not mandate tipping, but it is customary and appreciated. The guideline is approximately €5 €10 per person per day for the crew settled by envelope at the end of the cruise. On a 7-day cruise for two, budget approximately AUD$150 $300 total.
2. Premium Shore Excursions
CroisiEurope offers a standard shore excursion at each port (bookable separately for European itineraries; included for Mekong, Africa & Amazon) a guided walking tour or coach excursion. Optional premium experiences are available at extra cost: a Riesling wine tasting at an estate (€30 €50pp), a private guided tour of the Vienna State Opera (€40 €60pp), a cooking class in Alsace (€60 €80pp). These are optional and worthwhile if your interests align budget AUD$50 $150 per person per excursion.
3. Beverages Outside Meal Service
Wine, beer, and non-alcoholic drinks with meals are included. Drinks at the bar throughout the day are also included a gin and tonic before dinner, a nightcap whisky are charged to your cabin account. Budget approximately AUD$20 $40 per couple per day if you enjoy a drink at the bar.
4. Wi-Fi
CroisiEurope does not always include Wi-Fi as a standard inclusion (unlike Viking, which does). Wi-Fi is available for purchase on most ships. Budget approximately €30 €50 for the cruise if you need reliable internet. Alternatively, a European SIM or a roaming add-on from your Australian carrier will work in port.
5. Travel Insurance
Strongly recommended. A comprehensive policy covering cruise interruption, medical evacuation, trip cancellation, and personal liability should be purchased at time of deposit. Budget AUD$200 $400 per person for a comprehensive 3-week Europe policy.
6. Pre/Post Cruise Hotels
Most Australian river cruisers add city stays before or after the cruise. A 4-star hotel in Vienna, Budapest, or Strasbourg costs AUD$200 $400 per night (twin). Budget AUD$1,000 $2,500 for a typical 3 5 night pre/post stay.
7. Lunches Ashore
CroisiEurope serves lunch on board but if you're ashore exploring independently, you may choose to eat locally. A sit-down lunch in Vienna, Budapest, or Strasbourg for two costs approximately AUD$40 $80. Budget for the days when you know you'll be out all day.
8. Flights
The biggest variable for Australians. Economy return flights to Europe: approximately AUD$1,800 $3,500pp. Business class: AUD$6,000 $12,000pp. Book early 9 12 months ahead for best pricing.
Total Additional Budget: A Realistic Estimate
For a couple on a 7-day CroisiEurope Danube cruise:
• Gratuities: AUD$150 $300
• 2 3 premium excursions: AUD$200 $400 total
• Bar drinks: AUD$150 $250
• Wi-Fi: AUD$80 $120
• Travel insurance: AUD$500 $800 (both)
• Pre/post hotels (4 nights, 4-star): AUD$1,200 $2,000
• Lunches ashore: AUD$200 $400
Total additional spend above the cruise price: approximately AUD$2,500 $4,000 for two. A significant but predictable amount that should be factored into your initial budget.
Book Your 2027 River Cruise with CroisiEurope Australia
CroisiEurope Australia handles all bookings for Australian travellers local support, AUD pricing, no credit card surcharges on Visa or Mastercard.
Phone: 1300 739 652 | Email: contact@croisicruises.com
Website: www.croisieuroperivercruises.com.au | Office: Tweet World Travel, 544 Magill Road, Magill SA 5072
2027 Early Booking is open now. Enquire today.
