Pandaw River Expedition announces the 1 million dollar refit of two of its colonial steamers
RV Mekong Pandaw & RV Tonle Pandaw.
Both cruise ships were built 2003 in Yangon, Myanmar and were the first river cruise ships to pioneer the mighty Mekong from Saigon to Angkor. The colonial style ships hand crafted in teak and brass remain one of the most loved ships in Southeast Asia.
Both cruise ships were built 2003 in Yangon, Myanmar and were the first river cruise ships to pioneer the mighty Mekong from Saigon to Angkor. The colonial style ships hand crafted in teak and brass remain one of the most loved ships in Southeast Asia.
This year both ships will be refitted with new bathrooms, air conditioning and French windows…
Continue
Added by Chefsamba on June 5, 2013 at 11:17am — No Comments
AmaWaterways will launch a 76-passenger river cruise ship on Myanmar’s Irrawaddy
AmaWaterways will launch a 76-passenger river cruise ship on Myanmar’s Irrawaddy
River in fall 2014.
Ama has partnered with a
company based in Myanmar (also known as Burma), Ayravata Cruises, to build the
vessel, which will tentatively be named AmaPura.
AmaWaterways President Rudi Schreiner did not reveal any
additional details on the Myanmar project.
To date, none of the other major U.S.-based river cruise lines
have entered the Myanmar river…
River in fall 2014.
Ama has partnered with a
company based in Myanmar (also known as Burma), Ayravata Cruises, to build the
vessel, which will tentatively be named AmaPura.
AmaWaterways President Rudi Schreiner did not reveal any
additional details on the Myanmar project.
To date, none of the other major U.S.-based river cruise lines
have entered the Myanmar river…
Added by Mike Davies on April 9, 2013 at 11:41am — No Comments
2 new ships on the Douro River
On March 22, 2013, DouroAzul cruises will launch two new vessels on the Douro River in northern Portugal. In addition to exploring the cultural traditions and natural beauty of the Douro region, these riverboats will cut through the heart of Portugal’s Porto territory.
DouroAzul announced in a release that actress/model Andie MacDowell and her daughter, actress and singer/songwriter Rainey Qualley, will join as the godmothers to christen the new Queen Isabel (operated by Uniworld Cruises). Actress Sharon Stone will also come on-board to participate as a godmother of the AmaVida(operated by AmaWaterways).
According to European Union law, only the grapes from the demarcated Douro region of northern Portugal may use the "Porto" name, making these river cruises unique opportunities traverse port wine's scenic source! The Douro River traverses northern Portugal and is one of the major rivers of the Iberian Peninsula. The Queen Isabel andAmaVida will debark at the Spanish border and head west to the river’s outlet at Porto (the city and namesake for this smooth and sweet wine).
Added by Mike Davies on March 21, 2013 at 3:52pm — No Comments
Viking River Cruises makes history with ship naming
AMSTERDAM -- Fast-growing Viking River Cruises today made cruising history with the naming of 10 new ships at once.
Ten godmothers -- one for each vessel -- braved freezing temperatures on a balloon-lined stage along Amsterdam's waterfront to cut an array of ten ribbons as hundreds of invited guests looked on. As each ribbon was cut, a champagne bottle smashed against one of the ships' hulls.
Four of the new vessels -- the Viking Aegir, Viking Embla, Viking Bragi and Viking Skadi -- were docked at the terminal during the ceremony. The other six ships -- Viking Atla, Viking Forseti, Viking Jarl, Viking Rinda, Viking Tor and Viking Var -- remained at the Neptun shipyard in Rostock, Germany where all 10 vessels were built. Christening attendees could see the latter six ships in a live video feed from the shipyard projected on large screens.
"It's difficult to express the emotions and reality that is behind all of this," Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen said afterwards during a reception at the Amsterdam Passenger Terminal.
Many of the ten godmothers had ties to the rivers on which Viking's ships sail. They included Dertje Meijer, the president and CEO of the Port of Amsterdam, and Sabine Rhabek, who shares a home with the head of Vienna's passenger port. Hagen's sister, Marit Barstad, also was one of the godmothers.
The godmothers each recited a traditional maritime blessing as they were naming the ships.
The ten new ships, each with a capacity for 190 passengers, are the latest in a new generation of vessels that Viking began rolling out in 2012.
Dubbed "longships," they boast a new design that includes the largest suites ever for a river ship in Europe as well as cabins with balconies -- a feature made possible by an innovative new cabin area layout that includes offset main corridors.
Viking is boasting that the longships are the only river cruise vessels in Europe with an array of true suites -- that is, cabins that have an en-suite sitting room in addition to a bedroom. Until now, what have been called suites on European river ships have been no more than single-room cabins that are larger than standard size cabins, the line says.
The longships also have innovative all-weather indoor/outdoor terraces at their fronts -- a new concept for river ships in Europe. The terraces have retractable floor-to-ceiling glass doors.
Viking has ordered 12 more longships for delivery in 2014 -- an unprecedented expansion that will cement its lead as Europe's biggest river cruise operator catering to North Americans. By the end of next year, the company will be operating 28 of the vessels.
The ten ships unveiled on Wednesday will sail this year on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.
Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on March 20, 2013 at 3:39pm — No Comments
Scenic Tours to invest $10 million into luxury river cruising
Scenic 'Space-Ship' Fleet Upgrade Benchmarks the Next Generation of River Cruisers
Sydney: March 15, 2013: Scenic Tours have again raised the bar for luxury river cruising on the grand waterways of Europe with a $10 million refurbishment to their world-class fleet of Scenic 'Space-Ships'. This investment means that they are operating the newest fleet on Europe's rivers with their exclusive Scenic 'Space-Ships' delivering the next generation of luxury.
With uncompromising attention to detail, quality, inclusions and service, the current fleet sailing the Rhine, Main, Danube, Moselle and Black Sea have undergone an extensive refurbishment program, exacting the standards of the newest ship to join the fleet, Scenic Jewel who takes her inaugural cruise in April.
Scenic Tours Managing Director, Glen Moroney says that the refurbished fleet promises that no matter where or when guests travel with Scenic Tours in Europe, they will always be guaranteed to enjoy the most luxurious tour to exacting standards. "At 135 metres in length and boasting two entire decks of cabins with private balconies, Scenic 'Space-Ships' are the next generation of river cruisers. They are longer than other ships sailing Europe's waterways, boasting 22 per cent more space."
Scenic 'Space-Ships' have always been the benchmark for luxury river cruising, and Mr. Moroney adds that his commitment to keeping the company's reputation at that level is highlighted by the fact that the fleet range in age from 18 months to just four years. "We have always presented the best examples of top design and innovation in creating the best all-inclusive luxury river cruising experience on the market. And we will continue to elevate that standard to the highest possible level."
These Scenic 'Space-Ships' now all feature new dining additions – the casual River Café for all-day grazing and Table La Rive for a dégustation experience, whilst Portobellos has also been upgraded. The main restaurant, Crystal Dining is enhanced with new pizza ovens, omelette and carver stations and the Panorama Lounge has a new bar embellished with Port Laurent black Moroccan marble, additional coffee machines and Eurocave wine dispensers.
Elsewhere, the Reception areas boast new floors and light fixtures, marble desks and are decorated with Bolon wallpaper. A stunning array of artworks also create a floating art gallery on board. Each ship also features new carpet, soft furnishings and designer furniture throughout, whilst the luxury staterooms have private balconies that are 24 per cent larger than normal balcony cabins and fitted with exclusive Scenic 'Sun Lounges', which allow guests to enclose the entire balcony at the touch of a button for a unique indoor lounge with full window views.
The 5-star in-suite inclusions range from private butler service and a complimentary mini-bar stocked daily to queen size slumber beds with Egyptian cotton linen, pillow menu, L'Occitane products and 32 inch Samsung HD TVs linked to MiniMac computers for in-cabin email and complimentary new fast-speed Wi-Fi system for easy internet access. A number of innovative new technical features are also offered on board including an upgraded Wi-Fi system using both Satellite and UMTS Mobile technology for faster speeds.
Scenic Tours has always been regarded as operating the finest fleet of river cruisers on Europe's waterways and again showcase the next generation of all-inclusive luxury cruising. First launched in 2008, the fleet was the first river cruise ships in Europe to be 100 per cent owned and operated by an Australian company.
Sydney: March 15, 2013: Scenic Tours have again raised the bar for luxury river cruising on the grand waterways of Europe with a $10 million refurbishment to their world-class fleet of Scenic 'Space-Ships'. This investment means that they are operating the newest fleet on Europe's rivers with their exclusive Scenic 'Space-Ships' delivering the next generation of luxury.
With uncompromising attention to detail, quality, inclusions and service, the current fleet sailing the Rhine, Main, Danube, Moselle and Black Sea have undergone an extensive refurbishment program, exacting the standards of the newest ship to join the fleet, Scenic Jewel who takes her inaugural cruise in April.
Scenic Tours Managing Director, Glen Moroney says that the refurbished fleet promises that no matter where or when guests travel with Scenic Tours in Europe, they will always be guaranteed to enjoy the most luxurious tour to exacting standards. "At 135 metres in length and boasting two entire decks of cabins with private balconies, Scenic 'Space-Ships' are the next generation of river cruisers. They are longer than other ships sailing Europe's waterways, boasting 22 per cent more space."
Scenic 'Space-Ships' have always been the benchmark for luxury river cruising, and Mr. Moroney adds that his commitment to keeping the company's reputation at that level is highlighted by the fact that the fleet range in age from 18 months to just four years. "We have always presented the best examples of top design and innovation in creating the best all-inclusive luxury river cruising experience on the market. And we will continue to elevate that standard to the highest possible level."
These Scenic 'Space-Ships' now all feature new dining additions – the casual River Café for all-day grazing and Table La Rive for a dégustation experience, whilst Portobellos has also been upgraded. The main restaurant, Crystal Dining is enhanced with new pizza ovens, omelette and carver stations and the Panorama Lounge has a new bar embellished with Port Laurent black Moroccan marble, additional coffee machines and Eurocave wine dispensers.
Elsewhere, the Reception areas boast new floors and light fixtures, marble desks and are decorated with Bolon wallpaper. A stunning array of artworks also create a floating art gallery on board. Each ship also features new carpet, soft furnishings and designer furniture throughout, whilst the luxury staterooms have private balconies that are 24 per cent larger than normal balcony cabins and fitted with exclusive Scenic 'Sun Lounges', which allow guests to enclose the entire balcony at the touch of a button for a unique indoor lounge with full window views.
The 5-star in-suite inclusions range from private butler service and a complimentary mini-bar stocked daily to queen size slumber beds with Egyptian cotton linen, pillow menu, L'Occitane products and 32 inch Samsung HD TVs linked to MiniMac computers for in-cabin email and complimentary new fast-speed Wi-Fi system for easy internet access. A number of innovative new technical features are also offered on board including an upgraded Wi-Fi system using both Satellite and UMTS Mobile technology for faster speeds.
Scenic Tours has always been regarded as operating the finest fleet of river cruisers on Europe's waterways and again showcase the next generation of all-inclusive luxury cruising. First launched in 2008, the fleet was the first river cruise ships in Europe to be 100 per cent owned and operated by an Australian company.
Added by Mike Davies on March 18, 2013 at 3:35pm — No Comments
That’s A Lot Of Bottles’ & Other Tales Of 12 Ship Christenings This Week
y Ralph Grizzle On March 17, 2013
Arriving at Amsterdam’s Schiphol Airport before 7 a.m. on a dreary winter’s day, one should not expect to be greeted with enthusiasm or humor. And thus that is the reason I was caught by surprise when after asking the purpose of my visit, the young Dutch border official checking my passport replied, “That’s a lot of bottles.”
I had told him that I had crossed the Atlantic (from New Amsterdam, a.k.a. New York) to witness 10 Viking River Cruises’ vessels get christened in Amsterdam this coming Wednesday.
Indeed, 10 new ships awes even the most avid of cruisers. Not since the Spanish Armada has Europe — or the world for that matter — seen so many ships take to the water in one go. Yes, in a nod to the young border official, it will take a lot of bottles to christen all of those Viking Longships, and indeed, the breaking of those bottles heralds a new era for river cruises in Europe.
The christening doesn’t stop with 10 ships either. In fact, this week ends with the number of new river cruise vessels entering service at an even dozen. In addition to the Longships, two vessels are being inaugurated along the Iberian coast — and in a new development for river cruising, both vessels are being blessed by some big-name celebrities.
Celebrity Sightings Ahead
Sharon Stone will crack a bottle of bubbly across the hull of AmaWaterway’s new AmaVida in Porto, Portugal on March 22. Just a few steps away, actress Andie MacDowell will christen Uniworld’s Queen Isabel. An aside, Andie hails from Asheville, North Carolina, my hometown.
The Longships christening event is set for Wednesday, March 20, which my Apple iPhone weather app tells me will be sunny and 39°F (4°C). Thus informed, I am wishing Torstein Hagen, chairman and CEO of Viking River Cruises, good luck with the weather gods. Being Norwegian should help Tor keep Thor (the Norwegian weather god) from acting up on that day.
Truth is, it’s a big week for Tor, and he’s intent on making the most of it. He’s even scheduled a “mini event” within the larger event, and it certainly has the makings of an exciting day. I was delighted to receive an invitation to travel by private jet for a sneak preview of the Viking Longships under construction at the Neptun Werft shipyard in Rostock, Germany. On Tuesday, along with Tor, his daughter Karine, other Viking execs, godmothers and VIPs, I’ll jet off for the beginning of what surely will go down as one of my most memorable weeks.
The next day we watch bottles break against the hulls of Tor’s new ships, a “lot of bottles,” as any Dutchman clearly knows. Stay tuned.
Added by Mike Davies on March 18, 2013 at 9:04am — No Comments
With capacity, Tauck takes a different tack
On the eve of Viking River Cruises launching 10 more of its Longships, a
defining feature of which is their 190-passenger capacity, Tauck is challenging
the idea that more is better.
On March 21,
Viking will launch 10 Viking Longships in a simultaneous christening ceremony in
Amsterdam. While the Longships can each carry 190 passengers, competitors’ ships
of the same length -- feet -- generally carry between 160 and 170 passengers.
But Tauck is bucking the trend toward packing
more pax onboard. Tauck is adding two newbuilds to its fleet of European river
cruise ships in 2014, and this week announced that the two new ships -- the
Inspire and Savor -- will be 23% longer than Tauck’s existing river cruise
vessels. But at 443 feet in length, they will accommodate only 130 guests each,
10% more passengers than its current ships.
Tauck’s two new ships will be part of the company’s new
Inspiration class of vessels (the company’s existing four ships are now being
referred to as the Jewel class).
“When
our Inspiration-class ships launch next year, they’ll each have just 130 guests
aboard, whereas other major lines carry up to 190 guests” on ships of the same
length, Tauck CEO Dan Mahar said in a statement. “That’s an additional 46% more
passengers aboard ships of the exact same length. You simply can’t deliver the
same relaxed, intimate atmosphere when you put nearly 50% more passengers into
the same space.”
Tauck has traditionally
put an emphasis on using that extra space to make room for more suites onboard
its ships than on other river cruise vessels. For instance, its Jewel-class
ships each have 14 suites at 300 square feet each as well as seven junior
suites.
“By limiting passenger capacity,
we’re able to offer a much higher percentage of suites,” Mahar stated.
Tauck is also placing greater emphasis on
service. Each Inspiration-class ship will have a Tauck cruise director and three
Tauck directors aboard. During shore excursions, the passengers will be divided
into groups of no more than 25 people.
defining feature of which is their 190-passenger capacity, Tauck is challenging
the idea that more is better.
On March 21,
Viking will launch 10 Viking Longships in a simultaneous christening ceremony in
Amsterdam. While the Longships can each carry 190 passengers, competitors’ ships
of the same length -- feet -- generally carry between 160 and 170 passengers.
But Tauck is bucking the trend toward packing
more pax onboard. Tauck is adding two newbuilds to its fleet of European river
cruise ships in 2014, and this week announced that the two new ships -- the
Inspire and Savor -- will be 23% longer than Tauck’s existing river cruise
vessels. But at 443 feet in length, they will accommodate only 130 guests each,
10% more passengers than its current ships.
Tauck’s two new ships will be part of the company’s new
Inspiration class of vessels (the company’s existing four ships are now being
referred to as the Jewel class).
“When
our Inspiration-class ships launch next year, they’ll each have just 130 guests
aboard, whereas other major lines carry up to 190 guests” on ships of the same
length, Tauck CEO Dan Mahar said in a statement. “That’s an additional 46% more
passengers aboard ships of the exact same length. You simply can’t deliver the
same relaxed, intimate atmosphere when you put nearly 50% more passengers into
the same space.”
Tauck has traditionally
put an emphasis on using that extra space to make room for more suites onboard
its ships than on other river cruise vessels. For instance, its Jewel-class
ships each have 14 suites at 300 square feet each as well as seven junior
suites.
“By limiting passenger capacity,
we’re able to offer a much higher percentage of suites,” Mahar stated.
Tauck is also placing greater emphasis on
service. Each Inspiration-class ship will have a Tauck cruise director and three
Tauck directors aboard. During shore excursions, the passengers will be divided
into groups of no more than 25 people.
Riverdiscounts 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on March 8, 2013 at 9:34am — No Comments
European river cruises
European river cruises alone saw an increase of 12 per cent to a record 90,000.
While the number of people taking an ocean cruise grew less than 0.1 per cent last year – reaching a total of 1,701,000 – demand for rivers journeys soared. Safety issues in the wake of the Costa Concordia disaster, a burgeoning number of river-cruise itineraries and investment in ships and greater political stability in Egypt are cited as contributory factors to growth.
The launch of modern vessels with full-size balconies has also encouraged ocean cruisers to try a river cruise. Some 30 per cent of river cruisers last year had taken one or two ocean cruises and 23 per cent had sailed on six or more. Viking River Cruises said half of its enquiries are now from ocean cruise passengers.
Underlining the growth in the rivers sector, French river cruise line CroisiEurope will be exhibiting at the Telegraph Cruise Show in London for the first time this year, while APT and hotel barge operator European Waterways are returning after a break, joining the likes of Viking, Avalon Waterways, Uniworld River Cruising and AmaWaterways. The show takes place at Olympia on March 23-24.
After dropping to second place last year due to the Arab Spring, the Nile was again the most popular river destination in 2012, attracting just over 28,000 passengers. An improvement on the 25,000 in 2011; but far short of the 58,000 who cruised the river in 2010.
The Rhine and its tributaries, attracting almost 27,000 passengers, were not far behind, with the Danube in third place with 15,000.
When it comes to ocean cruising, no-fly cruising was the winner, with almost as many passengers choosing to cruise from a British port as fly to join their ship – 807,000 compared with 894,000 respectively. It’s a big turnaround from just five years ago, when fly-cruises accounted for 65 cent of the market; no-fly cruising at 35 per cent.
Conversely, the Caribbean suffered a massive 21 cent downturn in demand as cruisers avoided the high flight costs, inflated by Air Passenger Duty, and security queues at airports.
Added by Mike Davies on March 6, 2013 at 6:11pm — No Comments
AmaWaterways Announces Prestigious Line-Up of 2013 Wine Cruise Hosts
21 Wine-Themed Cruises on the Danube, Douro, Mosel, Rhine, Rhone & Seine Rivers
AmaWaterways proudly announces an impressive roster of wine hosts for its 2013 “In Celebration on Wine” theme cruises. The award-winning river cruise line will host 21 wine-themed itineraries through Europe’s world-renowned wine regions this year, each hosted by a different wine expert from the U.S. or Europe.
“AmaWaterways’ wine cruises are extremely popular and we are absolutely thrilled with this year’s line up of hosts,” said Kristin Karst , AmaWaterways’ executive vice president and co-owner. “Many of our guests return again and again to Europe’s top wine regions aboard these cruises. They love the hosts’ insightful and entertaining onboard wine lectures, and enjoy seeing Europe’s beautiful scenery and visiting centuries-old wine villages and vineyards.”
The 2013 season features new excursions on Portugal’s Douro River and France’s Seine River, in addition to the company’s other unforgettable itineraries along the Danube, Mosel, Rhine and Rhone Rivers.
AmaWaterways’ 2013 wine hosts for the “In Celebration of Wine” itineraries and dates are as follows:
March 29: Legendary Wine & Regions of the Rhone James Cluer , MW of Fine Vintages, Ltd. Cluer took his first Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET) course at age 18, became a Master of Wine (MW) several years later, and has been working in the wine industry since 1988.
April 2: Classic Port Wines & Charming Quintas George Sandeman of the House of Sandeman. Over the past two centuries, Sandeman Port and Sherries has become one of the world’s best known brands. George Sandeman is the seventh generation of his family to head the company.
April 5: Paris & the Sparkling Seine Jim Clendenen of Au Bon Climat Winery in Santa Barbara, CA. Food & Wine magazine named Clendenen “Winemaker of the Year” in 2001; Germany’s leading wine magazine, Wein Gourmet, named him “Winemaker of the World” in 2004; and in 2007, he was inducted into the James Beard Foundation’s “Who’s Who of Food and Beverage in America.”
April 12 & November 1: Paris & the Sparkling Seine Preston Mohr, an American wine expert now based in Paris, holds an Advanced Certificate from the WSET and is currently studying for his Diploma, to be completed in June 2013. One of his specialties is French Champagne.
April 13: Great Capitals & Vintages of the Danube Gary and Marcy Eberle of Eberle Winery in Paso Robles, CA. More than 33 years after the release of its first vintage, this award-winning winery remains one of the most highly regarded winemakers in the United States.
October 31: Castles & Wineries of Germany Len and Marisa Crispino of Foreign Affairs Winery. After living as ex-pats in Italy in the early 1990s, Len and Marisa returned to Ontario and planted their first vines. Inspired by the Italian wine-making process, they use a unique grape drying process known as appassimento (or the Reductio method).
November 5: Classic Port Wines & Charming Quintas Brian Heath of Grape Creek Vineyards in Fredericksburg, Texas. This Texas Hill Country winery produces Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay and also boasts the first underground commercial barrel cellar in central Texas.
November 6: Great Capitals & Vintages of the Danube Eric Glomski, owner of Page Springs Cellars & Arizona Stronghold, specializes in producing Rhone-style Arizona wines. Eric will co-host with Sam Pillsbury , award-winning New Zealand film director (Free Willy) and owner of Pillsbury Wine Company, a “Rising Star of the Southwest” according to Wine Spectator.
November 7: Vineyards of the Rhine & Mosel Carissa Chappellet of Chappellet Winery in Napa, an estate known for its Bordeaux varietals and particularly its Cabernet Sauvignon. Chappellet and her brothers inherited the winery from their parents, founders Don and Molly Chappellet . She will co-host with Archie McLaren , founder and chairman of the Central Coast Wine Classic.
November 8: Legendary Wine Regions of the Rhone Gerry and Rosie Wilson of Wilson Creek Winery in Temecula, CA. Wilson Creek’s famous Almond Champagne and other unique vintages have garnered numerous prestigious international wine awards.
November 8: Paris & the Sparkling Seine Jean-Marc & Kristi Espinasse of Domaine Rouge-Bleu. Rouge-Bleu has been awarded many gold medals in France and its wines have been ranked 90+ points more than four times in Wine Spectator.
November 9: Great Capitals & Vintages of the Danube Bob and Jodi Dickinson are event chairs for Camillus House Auction, which raises funds for nonprofit organizations in southern Florida. Past auction items have included a rare collection of Chateau Haut Brion, which sold for more than $59,000.
November 11: Great Capitals & Vintages of the Danube Stephanie and Michael Honig of Honig Vineyard & Winery in Napa, known for its Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon wines. Stephanie has a WSET Higher Certificate and Diploma and has many years of experience in the industry. Michael is often referred to as “the James Brown of the wine industry” and is a leader in sustainable farming.
November 13: Great Capitals & Vintages of the Danube Christopher Silva , President & CEO of St. Francis Winery & Vineyards in Sonoma County, CA. The winery’s products have earned a reputation as top quality varietal wines that are bold flavored and fruit-forward.
November 15: Culture & Wine Legacy of the Rhine Holly Howell is a columnist for the Democrat & Chronicle in Rochester, New York and a well-respected authority on the wines of the Finger Lakes region, particularly Rieslings. She also teaches food and wine classes and makes her own wine.
November 16: Great Capitals & Vintages of the Danube Barry Wiss , Certified Wine Educator, VP of Communications & Trade Relations for Trinchero Family Estates, a winery established in 1947. The Trinchero family estates represent more than 27 brands in the US and Australia, including Sutter Home , Menage a Trois, and Napa Cellars.
November 18: Great Capitals & Vintages of the Danube Vic Poulos of Zin Valle Vineyards in El Paso, Texas. Poulos owns and operates the very successful Zin Valle Vineyards winery and also writes about wine for local and national publications.
November 22: Culture & Wine Legacy of the Rhine Mark Johnson of Chateau Chantal Winery in Michigan. Trained at the Geisenheim Research Institute in Germany, Johnson has been the winemaker at Chateau Chantal since it opened in 1986.
