Brava Review

4.5 / 5.0
4 reviews
See all photos
Editor Rating
4.5
Very Good
Overall
Jeannine Williamson
Contributor

The German-owned A-Rosa Brava is part of an 11-strong fleet that was founded in 2000 as a joint venture between the shipping company, Deutsche Seereederei (DSR), and P&O. The line is now solely owned by DSR. A-Rosa has recently begun to market its product in the English-speaking market.

Offering a "casual-deluxe" environment, A-Rosa Brava carries the fleet's distinctive hallmarks (a large pair of lips on the bow carrying a red rose and rose-themed interior). It also boasts several unique features for river cruising, including a branded spa, a stage for entertainment and family-friendly cruises. Although Brava is not one of the fleet's "international" vessels -- which have a second dedicated English-speaking host -- all crew members are bilingual and onboard information and literature is also in English.

Cruises are sold to U.K. passengers on A-Rosa's Select Premium all-inclusive basis, which covers all drinks (excluding Champagne and premium brands), complimentary Wi-Fi, no single supplement on selected departures, free use of onboard bicycles, at least one shore excursion and free travel for children under 15.

Between April and December, Brava sails on Rhine itineraries departing from Cologne and ranging in duration from three-night "taster" cruises, which will particularly appeal to passengers new to river cruising who want to test the proverbial water, to seven-day voyages.

About

Passengers: 202
Crew: 50
Passenger to Crew: 4.04:1
Launched: 2011

Fellow Passengers

The majority of passengers are from Germany, where the line has its roots. However, the line expects to increase an already significant percentage of English-speaking passengers in coming years. Unusually, for river cruising, A-Rosa actively welcomes children and families, so there are sometimes multigenerational groups onboard. General amenities, and food, reflect more than a passing nod to the German passion for health and fitness. As a result, the average age for passengers is 57-- much younger than the normal river cruise demographic.

A-ROSA Cruises Brava Dress Code

The ship has a relaxed atmosphere and there is no set dress code. Comfortable, casual clothing is suitable onboard and during excursions. Bring warmer clothing for evenings on deck, plus comfortable shoes for walking tours and free time as many towns have uneven, cobbled streets and steps. Some passengers like to dress up for a la carte dinners in the restaurant, but full-on cocktail attire and evening dress can be left at home.

Find a cruise

Any Month
A-ROSA Cruises Brava Cruiser Reviews

Relaxing trip

This was disappointing as members of our party had recently been to the cities to the north and we had specifically wanted to see the Alps and that was why we picked this trip, but we ended up having a much more easy trip as we only spent about two days in port, therefore giving us lots of relaxing boat and family time.We were a family of six non-German speakers including two kids who had a very relaxing time on this trip.Read More
User Avatar
AmiSwe

couple2-5 Cruises

Age 40s

A-ROSA Cruises Fleet
Aqua
Donna

Get special cruise deals, expert advice, insider tips and more.By proceeding, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use.

© 1995—2024, The Independent Traveler, Inc.