If you're thinking about taking a river cruise, it's important to note that prices do not necessarily fall as the departure approaches. In fact, the earlier you book, the better, as discounts are generally at their peak when each year's brochures are first released. Plus, river cruise companies' contract with airlines for specific numbers of seats at good rates and when they are gone, air prices can rise dramatically, especially for summer and early fall travel. September is the most popular time to cruise, but also the most expensive. You'll find lower prices during the months of November, December, February, March and April.

Unfortunately, there are not many ships that cater to people who use a wheelchair. River cruise companies' welcome guests with disabilities but note that challenges will exist on board and during shore excursions. Some ships have elevators, and some do not; some ships have split-level decks and/or significant thresholds that could make movement difficult. Under some circumstances, guests are able to use wheelchairs on board, but shore excursions may require movement over cobblestone roads or up and down stairs.

Accordingly, there may be no shore excursions offered in certain ports due to the terrain or lack of transportation vehicles that can accommodate wheelchairs. The exception to this is river cruising in the United States. Some lines that operate in the United States, such as American Cruise Lines, offer boarding, staterooms and deck layouts that are wheelchair accessible.

Some river cruise operators offer group discounts, and they typically apply to bookings of 10 or more people or 5 cabins. Contact me to get more information concerning your group.

River vessels are smaller and more intimate than traditional ocean liners. These floating hotels allow you to mingle and dance in the lounge, enjoy fine cuisine in the elegant dining room or simply relax and watch spectacular scenery drift by from the observation deck. Most staterooms on river cruise ships are outside cabins with at least a partial river view.

Most river cruise companies leave the amount of gratuities to your discretion, while there are a few operators that include tips in your upfront price and do not encourage additional tipping once you are on board. For more information on tipping standards, please ask me.

Yes, some lines offer cabins designed specifically for single travelers, while others offer a single share program that allows guests to avoid paying a single supplement.

Yes, some river cruise companies allow you to purchase optional excursions in advance. I can verify each company's policy for you. I can also arrange shore excursions that are separate from the cruise line, and still get you back to the ship before departure.

River cruises that range from 3-day getaways to trips of 30 days or longer that include a land tour and a river cruise.

Most river cruise companies do not offer special arrangements or activities for children on board. However, some river cruise operators do offer a few sailings per year exclusively tailored for families. Adventures with Disney does offer river cruises with Amawaterways.

Fortunately, this situation does occurs, not often but it does happen. If the river is too high or low and cruising on the vessel is not possible, the itinerary may be continued on land using a motor coach and hotels. Most excursions still take place, and the cruise company might add to the itinerary as compensation for not traveling by river.

The language on board most ships is English. All staff, crew and tour guides speak English. All announcements, lectures and commentary will be in English.

Yes, theme cruises offer the opportunity to indulge in a favorite hobby and increase your knowledge of a wide variety of subjects -- from gourmet cuisine and fine wine to music, culture and history. Programs may include special guest speakers, performances by noted entertainers, theme-related shore excursions and the chance to interact with experts in a particular field.

Yes, most river companies impose a minimum age requirement for all guests, in addition to a minimum age requirement for guests in each cabin.

The currency on board will vary depending on the company and region being sailed. Items you purchase on board, together with any optional excursions you purchase, will be added to your shipboard account, which can be settled with a credit card.

Most river cruise companies do not allow pets or service animals on board their ships.