November 22: Legendary Wine Regions of the Rhone Lee Fuqua of Fuqua Winery. Lee Fuqua’s boutique Texas winery produces what he calls “wines with an attitude” – big, rich, full-bodied wines that satisfy serious wine drinkers.
. To book a cruise, please contact 800-640-4899
About AmaWaterways Founded in 2002 by river cruise pioneers Rudi Schreiner , Kristin Karst and Jimmy Murphy , AmaWaterways is the premier river cruise line on Europe’s Danube, Douro, Main, Mosel, Seine, Rhine and Rhone rivers. Known for its custom-designed ships, extensive complimentary amenities and impeccable service, family-owned and -operated AmaWaterways consistently leads the way in river cruising. With itineraries in Europe, Russia, Africa, and S.E. Asia, AmaWaterways offers an enticing variety of authentic, in-depth experiences for the most discriminating travelers.
AmaWaterways’ European fleet includes the AmaReina (2014); AmaSonata (2014); AmaPrima (2013); AmaCerto (2012); AmaVerde (2011); AmaBella (2010); AmaLyra (2009); AmaDolce (2009); AmaCello (2008), AmaDante (2008); AmaLegro (2007) and the AmaDagio (2006). The line’s newest ships feature Twin Balcony Staterooms, multiple dining venues, complimentary in-room Internet and Infotainment, a heated swimming pool or whirlpool, plus many more unique design elements.
AmaWaterways’ separate and distinct AmaVoyages division operates the AmaVida (2013) in Portugal, the AmaLotus (2011) and La Marguerite (2009) in Vietnam and Cambodia, the AmaKatarina (2011) in Russia, and the Zambezi Queen (2009) in Africa.Added by Mike Davies on March 1, 2013 at 4:52pm — No Comments
Scenic Cruises to re-build five of its six European "Space Ships
Scenic Cruises announced that five of its six European 'Space-Ships' are being nearly completely rebuilt to match newest ships' specifications (Scenic Crystal and the soon-to-launch Scenic Jewel). These ships range in age from 18 months to four years.
In the dining segment, the new River Café has been added, Portobellos Restaurant has been upgraded, the mainrestaurant has enhanced omelet and carver stations and the new Table La Rive degustation dining venue has been added. Cabins (except on Scenic Emerald and Tsar) have been redone floor to ceiling (wallpaper, marble desk tops and side tables, furniture, carpets, etc.) and will now boast the company’s Scenic ‘Sun-Lounges,’ allowing guests to convert their private, full-size balcony into an indoor all-weather lounge with the push of a button; new furniture throughout; and 32 inch Samsung HD TVs linked to MiniMac computers for in-cabin email and Internet.
Steelwork has extended the floor plans of all Royal and Panorama Suites and their interiors gutted and rebuilt to Crystal/Jewel specifications. The lounge has a new upgraded bar done with "Port Laurent" marble, additional coffee machines, and additional Eurocave wine dispensers for added choices. Reception has been completely renovated with new floors, reception desks, “Bolon” wallpaper, artwork and light fixtures. The ships will also see new carpet, curtains and designer furniture throughout.
For 2013, Scenic Cruises is offering unlimited complimentary beverages (top-shelf brands are additional); private butler service for every guest; three new dining venues: River Café (all day offerings), Table La Rive (degustation), High Tea on the Terrace and 24-hour room service; new themed dinners with entertainment (including Hungarian and Bavarian); Scenic Riverview – a personal GPS ONBOARD guided tour system devices providing commentary on passing sites; and complimentary Wi-Fi internet.
For Extra Scenic savings Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on February 4, 2013 at 5:32pm — No Comments
A-Rosa Offers $799 Business-Class Air Upgrade until Feb. 28
A-Rosa River Cruises is featuring business-class air upgrades for $799 per person each way, when booking French balcony or higher category on Europe river cruises. The offer is combinable with the up to $1,000-per-person savings for reservations made by Feb 28.
The company’s North American gateways for the air upgrade offer include New York, Toronto, Dallas, Los Angeles, Seattle, Miami, Boston, Atlanta, Denver, Chicago and Washington D.C. For the June 22 and July 1 departures on A-Rosa Aqua, the upgrade is priced at $899 per person each way.
Added by Mike Davies on February 4, 2013 at 2:16pm — No Comments
American Queen Paddlewheeler Gets Makeover in New Orleans
American Queen Steamboat Company said its American Queen paddlewheeler is undergoing some interior work while docked in New Orleans. The company cancelled the Feb. 7 and Feb. 15 voyages to build a new, more durable paddlewheel drive shaft and rebuild and reinforce the paddlewheel. The first voyage of the season, a round-trip from New Orleans, is scheduled to depart Feb. 23.
American Queen also is getting some gold, pearl and platinum-toned wallpaper in interior public areas, including the J.M. White Dining Room. Fresh paint is also being applied to trim work to complement the new wallpaper. The dining room also will get a marble and granite entryway, new Victorian-patterned carpeting, and new empire-style dining chairs. Alternative dining will be available at the Front Porch Café and the galley is being refitted with new appliances in an effort to improve service efficiency.
The vessel also will display new artwork depicting river scenes by Michael Blaser in the halls, companionways and lobbies. Mahogany plantation shutters are being installed on French doors in outside staterooms and suites for privacy when needed. Bathrooms will feature a new amenity collection formulated for the American Queen, including shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and body lotion.
Added by Mike Davies on February 4, 2013 at 2:12pm — No Comments
Big expansion coming for Tauck river cruises
Tour company Tauck today announced a big expansion in Europe river cruising for 2014.
The Connecticut-based firm says it will roll out two new river ships in March 2014 and June 2014, respectively, as it unveils four itineraries in the region.
The new vessels will bring Tauck's total in Europe to six.
"Demand for our river cruises continues to grow, and our guests and travel agents love the onboard and onshore experiences Tauck provides," CEO Dan Mahar says in a statement accompanying the announcement.
Tauck says the two custom-built ships will represent an evolution of its fleet, with features not found on its existing vessels.
Like Tauck's current ships, the new ones will accommodate fewer passengers than similarly sized vessels at other lines, the company says. They also will have a higher guide-to-passenger ratio, it adds.
The four new itineraries will be on the Seine, Rhine and Danube rivers.
Tauck didn't reveal specifics of the ships' size or design, or the itineraries, but says more information will be coming soon.
Added by Mike Davies on January 30, 2013 at 9:43am — No Comments
Boomer effect seen in rising popularity of river cruising
The baby boomer crowd continues to be one of the fastest-growing demographic groups, and it's right up the river cruise alley, according to Patrick Clark, managing director of Avalon Waterways.
"CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association, the organization that represents most cruise lines - large and small) said in its annual report that 30 per cent of people who sail on oceangoing ships are looking to try a small ship, or river cruise ship," said Clark. "That bodes well for our business."
River cruising is booming. This is especially evident by the number of new ships. Viking leads the way with 10 new ships this year and most other river cruise lines are building one or two.
Does Viking's explosion trouble Clark?
"No, not really," he explained. "Every line is trying to differentiate itself from the other whether it's by inclusiveness, routes, service or uniqueness. In our case, it's the launching of two more of our 'all suite ships' this year to go with the three currently in our fleet of 14.
"By making the rooms bigger and having windows that open seven feet, we are the only line with beds facing the window and the water."
As far as industry bookings go for 2013, Clark had this to say:
"All river cruise lines are doing well. As far as Avalon is concerned, we still have some holes to fill, but overall this will be our best year ever. On the Rhine, where we operate two ships, we are over 90-per-cent sold. On our 31 Burgundy/Provence cruises, we will operate at 98-per-cent capacity."
Those are dramatic numbers.
"Yes, but you have to keep in mind that if we were to build 30 ships at, say, an average of 180 passengers that would only be an increase of just over 5,600 beds and that's the size of the largest ocean-going cruise ship."
Does this huge increase in new ships change how river cruise lines do business?
"Yes," added Clark. "We're meeting with (officials in) the towns and the cities that are on our itineraries and letting them know we will need new facilities in their areas to accommodate the growth."
Patrick also brought up an interesting point about departures. "We used to strive for a weekend departure. That is out of the question now. You will find that our ships are leaving every day of the week for a couple of reasons - to accommodate airline schedules and to spread out our ships along the river."
In a conversation with Clark last year, I'd asked him about the future and he mentioned Asia, so it was a good time to revisit that topic almost a month into 2013 to see if the Asia strategy was working.
"Better than we anticipated," he said. "We are seeing growth reach 70 per cent on both the Mekong and the Yangtze rivers."
Is this massive building boom going to slow?
"Not from our perspective, and I would think that applies to the other river lines as well," said Clark. "We have massive ocean-going cruise lines and only a small percentage of their customers have tried river cruising. Add that to the demographic boost and the future looks good for our industry."
Added by Mike Davies on January 26, 2013 at 10:34am — No Comments
Uniworld Introduces in 2014 All-Inclusive Luxury Boutique River Cruises in Europe
In 2014, the leader in luxury river cruising, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, will introduce all-inclusive river cruises in Europe. Uniworld currently offers a host of inclusions, such as all non-alcoholic beverages, fine wine and beer served during lunch and dinner onboard; fully hosted shore excursions; free Internet and Wi-Fi; and all arrival and departure day transfers. In 2014, Uniworld will expand their services and amenities to include unlimited fine wine, beer, and spirits, and all gratuities for all onboard and onshore services, including pre- and post-cruise extensions.
"We are very pleased to provide our guests with even greater value and more convenience by offering an all-inclusive luxury cruise experience," states Guy Young, President of Uniworld. Uniworld is the only North American river cruise line to announce they are moving to an all-inclusive experience. "Similar to the high-end luxury ocean cruise lines, such as Crystal, Regent, and Silverseas, Uniworld is dedicated to creating the most luxurious and worry-free experience for our valued guests. By offering an all-inclusive vacation, our guests won't need to worry about ancillary items such as tipping as everything will be included in the price, so all our guests will need to do is relax and enjoy their vacation," furthers Young.
About Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, the world's only authentic boutique cruise line™, is recognized among the "World's Best River Cruises" by Travel + Leisure. Uniworld was voted the "#1 River Cruise Line in the World" inCondé Nast Traveler's Readers' Choice Awards, was named to Condé Nast Traveler's prestigious Gold List and their Platinum Circle for having made the list consistently for the past five years, and won "Best River Ships" in their Readers' Poll, which ranked River Queen and River Beatrice #1 and #3 of all cruise ships in the world, respectively, along with eight other highly ranked ships in the top 40 river ships category. Uniworld's staterooms and dining are also ranked among the top three in the world by Zagat Survey®, with Uniworld being the only river cruise line named in the Zagat Survey® amongst the best of the best in the cruise industry, and the editors of Cruise Criticnamed Uniworld "Best River Cruise Line." Uniworld features luxurious boutique ships with an average capacity of 130 guests, included shore excursions fully hosted by local experts, world-class gourmet cuisine, and award-winning, personalized hospitality. Uniworld offers over 600 departures sailing on over 13 rivers in more than 20 countries throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt, China, Vietnam, and Cambodia.
Added by Mike Davies on January 15, 2013 at 12:31pm — No Comments
Increase in number of river cruise ships, set to reach Danube Delta this year
The number of river cruise ships set to reach the Danube Delta, this year, will be at least 20 percent higher than last year, according to the leading operator of these routes in Tulcea (east part of the country) .
President of the group of companies Europolis, Victor Iancu, told AGERPRES, on Tuesday, that last year of the 186 river cruise ships that announced their arrival in the Danube Delta, via his companies, just two canceled it because of low river flows.
'This year, we have a fairly consistent increase that exceeds 20 percent. It's the largest increase in the number of cruise ships in Tulcea, in recent years, but I am afraid even to tell it because, every time, when it is heard we have work to do, they rush upon us as if we were some wrongdoers and discover new fees and taxes to impose', Victor Iancu complained.
He also said that the main problem faced by him, for a lot of years, is the lack of some tourist routes, which would offer travelers the opportunity to watch the wild birds during their trip to the Danube Delta.
'Despite all the approaches to the state institutions, to ensure routes where tourists can watch the birds, we failed to find understanding, but only excuses linked to the Danube flows and others of this kind. We can understand such things, but maybe, if we sit down at the table, for a dialogue, we might find a solution. We, who assure foreign tourists visits to the Delta, just sail through channels, passing by the lakes, we do not stop anywhere, we do not let tourists go on the banks, we bring to Tulcea all the wastes and I do not see why all this restraint on the part of the authorities, to extend us a helping hand ', the president of Europolis Group mentioned.
Another problem faced by tour operators in the County of Tulcea is the lack of a tax warehouse, a situation that obliges them to pay the fuel for the ships at the market price, even though, according to the Fiscal Code, they must benefit of prices without fuel excise on fuel.
According to the source, at least 12 charter flights with tourists, who will visit the Danube Delta, are to land this year on Tulcea Airport.
There are about 20 tourist routes in the Danube Delta, but only one is practicable for ships, that can make trips for about five hours, with groups of about 50 people onboard.
President of the group of companies Europolis, Victor Iancu, told AGERPRES, on Tuesday, that last year of the 186 river cruise ships that announced their arrival in the Danube Delta, via his companies, just two canceled it because of low river flows.
'This year, we have a fairly consistent increase that exceeds 20 percent. It's the largest increase in the number of cruise ships in Tulcea, in recent years, but I am afraid even to tell it because, every time, when it is heard we have work to do, they rush upon us as if we were some wrongdoers and discover new fees and taxes to impose', Victor Iancu complained.
He also said that the main problem faced by him, for a lot of years, is the lack of some tourist routes, which would offer travelers the opportunity to watch the wild birds during their trip to the Danube Delta.
'Despite all the approaches to the state institutions, to ensure routes where tourists can watch the birds, we failed to find understanding, but only excuses linked to the Danube flows and others of this kind. We can understand such things, but maybe, if we sit down at the table, for a dialogue, we might find a solution. We, who assure foreign tourists visits to the Delta, just sail through channels, passing by the lakes, we do not stop anywhere, we do not let tourists go on the banks, we bring to Tulcea all the wastes and I do not see why all this restraint on the part of the authorities, to extend us a helping hand ', the president of Europolis Group mentioned.
Another problem faced by tour operators in the County of Tulcea is the lack of a tax warehouse, a situation that obliges them to pay the fuel for the ships at the market price, even though, according to the Fiscal Code, they must benefit of prices without fuel excise on fuel.
According to the source, at least 12 charter flights with tourists, who will visit the Danube Delta, are to land this year on Tulcea Airport.
There are about 20 tourist routes in the Danube Delta, but only one is practicable for ships, that can make trips for about five hours, with groups of about 50 people onboard.
Added by Mike Davies on January 15, 2013 at 12:22pm — No Comments
Viking River Cruises Renews Sponsorship Of PBS' Downton Abby For Two Years
Viking River Cruises the world's leading river cruise line, has finalized an agreement to renew its national corporate sponsorship of PBS' celebrated series MASTERPIECE for two additional years. The new deal will extend through 2014 and will support programming that includes season three of the Emmy® Award-winning series Downton Abbey. Viking first came onboard as a MASTERPIECE national corporate sponsor in late 2011.
"Our partnership over the last year has been an overwhelming success, and we are proud to continue our association with the finest programming on television," said Richard Marnell , Senior Vice President of Marketing for Viking River Cruises.
"Viking River Cruises has been an exemplary partner for MASTERPIECE," said MASTERPIECE Executive Producer Rebecca Eaton. "The fact that they are extending their sponsorship for two more years proves that MASTERPIECE viewers and Viking's travelers are an excellent fit."
Having recently celebrated its 40th year on PBS, MASTERPIECE is enjoying a significant surge in popularity. Hit programs such as Downton Abbey and Sherlock have helped boost the audience for the series by 107 percent since 2008. This year, MASTERPIECE has received 37 Emmy® Award nominations – the highest number it has ever received in a single season – withDownton Abbey alone receiving 16 nods. Fall 2012 titles for MASTERPIECE include a third season of the popular Wallanderseries, starring Kenneth Branagh , and a second season of the Emmy®-nominated Upstairs Downstairs, with Alex Kingstonjoining the cast. In January 2013, Downton Abbey returns for a third season.
With river cruising now the fastest-growing segment of travel, Viking is currently celebrating its 15th anniversary and the biggest year in the company's history. The cruise line is launching six new Viking Longships in 2012 – an industry first – and this month announced that it would break that record with the arrival of eight new ships in 2013.
As an extension of its MASTERPIECE sponsorship, Viking also recently announced an optional Oxford & Highclere Castle pre- or post- trip experience for travelers on the Cities of Light or Paris & the Heart of Normandy cruises. On this itinerary extension, Viking guests will spend three days in the rolling hills of England's countryside, with a champagne welcome and special tour of Highclere Castle, known to television audiences worldwide as Downton Abbey.
About Viking River Cruises
Viking River Cruises, the world's leading river cruise company, offers scenic cruising along the rivers of Europe, Russia,Ukraine, China, Southeast Asia and Egypt. The company was named No. 1 River Cruise Line in Travel + Leisure's 2012 "World's Best" Awards and has been honored multiple times as the top river cruise line on Conde Nast Traveler's "Gold List" It has also been recognized as the World's Leading River Cruise Operator at the World Travel Awards and by the editors of Cruise Critic as "Best River Cruise Line" in the website's 4th Annual Editors' Picks Awards. Travel agents have recognized Viking River Cruises as "Best River Cruise Line" by Travel Weekly, "Best River Cruise Line" by Recommend and Travel Agentmagazines, Best Cruise Line for Luxury River Cruises at the Luxury Travel Advisor Awards of Excellence and as "Best Overall Cruise Line for River Cruising" and "Best River Cruise Line for Travel Agent Support" by TravelAge West. Since its 1997 inception, the company has grown to a fleet of 33 vessels (in 2013), and provides unique, deluxe vacations to experienced travelers with an interest in geography, culture and history
Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on December 14, 2012 at 11:53am — No Comments
World's Leading River Cruise Line Announces New Bordeaux Region Program on Viking Longship
Viking River Cruises today announced a new itinerary in France's Bordeaux region for 2014 that will celebrate the senses. This eight-day cruise—Chateaux, Rivers & Wine—allows guests to enjoy the beauty and history of Bordeaux and the Aquitaine region, while exploring some of the world's finest names in wine. Guests will sail on Viking Forseti, marking the first time an award-winning Viking Longship™ will be deployed in France.
Chateaux, Rivers & Wine
Chateaux, Rivers & Wine takes guests on a unique exploration of the Dordogne, Garonne and Gironde Rivers, through the region that has for centuries produced France's most remarkable wines including Margaux, Pomerol, St. Emilion and Sauternes. The eight-day cruise journey begins in Bordeaux and makes its first stop in Pauillac, where guests can sip the full-bodied blends of the renowned Medoc and Margaux wine regions and travel along the famed Route des Chateaux for an insight into authentic chateau life. Next, guests have the opportunity to explore the Citadel in Blaye and the charming town of St. Emilion—both UNESCO World Heritage sites—before continuing on to picturesque Cadillac, where they can taste the sweetPremier Cru wines from the Sauternes region. The unhurried voyage concludes with an in-depth tour of the beautiful churches, grand Louis XV architecture and charming cafes of Bordeaux.
To enhance appreciation and understanding of the Aquitaine Valley during the journey, Viking's Culture CurriculumSM onChateaux, Rivers & Wine has been designed with the assistance of local experts to provide opportunities for passengers to experience various aspects of the regional culture. Guests may learn to make tender caneles, a caramelized custard pastry, observe the winemaking traditions that have made the area so famous, begin or expand their appreciation of fine Bordeauxwines with the guidance of a master sommelier, and brush up on their conversational French with optional onboard lessons.
Viking Longships
Guests on the Chateaux, Rivers & Wine cruise will travel on the state-of-the-art Viking Forseti, which will be the newest and most innovative ship to sail the rivers of the Aquitaine Valley—and the first Viking Longship to sail in France. Recently named Best New River Ships of 2012 in Cruise Critic's® Editors' Picks Awards, Viking Longships integrate patent-pending* design and cutting-edge technology, including an indoor-outdoor Aquavit Terrace, diesel-electric hybrid engines, solar panels and onboard organic herb gardens.
About Viking River Cruises Viking River Cruises, the world's leading river cruise company, offers scenic cruising along the rivers of Europe, Russia, Ukraine, China, Southeast Asia and Egypt. The company was named No. 1 River Cruise Line in Travel + Leisure's 2012 "World's Best" Awards and has been honored multiple times as the top river cruise line on Conde Nast Traveler's "Gold List" It has also been recognized as the World's Leading River Cruise Operator at the World Travel Awards and by the editors of Cruise Critic as "Best River Cruise Line" in the website's 4th Annual Editors' Picks Awards. Travel agents have recognized Viking River Cruises as "Best River Cruise Line" by Travel Weekly, "Best River Cruise Line" by Recommend andTravel Agent magazines, Best Cruise Line for Luxury River Cruises at the Luxury Travel Advisor Awards of Excellence and as "Best Overall Cruise Line for River Cruising" and "Best River Cruise Line for Travel Agent Support" by TravelAge West. Since its 1997 inception, the company has grown to a fleet of 35 vessels (in 2013), and provides unique, deluxe vacations to experienced travelers with an interest in geography, culture and history
Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on December 14, 2012 at 11:46am — No Comments
Viking, Uniworld to head to Bordeaux in 2014
Both Viking River Cruises and Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection will
operate river cruises in the Bordeaux region of France in 2014.
This is a new river route for U.S. river cruise lines, which typically offer France river cruises either on the Rhone and Saone rivers in Provence, or in Paris and Normandy in the North.
Uniworld will operate seven-night roundtrip cruises starting in
Bordeaux that will sail the Dordogne, Garonne and Gironde rivers between March
and November.
Uniworld will sail its 132-passenger River Royale on the new Bordeaux itinerary. The River Royale was
launched in 2006 and remodeled in 2012, and will be updated one more time prior
to the Bordeaux sailings, according to Uniworld President Guy Young.
Viking's seven-night Bordeaux itinerary will be offered on the 190-passenger Viking Forseti, a Longship launching in 2013. Like the Uniworld itinerary, Viking’s Bordeaux itinerary will begin and end in
Bordeaux.
Viking will sail the Bordeaux cruises from March through December 2014.
“The region is known for its beautiful chateaux and wine
estates,” Young wrote in an email about why Uniworld is heading to Bordeaux. He
added that currently, Croisi Europe, a French river cruise company, is one of
the only lines that offers cruises in this part of France.Added by Mike Davies on December 10, 2012 at 4:49pm — No Comments
operate river cruises in the Bordeaux region of France in 2014.
This is a new river route for U.S. river cruise lines, which typically offer France river cruises either on the Rhone and Saone rivers in Provence, or in Paris and Normandy in the North.
Uniworld will operate seven-night roundtrip cruises starting in
Bordeaux that will sail the Dordogne, Garonne and Gironde rivers between March
and November.
Uniworld will sail its 132-passenger River Royale on the new Bordeaux itinerary. The River Royale was
launched in 2006 and remodeled in 2012, and will be updated one more time prior
to the Bordeaux sailings, according to Uniworld President Guy Young.
Viking's seven-night Bordeaux itinerary will be offered on the 190-passenger Viking Forseti, a Longship launching in 2013. Like the Uniworld itinerary, Viking’s Bordeaux itinerary will begin and end in
Bordeaux.
Viking will sail the Bordeaux cruises from March through December 2014.
“The region is known for its beautiful chateaux and wine
estates,” Young wrote in an email about why Uniworld is heading to Bordeaux. He
added that currently, Croisi Europe, a French river cruise company, is one of
the only lines that offers cruises in this part of France.Added by Mike Davies on December 10, 2012 at 4:49pm — No Comments
Viking ups the new build order
Viking attracted all the attention last week with an agreement for Viking Ocean Cruises to build two 944-berth ocean cruise ships at Fincantieri, with an option for two more. This could bring its new fleet of ocean cruisers to six ships by 2020.
Sister line Viking River Cruises meanwhile surprised all with an order for a further ten new Viking Longship class river cruisers. These will be built by Neptun Werft, a 162-year-old Rostock-based shipyard that has built over 1,500 ships in its long history, including a few U-Boats.
Sister line Viking River Cruises meanwhile surprised all with an order for a further ten new Viking Longship class river cruisers. These will be built by Neptun Werft, a 162-year-old Rostock-based shipyard that has built over 1,500 ships in its long history, including a few U-Boats.
Added by Mike Davies on December 10, 2012 at 4:41pm — No Comments
Leisurely luxury on European Waterways barge sailing
With its 16 hotel barges, European Waterways has developed an intimate luxury
canal cruising experience vastly different from the popular, larger river
cruises in Europe.
With between six and 20
passengers onboard — compared with the 150 to 200 passengers of the larger
European river ships — the result is a much more personalized and serene
experience. They sail along much narrower canals, and the itineraries thus
include the much quainter towns and lesser-known sites along the way.
