- all-aboard time
- The published time by which all passengers must be back on the vessel before it departs. It is usually earlier than the actual departure time to allow the crew to prepare for sailing. What to do if you miss your river cruise departure – 4 steps that get you back on board
- disembarkation
- The process of leaving the vessel at the end of your cruise, when you settle any outstanding charges, return your cabin key and collect your luggage. What your all-inclusive river cruise fare covers – and the 6 extras that aren't included
- embarkation
- The process of boarding the vessel at the start of your cruise, during which you check in, receive your cabin key and attend a safety briefing. What your all-inclusive river cruise fare covers – and the 6 extras that aren't included
- French balcony
- A cabin feature on river cruise ships where floor-to-ceiling glass doors open fully to let in air and views, but no platform extends beyond the cabin wall for you to step onto. What a French balcony is and how to decide if it suits your cruise
- gangway
- The short, movable bridge or ramp that connects the vessel to the shore when the boat is moored, allowing passengers to walk on and off safely. What your all-inclusive river cruise fare covers – and the 6 extras that aren't included
- lock
- A sealed chamber built into a river or canal that raises or lowers a ship between two different water levels using gates and controlled water flow. River cruise locks explained: three things you'll notice on deck
- pontoon
- A floating platform that rises and falls with the water level. When a boat moors at a pontoon, the gangway tends to be shorter and steadier than when mooring directly to a fixed riverbank. Board Your River Cruise Safely – What to Expect from Gangways and Crew Support
- shore excursions
- Organised tours at each port, usually included in the fare. They range from coach tours of cities and landmarks to active options such as cycling or hiking. Choosing your first river cruise – 6 practical decisions that shape your trip
- shoulder season
- The period between peak and off-peak travel times, typically spring and autumn on European rivers, when fares are lower and weather remains pleasant. Work out what you'll spend on your river cruise – 5 costs that shape your budget
- single supplement
- An additional charge solo travellers pay when occupying a cabin designed for two, usually a percentage of the double-occupancy fare. Work out what you'll spend on your river cruise – 5 costs that shape your budget
- tipping pool
- A system where passenger gratuities are collected together and divided among all crew members according to an agreed formula based on role and hours worked, ensuring fair distribution to both front-of-house and behind-the-scenes staff. What you need to know about tipping on your river cruise – amounts, timing and crew pools
- weir
- A barrier built across a river to control the flow and level of water, usually seen rather than sailed through. River cruise locks explained: three things you'll notice on deck
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