Packing for Christmas Market Cruise

I am going on a Uniworld cruise starting in Prague and then from Nuremburg to Frankfurt December 5 through December 15th.

Question: I wonder if anyone has any thoughts on fur coats V.S. down coats on the Christmas Markets cruise. I have both and don't know which one would be best. My fur is a short-haired coat and therefore not as heavy as a long-haired fur. However, it is very long ( almost ankle length ).

The down coat is substantial also, but knee length, to be worn with high boots.

I would appreciate your comments.

I would suggest layers. Sweaters, long sleeved shirts/blouses. Could have snow so maybe boots. Gloves and scarfs. We did a Vantage Christmas market trip in 2011 and it was quite cold. Take a good hat, a wool one that you can pull down over your ears. Also a small umbrella is a must.

Sounds like both of your coats will be warm enough, but which one will repel possible rain or wet snow? Which is lighter in weight? Less bulky? Has the better pockets for Stashing stuff?

Down and knee length with boots or tights/leggings or slacks, definitely.

Much more fashionable, comfortable, easier to handle and pack and you can wear it with more outfits, also much better in the rain.

We're flying Dec 4th to Basel and sailing Dec 7th on the Rhine River. I personally wouldn't like a long coat - for me it would be too annoying so I'd "vote" for the shorter coat plus boots. I'd think the down would be better if there's rain - one factor along the Rhine right now - hoping its all rained out in 2 weeks!!

Whatever you decide - have a great cruise!!

we will be on the Luftner Amadeus Brilliant,,, Dec. 4th-12th,,, Frankfort then to Wurzburg to Vienna,,,we have been advised to dress in layers and be sure the outer layer is waterproof.

For winter travel in Europe I pack a full length down coat and knee high waterproof Sorel boots. Both are tried and true.

Down repels water and I prefer the warmth of a full length coat rather than having to wear silk long johns, which are then too warm when we are indoors having a coffee or visiting a museum or pub.

We both pack in layers and I am a fan of cords and leggings for winter travel. I pack cami's and half zip tops to wear during the day. Earmuffs, hat, gloves and scarf as well.

We just returned. From Budapest to Prague. Layers!!

I took a mid calf length faux shearling coat that is very warm, a fleece jacket, and a rain jacket which could be layered over the fleece jacket if needed. My friend took a leather and fur coat. Both of us were plenty warm. Be sure and take gloves too. Lots of ladies had down coats or jackets, and there were a couple of fur coats.

A lot of people had boots. I did not as I didn't want to pack hem, but if going in December, I would have definitely taken them, I took two good pairs of walking shoes, cordoroy jeans, leggings and tights, layer able sweaters and tops. I could have taken fewer tops if I had needed the packing space.