During a European Waterways canal barge cruise
last month on the 12-passenger Le Panache through France's Alsace and Lorraine
regions, I had the opportunity to experience the difference.
On Le Panache, the six 150-square-foot cabins
are cozy but not confined, with porthole windows and fairly large en suite
bathrooms with double sinks. The decor in the common living and dining rooms is
distinctive, like what you would expect of a deluxe bed-and-breakfast. On the
sun deck there is a more casual outdoor dining table and a hot tub.
The barge, which sails at a maximum speed of 14
mph, sets a very relaxed pace for the weeklong trip. Passengers take in the
passing scenery and enjoy well-executed, locally sourced meals, wines and
cheeses.
With few passengers and a small,
dedicated staff serving them, everyone spends a lot of time together, so guests
should be prepared for that level of engagement.
During sailings, passengers can check email with pretty
consistent wireless Internet, observe the entertaining process of passing
through the myriad locks on the canals or simply read and relax.
Excursion highlights of the Alsace and
Lorraine cruise included the Musee Lalique, a museum in the town of
Wingen-sur-Moder devoted to the art nouveau and art deco glassware of Rene
Lalique; a 13th century chapel with Marc Chagall-designed stained-glass windows
in Sarrebourg; and the ever-charming city of Strasbourg.
Excursions were conducted in a small van with a well-informed
tour guide who journeyed with the group throughout the cruise.
Bikes are available onboard for riding along
the canals or in the towns. The canals wind through beautiful, changing
landscapes that are conducive to scenic walks or jogs.
European Waterways barges sail along canals in France, Belgium,
Luxembourg, Germany, the Netherlands, Scotland, Ireland, England and Italy. For
2013, one-week cruises range from $3,690 to $7,290 per person, based on double
occupancy.
canal cruising experience vastly different from the popular, larger river
cruises in Europe.
With between six and 20
passengers onboard — compared with the 150 to 200 passengers of the larger
European river ships — the result is a much more personalized and serene
experience. They sail along much narrower canals, and the itineraries thus
include the much quainter towns and lesser-known sites along the way.
During a European Waterways canal barge cruise
last month on the 12-passenger Le Panache through France's Alsace and Lorraine
regions, I had the opportunity to experience the difference.
On Le Panache, the six 150-square-foot cabins
are cozy but not confined, with porthole windows and fairly large en suite
bathrooms with double sinks. The decor in the common living and dining rooms is
distinctive, like what you would expect of a deluxe bed-and-breakfast. On the
sun deck there is a more casual outdoor dining table and a hot tub.
The barge, which sails at a maximum speed of 14
mph, sets a very relaxed pace for the weeklong trip. Passengers take in the
passing scenery and enjoy well-executed, locally sourced meals, wines and
cheeses.
With few passengers and a small,
dedicated staff serving them, everyone spends a lot of time together, so guests
should be prepared for that level of engagement.
During sailings, passengers can check email with pretty
consistent wireless Internet, observe the entertaining process of passing
through the myriad locks on the canals or simply read and relax.
Excursion highlights of the Alsace and
Lorraine cruise included the Musee Lalique, a museum in the town of
Wingen-sur-Moder devoted to the art nouveau and art deco glassware of Rene
Lalique; a 13th century chapel with Marc Chagall-designed stained-glass windows
in Sarrebourg; and the ever-charming city of Strasbourg.
Excursions were conducted in a small van with a well-informed
tour guide who journeyed with the group throughout the cruise.
Bikes are available onboard for riding along
the canals or in the towns. The canals wind through beautiful, changing
landscapes that are conducive to scenic walks or jogs.
European Waterways barges sail along canals in France, Belgium,
Luxembourg, Germany, the Netherlands, Scotland, Ireland, England and Italy. For
2013, one-week cruises range from $3,690 to $7,290 per person, based on double
occupancy.
Added by Mike Davies on November 2, 2012 at 8:51am — No Comments
Ken Burns and Tauck Announce New Mississippi River Cruise
Ken Burns and Tauck are launching a new Mississippi river cruise on the American Queenpaddlewheel steamboat.
The 11-day, seven-night cruise will launch early next year as part of the company’s “Ken Burns American Journeys” collection. The new “Life on the Mississippi” itinerary begins with an overnight stay in Memphis, followed by a seven-night Mississippi River cruise aboard the newly relaunched American Queen paddlewheel steamboat, and it concludes with a two-night stay in New Orleans. Along the way, guests will experience cultural experiences and Tacuk-exclusive shore excursions.
Tauck CEO Dan Mahar explains that Ken Burns and his longtime collaborator Dayton Duncan were instrumental in crafting the new itinerary. “Ken and Dayton have an amazingly broad knowledge of the Mississippi, its influence on American history and culture, and the people and places along its banks,” said Mahar. “With their insights and experience, we’ve been able to craft an itinerary for our guests that is truly unique.”
According to Burns, the Mississippi has helped shape America throughout its history, and accordingly, the river’s influence has been explored in a range of his films. “The Mississippi is a thread that runs through America’s history much as it courses through the heart of our country,” says Burns. “It’s only natural that it’s also a constantly recurring presence in my films, including Jazz, The Civil War, Mark Twain, Huey Long and The National Parks: America’s Best Idea. You can’t tell America’s story without telling the story of the Mississippi.”
Tauck will offer both northbound and southbound versions of the itinerary, with the 7-night cruise on the American Queen bookended by an overnight stay at the famed Peabody in Memphis and two nights at The Roosevelt in New Orleans.
Riverdiscounts 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on November 2, 2012 at 8:44am — No Comments
Scenic Cruises to Host Four Consumer Information Shows
Scenic Cruises is hosting four consumer information shows in California, Connecticut, Arizona and Texas. Scenic will discuss what to look for in a river cruise, the all-inclusive nature, new itineraries, excursions and entertainment. Each attendee will receive a $100 savings voucher to be used on any 2013-14 sailing. Attendees can RSVP online.
The shows are scheduled for 6 p.m. Oct. 30 at Hyatt Place, 282 Almaden Blvd., San Jose, Calif.; 6 p.m. Nov. 1 at Hyatt Regency, 1800 E. Putmon Ave., Old Greenwich, Conn.; 4:30 p.m. Nov. 8, Hyatt House/Old Town, 4245 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale, Ariz.; and 1 p.m. Nov. 13, Hilton Post Oak, 2001 Post Oak Blvd., Houston.
Scenic Cruises’ all-inclusive policy, which is applicable to all cruises except Russia, includes unlimited beverages including the cabin mini bars, butler service for every guest, free Wi-Fi, new themed dinners with entertainment, new dining venues on board some ships and Scenic Riverview, a personal onboard GPS-guided tour system device (not available in France). Scenic ships have private concerts and other entertainment, tour leaders, complimentary electric-assist bicycles, escorted airport transfers and gratuities and baggage handling. All of the company’s ships, except the Scenic Emerald in France, will have the Scenic “Sun-Lounges” that let guests convert their private balconies into an indoor lounge with a push of a button.
Added by Mike Davies on October 29, 2012 at 4:10pm — No Comments
New for 2013 on the river
The idea of cruising serenely along magnificent waterways and watching the scenery drift by is a captivating one. Late nights ashore in riverside cities, immersion in local culture through food, wine and history, and a new view every day – it’s no wonder that river cruising is growing so fast. Next year will bring new and increasingly innovative ship design, new itineraries and even new corners of the world to explore.
The Douro
The tranquil Douro, winding through the heart of Portugal’s port wine-producing region, could well be the next big thing in river cruising; for a start, it’s the new home of Spirit of Chartwell, the beautiful barge that transported the royal family for the jubilee river pageant. Other operators have new ships on the river, too. A new itinerary from Viking River Cruises has the bonus of including a couple of nights in Lisbon before the cruise begins in Porto. In addition, there’s a day in Salamanca, across the border in Spain, beyond the furthest navigable point of the Douro, and a night in Porto itself, a Unesco World Heritage city where the headquarters of all the big port houses are located, giving the place a regal, moneyed air.
Viking River Cruises offers a nine-night holiday on Viking Douro, departing on December 6. From £1,895pp, including flights, full board with wine, two nights in a Lisbon hotel and eight tours
The Guadalquivir and Guadiana
Great Rail Journeys is offering a rare chance to cruise two rivers in Spain, as well as visiting some of the country’s most beautiful cities without even boarding an aircraft. Travel by sleeper train to Madrid and then join the ship Belle de Cadiz in the heart of Seville, sailing along the Guadalquivir river to Cadiz, a historic coastal port close to the sherry-producing city of Jerez. The ship then sails along the coast and into the Guadiana river, which forms the border between Spain and Portugal’s Alentejo, a remote area of hills and plains dotted with medieval villages, before heading back to Seville. The return rail journey is broken with two nights in Barcelona.
Great Rail Journeys offers a 12-night Spanish holiday departing in April, June and September. From £2,575pp, including rail travel, hotels, seven-night cruise with full board and wine at dinner, some meals ashore and most sightseeing (01904 521936; greatrail.com).
Rhine and Danube
On the Rhine and Danube, the two principle arteries of Europe’s waterways, it’s more a question of new and exciting ships rather than innovative itineraries, as both rivers are already teeming with cruise traffic. And just when it seemed as though river cruisers couldn’t get any more luxurious, along comes Scenic Tours’ new Scenic Jewel, a ship launching next year with everything included, right down to the Wi-Fi and the contents of the minibar. What’s more, every guest, no matter what cabin grade, enjoys the services of a butler. One of the best features of the ship itself is the ability to convert your private balcony to an indoor sun lounge at the press of a button; perfect for cool-weather cruising.
Scenic Tours offers an eight-day Nuremberg to Budapest cruise on Scenic Jewel departing on June 17, 2013. From £2,465pp, including all meals, drinks, flights, a choice of excursions and gratuities
The Seine
The Seine
AmaWaterways is offering a series of wine-themed cruises in 2013, hosted by experts and including daily tastings both on board and ashore, as well as wine-paired gourmet dinners in the evenings. One of the best itineraries is on the Seine, round-trip from Paris, with two overnights in Rouen, from where there’s a Normandy cider and Calvados tasting, as well as a visit to Fécamp monastery to learn about the herbal Benedictine liqueur. On the final day in Paris, a visit to the Musée du Vin and a champagne tasting rounds off the experience.
AmaWaterways offers a seven-night Seine cruise round-trip from Paris, departing on April 5, 2013. From £1,686pp, including full board, wine with meals and all excursions, cruise only
The Main
No child could fail to be thrilled by the atmosphere, sights and aromas of Germany’s famous Christmas markets. Uniworld has been dabbling successfully with special family-friendly river cruises for a couple of years now and for 2013 has extended these to the advent markets of Germany on a voyage on River Queen from Frankfurt to Nuremberg, visiting Wertheim, Würzburg, Rothenburg, Bamberg and Nuremberg. As well as time to explore all the markets, admire gingerbread houses, buy handmade Christmas decorations, sample sizzling sausages from open-air grills and listen to carol singers, special tours include a gilding workshop, a chance to visit the Christmas Museum in Rothenburg and a craft class in which children make their own advent calendar.
The Irrawaddy
Almost inaccessible for decades and the subject of much controversy, beautiful, mysterious Burma has tentatively opened its doors to tourism. Orient-Express, which has for many years operated the luxurious Road to Mandalay riverboat on the Irrawaddy, has just announced that it’s building a second river cruiser for Burma, the 50-passenger Orcaella, named after the river dolphins that inhabit the Irrawaddy and launching next July. The new ship will operate seven and 11-night cruises from January to April and July to December, sailing between Yangon and Bhamo. Because of its small size and shallow draft, Orcaella will also cruise the Chindwin river, a tributary of the Irrawaddy flanked by mountain ranges, sailing as far north as Homalin, just 30 miles from the Indian border.
Excursions, most of which are included in the price, will include a local “tea-shop” experience, trekking though the jungle, exploring hillside caves housing 492 Buddha chambers, a visit to the only bespectacled Buddha (thought to have healing powers) close to Pyay, a train journey into dense Kachin jungle and a chance to meet working elephants in the Burmese teak forest.
Added by Mike Davies on October 24, 2012 at 8:34am — No Comments
Cruising the rivers of beautiful France
SCENIC Tours, a leading operator of all-inclusive and fully escorted luxury Europe river cruises and tours has some extraordinary France river cruising options as part of their 2013 program.
One new cruise is eight days on the romantic Rhone and Saone rivers from Charlon-sur-Saone to Arles.
The journey is on board the luxurious scenic 'space-ship', Scenic Emerald, the newest ship on the waterways of France and the only one with full size outdoor balcony suites.
The cruise visits Macon, where guests have the option to visit the village of Cluny and the great Benedictine Abbey.
They will also visit Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France and home to majestic embankments, bridges and monuments.
Guests will also visit the 2000-year-old Roman city of Vienne and experience everyday French life with a family home-hosted meal in Tournon.
This eight day cruise is a shorter version of the flagship 12 night France river cruise and is the perfect option for guests who have limited time or are travelling around Europe and wish to add a short cruise to their trip.
Prices on the eight day enchanting Rhone river cruise start from $4,855pp twin share.
It includes flights for the second person and eight day cruise with all meals and beverages on board; butler service; all excursions, events and entertainment; Wi-Fi; airport transfers; and all tipping and gratuities.
Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on October 15, 2012 at 9:25am — No Comments
Who Pays for the bathroom. River cruising 3.0
It started 10-12 years ago with a few Viking/KD/Uniworld ships. 130 sq ft cabins. some excursion where you could not hear or understand the guides. 5-6 years ago 2.0 new ships with Each passenger on excursions had a headset to hear the guide. French balconies, you stick out your arm/leg/head but cannot walk out. Wine with dinner, different paced excursions.
Now we have river cruising 3.0 Scenic/Viking/Tauck have Alternate dining/ 200-300 sq ft cabin with sit out balconies. /Wine/beer/beverages with Lunch/dinner and mimosas with breakfast. Meals on shore, private visits, alternate tour choices, pre and post hotels included in pricing.
When you tour with Tauck the guides/Tour managers carry coin with them to pay for the public bathrooms!
What do you think is next?
Added by Mike Davies on October 9, 2012 at 9:53am — No Comments
River Cruise Line Expands to U.S.
Avalon Waterways will launch a limited number of Mississippi River sailings in 2013
through a partnership with American Queen Steamboat Company. In total the mostly European rivers-focused cruise line will offer 10 departures.
"We decided to enter the U.S. market in 2013 for a couple
of reasons," Steve Born told Cruise Critic. Born is vice president of marketing
for Avalon's parent company the Globus family of brands.
"First, we've heard interest from our agents over the past few years, knowing that there's
demand in the U.S. market for a premium Mississippi experience. And from a
product standpoint, we were very excited about the American Queen and the great fit it
has with our land product in that region of the country."
For each of the sailings, Avalon is holding 20 outside cabins aboard American Queen, a
Victorian-styled paddlewheel steamboat that launched this year. Cruisers who
book through Avalon will have access to all the same services and amenities as
passengers who book with American Queen but will also be accompanied by an
Avalon tour director on and off the ship and be treated to an exclusive
behind-the-scenes Avalon-sponsored land excursion.
For instance in Natchez, Mississippi, Avalon-booked passengers will visit chef Regina
Charboneau's home to enjoy drinks and a light meal.
The 10 sailings mark Avalon's first foray onto U.S. waterways, and the line is just testing the
waters for its first year. "While there's the potential to grow this scope in
the future, we felt confident with the dates and availability of these
cruise/tours for year one," said Steve Born.
The charter partnership is not the first time Avalon has partnered with another cruise line to expand its
river cruise offerings. The line has partnered with cruise companies in China,
Egypt and the Galapagos Islands to offer Yangtze, Nile and Galapagos cruises.
Eight departures of the 11-night "America's Heartland: From Music City
to the Big Easy" will be offered from March through June and November through
December, as will two sailings of the 10-night "Fall Foliage Spectacular"
itinerary in late September/early October.
The cruise line also will offer pre- and post-cruise land packages in Nashville, New Orleans and Chicago.
through a partnership with American Queen Steamboat Company. In total the mostly European rivers-focused cruise line will offer 10 departures.
"We decided to enter the U.S. market in 2013 for a couple
of reasons," Steve Born told Cruise Critic. Born is vice president of marketing
for Avalon's parent company the Globus family of brands.
"First, we've heard interest from our agents over the past few years, knowing that there's
demand in the U.S. market for a premium Mississippi experience. And from a
product standpoint, we were very excited about the American Queen and the great fit it
has with our land product in that region of the country."
For each of the sailings, Avalon is holding 20 outside cabins aboard American Queen, a
Victorian-styled paddlewheel steamboat that launched this year. Cruisers who
book through Avalon will have access to all the same services and amenities as
passengers who book with American Queen but will also be accompanied by an
Avalon tour director on and off the ship and be treated to an exclusive
behind-the-scenes Avalon-sponsored land excursion.
For instance in Natchez, Mississippi, Avalon-booked passengers will visit chef Regina
Charboneau's home to enjoy drinks and a light meal.
The 10 sailings mark Avalon's first foray onto U.S. waterways, and the line is just testing the
waters for its first year. "While there's the potential to grow this scope in
the future, we felt confident with the dates and availability of these
cruise/tours for year one," said Steve Born.
The charter partnership is not the first time Avalon has partnered with another cruise line to expand its
river cruise offerings. The line has partnered with cruise companies in China,
Egypt and the Galapagos Islands to offer Yangtze, Nile and Galapagos cruises.
Eight departures of the 11-night "America's Heartland: From Music City
to the Big Easy" will be offered from March through June and November through
December, as will two sailings of the 10-night "Fall Foliage Spectacular"
itinerary in late September/early October.
The cruise line also will offer pre- and post-cruise land packages in Nashville, New Orleans and Chicago.
Added by Mike Davies on October 5, 2012 at 10:36am — No Comments
American Cruise Lines Introduces the Spring Cruise Collection
American Cruise Lines (www.americancruiselines.com), operator of the newest riverboats and small cruise ships in the United States, announced today its Spring Cruise Collection, a various selection of cruises handpicked to showcase the beautiful 2013 spring season. Cruise itineraries include the Mississippi River, Historic South & Golden Isles, Columbia & Snake Rivers, Great Rivers of Florida, and American Cruise Lines’ brand new itinerary, Puget Sound & San Juan Islands. The addition of this new cruise offering makes the Spring Cruise Collection the most extensive one offered to date.
Lower Mississippi River: Springtime cruising on the Mississippi River is a spectacular time to experience the American Heartland. Historic rivertowns come alive as sprawling acres of gardens bloom with regional flora. Guests will take a relaxing journey aboard the elegant Queen of the Mississippi, their minds wandering back in time on this authentic riverboat, as they soak up the warm Mississippi sunlight and marvel at the breathtaking views around every bend of the river. Featured Dates: March 23, April 6 (New Orleans - Memphis)
Historic South & Golden Isles: Spring in the South is an awakening of color and wildlife. Azaleas line shady lanes and plantation gardens erupt with color. Migratory birds and waterfowl soar above while guests travel through the vivacity of spring on the Intracoastal Waterway, and visit the historically-rich gem cities of the South along the way, including Savannah, Charleston and Hilton Head. Featured Dates: March 30, April 13
Columbia & Snake Rivers: Aboard Queen of the West, an authentic paddlewheeler, guests are introduced to the stunning springtime beauty of the Pacific Northwest and its rich tapestry of ever-changing landscapes, thriving wildlife habitats and fascinating human endeavors. Deep river canyons, lush forested slopes and sparkling waterfalls make this a place like no other, and one best experienced in the spring. Featured Dates: April 6, April 20Great Rivers of Florida: This cruise along the St. Johns River is the perfect escape to a tropical paradise. In the springtime, Florida is a botanical haven, with bright, blooming flowers amid the palm trees that border the river. Nature enthusiasts will enjoy close-up views of indigenous wildlife from the top deck of the ship including manatee and alligators. Warm mineral springs, sub-tropical blooms and historic ruins make this the perfect spring getaway.Featured Dates: March 9, April 13
Puget Sound & San Juan Islands: Guests will leave relaxed and rejuvenated after eight days enjoying the delicious crisp springtime air of Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands. They’ll feel the warm sun on their backs and the cool calming wind as they explore one of the most magnificent cruising regions in the U.S. Nestled between Canada’s Vancouver Island and the U.S. mainland, are hundreds of islands – many of which are uninhabited – and home to a diverse natural wonderland filled with wildlife, including sea lions, hawks, and whales. Both refreshing and enlightening, this itinerary is perfect for a relaxing springtime adventure. Featured Dates: April 13, April 20
“The springtime is one of the best times to experience small ship cruising with American Cruise Lines,” said Timothy Beebe, Vice President of American Cruise Lines. “This particular collection rounds up a selection of unique itineraries which sail through some of the most beautiful places in the U.S., most enjoyable in the spring months. Each cruise offers an experience unlike any other.”
Added by Mike Davies on October 3, 2012 at 8:55am — No Comments
New Orient-Express ship adds to S.E. Asia momentum
There appears to be no slowdown to the momentum in interest and investment in
river cruising in Southeast Asia, with operators continuing to launch new
vessels on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia and on the Irrawaddy River
in Myanmar.
The latest example is
Orient-Express Hotels Ltd., which earlier this month unveiled plans to launch a
new 50-passenger river vessel on Myanmar's Irrawaddy River in July 2013.
The Orcaella is under construction in Yangon and
will join the company's existing river cruise ship in Myanmar, the 82-passenger
Road to Mandalay, which has been cruising the Irrawaddy for 17 years.
The new ship will have 25 cabins with
floor-to-ceiling, sliding-glass doors and Juliette balconies with river views.
There will be four decks with two balcony suites on the main deck as well as 15
state cabins and eight deluxe cabins on the main and upper decks. All will have
air conditioning and ensuite facilities, and four of the cabins will be
interconnecting.
On the observation deck,
there will be a retractable awning and reclining chairs, a lounge and bar that
will be open all day for refreshments and alfresco dining, and a swimming pool.
There will also be a fitness center and spa treatment room. On the main deck
there will be a restaurant and two boutiques. Like the Road to Mandalay,
Orcaella will have a medical room and a resident doctor onboard.
The Orcaella will operate from January to
April and July to December. There will be a seven-night, 506-mile cruise from
Yangon to Bagan (and the reverse) and an 11-night, 682-mile cruise from Mandalay
up to Bhamo, near the Chinese border, and ending in Bagan. There will also be an
11-night, 854-mile cruise along the Chindwin River.
All itineraries can be combined with stays in Yangon, Inle Lake
or Ngapali on the Indian Ocean. Prices start from $5,040 per person for a
seven-night cruise and include all meals onboard, excursions, transfers and
domestic flights. The Road to Mandalay and the Orcaella are both available for
private charter and can be chartered in tandem.
The Orcaella news comes on the heels of direct-to-consumer
company Grand Circle Cruise Line adding a Myanmar cruise-tour for 2013 onboard
the 34-passenger river cruise ship Paukan 2012.
The Paukan 2012, which launched this year, is owned by
Yangon-based Ayravata Cruises, which owns two other ships in Myanmar: the
32-passenger Paukan 1947 (built in 1947) and the 55-passenger Paukan 2007 (built
in 2007).
"The release of [political prisoner] Aung San Suu Kyi from two
decades of house arrest and her election to parliament has helped this once
isolated country begin opening its doors to the West," Alan Lewis, chairman and
CEO of Grand Circle Corp., said in a statement signaling why more travel
companies are now beginning to enter Myanmar.
"From calling for a boycott of travel to Burma [the name many
still use for the country], the Nobel Peace Prize winner is now encouraging
responsible travelers to visit her country, and as result, Burma has become the
hottest travel destination of the year," Lewis added.
Ayravata Cruises is being represented in the North American
market by the recently formed Haimark Travel, a company that will focus on river
cruises in Myanmar and India as well as handle land operations for Mekong River
cruises.
Haimark, based in Breckenridge,
Colo., plans to open an office in Yangon this fall and is looking to partner
with shipbuilders to develop product in Myanmar, Southeast Asia and on India's
Ganges River.
From Myanmar to the
Mekong
While development in
Myanmar is picking up, shipbuilding on the Mekong River continues on the fast
pace it has been on for the last couple of years, with the latest entrant to the
market being Aqua Expeditions, a luxury river cruise operator on the Peruvian
Amazon.
In January 2014, Aqua Expeditions will introduce the 40-passenger
Aqua Mekong with a spa, screening room, fitness center, library, outdoor pool
and 20 guest suites with floor-to-ceiling windows. The vessel will sail three-,
four- and seven-day itineraries between Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam and Siem
Reap in Cambodia (as well as the reverse).
"The Mekong is similar to the Peruvian Amazon in that the
location is unique, awe-inspiring and exotic, and it is abundant in nature and
rich cultures," a company spokesperson said of the leap from the Amazon to the
Mekong. "The Mekong has more of a developed and established cruise industry than
the Peruvian Amazon."
