Your Questions, Answered
River Cruise FAQ
Everything you need to know before, during, and after your river cruise — from passports and packing to water levels and tipping customs.
Passports & Visas
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Quick Reference
The most important things to remember at a glance.
Passport Validity
6 months beyond your return date — not just your departure.
Walking Shoes
Broken-in, comfortable shoes. Even "easy" excursions cover 1+ miles.
Tipping in Europe
5–10% is generous. Going over can be awkward. Follow cruise line guidance onboard.
Travel Insurance
Not optional. Ask your advisor about cruise line vs. third-party options.
Passport Copies
Make several color copies. Keep in luggage, purse, backpack — and leave one at home.
Rafting
Ships tie side-by-side at busy ports. You may walk through 2–3 ships to get ashore.
Don't Miss the Ship
Set an alarm 30 min before posted return time. The ship will not wait.
Medications
Original containers only. Carry-on bag always. Bring extra days' supply.
Visa & Entry Requirements
Know Before You Go
Entry requirements vary by destination and nationality — and they change. For country-specific, up-to-date visa requirements, we recommend CIBTvisa.com, a trusted resource used by travelers and travel professionals worldwide.
Key upcoming changes for European travel: the ETIAS authorization system (similar to the U.S. ESTA) and the EES biometric border registration system are both expected to be in effect for 2025–2026 travel. We'll keep you informed as your travel date approaches.
Visit CIBTvisa.comETIAS
Required for Schengen Area entry — expected 2025
EES
Biometric border registration for EU entry
UK ETA
Required for UK visits — apply online, £10
Country Visas
Serbia, Egypt & others — check CIBTvisa.com
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