When you’re travelling, using public transport can be a bit of a gamble. In some countries, you’ll be on a comfortable train that always comes on time and doesn’t cost that much. In others, you’ll find yourself on a cramped bus with no air conditioning for hours on end. Those long distance journeys are the thing you really need to watch out for. But there is an alternative, getting a boat ride. People often think of boats as a leisurely activity, which they are, but they’re also a great way to get from A to B. These are just some of the many benefits of travelling by boat.
Boats Are Often Cheaper
If you’re exploring a continent on a longer trip and you’re flying to get from place to place, you’ll end up spending a lot of money, not to mention having to go through the hassle of flying all the time. But you can get some amazing scenic river cruise deals which are often cheaper than loads of flights. They’ll take you through a few different places for one single price, rather than booking multiple flights. The Danube River in Europe is a great river cruise which I have actually experienced because it takes you through Hungary, Slovakia, and Austria.
You’ve Got More Space
In a country with bad public transport, long distance journeys can be hell. You’ll have no space and you won’t be comfortable at all. Flying is a little better but it’s not exactly luxury. But on a boat, you’ll have all the space you need. You can wander around deck, order food and drinks on some boats, and even have a nap in the sunshine.
More Scenic Views
This one relates more to flying than bus or train travel. Driving is one of the best ways to see a country because you can take in all of the scenery along the way. But when you’re flying, you only see clouds and maybe a bit of the country on takeoff and landing. Compare that with the stunning sea views that you’ll get on a boat and there’s no contest. Depending on where you are, you might even get to see some incredible sea life as well.
Boats Are More Social
When you’re cramped on a bus, it’s not the best place to meet people, and meeting people is one of the greatest things about travelling. On a boat, you’ve got plenty of space to move about and talk to people and you’ve got plenty of time to do it. This is a huge benefit because meeting the locals or other travellers who can give you suggestions on where to go and what to do can really enrich your travel experience.
Boats Are Slower
Some people consider this a negative but for some, it’s a positive. When you’re on the trip of a lifetime, jumping between countries and doing all sorts of activities, it’s nice to have a bit of time to relax. You can plan the next phase of your trip on the way there or just catch up on some much needed sleep.
Next time you’re planning a trip away, try to factor a boat trip in there somewhere. You definitely won’t regret it!
Liz x
*This is a collaborative post
No comments