The Mekong ship will
be similar in design to the company's two existing vessels on the Amazon, but it
will be slightly larger: 20 cabins compared with 12 on the Aqua and 16 on the
Aria. Additionally, the Mekong vessel will be decorated in a contemporary Asian
style, using local materials and fabrics. The interior areas will be
air-conditioned, and the cabins will be 320 square feet each. There will a 1:1
passenger-to-staff ratio.
Daily excursions
will be in small groups of eight passengers. The boat is being designed by
Vietnamese architecture firm Noor.
Aqua
Expeditions' plans to expand onto the Mekong come amid explosive growth on the
Southeast Asian river. This year alone, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise
Collection's 60-passenger River Saigon sailed its maiden voyage in January,
kicking off a three-year charter agreement with the ship's owner, Pandaw River
Cruises; Viking River Cruises started offering Mekong River cruises on Pandaw's
60-passenger Indochina Pandaw and 66-passenger Tonle Pandaw; and this month
Avalon Waterways' 32-passenger Avalon Angkor, a ship Avalon is leasing from
Pandaw, is slated to set sail on the Mekong River.
river cruising in Southeast Asia, with operators continuing to launch new
vessels on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia and on the Irrawaddy River
in Myanmar.
The latest example is
Orient-Express Hotels Ltd., which earlier this month unveiled plans to launch a
new 50-passenger river vessel on Myanmar's Irrawaddy River in July 2013.
The Orcaella is under construction in Yangon and
will join the company's existing river cruise ship in Myanmar, the 82-passenger
Road to Mandalay, which has been cruising the Irrawaddy for 17 years.
The new ship will have 25 cabins with
floor-to-ceiling, sliding-glass doors and Juliette balconies with river views.
There will be four decks with two balcony suites on the main deck as well as 15
state cabins and eight deluxe cabins on the main and upper decks. All will have
air conditioning and ensuite facilities, and four of the cabins will be
interconnecting.
On the observation deck,
there will be a retractable awning and reclining chairs, a lounge and bar that
will be open all day for refreshments and alfresco dining, and a swimming pool.
There will also be a fitness center and spa treatment room. On the main deck
there will be a restaurant and two boutiques. Like the Road to Mandalay,
Orcaella will have a medical room and a resident doctor onboard.
The Orcaella will operate from January to
April and July to December. There will be a seven-night, 506-mile cruise from
Yangon to Bagan (and the reverse) and an 11-night, 682-mile cruise from Mandalay
up to Bhamo, near the Chinese border, and ending in Bagan. There will also be an
11-night, 854-mile cruise along the Chindwin River.
All itineraries can be combined with stays in Yangon, Inle Lake
or Ngapali on the Indian Ocean. Prices start from $5,040 per person for a
seven-night cruise and include all meals onboard, excursions, transfers and
domestic flights. The Road to Mandalay and the Orcaella are both available for
private charter and can be chartered in tandem.
The Orcaella news comes on the heels of direct-to-consumer
company Grand Circle Cruise Line adding a Myanmar cruise-tour for 2013 onboard
the 34-passenger river cruise ship Paukan 2012.
The Paukan 2012, which launched this year, is owned by
Yangon-based Ayravata Cruises, which owns two other ships in Myanmar: the
32-passenger Paukan 1947 (built in 1947) and the 55-passenger Paukan 2007 (built
in 2007).
"The release of [political prisoner] Aung San Suu Kyi from two
decades of house arrest and her election to parliament has helped this once
isolated country begin opening its doors to the West," Alan Lewis, chairman and
CEO of Grand Circle Corp., said in a statement signaling why more travel
companies are now beginning to enter Myanmar.
"From calling for a boycott of travel to Burma [the name many
still use for the country], the Nobel Peace Prize winner is now encouraging
responsible travelers to visit her country, and as result, Burma has become the
hottest travel destination of the year," Lewis added.
Ayravata Cruises is being represented in the North American
market by the recently formed Haimark Travel, a company that will focus on river
cruises in Myanmar and India as well as handle land operations for Mekong River
cruises.
Haimark, based in Breckenridge,
Colo., plans to open an office in Yangon this fall and is looking to partner
with shipbuilders to develop product in Myanmar, Southeast Asia and on India's
Ganges River.
From Myanmar to the
Mekong
While development in
Myanmar is picking up, shipbuilding on the Mekong River continues on the fast
pace it has been on for the last couple of years, with the latest entrant to the
market being Aqua Expeditions, a luxury river cruise operator on the Peruvian
Amazon.
In January 2014, Aqua Expeditions will introduce the 40-passenger
Aqua Mekong with a spa, screening room, fitness center, library, outdoor pool
and 20 guest suites with floor-to-ceiling windows. The vessel will sail three-,
four- and seven-day itineraries between Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam and Siem
Reap in Cambodia (as well as the reverse).
"The Mekong is similar to the Peruvian Amazon in that the
location is unique, awe-inspiring and exotic, and it is abundant in nature and
rich cultures," a company spokesperson said of the leap from the Amazon to the
Mekong. "The Mekong has more of a developed and established cruise industry than
the Peruvian Amazon."
The Mekong ship will
be similar in design to the company's two existing vessels on the Amazon, but it
will be slightly larger: 20 cabins compared with 12 on the Aqua and 16 on the
Aria. Additionally, the Mekong vessel will be decorated in a contemporary Asian
style, using local materials and fabrics. The interior areas will be
air-conditioned, and the cabins will be 320 square feet each. There will a 1:1
passenger-to-staff ratio.
Daily excursions
will be in small groups of eight passengers. The boat is being designed by
Vietnamese architecture firm Noor.
Aqua
Expeditions' plans to expand onto the Mekong come amid explosive growth on the
Southeast Asian river. This year alone, Uniworld Boutique River Cruise
Collection's 60-passenger River Saigon sailed its maiden voyage in January,
kicking off a three-year charter agreement with the ship's owner, Pandaw River
Cruises; Viking River Cruises started offering Mekong River cruises on Pandaw's
60-passenger Indochina Pandaw and 66-passenger Tonle Pandaw; and this month
Avalon Waterways' 32-passenger Avalon Angkor, a ship Avalon is leasing from
Pandaw, is slated to set sail on the Mekong River.
Added by Mike Davies on October 3, 2012 at 8:53am — No Comments
Tauck Named “World’s Best River Cruise Line For Families” By Travel + Leisure
For the second consecutive year, Tauck has been named the “World’s Best River Cruise Line for Families” by the readers of Travel + Leisure magazine.
The recognition, announced in the magazine’s current issue, follows on the heels of Tauck being named to Travel + Leisure’s overall list of the “World’s Best River Cruise Lines” in its August issue.
Tauck has been included on the “World’s Best River Cruise Lines” list for four years running, including taking the number-one spot in 2011.
This latest Travel + Leisure honor comes just as Tauck is announcing its 2013 portfolio of Tauck Bridges family itineraries. Launched in 2004, the Tauck Bridges collection is comprised entirely of land journeys and cruises designed specifically for families traveling with children. Rather than dividing families with age-specific activities or facilities, Tauck Bridges trips are crafted to deliver “shared enrichment” through common experiences that allow family members to build strong, intergenerational bonds (or “bridges”).
NEW TAUCK BRIDGES RIVER CRUISE Featured prominently in Tauck’s 2013 Bridges collection is its new river cruise itinerary, “Bon Voyage: France Family River Cruise.” The 10-day itinerary (from $4,690 per person, plus air) begins with an included two-night hotel stay with guided sightseeing in Paris that highlights the Eiffel Tower, the Arc de Triomphe, the Louvre and a special dinner at Fouquet’s.
Guests then travel on the high-speed TGV train to Lyon, where they’ll board Tauck’s MS Swiss Emerald for a seven-night cruise on the Rhone.
Tauck is including a number of fun and engaging activities for families throughout the itinerary, including a scavenger hunt in Paris’ Louvre, a lesson in “petanque” (a ball game similar to bocce) in Viviers, a hayride in the Camargue, bicycling in Avignon, and a hands-on French culinary experience in Tournon.
Three departures of “Bon Voyage: France Family River Cruise,” will be offered in 2013, on July 11, July 25 and August 1.
In all, for 2013 Tauck will operate departures of 17 Bridges itineraries highlighting destinations in Europe, North America, Latin America and Africa. Each Bridges trip is fully inclusive, with all accommodations, ground transportation, entertainment, sightseeing, gratuities, most meals, airport transfers, luggage handling and much more built into the price.
COMPLIMENTARY HOTEL NIGHT FOR RETURNING TAUCK BRIDGES TRAVELERS Returning Tauck Bridges travelers can also benefit from the company’s Gift of Time offer, which allows them to extend their 2013 journey with a complimentary hotel night. Guests can choose to redeem their free night at either the beginning or end of their Tauck journey, at the hotel normally featured on the first or last night of their itinerary.
To qualify for the Gift of Time, returning guests must book their 2013 Tauck Bridges trip and secure it with a deposit no later than December 28, 2012. Other restrictions may apply.
Contact Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on October 1, 2012 at 2:31pm — No Comments
AmaWaterways Holiday Cruises Explore European Christmas Markets
this holiday season offers Christmas Time cruises in seven countries on five ships on the Rhine and Danube rivers. The cruises visit European Christmas Markets, which take over market squares and cobblestone streets with festively decorated wooden stalls adorned with lights and evergreen. Starting in late November, vendors sell local food, hot wine, and desserts like gingerbread and pastries. Local artisans create wooden toys, handmade crafts and ornaments.
The 10-night “Christmas Time Cruise” starts with two nights in Prague, Czech Republic. Passengers travel to Nuremberg, Germany, to embark on the AmaCerto, AmaDolce, AmaLegro or AmaLyra. In Nuremberg, passengers visit the world’s largest Christmas market and then cross the Continental Divide on the way to Regensburg, Passau, Linz, Melk and Vienna. The trip ends in Budapest, Hungary. North American travelers can book voyages from Nov. 18 through Dec. 25.
The 12-night “Christmas on the Rhine” starts in Switzerland with two nights in Zurich and two nights in Lucerne. In Basel, travelers embark on the AmaCello, a 148-passenger ship, for a seven-night cruise to Amsterdam. North American travelers can book voyages from Nov. 25 through Dec. 23.
Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on September 24, 2012 at 1:57pm — No Comments
New paddlewheeler on Mississippi River
A brand new paddlewheeler started cruising on the Mississippi River last month. The 150-passenger Queen of the Mississippi, which makes seven-night cruises from several ports, has not been affected by the river’s drought-induced low water, which has curtailed some traffic on the river.
While the new American Cruise Line ship brings back old-style cruising on the river, its facilities are decidedly modern. Its staterooms, at 300-square-feet-plus, are more spacious than on other riverboats. Most have private balconies, and each is equipped with telephone, satellite television and Wi-Fi. Fares are luxury level, starting at $3,995 per person double occupancy.
The Queen of the Mississippi is the second sternwheeler to restore cruising on America’s biggest river. Last April, the refurbished 1995-built American Queen, operated by a rival cruise line, resumed river cruising after being out of service for four years.
American Queen Steamboat Company Reports Record-Setting Sales
The American Queen Steamboat Company said it set booking records for July when it announced its 2013 voyages. Additionally, the second week of August was the brand’s best sales week in its history, nearly doubling the previous weekly booking volume benchmark.
“There has been tremendous word-of-mouth support from agents and guests alike as they clamor for remaining space in 2012 and for the newly announced 2013 season,” said American Queen CEO Jeffrey D. Krida.
Guest satisfaction ratings on the American Queen are currently averaging 96 percent and greater than 90 percent of steamboaters have shared they will come back and recommend to friends and family.
Fares begin at $1,095 per guest, based on double occupancy, and include a one-night pre-voyage hotel stay, shore tours in every port onboard Steamcoaches, and complimentary wine and beer with dinner.
Added by Mike Davies on August 28, 2012 at 9:12am — No Comments
What makes the Scenic Tours luxury river cruises so special
here are many reasons why the river cruises in Europeavailable from Scenic Tours have become so popular in recent times, with our guests and experts from the travel industry alike having been full of praise for our various packages over the last few years.
Widely regarded as owning the finest fleet of cruise ships in Europe, Scenic Tours are quite simply second to none when it comes to the sheer quality of trip that we offer, with irresistible features such as private balconies, a personal butler service and complimentary drinks included in the price of your cruise as standard.
In fact, that there are no hidden extra costs is a significant factor in why we are so respected by all those who travel with us; once you have set off, you will not have to worry about paying extra for tips, port charges, hospitality or anything else. Unlike other holiday companies, when we say that our luxury breaks are all-inclusive, we really mean it.
Scenic Tours luxury river cruises offer carefully selected cruises within some of the most beautiful river regions of the world. Choose from European & Russian River Cruises, or venture further afield with Australia, New Zealand and the Americas with out USA, Canada & South America luxury river cruises.
Enjoy an enchanting, all-inclusive Scenic Tours luxury river cruise and discover a myriad of places, culture, history and some of the most breathtaking scenery along your relaxing journey.
You will be able to enjoy a range of places to visit during your luxury river cruise, with specially designed excursions with one of our professional tour guides to share with you a wealth of local knowledge and a plethora of experiences along the way.
Remember, only Scenic Tours offers the ultimate touring and all-inclusive river cruise holiday experience.Added by Mike Davies on August 25, 2012 at 10:42am — No Comments
Free Air for Amsterdam to Budapest Fall 2012
Heralding a new era in European river cruising, the Viking Longships have arrived. These revolutionary vessels are setting innovative standards in style, space and comfort.
Grand European Tour 15 days - Amsterdam to Budapest Nov-Dec 2012
Imagine 15 magical days along the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers. From Holland’s windmill-studded tulip fields to Germany’s fairy-tale castles, from the engineering marvel of the Main-Danube Canal to the picturesque vineyards of Austria’s Wachau Valley, this epic voyage presents the highlights of Holland, Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. Savor a decadent Sachertorte in a Viennese café and panoramic views of imperial Budapest—and along the way, discover the legend of the Lorelei, the ancient art of glassblowing, the music of Mozart and more. Guests who choose this voyage soon see why it is our most popular itinerary.
Cruise from $9,699 $4,762 per person (Nov 24, Viking Idun Cat B)
ALL-INCLUSIVE PRICING
| |
|---|---|
| Daily Shore Excursions | 13 included guided tours |
| Included Meals | All meals: 14 breakfasts, 13 lunches & 14 dinners |
| Port Charges | Included on all itineraries |
| Air Taxes, Fees, Fuel Surcharges & Transfers | Included with airfare |
FREE air or Business Class from $3,500* from Boston, Newark, New York, Philadelphia or Pittsburgh.
*25Echo : 2-for-1 cruise plus up to FREE air on Nov 10, 18, 24; Dec 8, 2012 departures of Grand European Tour Category B and above from Boston, Newark, New York, Philadelphia or Pittsburgh (other gateways and categories available; call for pricing). Must request offer 25Echopay in full by August 31, 2012 or within 90 days of departure, if earlier. Offer expires August 31, 2012. Other restrictions may apply.
$600 per couple Past Guest Travel Credit has been extended
Once you take a Viking vacation, you are automatically enrolled in the Viking Explorer Society and can save on their future cruises. When they make a new reservation between now and August 31, as a Viking Explorer Society member they will save $300 per person or $600 per couple, regardless of when you last traveled with Viking.
Added by Mike Davies on August 9, 2012 at 10:26am — No Comments
Uniworld adding to river ship roster 2014
More river ships are on the way.
Over the next couple of years, river cruise lines will probably build more ships than their ocean-going cousins.
The difference — river ships carry under 200 passengers while new large ocean-going vessels hold more than 3,000. What does have to be considered is that, on the percentage basis, the river cruise business in the last couple of years has gone through the roof.
Word of the latest such new-builds comes from Uniworld
River ships named Alexandra and Catherine will launch in 2014 and the two ships will be distinct in size with two markets in mind. The Alexandra, a sister ship to Antoinette, will carry 164 passengers and sail mainly on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers. The Catherine will be a sister ship to the River Royale and is destined to cruise in France.
These will be the first new-builds for Uniworld since the launch of Antoinette last year. If Alexandra is following in Antoinette’s design, one deck will be devoted to balconies.
Added by Mike Davies on August 9, 2012 at 10:14am — No Comments
Kids can take river cruises, too
With few kid-friendly amenities onboard and itineraries steeped in history and
culture, river cruising isn’t the easiest sell for families. But some river
cruise companies are trying to change that perception.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection has been offering a
handful of family-friendly river cruise departures for several years. But for
2013, Uniworld is expanding its family departures from four in 2012 to seven:
three on its Paris and Normandy itinerary, three on its Burgundy and Provence
cruise and one of its Classic Christmas Markets cruises. Rates on these
departures are discounted 25% for ages 4 to 18.
Furthermore, in 2013, Uniworld will have a dedicated youth
counselor on all seven of its family-friendly departures, a person who will be
responsible for managing family activities onboard and who will accompany the
tour guide on excursions. The counselor’s responsibilities will include
organizing cooking classes with the ship’s pastry chef; putting together ship
tours; supervising the game room, which will be equipped with either a
PlayStation 2 or Wii; organizing petanque and chess on the sun deck; game and
movie nights; arranging language classes; and organizing and supervising the use
of bicycles.
For 2013, Tauck, too, has beefed up its family-friendly river offering, having added a family-friendly cruise on the Rhone, a 10-day Bon Voyage: France Family River Cruise, which is part of the
Tauck Bridges collection of family vacations. This brings to two the number of
family-friendly river cruises Tauck offers. The 10-day itinerary begins with a
two-night stay in Paris. Guests will then travel on France’s high-speed TGV
train to Lyon, where they will board Tauck’s 118-passenger Swiss Emerald for a
seven-night cruise on the Rhone.
To cater to younger passengers (Tauck recommends that children be ages 8 and older), special
activities include a scavenger hunt in the Louvre, the opportunity to play
petanque in Viviers, a hayride in the Camargue and kayaking near the Pont du
Gard aqueduct on the Gard River in southern France. There will be three
departures of the Bon Voyage: France Family River Cruise, on July 11, July 25
and Aug. 1, 2013.
Added by Mike Davies on July 26, 2012 at 3:22pm — No Commentsculture, river cruising isn’t the easiest sell for families. But some river
cruise companies are trying to change that perception.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection has been offering a
handful of family-friendly river cruise departures for several years. But for
2013, Uniworld is expanding its family departures from four in 2012 to seven:
three on its Paris and Normandy itinerary, three on its Burgundy and Provence
cruise and one of its Classic Christmas Markets cruises. Rates on these
departures are discounted 25% for ages 4 to 18.
Furthermore, in 2013, Uniworld will have a dedicated youth
counselor on all seven of its family-friendly departures, a person who will be
responsible for managing family activities onboard and who will accompany the
tour guide on excursions. The counselor’s responsibilities will include
organizing cooking classes with the ship’s pastry chef; putting together ship
tours; supervising the game room, which will be equipped with either a
PlayStation 2 or Wii; organizing petanque and chess on the sun deck; game and
movie nights; arranging language classes; and organizing and supervising the use
of bicycles.
For 2013, Tauck, too, has beefed up its family-friendly river offering, having added a family-friendly cruise on the Rhone, a 10-day Bon Voyage: France Family River Cruise, which is part of the
Tauck Bridges collection of family vacations. This brings to two the number of
family-friendly river cruises Tauck offers. The 10-day itinerary begins with a
two-night stay in Paris. Guests will then travel on France’s high-speed TGV
train to Lyon, where they will board Tauck’s 118-passenger Swiss Emerald for a
seven-night cruise on the Rhone.
To cater to younger passengers (Tauck recommends that children be ages 8 and older), special
activities include a scavenger hunt in the Louvre, the opportunity to play
petanque in Viviers, a hayride in the Camargue and kayaking near the Pont du
Gard aqueduct on the Gard River in southern France. There will be three
departures of the Bon Voyage: France Family River Cruise, on July 11, July 25
and Aug. 1, 2013.
River Cruise Renaissance Continues: More New Ships for Europe's Waterways
Two more riverboats will ply Europe's in-land waterways in spring 2014 when Uniworld launches
S.S. Alexandra and S.S. Catherine. Details emerged about the new boats today
during a travel agent Webinar on river cruising featuring Uniworld president Guy
Young and Cruise Critic editor in chief Carolyn Spencer Brown.
Currently in the design and blueprint stage, the boats will not be sisters. S.S. Alexandra
will be a sister vessel to the 164-passenger S.S. Antoinette, named as a Cruise
Critic Editors' Pick as the best new riverboat in 2011. Antoinette sails
exclusively on the Rhine, but Alexandra will debut sailing the Rhine, Main and
Danube rivers.
S.S. Catherine, on the other hand, will be fashioned
after the 132-passenger River Royale. That ship, which
launched in 2006, is based on France's Rhone River. S.S. Catherine will also
sail exclusively in France though Uniworld declined to identify its itinerary at
this point.
Both ships will be designed with Uniworld's customary
elegance created by Beatrice Tollman, president and founder of Red Carnation
Hotels.
Maria Grimardi, vice president of marketing for Uniworld, told
Cruise Critic that both "will be reflective of the areas they are traveling, so
they will be very unique.""None of our ships are designed and styled the
same," she explained.
Uniworld isn't the only river cruise operator with
newbuilds on order or recently delivered. With the popularity of river cruising
exploding, just about every major line has ships that are newly launched, under
construction or waiting to be built.
Avalon Waterways took delivery of two new boats this year and will launch its twelfth and thirteenth
European riverboats, Avalon Artistry II and Avalon Expression, in 2013.
AMAWATERWAYS took delivery of AmaCerto this year, and will launch AmaPrima and AmaVida next year.
But the award for the most robust expansion goes to Viking River Cruises, which
is taking delivery of a record six new Longship-class boats this year -- Viking
Aegir, Viking Embla, Viking Freya, Viking Idun, Viking Njord and Viking Odin. Next year the
line repeats the feat, with six more Longships set to launch.
In other newbuild news, Viking River Cruises is expanding beyond Europe's in-land
waterways, making its first foray into ocean cruising. Viking Ocean Cruises, a
newly formed sister company, says it has signed a contract with Italy's
Fincantieri for the construction of two ocean-going vessels. Each ship will
feature 474 cabins and measure 47,000 gross tons. The first is scheduled for
delivery in early 2015, while the second will launch in 2016.
S.S. Alexandra and S.S. Catherine. Details emerged about the new boats today
during a travel agent Webinar on river cruising featuring Uniworld president Guy
Young and Cruise Critic editor in chief Carolyn Spencer Brown.
Currently in the design and blueprint stage, the boats will not be sisters. S.S. Alexandra
will be a sister vessel to the 164-passenger S.S. Antoinette, named as a Cruise
Critic Editors' Pick as the best new riverboat in 2011. Antoinette sails
exclusively on the Rhine, but Alexandra will debut sailing the Rhine, Main and
Danube rivers.
S.S. Catherine, on the other hand, will be fashioned
after the 132-passenger River Royale. That ship, which
launched in 2006, is based on France's Rhone River. S.S. Catherine will also
sail exclusively in France though Uniworld declined to identify its itinerary at
this point.
Both ships will be designed with Uniworld's customary
elegance created by Beatrice Tollman, president and founder of Red Carnation
Hotels.
Maria Grimardi, vice president of marketing for Uniworld, told
Cruise Critic that both "will be reflective of the areas they are traveling, so
they will be very unique.""None of our ships are designed and styled the
same," she explained.
Uniworld isn't the only river cruise operator with
newbuilds on order or recently delivered. With the popularity of river cruising
exploding, just about every major line has ships that are newly launched, under
construction or waiting to be built.
Avalon Waterways took delivery of two new boats this year and will launch its twelfth and thirteenth
European riverboats, Avalon Artistry II and Avalon Expression, in 2013.
AMAWATERWAYS took delivery of AmaCerto this year, and will launch AmaPrima and AmaVida next year.
But the award for the most robust expansion goes to Viking River Cruises, which
is taking delivery of a record six new Longship-class boats this year -- Viking
Aegir, Viking Embla, Viking Freya, Viking Idun, Viking Njord and Viking Odin. Next year the
line repeats the feat, with six more Longships set to launch.
In other newbuild news, Viking River Cruises is expanding beyond Europe's in-land
waterways, making its first foray into ocean cruising. Viking Ocean Cruises, a
newly formed sister company, says it has signed a contract with Italy's
Fincantieri for the construction of two ocean-going vessels. Each ship will
feature 474 cabins and measure 47,000 gross tons. The first is scheduled for
delivery in early 2015, while the second will launch in 2016.
Added by Mike Davies on July 17, 2012 at 11:46am — No Comments
Scenic’s New River Vessel Scenic Tsar Granted Russian Registration
Scenic Cruises’ newest river vessel, Scenic Tsar, launched on June 16 with Russian registration, the first rebuilt ship to receive that qualification in 25 years. The Russian Maritime Authority classifies a “newbuild” as one that is at least 80 percent new, and any ship wishing to meet that level of qualification must go through a stringent Russian registration process. The Scenic Tsar underwent a total reconstruction and met all criteria.
With only its original steel hull, floors and ceiling remaining, Scenic Tsar now boasts a new deck of cabins, two bars, a lounge, a restaurant, a wellness area, a galley, all new cabins, air conditioning, new main engines and drive units, generators, and all new furniture, curtains and soft furnishings.
Scenic Tsar is the company’s first boutique small ship in Russia. The 112-guest ship includes continental and Russian cuisine, premium wines, beers and soft drinks at dinner, tours, entertainment, excursions, airport transfers, gratuities and baggage handling. Ninety-three percent of cabins have private, full-size balconies. Accommodations also have en suite bathrooms, satellite TV, in-room safe and mini bar, and bottled water replenished daily. Scenic Tsar also includes complimentary Wi-Fi and an onboard doctor.
The vessel’s 15- and 19-day itineraries sail July through October this year, between St. Petersburg and Moscow, with four days each in St. Petersburg and Moscow. The cruise visits Mandrogi, Kizhi Island, Goritsy and two of the “Golden Ring” cities. The 19-day itinerary adds four days in Kiev.
Added by Mike Davies on July 11, 2012 at 12:53pm — No Comments
Tauck drops Single supplements
Tauck is giving a break to solo river cruisers, by dropping entirely the single supplement for its lower-level cabins on every 2013 European river cruise.
"Good news is at hand for solo travelers frustrated by paying a higher per-person cabin rate than cruisers sharing a stateroom with a spouse or friend," Tauck said in a statement.
The savings apply to departures on all 14 of Tauck's European river cruise itineraries for Category 1 accommodations, the Emerald Deck cabins on the lower level of Tauck's river ships. There are eight Category 1 cabins on each vessel, comprising about 15% of the total.
Tauck CEO Dan Mahar stated that the single supplement waiver for over 100 Tauck river cruise sailings "will be welcome news to solo travelers everywhere. What's more, the savings they'll enjoy are substantial."
Mahar said single passengers can save as much as $4,676 (on Tauck's 24-day, trans-European cruise), and that the average savings would be over $2,400.
Tauck is also offering savings of $1,000 off the normal single supplement on Category 3 accommodations, the cabins on the the middle level of each ship, on selected sailings of eight different Europe itineraries. The $1,000 discount represents an average reduction in the single supplement of nearly 40%.Added by Mike Davies on July 9, 2012 at 12:20pm — No Comments
SCENIC Tours has expanded its France River Cruising program for 2013 with a 14-night tour from Amsterdam to Nice.
The tour combines the popular seven-night Amsterdam to Basel cruise, with the new seven-night Chalon-sur-Saone to Arles cruise.
The first cruise takes in the Rhine, visiting Amsterdam, Cologne, Koblenz, Rudesheim, Mannheim, Breisach and Basel. Guests will then transfer for a trip on the Rhone, taking in Macon, Ardeche National Park, Avignon and St Remy-de-Provence.
Guests will enjoy wine tasting in Beaujolais, the picturesque landscapes of Arles and the gastronomic excellence of Lyon. They will discover Heidelberg Castle, Les Hospices de Beaune, Pont du Gard, the Benedictine Abbey of Cluny and the Black Forest.
Prices on the 15-day Rhine and Rhone River cruise-tour start at $7145 a person, twin share, including flights to Europe for bookings made by September 30. Price includes a 14-night cruise with unlimited complimentary beverages, all meals, butler service and WiFi, as well as all excursions, events and entertainment, airport transfers and all tipping and gratuities on board and on shore.
Riverboat Company Changes Name
The Great American Steamboat Company, which began operating the steamboat American Queenalong the storied Mississippi River just a few months ago, is looking to the future. The line not only announced its 2013 river cruise lineup, but also a new name.
Since July 1, the Great American Steamboat Company has been renamed the American Queen Steamboat Companyin honour of its flagship vessel, a 436-passenger sternwheeler built in 1995 and extensively refurbished. It is the largest sternwheeler to ever ply the Mississippi River.
There’s also plenty of Theme Cruises on offer aboard the American Queen, including a tribute to Elvis called “Blue Hawaii”; a Blues & Barbecue cruise; Louisiana History & Culture; Mystical Krewe of Steamboating Mardi Gras; Dixie Fest; Southern Spirits; Gardens of the River; In the Good Old Summertime; Baseball Legends; Manifest Destiny; The Great Steamboat Era and the first annual Delta Queen Steamboat Company and Paddlewheel Steamboat Society Of America™ Reunion voyages.
Not only are sailings aboard the American Queen remarkably inclusive – including one free night’s deluxe hotel stay pre- or post-cruise, beer and wine with dinner, bottled water and soft drinks throughout the day, and complimentary adventures ashore, they’re also easier than ever for solo travellers to participate in thanks to the addition of new single-occupancy staterooms.
Have time to spare this year? You won’t want to miss out on the line’s Civil War and Epic Civil War sailings, with departures between August 10 and August 30, 2012. These journeys through the heartland of the United States were designed to highlight one of the most pivotal moments in the history of the country, calling on legendary locales like New Orleans, Vicksburg, Chattanooga, and Louisville – all of which include complimentary adventures ashore in addition to complimentary bottled water and soft drinks as well as wine and beer with dinner.
Inspired by the classic 19th century riverboats, the American Queen features a stunning two-story Grand Saloon, a two-story dining room, and an interior design that recreates the past through thoughtful and elegant touches like Tiffany glass and rich panelling.
“Just as the Greene family renamed their operation to honor the historic Delta Queen, we are embracing the legacy of the American Queen and renaming the Company in honor of her. Because of her iconic status, she has quickly become the brand in the eyes of our guests and travel agent partners,” stated Jeffrey D. Krida, the company’s Chief Executive Officer.
Next year, the line is offering even more ways to enjoy this beautiful ship with a total of 30 departures from Memphis and New Orleans.
Added by Mike Davies on July 9, 2012 at 10:18am — No Comments
Avalon new ships for 2013
Following the recent launch of their new European River Cruises 2013 brochure, Avalon Waterways, the premier choice for all European river cruises, has confirmed that two brand new cruise ships, christened Expression and Artistry II, will be joining their European fleet next year.
Featuring two full decks of suites with wall-to-wall panoramic windows and open-air balconies,
Expression and Artistry II has been built with comfort in mind and truly
encapsulate Avalon Waterways' continued dedication to providing customers with
elegance and luxury.
The Artistry II cruise ship will launch in May 2013, its debut on the popular Rhine River Cruise
from Amsterdam to Basel Avalon Waterways 'Romantic Rhine' cruise holiday. Likewise
Expression, which also launches next May, will service passengers on Avalon
Waterways 'Magnificent Europe', 'The Legendary Danube' and 'The Blue Danube
Discovery' cruise tours.
These two new state-of-the-art ships are joining the already impressive fleet assembled by Avalon Waterways in recent years. Both luxurious and magnificent, Expression and Artistry II highlight just how
relaxing European cruise holidays can be: customers have only one option aboard such ships, and that is to indulge.
Commenting on the launch of their brand new cruise ships, a spokesperson for Avalon Waterways said
today:
"Here at Avalon Waterways we're incredibly excited about our new European River Cruises 2013 brochure. Next year is all about what's new, and our customers will simply adore our newly commissioned Expression and Artistry II ships. Our award-winning holidays and our loyal customer base laud both our
excellent fleet of ships and our continued holiday successes."
RiverDiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Featuring two full decks of suites with wall-to-wall panoramic windows and open-air balconies,
Expression and Artistry II has been built with comfort in mind and truly
encapsulate Avalon Waterways' continued dedication to providing customers with
elegance and luxury.
The Artistry II cruise ship will launch in May 2013, its debut on the popular Rhine River Cruise
from Amsterdam to Basel Avalon Waterways 'Romantic Rhine' cruise holiday. Likewise
Expression, which also launches next May, will service passengers on Avalon
Waterways 'Magnificent Europe', 'The Legendary Danube' and 'The Blue Danube
Discovery' cruise tours.
These two new state-of-the-art ships are joining the already impressive fleet assembled by Avalon Waterways in recent years. Both luxurious and magnificent, Expression and Artistry II highlight just how
relaxing European cruise holidays can be: customers have only one option aboard such ships, and that is to indulge.
Commenting on the launch of their brand new cruise ships, a spokesperson for Avalon Waterways said
today:
"Here at Avalon Waterways we're incredibly excited about our new European River Cruises 2013 brochure. Next year is all about what's new, and our customers will simply adore our newly commissioned Expression and Artistry II ships. Our award-winning holidays and our loyal customer base laud both our
excellent fleet of ships and our continued holiday successes."
RiverDiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on July 2, 2012 at 10:51am — No Comments
River Cruising booming
IN Europe, where waterways were the roadways of the pre-automobile past, major cities from Amsterdam to Vienna reside on rivers. Centuries after those rivers were supplanted by railways and highways as main thoroughfares, there is renewed interest in traveling on them: at least 11 new river cruise ships are launching this year, and a similar number is expected next year. Over the last five years, many lines have doubled their capacity.
“It’s all about the destination,” “River cruising is geared to more experienced travelers who want to explore a destination in depth.”
The focus on attractions beyond the ship is no accident. Because river locks and bridges predate outsize cruise vessels, ships making their way through Europe are comparatively small and short, with limited space for amenities. Instead, they focus on convenience, often docking directly downtown, rather than anchoring at an ocean port that may require a bus transfer. Several itineraries feature overnight port calls, making them a viable alternative to exploring Europe by train or car.
Leading the surge in Europe is Viking River Cruises (vikingrivercruises.com). It launched four new ships in March and is adding two this summer, bringing its fleet to 30. According to Torstein Hagen, Viking’s chairman and chief executive, the company has grown 30 to 35 percent annually in recent years. “The tipping point is finally here,” Mr. Hagen said of river cruises, adding that the company is getting six more ships next year. “Our problem is not having enough capacity to meet demand.”
The new ships — Viking Odin, Viking Idun, Viking Njord and Viking Freya — hold 190 passengers each and have several two-room suites, terraces with retractable glass walls for al fresco dining, and organic herb gardens on the roofs. Many departures are sold out this summer, but cabins start at $1,756 per person for eight-day fall and winter sailings on the Danube aboard the Viking Odin (Budapest to Nuremberg) or Freya (Amsterdam to Budapest).
In May, Avalon Waterways (avalonwaterways.com) launched two new European ships, the 166-passenger Vista and the 128-passenger Visionary. Both feature suite staterooms with 10-by-7-foot windows that open to the balcony, top-deck whirlpools, outdoor dining and beauty salons.
But it’s not about the ship. The Visionary plies the Rhine River between Amsterdam and Basel or Zurich with eight-day trips starting at $2,289 per person, double occupancy, and the Vista cruises the Danube from Prague, where it stays overnight, before another overnight stop in Vienna and ending in Budapest. Eleven-day sailings start at $2,499. The line has announced two more all-suite ships for 2013.
Also in May, AmaWaterways (amawaterways.com) christened its 164-passenger AmaCerto with features including two balconies in most guest rooms and a pool with a swim-up bar. The new ship will spend much of the summer on the Danube. Twelve-day sailings between Budapest and Munich, with overnight stays in Vienna as well as starting and ending ports, begin at $2,799. The company plans another European launch in 2013.
There are other rivers to explore. The high-end line Uniworld (uniworld.com) announced that it would become the first United States operator to cruise the Po River in Italy, moving the line’s 134-passenger River Countess to Venice next April for eight-day round trips with excursions to Bologna and Verona starting at $2,899. Next year it will also replace its Douro River ship in Portugal, which stops in Porto and the wine-growing town of Pinhão, with the 118-passenger Queen Isabel.
Several Uniworld sailings are designated multigenerational, but river cruisers tend to be older than ocean liners — the target demographic begins around 50 — and programming hews to history and culture.
Contact: RiverDiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on July 2, 2012 at 10:46am — No Comments
Conde Nasts top 40 River Cruise Ships 2012
Top 40 River-Cruise Ships
- River Queen, Uniworld River Cruises, 96.0
- River Beatrice, Uniworld River Cruises, 93.5
- Viking Helvetia, Viking River Cruises, 91.7
- Viking Legend, Viking River Cruises, 91.4
- River Royale, Uniworld River Cruises, 91.2
- River Concerto, Grand Circle, 91.1
- River Countess, Uniworld River Cruises, 91.1
- Avalon Scenery, Avalon Waterways, 90.8
- Viking Neptune, Viking River Cruises, 90.7
- River Duchess, Uniworld River Cruises, 90.5
- River Adagio, Grand Circle, 90.2
- Viking Emerald, Viking River Cruises, 90.0
- Viking Spirit, Viking River Cruises, 89.7
- River Tosca, Uniworld River Cruises, 89.4
- River Aria, Grand Circle, 89.3
- Viking Sky, Viking River Cruises, 89.3
- Viking Pride, Viking River Cruises, 89.0
- River Princess, Uniworld River Cruises, 88.7
- Viking Danube, Viking River Cruises, 88.7
- Viking Europe, Viking River Cruises, 88.7
- River Empress, Uniworld River Cruises, 88.1
- AmaDagio, AmaWaterways, 87.6
- Chardonnay, Grand Circle, 87.6
- River Baroness, Uniworld River Cruises, 87.5
- Viking Sun, Viking River Cruises, 87.1
- Avalon Creativity, Avalon Waterways, 87.0
- River Ambassador, Uniworld River Cruises, 87.0
- Avalon Tranquility, Avalon Waterways, 86.7
- Bizet, Grand Circle, 86.0
- Viking Primadona, Viking River Cruises, 85.1
- River Harmony, Grand Circle, 85.0
- Avalon Tapestry, Avalon Waterways, 83.3
- Viking Truvor, Viking River Cruises, 83.1
- Viking Fontane, Viking River Cruises, 82.4
- River Rhapsody, Grand Circle, 81.5
- Sun Boat IV, Abercrombie & Kent, 79.6
- Viking Schumann, Viking River Cruises, 79.6
- Viking Helgi, Viking River Cruises, 79.2
- AmaLegro, AmaWaterways, 78.3
- AmaCello, AmaWaterways, 76.7
Methodology
How Does the Poll Work?
Condé Nast Traveler readers rated 479 cruise ships on a 100-point scale. only ships that received a required minimum number of responses from the 28,876 participating readers were eligible to be included in these rankings. Each ship was rated on seven criteria: Activities/Facilities, Cabins, Crew/Service, Design/Layout, Food/Dining, Itineraries/Schedule, Shore Excursions.
Added by Mike Davies on June 25, 2012 at 1:42pm — No Comments
Scenic Tours Combines Their Popular Rhine River Cruising With France River Cruising For 2013
Leading tour operator of all-inclusive and fully escorted luxury river cruising tours in Europe, Scenic Tours, has expanded their France River Cruising program for 2013 including the addition of the remarkable 14 night tour from Amsterdam to Nice. This tour combines the popular 7 night Amsterdam to Basel cruise followed by the brand new 7 night Chalon-sur-Saône to Arles cruise. It can also be taken in the reverse direction.
This stunning tour begins in the canal city of Amsterdam, bound for the beautiful Swiss city of Basel sailing down approximately 600km of The Rhine. Guests will soak up the charm and beauty of historic Cologne, the city of Koblenz which is over 2,000 years old; romantic Rüdesheim, the 'city of the squares', Mannheim; and Breisach, the German town with the Celtic name which means 'breakwater'.
Guests will also experience the exquisite waterways of Southern France commencing in Beaune before transferring to Chalon-sur-Saône for the southbound cruise to Arles that sails down approximately 500km of The Rhône. Guests will encounter picturesque places like Mâcon, Ardèche National Park, Avignon, Uzés and Saint-Rémy-de-Provence.
Guests will enjoy wine tasting in Beaujolais, the picturesque landscapes of Arles and the gastronomic excellence of Lyon. They will discover Heidelberg Castle, Les Hospices de Beaune, Pont du Gard, Benedictine Abbey of Cluny and the Black Forest. They will also indulge in exclusive once-in-a-life time experiences such as dinner with the locals in Tournon and a visit to Palais des Popes.
Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on June 25, 2012 at 8:40am — No Comments
AmaWaterways releases new wine brochure and themed itineraries through 2013
Award-winning river cruise line AmaWaterways proudly announces the release of the Wine Cruises Through Europe 2012 & 2013 brochure, officially launching its newest "In Celebration of Wine" themed cruises through Europe's premier wine regions and world-renowned destinations.
"We're thrilled to announce our new wine – themed itineraries and the new brochures are the perfect way to share this exciting news," said AmaWaterways Executive Vice President and Co-Owner Kristin Karst. "We believe that each travel agent and guest is a part of our AmaWaterways family and we're always looking for ways and tools to enhance their experience with us. "
AmaWaterways' customized "In Celebration of Wine" cruises feature unique shore excursions and complimentary wine-themed programming designed to showcase the rich history of Europe's famous wine regions. Guests can enjoy visits to local vineyards and wine cellars in the famous Chateauneuf-du-Pape region; dialogue with acclaimed vintners; sip select tastings of award-winning vintages including Beaujolais and Cotes du Rhone wines and attend onboard, wine-themed lectures co-hosted by various celebrity food and wine experts from top U.S. wineries and an AmaWaterways Executive.
Itinerary highlights include a traditional "Heruiger" tasting of new wine in the Austrian villages of Grinzing and Neustift; an introduction to Alsatian wines at the "Wunsch et Mann" winery in Wettolsheim, France; a tour of Lamego and the historic Palacio de Mateus; and a special "Oktoberfest" celebration in the charming village of Vilshofen, Germany held exclusively for AmaWaterways guests.
AmaWaterways' new "In Celebration of Wine" itineraries and dates are as follows:
Legendary Wine Regions of the Rhone – This 15-day itinerary begins with 3 nights in Barcelona. There, guests embark on the AmaDagio for a 7-night cruise through legendary wine regions with visits to the cities of Arles, Les Baux de Provence, Avignon, Viviers, Tournon, Vienne and Trevoux before arriving in Lyon, followed by a high-speed TGV train ride to Paris for a 3-night stay. Excursions include tastings at local vintners, visits to enchanting Roman ruins and tours of the Provencal shops and marketplaces. North American travelers are invited to book cruises from Nov. 4 2012 - Nov. 18, 2013.
Vineyards of the Rhine & Mosel – On board the AmaDolce, this 12-day Rhine and Mosel River itinerary offers an unparalleled experience of centuries-old vineyards along two of Europe's most renowned rivers. Itinerary highlights include views of the steepest vineyards in the world, a sight unique to the Mosel River; visits to ancient wine villages and vineyards and a visit to the 13th-century gothic cathedral in the city of Colonge, whose twin spires are among the tallest in Europe. The Vineyards of the Rhine & Mosel cruise begins with 3 nights in Paris, followed by a 7-night cruise from Luxembourg to Amsterdam. North American travelers are invited to book cruises starting Nov. 3, 2013.
Paris & the Sparkling Seine – This 11-day itinerary includes 2 nights in Paris and a 7-night cruise along the magnificent Seine aboard the AmaLegro. Guests will enjoy wine lectures, samplings and pairings as they visit the beautiful cities of Vernon, Giverny, Rouen, Les Andelys and Conflans before returning to the Parisian "City of Light." Highlighting the rich art and culture of France, excursions include walking the along the streets that inspired Monet, exploring the historic capital of Normandy and its beaches and seeing the ruins of Chateau-Gaillard, the once-massive stronghold of Richard the Lionheart. North American travelers are invited to book cruises from April 4 – Nov. 7, 2013.
Castles & Wineries of Germany – On board the AmaDolce, this 14-day itinerary offers a historic tour of Europe's rich medieval era. Beginning with 2 nights in Prague, the itinerary includes a 7-night cruise from Nuremberg to Luxembourg, visiting Bamberg, Wurzburg, Wertheim, Rudesheim, Koblenz, Cochem, Zell and Bernkastel. The cruise concludes with a 3-night stay in Paris and optional tours of the famous city. Excursions include vineyard visits and wine tastings, a Bamberg Smoked beer, or "Rauchbier", tasting, a visit to Siegfried's Music Museum and a tour of the Reichsburg Castle. North American travelers are invited to book cruises starting Oct. 28, 2013.
Culture & Wine Legacy of the Rhine – This 13-day itinerary begins in the colorful city of Amsterdam, where guests embark on the beautiful AmaCello. Traveling through the legendary Black Forest region en route to Zurich, guests can discover the stunning scenery of the Netherlands, Germany, France and Switzerland. Excursions include a tasting of renowned Kolsch beer, a visit to Heidelberg's red-walled Castle, scenic lakeside tours and visits to the region's famous local wineries and markets. The itinerary concludes with a 2-night stay in the medieval city of Lucerne, followed by 2 nights in Zurich, Switzerland. North American travelers are invited to book cruises from Nov. 7, 2012 – Nov. 21, 2013.
Classic Port Wines & Charming Quintas – This 12-day itinerary begins with three nights in Portugal's lively capital, Lisbon, before continuing on a relaxing 7-night cruise aboard the AmaVida through the scenic Douro River Valley. Surrounded by deep cleft gorges, charming fishing villages and lush vineyards, this cruise begins and ends in Porto, the capital of the North. Itinerary highlights include a visit to Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; a tour of the Palacio de Mateus; a journey to the Portuguese pilgrimage site Nossa Senhora dos Remedios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies) and exploration of the 14th-century Alpendurada Monastery. North American travelers are invited to book cruises from March 29 – Nov. 1, 2013.
Great Capitals & Vintages of the Danube – Onboard the AmaPrima, AmaCerto, AmaBella, and AmaLyra, this 12-day itinerary travels along one of Europe's most captivating rivers. Following a 3-night stay in majestic Prague, guests are invited to embark on a 7-night cruise from Vilshofen to Budapest with a backdrop of rolling hillsides, lush vineyards and medieval castles. Itinerary highlights include a walking tour of Vilshofen, known as a 2,000-year-old fairy tale city; a visit to one of Europe's largest Baroque monasteries, Melk's Benedictine Abbey; a visit to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and setting of the "Sound of Music" and tours of Krem, a city rich with wine culture and history. North American travelers are invited to book cruises from Nov. 3, 2012 – Nov. 14, 2013.
"We're thrilled to announce our new wine – themed itineraries and the new brochures are the perfect way to share this exciting news," said AmaWaterways Executive Vice President and Co-Owner Kristin Karst. "We believe that each travel agent and guest is a part of our AmaWaterways family and we're always looking for ways and tools to enhance their experience with us. "
AmaWaterways' customized "In Celebration of Wine" cruises feature unique shore excursions and complimentary wine-themed programming designed to showcase the rich history of Europe's famous wine regions. Guests can enjoy visits to local vineyards and wine cellars in the famous Chateauneuf-du-Pape region; dialogue with acclaimed vintners; sip select tastings of award-winning vintages including Beaujolais and Cotes du Rhone wines and attend onboard, wine-themed lectures co-hosted by various celebrity food and wine experts from top U.S. wineries and an AmaWaterways Executive.
Itinerary highlights include a traditional "Heruiger" tasting of new wine in the Austrian villages of Grinzing and Neustift; an introduction to Alsatian wines at the "Wunsch et Mann" winery in Wettolsheim, France; a tour of Lamego and the historic Palacio de Mateus; and a special "Oktoberfest" celebration in the charming village of Vilshofen, Germany held exclusively for AmaWaterways guests.
AmaWaterways' new "In Celebration of Wine" itineraries and dates are as follows:
Legendary Wine Regions of the Rhone – This 15-day itinerary begins with 3 nights in Barcelona. There, guests embark on the AmaDagio for a 7-night cruise through legendary wine regions with visits to the cities of Arles, Les Baux de Provence, Avignon, Viviers, Tournon, Vienne and Trevoux before arriving in Lyon, followed by a high-speed TGV train ride to Paris for a 3-night stay. Excursions include tastings at local vintners, visits to enchanting Roman ruins and tours of the Provencal shops and marketplaces. North American travelers are invited to book cruises from Nov. 4 2012 - Nov. 18, 2013.
Vineyards of the Rhine & Mosel – On board the AmaDolce, this 12-day Rhine and Mosel River itinerary offers an unparalleled experience of centuries-old vineyards along two of Europe's most renowned rivers. Itinerary highlights include views of the steepest vineyards in the world, a sight unique to the Mosel River; visits to ancient wine villages and vineyards and a visit to the 13th-century gothic cathedral in the city of Colonge, whose twin spires are among the tallest in Europe. The Vineyards of the Rhine & Mosel cruise begins with 3 nights in Paris, followed by a 7-night cruise from Luxembourg to Amsterdam. North American travelers are invited to book cruises starting Nov. 3, 2013.
Paris & the Sparkling Seine – This 11-day itinerary includes 2 nights in Paris and a 7-night cruise along the magnificent Seine aboard the AmaLegro. Guests will enjoy wine lectures, samplings and pairings as they visit the beautiful cities of Vernon, Giverny, Rouen, Les Andelys and Conflans before returning to the Parisian "City of Light." Highlighting the rich art and culture of France, excursions include walking the along the streets that inspired Monet, exploring the historic capital of Normandy and its beaches and seeing the ruins of Chateau-Gaillard, the once-massive stronghold of Richard the Lionheart. North American travelers are invited to book cruises from April 4 – Nov. 7, 2013.
Castles & Wineries of Germany – On board the AmaDolce, this 14-day itinerary offers a historic tour of Europe's rich medieval era. Beginning with 2 nights in Prague, the itinerary includes a 7-night cruise from Nuremberg to Luxembourg, visiting Bamberg, Wurzburg, Wertheim, Rudesheim, Koblenz, Cochem, Zell and Bernkastel. The cruise concludes with a 3-night stay in Paris and optional tours of the famous city. Excursions include vineyard visits and wine tastings, a Bamberg Smoked beer, or "Rauchbier", tasting, a visit to Siegfried's Music Museum and a tour of the Reichsburg Castle. North American travelers are invited to book cruises starting Oct. 28, 2013.
Culture & Wine Legacy of the Rhine – This 13-day itinerary begins in the colorful city of Amsterdam, where guests embark on the beautiful AmaCello. Traveling through the legendary Black Forest region en route to Zurich, guests can discover the stunning scenery of the Netherlands, Germany, France and Switzerland. Excursions include a tasting of renowned Kolsch beer, a visit to Heidelberg's red-walled Castle, scenic lakeside tours and visits to the region's famous local wineries and markets. The itinerary concludes with a 2-night stay in the medieval city of Lucerne, followed by 2 nights in Zurich, Switzerland. North American travelers are invited to book cruises from Nov. 7, 2012 – Nov. 21, 2013.
Classic Port Wines & Charming Quintas – This 12-day itinerary begins with three nights in Portugal's lively capital, Lisbon, before continuing on a relaxing 7-night cruise aboard the AmaVida through the scenic Douro River Valley. Surrounded by deep cleft gorges, charming fishing villages and lush vineyards, this cruise begins and ends in Porto, the capital of the North. Itinerary highlights include a visit to Salamanca, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; a tour of the Palacio de Mateus; a journey to the Portuguese pilgrimage site Nossa Senhora dos Remedios (Sanctuary of Our Lady of Remedies) and exploration of the 14th-century Alpendurada Monastery. North American travelers are invited to book cruises from March 29 – Nov. 1, 2013.
Great Capitals & Vintages of the Danube – Onboard the AmaPrima, AmaCerto, AmaBella, and AmaLyra, this 12-day itinerary travels along one of Europe's most captivating rivers. Following a 3-night stay in majestic Prague, guests are invited to embark on a 7-night cruise from Vilshofen to Budapest with a backdrop of rolling hillsides, lush vineyards and medieval castles. Itinerary highlights include a walking tour of Vilshofen, known as a 2,000-year-old fairy tale city; a visit to one of Europe's largest Baroque monasteries, Melk's Benedictine Abbey; a visit to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and setting of the "Sound of Music" and tours of Krem, a city rich with wine culture and history. North American travelers are invited to book cruises from Nov. 3, 2012 – Nov. 14, 2013.
Contact River discounts 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on June 25, 2012 at 8:38am — No Comments
Scenic Cruises to include free drinks on European sailings
All drinks will be on the house next year on Scenic Cruises' river journeys in Europe. In 2013, it will offer unlimited complimentary alcoholic beverages at lunch, dinner and even in its in-suite mini-bars. Top-shelf brands, however, will still carry an additional charge.
The line says that change and others support its claim as offering the world's first truly all-inclusive luxury river cruising experience. It offers private butler service for all guests, free Wi-Fi, and personal GPS-guided tours (except on the Scenic Emerald). All cruises also include shore excursions, airport transfers and gratuities.
In addition, next year, all ships except the Scenic Emerald will have sun lounges, allowing guests to convert their private balconies into an indoor lounge.
Last month, Scenic announced that it commissioned a seventh of its "Space-Ships" for an expected debut in June 2013.
The line says its ships are among the largest river cruise vessels afloat, offering passengers more public and private space. The ship's balconies convert into "Sun-Lounges" with a remote-operated, hydraulic-sealed glass window, so guests can use the balcony space whether opened or closed.
Scenic's river vessels operate in Europe, Russia and Egypt on cruises ranging from seven to 21 nights. For more information and discounted rates RiverDiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on June 19, 2012 at 9:06am — No Comments
AmaWaterways have launched two new river cruise itineraries
AmaWaterways have launched two new river cruise itineraries for 2013 - taking in the sights and sounds of France - "Paris and Normandy" and "The Jewels of France"
The new French river cruises sail on the Seine and Rhone rivers with ports of call including:-
- Paris
- Vernon
- Giverny
- Rouen
- Les Andelys
- Conflans
- Barcelona
- Perpignan
- Arles
- Avignon
- Viviers
- Tournon
- Vienne
- Treveux
- Lyon
AmaWaterways founder Rudi Schreiner said "These new river cruises take our guests through the heart of France, from the design of the French Balconies onboard our ships to the locally-sourced ingredients, menu selections and wines, AmaWaterways combines old-world French charm with a luxury travel experience."
Included in the fare are a number of excellent shore excursions and tours, including:-
- Visits to Roman ruins
- Tours to medieval villages
- Wine tastings at local vintners
- Expeditions to Normandy beaches
- Walking tours through villages and small towns
- Monets village
River cruise itineraries
PARIS & NORMANDY - AmaLegro - seven nights. Calling at Vernon, Rouen, Les Andelys and Conflans before returning to Paris.
JEWELS OF FRANCE - AmaDagio - 14 nights. 3-nights in Barcelona, then board AmaDagio, and visit Pont du Gard, Uzes, Grignan, & Lyon, and then transfer by TGV train to embark AmaLegro
The AmaLegro and AmaDagio are luxurious cruising experiences featuring spacious staterooms and suites, which range up to 255 sq. feet. Passengers will enjoy Chaine des Rotisseurs culinary creations with free-flowing wine, and unforgettable shore excursions that will immerse them in the local culture and history.
Founded in 2002 by river cruise pioneer Rudi Schreiner, river cruise executive Kristin Karst, AmaWaterways is the premier river cruise line on Europe's rivers - the Danube, Rhine, Main, Mosel and Rhône rivers. AmaWaterways consistently leads the way in river cruising. With destinations travelling through Europe, Russia, Vietnam and Cambodia (Mekong), and new voyages to Africa and Portugal the line's award-winning fleets compliment a variety of travel plans.
Added by Mike Davies on June 8, 2012 at 11:33am — No Comments
Viking River Cruises – New Ships, New Destinations
In addition to the six state-of-the-art Viking Longships launching in 2012, Viking will continue expansion in 2013 with the launch of six additional Viking Longships: Viking Bragi, Viking Forseti Viking Rinda, Viking Skadi, Viking Tor and Viking Var. Designed by celebrated maritime architects Yran & Storbraaten—the team behind the Disney Dream and the Yachts of Seabourn, the new ships integrate patent-pending technology and innovations such as diesel-electric hybrid engines, solar panels and onboard organic herb gardens.
This year marks the 15th anniversary for Viking River Cruises, and with the launch of six new ships in a single season, the most significant year in the company's history.
The company has announced its complete 2013 cruise program, offering guests a broader selection of choices than any other river cruise line—from ships and staterooms to destinations and pace of exploration. Viking's 2013 program introduces four inspiring new itineraries and two new land tour extensions, as well as the launch of an additional six Viking Longships and the complete refurbishment of its Russian fleet.
With diverse and scenic cruise itineraries in Europe, Russia, Ukraine, Egypt, China and Southeast Asia, Viking guests experience the heart of a destination along its waterways and during culturally rich shore excursions. And with the world's largest fleet of river cruise ships, Viking offers guests the most stateroom choices—with the new Viking Longships featuring the largest suites sailing Europe's waterways.
Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on June 8, 2012 at 11:30am — No Comments
American Cruise Lines’ Queen of the Mississippi Heads for New Orleans
American Cruise Lines announced today that its brand new authentic paddlewheeler, Queen of the Mississippi, has received its Coast Guard certificates and at six weeks ahead of schedule has left Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, Maryland and is en route to New Orleans, from where her first cruises beginning in early August will depart.
“We are pleased with the completion of the Queen of the Mississippi,” said Charles A. Robertson, President of American Cruise Lines. “This is the most spectacular riverboat ever built and we are delighted to report that all performance, comfort and environmental parameters have exceeded the design expectations.”
The Queen of the Mississippi carries 150 guests in spacious staterooms, many of which are twice the size of those on other Mississippi riverboats. Almost all of the staterooms feature large private balconies with sliding glass doors and all of the amenities today’s travelers expect, while maintaining the elegance and Victorian style of classic late 1800s Mississippi riverboats. American Cruise Lines will operate the new authentic paddlewheeler over the entire Mississippi River System, including the Ohio and Cumberland Rivers.
The Queen of the Mississippi will also be able to travel at higher speeds than all other Mississippi riverboats, minimizing night travel and making more itineraries possible with longer visits to the river towns. A number of unique riverboat journeys are planned that take guests as far north as St. Paul, MN on the Mississippi River and as far east as Pittsburgh, PA on the Ohio River.
American Cruise Lines is honored to share its anticipation of Queen of the Mississippi’s inaugural season with guests, travel partners, industry friends and river cruise enthusiasts around the world, and is confident it will delight all who experience this grand new riverboat.
RiverDiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on June 5, 2012 at 12:34pm — No Comments
Uniworld to Operate Three New River Ships in Asia in 2013
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is offering three new river ships in Asia for 2013 in partnership with Pandaw in Vietnam and Cambodia on the Mekong River, and Century River Cruisesin China on the Yangtze River.
In January, Uniworld launched the River Saigon on the Mekong and, due to the increasing popularity of Vietnam and Cambodia, the company will launch another new ship, River Orchid, in this region in 2013. The ships are handcrafted in French colonial style and have 30 staterooms.
“The demand for Vietnam and Cambodia has exceeded our expectations,” said Guy Young, president of Uniworld. “We quickly sold out all of our departures in 2012, and so it made sense for us to add an additional ship along the Mekong.”
In China, Uniworld offers the new Century Legend and Century Paragon, which will have an executive deck and an indoor pool/spa area. Uniworld guests will stay in Uniworld Signature Suites, which will come with VIP benefits.
Couples who book and pay in full at the time of reservation by Sept. 30 can save up to $1,200. Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899Added by Mike Davies on June 1, 2012 at 12:12pm — No Comments
Scenic Launches Scenic Tsar in Russia
After canceling its season onboard the Sergey Kuchkin, Scenic invested more than $8 million to completely refurbish the Scenic Tsar, which launches this month on 14-day cruises between St. Petersburg and Moscow, Russia. Ports of call include St. Petersburg; Svirstroy, a quaint historic Russian village; Petrozavodsk, where guests enjoy the Karelian Folk Show; one of Russia’s most ancient sites — Kizhi Island; the medieval village of Goritsy with its 600-year-old monastery; Uglich, which dates back to the 10th century; and guests have a wide range of included tours during five days each in Moscow and St. Petersburg, from a private Russian ballet performance to the Moscow Circus.
Added by Mike Davies on May 21, 2012 at 1:44pm — No Comments
Meticulously-designed AmaCerto Joins
AmaWaterways is extremely proud of its newest ship, the AmaCerto, christened on May 16, 2012 in the scenic German town of Vilshofen. Select staff, VIP guests, townspeople and local dignitaries gathered along the banks of the Danube for a special blessing and christening ceremony, with the ship’s godmother, Cruise Line International Association (CLIA) President Christine Duffy, doing the honors. In keeping with maritime tradition, Ms. Duffy smashed a bottle of Champagne against the AmaCerto’s bow, prompting enthusiastic cheers and applause from onlookers. “Christine Duffy is a prestigious godmother and we are thrilled to have our AmaCerto under her guidance,” said AmaWaterways President and Co-Owner Rudi Schreiner. “The AmaCerto was designed with the passenger in mind. AmaCerto is the most innovative ship available and we enjoyed celebrating its christening with the Vilshofen locals.”
The festivities began with the “Triumphal March from Aida” as stilt walkers entertained the crowd, school children handed out colorful balloons, and the AmaCerto gloriously sailed into view. Vilshofen Mayor Georg Krenn extended a warm welcome to guests, followed by remarks from Rudi Schreiner, AmaWaterways Executive Vice President and Co-Owner Kristin Karst, and Christine Duffy. There was a special blessing of the ship; a performance by a children’s dance group; moving renditions of “Ave Maria” and “Hallelujah” by soprano Heidlinde Schmid, and an opportunity for guests to sign the town’s commemorative Golden Book.
As Ms. Duffy christened the ship in an explosive froth of Champagne, delighted onlookers released their balloons and a 10-gun salute sounded from a brigade of Vilshofen soldiers dressed in traditional Bavarian garb.
AmaWaterways’ new AmaCerto is a deluxe 164-passenger vessel that incorporates the most advanced river cruise ship design including Twin Balconies in the majority of its spacious staterooms and suites, which range up to 350 sq. feet. Passengers will enjoy gourmet dining with free-flowing local wine at the multiple fine dining venues available on board. The AmaCerto also features a heated sun deck swimming pool with a ‘swim-up’ bar; fitness center and spa; complimentary Internet and Infotainment system in all staterooms plus Wi-Fi. For passengers wanting to explore the serene paths along the rivers, the AmaCerto offers a fleet of bicycles on board.
Added by Mike Davies on May 19, 2012 at 11:36am — No Comments
Biking the Danube
We were warned. It was going to be a nearly 20-mile ride through the Austrian countryside from Durnstein to Melk.
It was cold with a chance of rain. There would be some hills to climb.
Nonetheless, about two dozen of us, spanning five decades in age, suited up in various levels of unprofessional bike gear. We waved goodbye to the Amacerto in Durnstein and pedaled off with our two guides for a pretty serious ride.
River cruise lines have long grappled with whether and how to offer bikes to passengers. Three years ago, I did this ride when I sailed on the Amalyra. Ama did not offer guides then, so I set out on my own with a map, the ship’s phone number, a box lunch and the determination to not get lost or sidetracked (it’s admittedly pretty hard to get lost when riding along a river).
Now, Ama Waterways is much more organized. For a long ride like this, the company provides two guides that flank the riders at the front and back.
While there’s something to be said for riding in solitude past vineyards and through small towns, cruising along in a chain of riders of various ages and abilities allowed the group to bond in a unique way.
The ride took us three hours with several short stops to rest and for the guides to offer brief explanations about the history and agriculture of the land.
It was not an easy ride, but not a hard one. It was a solid workout, and it was invigorating to be outside, even if it was quite chilly.
With all the comfort and convenience river cruise ships provide, offering passengers the option to rough it a bit on bikes might not seem like an obvious fit.
But for many on the ride, gliding past farmland and through woods, racing along the Danube River, and beating the Amacerto to Melk (go riders!), was one of the most memorable experiences of the river cruise — not to mention the somewhat overwhelming reception we received from the passengers who remained onboard.
Tour de France? Please, this was the Tour de Danube.
It just goes to show that for all the focus on the ships and their new and upgraded details and amenities, it’s often what happens off the ship that passengers will remember most.
It was cold with a chance of rain. There would be some hills to climb.
Nonetheless, about two dozen of us, spanning five decades in age, suited up in various levels of unprofessional bike gear. We waved goodbye to the Amacerto in Durnstein and pedaled off with our two guides for a pretty serious ride.
River cruise lines have long grappled with whether and how to offer bikes to passengers. Three years ago, I did this ride when I sailed on the Amalyra. Ama did not offer guides then, so I set out on my own with a map, the ship’s phone number, a box lunch and the determination to not get lost or sidetracked (it’s admittedly pretty hard to get lost when riding along a river).
Now, Ama Waterways is much more organized. For a long ride like this, the company provides two guides that flank the riders at the front and back.
While there’s something to be said for riding in solitude past vineyards and through small towns, cruising along in a chain of riders of various ages and abilities allowed the group to bond in a unique way.
The ride took us three hours with several short stops to rest and for the guides to offer brief explanations about the history and agriculture of the land.
It was not an easy ride, but not a hard one. It was a solid workout, and it was invigorating to be outside, even if it was quite chilly.
With all the comfort and convenience river cruise ships provide, offering passengers the option to rough it a bit on bikes might not seem like an obvious fit.
But for many on the ride, gliding past farmland and through woods, racing along the Danube River, and beating the Amacerto to Melk (go riders!), was one of the most memorable experiences of the river cruise — not to mention the somewhat overwhelming reception we received from the passengers who remained onboard.
Tour de France? Please, this was the Tour de Danube.
It just goes to show that for all the focus on the ships and their new and upgraded details and amenities, it’s often what happens off the ship that passengers will remember most.
Added by Mike Davies on May 16, 2012 at 11:33am — No Comments
Cruising the Rhone
PAST THE PONT: The Bridge of the Pope pokes into the Rhone River at Avignon in Provence.
STONE GROUND: The backstreets of Viviers.…
Sarkozy didn't stand a chance. A teetotaller who stopped cheese being served at state dinners. French state dinners. Is it any wonder the former French president's opponents in the lead-up to the recent elections sniffed: "He drinks no wine. He eats no cheese. Can he really be a Frenchman?"
This is, remember, where Charles de Gaulle once famously complained: "How can anyone govern a nation that has 246 different kinds of cheese?" In 2012 however, the question surely became: how could anyone want to govern a nation with 246 different kinds of cheese and not want to eat any of them?
In France, of course, you're never far from a slice of cheese, a glass of wine or a loaf of the perfect bread. Indeed, Laurent Penaud, our cruise manager on this eight-day idyll along the Rhone onboard Uniworld's River Royale, states as fact that a Frenchman just can't live more than five minutes' away from a bakery.
More than once, however, Laurent refers to the French as being "unhappy Italians". "We're always miserable," he says, his face doing its best to project an air of Gallic discontent. But how can this be? This is a country where the best food and wine are part of their cultural fabric, their fibre, their being. Can they really take all that for granted? I know I can't.
In the town of Tournon I pop into a convenience store to buy toothpaste and am immediately overwhelmed by the aroma of freshly baked bread. The stand next to the shop counter is weighed down with cans of foie gras, not chips and chocolate. The next day in Lyon, at the gorgeous Les Halles Paul Bocuse food market, the doors swoosh open and I'm engulfed by a stinky cheese fug. This is not a bad thing. Here cheeses are displayed like the most beautiful cakes while the cakes further along are on show like jewels in Tiffany's.
At Avignon's Les Halles indoor market I find La Cabanne d'Oleron, a little oyster bar with a handful of tables tucked into the furthest reaches of the market. I initially walk past, not intending to stop, but notice the look of serene contentment on the face of the sole diner there as he slides an oyster into his mouth and follows it with a sip of wine. In minutes I'm following suit: half a dozen freshly shucked oysters, a couple of wedges of lemon, two slices of perfect bread, a pat of unsalted butter and a glass of Muscadet. This little taste of heaven sets me back just 8.7 euro.
Our cruise starts in Arles, an hour's drive by coach from Marseilles. The drive is an instant unwind from the gnawing tiredness brought on by long-haul flights and the morning's madness of navigating Charles de Gaulle airport as we pass the olive groves, gnarled old vines, cypress pines, sandstone hills and fields of yellow rapeseed so redolent of Provence. Arles was a town beloved of Roman emperors, Vincent van Gogh and followers of the corrida - the 2000-year-old arena in the heart of the town is one of the world's most important bull-fighting rings. It is also where we unpack our suitcases for the one and only time all week and get to grips with the routine of a river cruise.
Each day goes something like this: 6.30am-7.30am: coffees and pastries for the early risers; 7.30am to 9.30am: buffet breakfast; rest of morning, do a walking tour, rest or find another way to work off breakfast and the night before's five-course meal (with wine, of course) and make room for lunch. Noon to 1.30pm: lunch buffet (with wine, cheese and desserts, naturally); do a walking tour or excursion or lounge about and rest; 4pm, afternoon tea (the sandwiches are perfection), 7pm: dinner.
The lounge bar is open till the early hours but honestly, after that much food, wine, fresh air, intellectual stimulation (the tours are fascinating) and yes, exercise, who has the energy for late-night drinking? And, besides, the beds and linen are of the highest, crispest, freshest, comfiest order so an early night is still a pretty pleasurable experience in itself. This is a week that proves to be one of the most enriching and relaxing of my life.
Every lunch and every dinner onboard features a selection of different cheeses; blue, white, yellow, orange, soft, hard, goat, sheep, cow, the familiar and the less so, like St Marcelin, Reblochon, Banon, Morbier.
The bread - whether wholemeal, rye, sourdough, garlic, focaccia - is always delivered warm from the oven and is just always, always better than any bread I've eaten anywhere else. We feast on escargot ("Why do the French eat snails?" the joke goes, more than once. "Because they don't like fast food."), duck, steak, sole, lamb, veal, foie gras, venison, prawns and nearly always manage to find room for dessert: gateaux, tartes, pastries and homemade icecreams.
For those not taken with what's on offer from the usual choice of three appetisers and four mains - I don't know how this could be but it does happen - the kitchen will happily deliver free-range chicken breast, American sirloin steak or Norwegian salmon. As good as the food is the service; a perfect balance of professionalism and warm, easy humour. By cruise end, we're trying to find ways to bring our regular waiter Todor home with us.
The wines served are usually those grown from the areas we pass through: Chateauneuf du Pape, Hermitage, burgundy. At dinner one night, over a glass of said velvety rich burgundy, I tell Laurent that New Zealand makes some lovely pinot noir. Laurent's usual manner is that of a kindly and worldly uncle - he can use "voila" to suit about a dozen different purposes - but his response to this is the witheringly pitying look he usually saves for any discussion of Belgians.
After a morning exploring the beautiful walled city of Avignon, once the home of popes and still home to the famous Pont d'Avignon, we pile into a bus to head first to the 2000-year-old, three-tiered aqueduct Pont du Gard. Competing for my attention at the site of this architectural and engineering marvel that once helped deliver water more than 50km from Uzes to Nimes is a 1000-year-old olive tree, gnarled but not wizened by time.
Next stop is Chateauneuf du Pape, sitting inland from the Rhone on sweeping, largely flat vineyards. The vines, much shorter and stumpier than what we see in New Zealand, are warmed by stones from the riverbed and receive no irrigation - they are purely dependent on Mother Nature. This area has been famous for its wines since the 1300s, when the pope of the time decided to build his summer residence here. The palace has long been a ruin but the wines remain world famous.
From Avignon we head to Viviers, an ancient town topped by a beautiful cathedral. The streets and lanes wind around the houses, some bearing little plaques on their doors noting their history. There are more cats in the streets than people; Viviers has an air of a ghost town. The afternoon and evening are a meander onwards to Tain L'Hermitage, an eight-hour journey through locks, past vineyards and forests, and where every old castle and ruin seems more lovely than the one before. The one blight is a nuclear power plant. Its owners, somewhat cynically, have decorated one of the chimneys with a three-storey high painting of a child playing on a beach.
Tain L'Hermitage and its equally charming sister town Tournon facing it across the river, are famous for the suspension bridge connecting them and for their Hermitage and St Joseph wines; above Tain, the hills are so steep the vineyards appear scraped down the slopes. The area is also famous for chestnuts, truffles and chocolate - specifically Valhrona, whose factory shop is happily just a minute or two's walk from our ship. Resistance is futile.
The next morning we awake in Lyon and here I leave behind the organised guided walking groups for a day on my own to take in the boutique-like culinary temple Les Halles Paul Bocuse, named for the Lyonnaise chef who helped put the city on the gastronomy world map and who still regularly shops there; the Part Dieu shopping mall for a 21st century retail fix (I find they're particularly big on children's clothing stores and homewares and once you take the exchange rate into account, you're better off shopping at home); the exquisite Musee des Tissus, and the town's old city, itself named a Unesco Humanities World Heritage Site in 1998.
Lyon has long been the centre of France's textile and silk industry - its citizens have included the inventor of the sewing machine and the textile loom - so it's fitting that back onboard the River Royale, a woman from one of the local silk manufacturers is giving lessons in that French art of how to tie a silk scarf. It is nearly worth coming this far just to learn this.
On our cruise we have followed in the footsteps of popes, artists, kings and queens, writers and soldiers. But one of the most fascinating lives I discover is that of Nicolas Rolin, a chancellor of Burgundy during the 15th century. As he grew older, Rolin feared his lifetime of less than saintly deeds would result in an afterlife in hell rather than heaven so he used his fortune to build a charity hospital. The original Hospice de Beaune in the hills of Burgundy was founded in 1443 and until as recently as the 1960s, cared for the sick, poor and needy of the town. Newer clinics adjacent to the original building still provide free medical care to locals, as long as they were born in Beaune. Since 1851, the hospice has also been at the heart of Les Trois Glorieuses, a festival devoted to the food and wine of Burgundy and the famous charity wine auction held at that time.
With its beautiful tiled roof, vaulted ceilings and largely original condition - it has never been damaged by fire or war - Hospice de Beaune is now one of the finest examples of 15th century French architecture but without its story it just wouldn't be the same. Whether or not you believe in an afterlife, there's only one word to use for Rolin and his life turned around by a fear of God. That word is "Sante!".
FACT FILE
Highlights include Burgundy and Rhone Valley wine tastings as well as the art, cuisine, scenery and history of Arles, Avignon, Beaune, Chalon-sur-Saone and Lyon. Uniworld's epicurean options encompass shopping at open-air food markets in Arles or Beaune; Cotes du Rhone wine tasting in Tain l'Hermitage; crepes suzette - making demonstration and tasting as well as a special wine and food pairing dinner.
Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on May 16, 2012 at 11:02am — No Comments
Avalon launches two new ships
Like all great fairy tales, the events unfolding had a building sense of enchantment.
The dual christening ceremony to launch Avalon Waterways’ two newest Panorama-class ships was a rare event, even for a cruise industry that is christening ships regularly. Side by side, the ships were decked stem to stern with flowers, balloons and bunting.
And as the day progressed so did the weather, from grey to brilliantly sunny. How could it not with two godmothers on hand to make sure that the clouds evaporated before the long awaited event?
Vivacious and energetic Canadian cruise industry innovator and publisher Vanessa Lee was the godmother of theAvalon Vista, while dynamic Nicole Mazza, of the U.S. agency Travelsavers would do the honors for Avalon Visionary.
Having godmothers is a long tradition I really hadn’t understood until now. They’re guiding spirits and since ships are always referred to as “she,” it’s appropriate that women be chosen to see them on their way into the world. Women add glamour and class to the occasion as well.
Would you really rather have a ship christened by a godfather?
The setting had a storybook charm of its own. The blue river ships docked on opposite sides of a pier in the historic town of Enkhuizen were surrounded by a profusion of tall-masted sailing ships that seemed a throwback to the days of setting sail for exotic lands.
The local officials were going all out to welcome Avalon, which plans to add calls to the historic town north of Amsterdam to its itineraries in the coming years.
Before the event, the godmothers and official party were invited by Mayor Jan Baas for a reception at Enkhuizen’s 400-year old city hall, one of the most lavishly decorated government buildings you can imagine. Paintings by seventeenth century Dutch masters line the halls. All the walls of the mayor’s office are upholstered in a fantastically intricate tapestry woven 400 years ago.
Another office is painted in floor to ceiling frescoes representing themes like war and wealth, truth and justice. And all the eyes seemed focused on those below: a subtle warning to politicians and bureaucrats to toe the line?.
Then there was a walk back to the pier through the charming streets of a city that grew enormously wealthy as a center of the Dutch East India Company and the place where duties were collected from ships entering the Zuider Zee.
On to the main event, hosted by Avalon’s managing director Patrick Clark, with the godmothers gracefully performing the ritual anointing of the bows of their ships with crashing bottles of Champagne.
Fortunately, there were plenty of bottles of the bubbly still on hand for the celebration that followed.
Avalon certainly knows how to throw a party. Three hot bands played through the evening, the gala dinner included Canadian lobster and a dessert buffet that filled the entire lounge of the Visionary.
The memorable day was topped off by an impressive fireworks display and a sense that the enchantment will continue wherever the sister ships sail.
Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on May 16, 2012 at 10:59am — No Comments
Hail the New American Queen
The American Queen, the largest passenger steamboat ever built, has returned to service on the Mississippi River -- offering passengers regular overnight cruises on the river for the first time in four years.
Steamboats have long played a large role in history on the river where they were more than transportation. They brought vaudeville shows and music like New Orleans jazz and the Memphis blues to the American heartland and carried passengers from industrialists to workers -- with more than a few con men and women of ill repute.
But in 2008, overnight passenger service on steamboats disappeared from America’s rivers for the first time in centuries. The eponymous flagship of the renowned Delta Queen Steamboat Company was permanently moored as a hotel in Chattanooga, Tenn. Her sister ship, the Mississippi Queen, was sold for scrap in 2009.
But after the reincarnation of the newest and biggest steamboat from the original Delta Queen fleet: The American Queen, river tours are back.
The story behind this latest renovation of American Queen would make a great book. In 2008, she was repossessed by the United States Maritime Administration (MARAD) -- the government agency that originally built her for $78-million -- and laid up in Beaumont, Texas where she sat, virtually untouched, for more than three years with a $30 million price tag.
In 2010, three men with Mississippi mud in their veins made an offer to buy her for $15 million. MARAD agreed to the offer, so the men established a corporation called the Great American Steamboat Company and started looking for money.
The three men were Jeff Krida, CEO of the original Delta Queen Steamboat Company; Christopher Kyte, founder of the travel firm Uncommon Journeys and formerly the top seller of Delta Queen Steamboat Company cruises; and John Waggoner, the president and CEO of HMS Global Maritime and now the official owner of record for the American Queen.
Waggoner, Kyte and Krida said they went to “hundreds” of banks looking for a loan, only to face repeated rejections. They then approached various government entities without success until they met Mayor A. C. Wharton of Memphis, Tenn. Wharton told them, “We’re going to get you that money, but we’re not going to give it to you.”
Great American got a loan of $33 million from the city of Memphis and several of its leading businessmen. In exchange, they agreed to locate their headquarters in the city and to hire most of their workers from Memphis. The city not only helped them to buy the boat, but also launched a separate project to spruce up its own Beale Street landing.
The boat was in surprisingly good condition in Beaumont -- especially on the inside, which had been sealed virtually airtight with dehumidifiers. But the exterior was another story. She was taken to an HMS Global shipyard in Louisiana for renovation. Now finally in service, the new company is focused solely on this one grand vessel. At six decks tall, 418 feet long, 90 feet wide and with a passenger capacity of 450, she is about three times larger than the standard paddlewheel steamboat. She also has a pair of modern “Z-drive” pod propellers, one on either side of the paddle wheel.
The outside is covered in the traditional gingerbread. The fire-engine red paddlewheel at the stern and the two permanent gangways on the bow -- known as “stages” in steamboat lore -- immediately catch the eye. The two cupola-capped smokestacks, standing like a bride and groom on a wedding cake, can be folded down on hinges when the vessel needs to sail under bridges.
Inside are five full decks of cozy, classic Americana-themed staterooms upgraded with flat-screen TVs and free wireless Internet access. The expansive public areas include a movie theater, a gentlemen’s card room, a ladies’ tea room, a two-story showroom with balcony box seats, a chart room, a glassed-in “front porch” with food and coffee available all day, a swimming pool, an exercise room and dozens of nooks and crannies for people to enjoy “rollin’ on the river.”
The idea is to bring luxury-style cruising to America’s rivers. Wine and beer, shore excursions in every port of call, and a pre-cruise hotel stay are all included in the fare. These ideas come from the European river cruise lines – now the fastest-growing segment of the entire cruise industry.
Dining on American Queen
The first person the new company hired was Chef de Cuisine Regina Charboneau of Natchez, Mississippi. She specializes in southern-inspired standards like beignets, biscuits, grits, and bayou shrimp. But a classic menu needs the right presentation, so the company also signed catering specialist the Apollo Group to prepare and serve Charboneau's cuisine - the same company that manages cuisine for highly-rated Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas.
Passengers' main meals are taken in the opulent two-story dining room. The “Front Porch” offers complimentary European coffees, sandwiches, ice cream, cookies and popcorn all day long. The “River Grill” atop deck 5 aft provides hot sandwiches for lunch and alternative dining with waiter service at night – no extra charge - with reservations recommended.
Sailing on American Queen
I was on American Queen’s inaugural cruise from Memphis last week – with the included pre-cruise hotel stay. I was thrilled to see Beale Street, birthplace of the blues; Sun Records, where Elvis was discovered; and most impressive of all, Graceland – the home of Elvis Presley.
While it is sad that he was taken in his prime, the legacy of Elvis is preserved at Graceland as if he just stepped out. Almost everything appears to be just as it was in 1977 -- the cars, the go-carts, two private jets you can walk through, the gold records, the costumes… everything as Elvis left it.
Topping off the christening ceremony for me was seeing Priscilla Presley serve as godmother for the new American Queen. I won’t attempt to guess her age because she seemed just as striking as she must have been the day Elvis met her.
The Riverboat Lifestyle
Onboard, the great Harry James Orchestra swing band was inspiring. I can already see American Queen as a first-class cruise experience -- because the new owners won’t have it any other way -- but the real work has just begun.
The newly hired workers could not be more eager to please. This is an American-flagged boat and per the agreement with Mayor Wharton, most workers hail from Memphis. I doubt that many of them have ever even been on a cruise, but what they lack in experience they more than make up in spirit. “Hire for attitude and train for skill” is the mantra here, and though not all will make the final cut, they all have the opportunity to become a part of something important.
Discover the American Queen
Year-round cruises of six to 10 days go from New Orleans to Memphis, St. Louis to St. Paul, or up the Ohio and Tennessee Rivers from Louisville to Vicksburg, Cincinnati or Pittsburgh. You can book a cruise on the American Queen right now by going to the web site. The line also recommends using a travel agent who can book you for the same price. If you consider the challenges that have been beaten back so far, this project is already a success. But hearing the story of how she got to where she is today makes it an even richer experience.
Added by Mike Davies on May 10, 2012 at 9:51am — No Comments
Electric Bikes, Real Balconies, GPS Tours on River Cruise
Balcony Suite 332, measuring 205-square-feet, with a step-out balcony and Scenic Sun Lounge (we will get to that later in this post). These staterooms feature Queen-size slumber beds with Egyptian cotton linens.
Coming to Scenic in 2013
- Unlimited complimentary beverages
- Breakfast room service brought by butler at no additional charge in all cabins.
- Personalized airport transfers. No waiting for a group to fill a minibus or motor coach.
- Scenic Tailormade, a GPS guided tour system that allows guests to tour on their own. Will also be downloadable as an app for Apple and Android devices.
- The “Scenic Sun Lounge,” remote-activated sliding hydraulic sealed windows that can be opened during warm weather and closed during cool weather.
- Complimentary use of electronic-assisted bicycles.
- Dining in one of six venues on Crystal Scenic.
- Complimentary mini-bar, replenished daily. Also, complimentary pressing of up to two garments per day.
- Shore excursions, or as they are known in the river cruise industry, tours. Scenic, which is also a tour company, brands its tours as Scenic FreeChoice, offering multiple complimentary tours in many destinations.
- Enrichment experiences ashore, such as the classical evening at Rastatt Palace, which I’ll report on later this week.
Also notable, tipping and gratuities are included on all Scenic cruises, even for shore excursions
Added by Mike Davies on April 29, 2012 at 11:43am — No Comments
American Queen sails into Memphis April 26th
When the American Queen pulls into its Memphis home port Thursday morning, April 26, it will be the second time the world’s largest steamboat has stopped in the city.
The first time was 17 years and several lifetimes ago in the domestic overnight river cruise business.
In 1995, the then-new boat was owned by the Delta Queen Steamboat Co. and Jeff Krida was president of the company. Krida, who is now president of the Memphis-based Great American Steamboat Co., has been aboard the refurbished American Queen during its journey up river this week from New Orleans where it underwent its last tests before opening for business again.
For nearly two years there have been no regular overnight cruises on the Mississippi River.
The industry collapsed twice in the last 10 years and the American Queen is leading the third comeback after being mothballed a second time in a lake near Beaumont, Texas, before Krida and the newly formed GASC found investors for what he admits has been a venture that encountered some hesitancy among potential investors.
Krida showed them inquiries from travel agents – a database of those still asking to book the cruises as they continued to take European river cruises.
“The fastest growing segment of the travel industry for mature adults in North America in the last decade has been European river cruising,” Krida said.
The investors included Pittco Management and the city of Memphis, which advanced $9 million that will be paid back with revenue from the $89 boarding fee each passenger pays. The boarding fee revenue is also paying the cost of completing Beale Street Landing, a project over budget and past its original timeline before the deal that not only made Memphis the home port of the American Queen but the home of the headquarters of the Great American Steamboat Co.
Since the American Queen’s 1995 debut, the idea of cruise travel has changed with more attention and focus on history and culture.
The American Queen crew includes what are called “riverlorians” as well as a Mark Twain impersonator. And passengers can go into the steam engine room where engineers and mechanics are on duty to answer questions about the boat.
“They are looking for a great vacation but they’d like to learn something along the way while they’re having a good time,” Krida said. “They’re hunting for authenticity. There are an awful lot of fake things out there and when they can get the real thing they want it.”
Some cruises will be themed around the Civil War with stops at battlefields and other related sites during what is the war’s 150th anniversary. Other cruises have a different historical or cultural context.
“We think of the American Queen as a time machine,” Krida said. “We’re a combination of the modern world and the 19th century all at the same time out here.”
For Memphis and the other cities where the American Queen stops, the passengers aren’t just momentarily passing through, which had been the experience in Memphis toward the end of the 20th century. Before Tom Lee Park was expanded, riverboat passengers disembarked at John B. Edgar Point and took a combination of shuttle buses and cabs perhaps to The Peabody hotel for rigmarole – a program built around riverboat entertainment traditions – and headed back to the tiny river landing. Or they would end their journey in Memphis.
Every cruise in Memphis on the American Queen comes with a deluxe hotel night the day before departure. Passengers can move the hotel night to the end of the cruise if they wish. But GASC is buying a hotel room night in Memphis for an estimated 7,000 passengers a year – “largely people who might not have made a decision to come to Memphis for vacation at all,” Krida said.
“The next day-and-a-half that they spend in Memphis that they wouldn’t without that inclusion, they are buying meals and paying admission to other attractions and they’re going home with the ability to tell the story about what a great experience they had in Memphis,” he added. “In the past, people would come in, get off the airplane, get on the boat and leave town and really not experience Memphis.”
The christening ceremony Friday afternoon at 3 p.m. is open to the public who can watch from the grass lawn that is the top of Beale Street Landing.
The parking lot is not yet open.
Added by Mike Davies on April 26, 2012 at 8:34am — No Comments
Scenic Crystal will cruise the Rhine, the Moselle, the Danube and the Main.
Scenic was the first river cruise line to feature balconies on its ships and took a leap forward with the Crystal by finding a way to enclose these small balconies during inclement weather with the press of a button.
The stateroom’s TV is actually an iMac that allows you to work on the Internet from your bed and, on its next cruise, the Crystal will have iPads with free Internet and WiFI.
Scenic is going all-inclusive. There’s no sense in doing it this year with the line already 92% sold out.
While some of the all-inclusive features already exist, the circle will be complete next spring…
• Meals and entertainment are a given but Scenic is adding unlimited complimentary beverages.
The fridge in your room will be stocked each day. •
All tours, including the Scenic-enriched ones, will be part of your cruise price. •
As you cruise along the river, GPS-activated commentary will allow you to follow every landmark. •
Here’s the one that I like — GPS shore tours.
No need to hook up with a group to get the history of each port…now you will be able do it on your own.
• You can also wheel around shore on one of Scenic’s electric bicycles, which are now being tested on the Crystal. •
The private butler service currently for guests on Danube deck will spread to all staterooms. • Shoeshine and the cleaning of two items a day will be part of the deal.
Depending which route you’re on — Amsterdam to Budapest, Amsterdam to Basel, Budapest to Bucharest, Southern France, or St. Petersburg to Moscow — the complimentary items will vary by itinerary.
Scenic, first with balconies, is now first to go “all in” on the river.
Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on April 26, 2012 at 8:23am — No Comments
Avalon Unveils New Europe Itineraries, Culinary Cruises
Avalon Waterways has unveiled five new river cruise itineraries and a new themed cruise for its 2013 Europe program. The new culinary-themed cruise is available on two itineraries for 2013 -- “Paris to Normandy’s Landing Beaches” (departure 1029; priced from $2,399) and “Grand France” (departure 1022; $4,999).
“On this cruise, travelers will enjoy cider, wine and oil tastings,” said Managing Director Patrick Clark. “They will also visit a Calvados distillery and a farm that produces the delicious Pont l’Evêque and Liarot cheeses. In addition, a local chef will prepare for guests a menu of regional specialties while sharing tips for food preparation.”
Avalon’s new eight-day “Tulips of Northern Holland” vacation, priced from $2,449, originates in Amsterdam and heads for Friesland, Hoorn, Enkhuizen, Lelystad, Volendam, Arnhem and Rotterdam.
Other new European cruises for 2013 include:
• The nine-day “Austrian Highlights & Bavaria,” which visits Vienna, Melk, Dürnstein, Grein, Germany’s Bavaria, Munich and a visit to Oberammergau. This trip is priced from $2,579 land and cruise or $1,849 cruise only.
• The 10- and 12-day “Capitals of Central Europe” vacation focuses on Europe’s capital cities -- Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest -- as well as small towns along the way. It is priced from $2,939 land and cruise or from $2,299 cruise only.
• The 13-day “Highlights of Germany” sails from Munich to Basel, visiting King Ludwig’s famous Newuschwanstein, the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty’s castle, and Linderhof. The cruise also visits Nuremberg, Regensburg, Bamberg and Würzberg. This trip is priced from $4,129 land and cruise or $3,399 cruise only.
Also next year, Avalon is introducing two new ships in Asia -- the Century Legend and Century Paragon -- and adding a fourth itinerary, the 15-day “Enchanting China & the Yangtze River,” priced from $3,629. On this new itinerary, travelers will visit Beijing, Xian, Lijiang, Shanghai and Hong Kong.
Avalon is offering up to $1,000 off per couple on “Book Now Sailings” as well as an early airfare price guarantee for Europe sailings.
Contact Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on April 25, 2012 at 3:36pm — No Comments
AmaWaterways is proud to announce its exclusive Culinary Delights -- Bites & Sights
AmaWaterways is proud to announce its exclusive Culinary Delights -- Bites & Sights tours featuring cooking classes, walking tours and tastings on select European itineraries. From choosing local produce to preparing regional specialties such as the Bulgarian dish 'banista' and smoked salmon rolled with 'cervelle de canuts', AmaWaterways passengers can polish their cooking skills and explore the region's flavors and culture.
"Culinary connoisseurs and wine enthusiasts will fall in love with this great addition to our city tours," said Kristin Karst, AmaWaterways' executive vice president and co-owner. "From cooking multi-course meals to tasting local wines, fresh artisanal cheeses and hand-crafted delicacies, our guests are exposed to a true taste of Europe and we hope it will inspire their fondest memories."
As the only river cruise line inducted into La Chaine des Rotisseurs, one of the world's most prestigious culinary organizations, AmaWaterways continues to lead the industry in innovative experiences both on-board and on-shore. The Culinary Delights -- Bites & Sights tour is a facet of the river cruise line's prestigious food and beverage offerings.
With an intimate group of 20 people per tour, passengers are able to explore another side of the city visiting cooking schools, distilleries and local markets. The tours include visits to culinary specialty shops, chocolatiers and charcuteries. Select tours include a visit to Studio of Cabestan in Avignon, France. Chefs take passengers to Les Halles market to select the freshest ingredients before donning aprons and chef hats, for a hands-on cooking demonstration in Provencal cuisine. In Amsterdam, travelers are provided a panoramic city tour topped off with a tasting of Jenever, Dutch liquor. The tour sweetens when passengers visit the Belgium city of Antwerp for a Belgium waffles and chocolates tasting.
Additional options on the European river cruises include a hands-on demonstration to prepare Lyonniase cuisine and Banistra pastry; presentation on how to pair chocolates and wine; demonstration of mustard production; a tasting tour of traditional Dutch foods like Frietzak (Dutch fires with mayonnaise), poffertjes (pancakes) and rollmops (pickled herring); and the opportunity to prepare, cook and taste Goulash in the historical city of Budapest.
The Culinary Delights -- Bites & Sights tours vary on each itinerary, for more information on AmaWaterways, please visit www.amawaterways.com . To book, please contact a local travel agent or visit www.amawaterways.com , like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.
About AmaWaterways
Founded in 2002 by river cruise pioneer Rudi Schreiner, river cruise executive Kristin Karst and founder of Brendan Vacations, Jimmy Murphy, AmaWaterways is the premier river cruise line on Europe's Danube, Rhine, Main, Mosel and Rhone rivers. Known for its custom-designed ships, extensive complimentary amenities and personalized service levels, AmaWaterways consistently leads the way in river cruising. With destinations traveling through Europe, Russia, Vietnam and Cambodia, and new voyages to Africa and Portugal the line's award-winning fleets compliment a variety of travel plans.
The Europe fleet includes the AmaPrima (2013); AmaCerto (2012); AmaVerde (2011); AmaBella (2010); AmaLyra (2009); AmaDolce (2009); AmaCello (2008), AmaDante (2008); AmaLegro (2007) and the AmaDagio (2006). In the spring of 2012, AmaWaterways will introduce the new 164-passenger AmaCerto in Europe, joining the AmaVerde and AmaBella in offering an exclusive Twin Balcony design in the majority of staterooms; multiple dining venues; complimentary Internet and Infotainment system, a heated swimming pool or whirlpool on the Sun Deck plus many more unique design elements.
In addition to the European destinations, AmaWaterways offers the separate and distinct AmaVoyages to Vietnam and Cambodia via the AmaLotus (2011) and the La Marguerite (2009); Russia via the AmaKatarina (2011); Portugal via the AmaVida (2013); and Africa via the Zambezi Queen (2009).
RIVERDISCOUNTS.COM 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on April 25, 2012 at 3:29pm — No Comments
AmaWaterways Offers Jewish Heritage Cruises on Danube
Travel News
Travel Pulse > Cruises > AmaWaterways Offers Jewish Heritage Cruises on Danube
AmaWaterways Offers Jewish Heritage Cruises on Danube
April 19, 2012 10:02 PM
AmaWaterways is offering two Jewish history-themed cruises on the Danube River on the AmaDolce, AmaLegro and the new AmaCerto. The itineraries visit places in Germany, Austria, Hungary and Slovakia, and offer extensions in Prague and Budapest. Shore excursions visit World War II sites and synagogues and tour cities.
The 11-night “Legendary Danube Jewish Heritage” itinerary starts with two nights in Prague and visits Karlovy Vary, Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau, Linz, Melk and Vienna. The itinerary includes excursions to Salzburg, the setting for “The Sound of Music,” and a Benedictine Abbey tour in Melk. In Vienna, excursions visit the Jewish Museum, Sigmund Freud’s house, the Jewish Cemetery and the Jewish Quarter in Vienna’s 2nd District. The U.S. departure date is July 22.
The 13-night “Blue Danube Discovery Jewish Heritage” starts with two nights in Budapest and visit Bratislava, Vienna, Melk, Linz, Salzburg, Regensburg, Nuremberg and ends in Prague. U.S. departure dates are Aug. 2, Oct. 14 and Oct. 25.
Added by Mike Davies on April 24, 2012 at 8:33am — No Comments
Cabin sharing and insurance warning
I have a party of 4 Peace corps volunteers taking a river cruise from Budapest to the Black Sea,
One of the passengers had the be medivaced back to the US 3 days prior to the sailing date.
They were informed at time of purchase although they were US citizens they were not residents so they could not purchase the insurance.
Bottom line the repatriated client got $120 back. The remaining singlwas told they would have to pay an extra $3,590 on top of the the $1,895 already paid.
The sick passenger withdrew his cancellation to save the total cost to the group. The river cruise company would not allow any adjustment. They advised that the passengers should have purchased insurance in the country of residence.
FIY in India it is illegal to sell travel without cancelation insurance included in the price
Added by Mike Davies on April 12, 2012 at 7:59am — No Comments
Viking River Cruises pulls out of two ship deal with STX France
STX France says it has been informed by Viking River Cruise that they have decided to withdraw from further discussions concerning the previously announced project for two luxury cruise vessels announced on 21 December 2011. The question was about two 888 berth vessels of 35,000 gross tons each and STX France said in December that final agreement between the two companies was subject to financing.
Added by Mike Davies on April 9, 2012 at 12:02pm — No Comments
AmaWaterways’ AmaCerto to be First to Dock in Würzburg, Germany
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Travel Pulse > Cruises > AmaWaterways’ AmaCerto to be First to Dock in Würzburg, GermanyThe AmaCerto will operate the “Tulip Time Cruise,” “The Romantic Danube,” “Melodies of the Danube,” “The Legendary Danube,” “Blue Danube Discovery,” “Magnificent Europe,” “Christmas Time Cruise,” “Legendary Danube Jewish Heritage” and “Christmas on the Rhine” itineraries.Added by Mike Davies on April 9, 2012 at 12:00pm — No CommentsShareAmaWaterways’ AmaCerto to be First to Dock in Würzburg, Germany
AmaWaterways’ newest ship, the AmaCerto, will be the first ship to moor at the new Mainlande dock in Würzburg, Germany. On May 1, German dignitaries and city officials will welcome the AmaCerto at an official ceremony. “We are delighted that the AmaCerto was invited to this special occasion in Mainlande,” said Kristin Karst, AmaWaterways’ executive vice president and co-owner. “Würzburg is a beautiful city and we are so pleased our newest ship will be the first to dock.”Mainlande dock is located on the Main River that flows into the Rhine and is owned by the city of Würzburg. The city is known for the Würzburg Residence -- a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a former residence of the Würzburg prince-bishops and one of the most important baroque palaces in Europe.AmaWaterways’ new AmaCerto is a 164-passenger vessel that offers twin balconies in the majority of its staterooms and suites, which range up to 350 square feet. Local wine is included at the multiple dining venues onboard. The AmaCerto also has a sun deck, heated swimming pool with a swim-up bar, fitness center and spa, and complimentary Internet and infotainment system in all staterooms plus Wi-Fi. The AmaCerto offers a fleet of bicycles onboard (capacity controlled).
20 reasons to visit Budapest
From baths to cruises, churches and wine-tasting, David Whitley's 20 reasons to visit Budapest.
1 Thermal baths
A good proportion of Hungary is occupied by portly Germans wallowing in thermal waters, and Budapest is riddled with such baths. If you can make it to just one, pick the Szechenyi complex in the large City Park. It's an aquatic wonderland, combining lap pools, spa tubs, whirlpools and waters of different temperatures - and the setting is palatial. There's something of a holiday camp vibe, with sunbathers making a day of it and hairy, middle-aged men standing in the pools, playing chess on the side. spasbudapest.com.
2 The boating lake
Night life ... the Danube River twinkles at dusk. Photo: Getty Images
Also in the City Park is a picturesque boating lake. So far, so run of the mill, but it's what they do with it that counts. During the summer months, the joy of messing around in rowing boats is accompanied by a series of odd sculptures that sit in the water as decorative obstacles. Come winter, the lake turns into a giant public ice rink.artonlake.hu.
3 Danube cruises
Budapest is a major leaping-off point for the European river cruise industry. Visit at any time and you're likely to see long, sleek cruise boats moored along the banks of the Danube. Some are heading up or down the Danube, others connect through to the Rhine. But if the full monty doesn't suit, there are plenty of pleasure cruises that chug up and down the river for an hour. They're best at night, when all the major buildings are lit up and a glass of champagne in your hand seems a logical fit.
Disney-esque ... the Matthias Church. Photo: Getty Images
4 Vasarely Museum
Victor Vasarely was the king of op-art, deliberately producing works that look different depending on where you're standing in relation to them. The museum dedicated to him is in a beautiful old palace in the northern suburb of Obuda but it's worth the trek. It's the art of patterns, concentric lines and perceptual manipulation - it's almost mathematical in approach. More than 400 of Vasarely's works are under the vaulted roofs. Many will seem strangely familiar, reminiscent of psychedelic album covers and TV sci-fi graphics. Best of all, the thought processes and working methods behind the art are explained. vasarely.hu.
5 The Four Seasons Gresham Palace
Budapest has a fair few former palaces that have been converted into hotels but the Gresham Palace is the cream of the crop. It's an art nouveau masterpiece, from the quirky clock hands that indicate which floor the lift is on to the decorative gates. The rooms are all high ceilings, period-style furniture and super-comfortable beds, while the spa and restaurant are highly regarded. But it's the glass roofs in the lobby that get non-guests coming in for a slack-jawed gape. fourseasons.com/budapest.
6 Novelty transport
Cutesy funicular up to the Castle District? Check. Charming cog-wheel railway up Szechenyi-hegy? Check. Ski-style chairlift up to Janos-hegy, the city's highest point? Check. Budapest has an excellent line in fun but largely pointless transport systems. They prove irresistible magnets for kiddy pester-power.
7 The 'Castle'
It's not so much a castle as a fortified complex on a hill but the network of courtyards, walls, gardens and grandstanding buildings doesn't half pull in the crowds. The Budapest History Museum is a rather dry trot through the city's history and the top floor covering the city's early years is the most interesting part. In Roman times, the Danube was the border between the empire and the barbarian hordes. It goes some way to explaining the differences between hilly, sedate Buda on the west bank and lively Pest on the east. The real fun's in the basement, though - the maze of vaulted roofs, chapels and bleakly gothic rooms under the Royal Palace is stark but engrossing. www.btm.hu.
8 Memento Park
When communism crashed in 1989, most of the statues from the Soviet era were pulled down. Some still stand - most notably the beautifully ironic "Statue of Liberty" on top of Gellert Hill - but others have been moved to Memento Park. Effectively a retirement home for ridiculously unsubtle artworks depicting stout workers and wise leaders, this oddity on Budapest's outskirts makes for a surreal stroll-through. The once-pompous symbols of power and victory are now laughable relics.
9 Matthias Church
The Matthias Church, in the Castle District, is a strong contender for the title of Europe's prettiest. Surrounded on the Danube side by the Disney-esque Fisherman's Bastion, the gargoyles on the stone spire make for good close-up shots but it's the colourful mosaic-pattern roof that sticks in the memory. szoborpark.hu.
10 The Hospital in the Rock
In the 1930s a collection of old man-made caves cut into the side of the Castle District's rock was hammered together into a 10-kilometre-long tunnel network. And what did they put inside? Bizarrely, a hospital. With slightly hokey use of waxworks, it has been re-created and tours take you through. Expect horrendous tales of conditions during the World War II Siege of Budapest and fascinating revelations about the underground facility's subsequent use as a nuclear bunker. sziklakorhaz.hu.
11 House of Terror
Designed to tell the tales of the thousands who were persecuted and killed during Nazi and communist rule, this flashy museum set inside the former secret police HQ doesn't always hit the mark. But it's certainly distinctive. The narrative is often relegated to pieces of A4 paper stuck in the corner; each room feels like a separate art installation. You walk into prisoners' cells, past walls made of wax and alongside lift shafts decorated with the photos of victims. It's nothing if not visceral. terrorhaza.hu.
12 Weirdly niche museums
Of course, if these options seem a bit too mainstream, then novelty museum hounds have a tremendous range of options to explore: the Museum of Firefighting, Museum of Hairdressing, Museum of Commerce and Catering and, for those with a sweet tooth, the Marzipan Museum.
13 The Design District
Much more interesting than the chains and global designer labels is the loose association of independents that has turned a chunk of downtown Pest into a rather cool style hub. Loosely bounded by the river, Vamhaz korut, Muzeum korut and Szabadsajto utca, the Design District has transformed once-grungy streets. Offerings swing from vintage fashion to bold textile design via creative perfumeries and specialist chocolates - and they're refreshingly unique. designdistrict.hu.
14 Cheap shopping
Budapest isn't Milan, New York or Paris but it does have enough of the big names to keep the credit card-wielders happy. More to the point, prices tend to be a little lower than in the rest of Europe (and certainly lower than in Australia). So go down Vaci utca for cut-price Zara and H&M, the clunkily branded Fashion Street for bargain Benetton and Hugo Boss and along swanky Andrassy utca for affordable Armani and Zegna.
15 Drinking in kerts
Budapest's kerts - roughly translated as garden bars - carry the spirit of the Design District into the evening. They started as bar complexes built into abandoned courtyards that would pop up for summer, then disappear. Some - such as the excellent Szimpla on kert-packed Kazinczy utca - are now permanent, while existing bars have started adding their own kerts. The look - ramshackle furniture, exposed pipes, uneven surfaces - and vibe - fun, indiscriminate and communal - tend to remain consistent. szimpla.hu.
16 Wine-tasting
For a more sophisticated drinking experience, try getting into Hungarian wines. There are 22 separate regions across the country and drops from all are brought together at the Magyar Borok Haza. Explanatory displays can be found in the sprawling arched cellar, where you can shell out for themed tasting flights. The ones to look out for are the Bikaver - known as "Bull's Blood" - and Tokaji wines. The latter is regarded as Hungary's vino flagship - they're late-harvest dessert wines that come in six degrees of sweetness but are thoroughly drinkable for more than the usual single novelty glass.
17 Goulash soup
Hungary's ubiquitous national dish is a staple at pretty much every restaurant and cafe in town. Just try to leave without eating some ... On the heartier side of the soup-to-stew spectrum, goulash soup usually features beef, paprika and potatoes. The best ones - such as that at Kiado Kocsma on Jokai ter - come with a plate of peppers that you can break up and sprinkle in depending on your levels of fire-breathing bravery.
18 Costes
It took long enough but Hungary finally has its first Michelin star. That comes courtesy of Portuguese chef Miguel Rocha Vieira and his Costes restaurant on the Raday utca foodie strip. It's a sleek, modern-looking affair with a relaxed vibe for a fine-dining joint. Ingredients are sourced from far afield and the eight-course tasting menu with matching wines is the city's top gourmet splash-out. www.costes.hu.
19 Gellert Hill
The city has made noises about building a funicular railway up to Budapest's best lookout but until that eventuates it's a steep, sweaty slog up to the hilltop citadel. Once there, you've got the perfect postcard shot over the Castle District, Parliament Building, Danube and numerous church towers. It's not all about that final photo, though - by and large Gellert Hill is gloriously peaceful woodland, interspersed with pretty bridges, artificial waterfalls and huge statues. You can easily make a morning of it.
20 Margaret Island
If blissful strolling is your thing, then there can be few more idyllic urban spaces in Europe than Margaret Island. Sat in the middle of the Danube, this former private playground of the Habsburg monarchs is traffic-free apart from the giant family-sized bike/carriage contraptions that pootle along the paths. Throw in huge fountains, cute churches and, yes, another thermal baths complex, and it's a near-perfect oasis. hungary.com.
Added by Mike Davies on April 2, 2012 at 4:24pm — No Comments
Viking Launches six this year with more to come!
one of the biggest events in river cruising history took place this week: The christening of four brand-new ships built for Viking River Cruises (www.vikingriver.com). Dubbed the Viking Longships, Viking Freya, Viking Idun, Viking Njord and Viking Odin represent an entirely new class of vessel for the line.
Viking Idun and Viking Odin were christened at the Port of Amsterdam, while Viking Freya and Viking Njord were stationed at the Neptun Werft shipyard in Rostock, Germany where work is nearing completion. All four were originally slated to be in Amsterdam, but construction delays meant pushing back delivery of the Rostock duo until mid-April; understandable given the ambitious nature of these new ships.
By the end of this year, six new Longships will have entered service for Viking River Cruises. Just a few weeks ago, Viking announced an additional six Longships will be constructed in 2013, and revealed during the ceremonies in Amsterdam that they have options on another six Longships, which could enter service by the end of 2014. Should they go ahead, Viking would have increased its fleet by 18 ships in just three years.
It's an impressive step forward for a company that is only celebrating its 15th anniversary this year, and a major vote of confidence in an industry that is exploding in popularity.
So popular are Viking's newest vessels that sailings aboard the new Longships have almost entirely sold out for this year, a few weeks into the start of the season.
It turns out there's good reason for that: inside, Viking Odin and her sisters will take your breath away. Designed by the Norwegian firm of Yran & Storbraaten (famous for their work on Disney Fantasy and the new Seabourn ships), the first thing you're likely to notice as you step into the stunning two-deck-high reception area is the amount of glass used in the construction of these ships. Their design reflects a very modern, decidedly Scandinavian appearance, and there's not a single public room that doesn't boast excellent views of Europe's waterways.
In their quest to add more types of accommodations, Viking actually came up with a design that shifts the passenger corridor from the centre line of the ship and justifies it closer to the port side. This allowed them to place full balcony staterooms and suites alongside more traditional French Balcony staterooms like the one I occupied. The line also wisely patented this concept, which could be a stumbling block for other lines looking to do something similar.
L'Occitane toiletries, full-sized showers and heated bathroom floors in every stateroom are just some of the features to look forward to, along with a great lighting system and both European and North American power outlets - a rarity on many river cruise ships.
But it was the forward-facing Aquavit Terrace and the ship's whisper-quiet operation that captured my imagination. Located forward of the Viking Lounge, the Aquavit Terrace functions as a casual eatery where meals can be enjoyed out in the warmth of the European sunshine as your ship glides down the river.
If the weather refuses to cooperate, glass walls and ceilings can be shut, closing the area off to the elements but still allowing for tremendous views. Her state-of-theart propulsion system is so quiet, you'll think you were on a canoe and not a 443 foot long ship.
I could go on about the technical features of these ships: the herb garden, the solar panels, the live garden at the base of the atrium staircase, the fantastic decanters that the Aquavit is served with in the Viking Lounge - but what I enjoyed most about my time aboard Viking Odin was her connection to the astonishing scenery around her, and Viking's kind, efficient service.
River cruising is an amazing experience, and these Viking Longships stand to introduce more people than ever to this wonderful type of travel.
Added by Mike Davies on April 2, 2012 at 4:21pm — No Comments
American Cruise Lines Building Third New Riverboat
GGUILFORD, CT - March 13, 2012 - American Cruise Lines, the leader in small ship cruising, announced today that it will be building another brand new riverboat due to the high demand for its U.S. river cruises. A contract has been signed and construction has already begun. The new riverboat will be slightly larger but similar in many respects to the 150-passenger Queen of the Mississippi, which is nearing completion at Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Salisbury, MD.
"We recognize a considerable strength in river cruising and have observed an increased interest in our U.S. river cruises over the last several years," said Charles A. Robertson, CEO of American Cruise Lines. "We look forward to introducing yet another new authentic paddlewheel riverboat to meet this demand."
Robertson attributes the success of the company's river cruise business to its "newer, low-density vessels, each built to meet the highest industry standards in comfort, safety and technology."
American Cruise Lines' third new riverboat will feature a similar capacity to that of the Queen of the Mississippi and will also boast the most spacious staterooms in the industry, entirely private balconies - all with sliding glass doors, a center atrium with a grand staircase, various lounges and numerous amenities including:
Fully-functioning authentic paddlewheel 300+ square foot staterooms Private balconies with sliding glass doors Various unique lounges, libraries, and cafés Fine hotel-style bathrooms Room Service Wi-Fi in all staterooms Satellite TV and DVD player in all staterooms Single sitting, open seating dining Complimentary cocktail hour
As of yet, no decision has been made as to where the new riverboat will operate other than on U.S. rivers. Additional details and information will be announced in the coming months.
American Cruise Lines offers more than 35 unique itineraries on inland waterways and rivers across the United States. Over the last several years, American Cruise Lines has continued to add new itineraries and ships to accommodate demand. Its newest river itineraries are offered on two authentic paddlewheelers - the 120-passenger Queen of the West operating on the Columbia and Snake Rivers of the Pacific Northwest, and Queen of the Mississippi, American Cruise Lines' brand new authentic paddlewheeler. With a capacity of 150 guests and offering numerous never-before-available amenities, the authentic paddlewheeler is set to debut on the Mississippi River this coming August and is the first new riverboat built for the Mississippi River in nearly 20 years.
Contact RiverDiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on March 15, 2012 at 3:26pm — No Comments
Just how big is the boom in river cruising in Europe?
Big enough that Europe river cruise giant Viking is ordering six more new ships for 2013, on top of six vessels on the way this year.
In announcing the ambitious move on Wednesday, Viking said all of the vessels will be what it is calling "longships," a new design that will feature the largest suites ever for a river ship in Europe as well as other new features the line says will revolutionize the industry.
With the additions, the company will have 31 ships by the end of 2013.
"The new orders reflect the great interest in Viking River Cruises and its revolutionary longships," Viking Chairman Torstein Hagen says in a statement.
Viking's first two longships will debut next week in Amsterdam, with two more launching later this spring and two more coming in the fall. The vessels will include top suites that measure 445 square feet and feature a separate living room, bedroom, bathroom and private wrap-around balcony. They'll also have all-weather indoor/outdoor terraces at their fronts -- a new concept for river cruises in Europe. The terraces will have retractable floor-to-ceiling glass doors.
Scheduled to sail on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers, the 443-foot-long longships will have 95 cabins each and hold 190 passengers at double occupancy. Viking is boasting that the vessels will be the only river ships on European rivers with an array of true suites -- that is, cabins that have an en-suite sitting room in addition to a bedroom. Until now, what have been called suites on European river ships have been no more than single-room cabins that are larger than standard size cabins, the line says. Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on March 15, 2012 at 1:52pm — No Comments
Experience ‘La Dolce Vita’ with Uniworld as they introduce Italy
In 2013, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises (…
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In 2013, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises(www.uniworldcruises.com.au) will add another extraordinary river cruise destination to their collection of itineraries: Italy, the Po River, and the Venice Lagoon. The 13-day Splendours of Italy itinerary combines a 7-night river cruise along the Po River and the Venice Lagoon with a 2-night land stay in Florence and 3-nights in Rome. For those travellers who only wish to do the cruise portion, Uniworld will also offer a cruise-only option for 8-days, Venice & the Po River itinerary.
John Molinaro, General Manager, Uniworld, said: “As the leader in the river cruising industry, Uniworld remains committed to offering its guests an unrivalled travel experience as we continue to identifying new opportunities and unique destinations adapting our itineraries to meet their travel desires.
“As a result, we wanted to give travellers the chance to experience the best of Italy, giving them the option to do a cruise only or a cruise and land program offering additional time in two of world’s best known and loved cities, Florence and Rome.”
Uniworld’s new Italy program is designed to bring the region’s art, architecture, music, cuisine, landscapes, culture, religious and political history together like pieces of an exquisite puzzle, creating an immersive and enlightening journey for each of their guests. While guests will get to experience the ‘must see’ sights in the iconic cities of Rome, Florence and Venice, they will also have the opportunity to venture off the beaten path, travelling to such places as Ravenna, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, and enchanting Verona—the home of literature’s most famous lovers—Romeo and Juliet.
Guests will also be introduced to Italy’s distinctive culinary delights attending a pasta-making workshop in Bologna, the culinary capital of northern Italy. Throughout the journey, they’ll also indulge in the culinary flavours of the region—from crispy Roman pizza to creamy Venetian gelato to hearty Chianti.
Uniworld will be moving one of their award-winning boutique cruise ships, theRiver Countess, to Venice and the Po River in 2013. The River Countess is being completely refurbished to reflect the spirit and heart of this great destination with all the elegant touches and finesse of a finely painted Italian masterpiece.
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Molinaro added: “Uniworld made the decision to move the River Countess from her current location along the Rhine, Main, and Danube to Italy. While this is a costly venture to move her, it’s the right decision as we wanted to provide our clients with itineraries to one of the most highly sought-after European destinations onboard one of our prizewinning river cruise ships, especially as many of our past guests have been asking us for a long time to offer cruises in this area.”
From the palazzo-lined canals of Venice to the fertile olive groves of Tuscany, from the spectacular ruin of Rome’s grand Coliseum to the pilgrim-packed Vatican, Italy offers enough historical, cultural, and natural wonders to delight even the most experienced traveller.
Molinaro added: “There is no place in the world like Italy, and Uniworld is the only major river cruise line to offer river cruising here. This is a further tribute to Uniworld as we have been the true pioneer for river cruising for almost 40 years.”
For couples wishing to travel to Italy with Uniworld during their inaugural season, they can receive from $700 to $800 savings p/person by paying in full at the time of booking before June 30, 2012. From $6049 (p/person - twin share, excluding tax), Uniworld’s new 13-day Splendours of Italy includes: 7-nights in a riverview stateroom onboard the luxurious River Countess; 2-nights in a deluxe hotel in Florence and 3-nights in a deluxe hotel in Rome. All meals onboard with complimentary fine wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, fully guided excursions with local experts and all transfers on arrival and departure days, and throughout the program. The 8-day Venice & the Po River cruise only itinerary is priced from $3199 (p/person - twin share, excluding tax).
Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on March 12, 2012 at 2:06pm — No Comments
Priscilla Presley named godmother of American Queen
Priscilla Presley, ex-wife of the late Elvis Presley, will serve as godmother of the American Queen steamboat at its christening in Memphis on April 27.
Also, ship owner and operator Great American Steamboat Co. has entered into a partnership with Elvis Presley Enterprises, under which the American Queen will operate an “Elvis cruise” from Memphis to New Orleans next December.
A daughter of an Air Force officer, Priscilla Presley attended high school in Germany, where she met her future husband.
In addition to being a businesswoman, producer and actress, she is an ambassador of the Dream Foundation, helping to fulfill the dreams of adults battling terminal illnesses.
“Priscilla Presley’s efforts leading Elvis Presley Enterprises exemplify both grace and dignity, two adjectives befitting the American Queen,” said Jeff Krida, CEO of Great American Steamboat Co. “Both are stunning ambassadors to Memphis and we are humbled to bring our steamboat family and the Presley family together.”
Following its christening, the American Queen will sail an inaugural voyage up the Mississippi River to the Ohio River with stops in Henderson, Ky.; Louisville, Ky.; Madison, Ind.; and Cincinnati, where the voyage concludes.
Also, ship owner and operator Great American Steamboat Co. has entered into a partnership with Elvis Presley Enterprises, under which the American Queen will operate an “Elvis cruise” from Memphis to New Orleans next December.
A daughter of an Air Force officer, Priscilla Presley attended high school in Germany, where she met her future husband.
In addition to being a businesswoman, producer and actress, she is an ambassador of the Dream Foundation, helping to fulfill the dreams of adults battling terminal illnesses.
“Priscilla Presley’s efforts leading Elvis Presley Enterprises exemplify both grace and dignity, two adjectives befitting the American Queen,” said Jeff Krida, CEO of Great American Steamboat Co. “Both are stunning ambassadors to Memphis and we are humbled to bring our steamboat family and the Presley family together.”
Following its christening, the American Queen will sail an inaugural voyage up the Mississippi River to the Ohio River with stops in Henderson, Ky.; Louisville, Ky.; Madison, Ind.; and Cincinnati, where the voyage concludes.
Added by Mike Davies on March 10, 2012 at 11:27am — No Comments
Queen of Mississippi getting additional cabins
American Cruise Lines (ACL) has increased the capacity of the Queen of the Mississippi from 140 to 150 passengers.
The Guilford, Conn.-based company is building the paddlewheeler for an August launch on the Mississippi River, and during the construction process made some adjustments to the number of cabins onboard, which included adding three double cabins and four single cabins to the original plan.
The four additional single cabins bring the total number of single cabins on the Queen of the Mississippi to 12, or 8% of the total capacity onboard.
An ACL official explained that the company is responding to a greater demand for single cabins from solo travelers, a trend that has been gradually increasing with each newbuild.
The Guilford, Conn.-based company is building the paddlewheeler for an August launch on the Mississippi River, and during the construction process made some adjustments to the number of cabins onboard, which included adding three double cabins and four single cabins to the original plan.
The four additional single cabins bring the total number of single cabins on the Queen of the Mississippi to 12, or 8% of the total capacity onboard.
An ACL official explained that the company is responding to a greater demand for single cabins from solo travelers, a trend that has been gradually increasing with each newbuild.
Added by Mike Davies on March 10, 2012 at 11:25am — No Comments
Posted on: March 1, 2012email the editors
Ama Waterways has released its 2013 program, unveiling plans that include two new river cruise ships and four new itineraries.
Ama is launching the 164-passenger Amaprima, sister ship to the Amacerto. The Amaprima will feature Ama’s new twin-balcony concept, an indoor/outdoor seating area in the cabins; a heated swimming pool; multiple dining venues; and complimentary Internet and Infotainment system with a 42-inch flat screen TV in the staterooms.
Additionally, the company is leasing a new ship, the 108-passenger Amavida, from Portuguese shipbuilder Douro Azul for Douro River Valley cruises in Portugal. Thirty-six of the staterooms will be 216 square feet in size and have full balconies.
The two new ships will enter service in April 2013 and will bring Ama’s worldwide fleet to 15.
The company is also introducing four new itineraries in 2013, which will bring to 25 the number of river cruise itineraries Ama offers.
The new cruises are 10- and 13-day sailings in Portugal and 19- and nine-day sailings in France.
Ama is launching the 164-passenger Amaprima, sister ship to the Amacerto. The Amaprima will feature Ama’s new twin-balcony concept, an indoor/outdoor seating area in the cabins; a heated swimming pool; multiple dining venues; and complimentary Internet and Infotainment system with a 42-inch flat screen TV in the staterooms.
Additionally, the company is leasing a new ship, the 108-passenger Amavida, from Portuguese shipbuilder Douro Azul for Douro River Valley cruises in Portugal. Thirty-six of the staterooms will be 216 square feet in size and have full balconies.
The two new ships will enter service in April 2013 and will bring Ama’s worldwide fleet to 15.
The company is also introducing four new itineraries in 2013, which will bring to 25 the number of river cruise itineraries Ama offers.
The new cruises are 10- and 13-day sailings in Portugal and 19- and nine-day sailings in France.
Added by Mike Davies on March 10, 2012 at 11:24am — No Comments
Amawaterways creates a new product line
Ama Waterways, recently created an entirely new product line called Amavoyages that encompasses all its river cruise experiences outside of Europe: the Volga River cruises through Russia; the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia; its new Chobe River experience in Botswana; and its Portugal program, which it is introducing in 2013.
“The river cruise experience in these countries is separate and distinct from our European ships, amenities and services,” Ama explains on its…
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Added by Mike Davies on March 10, 2012 at 11:21am — No Comments
Cruises defy the economy as passenger numbers rise in 2011
After the economic downturn in 2008-09, conventional wisdom - if you're in the discretional dollar business, such as travel - would have meant cutting back on adding new product for the foreseeable future. Airlines and cruise lines had to take possession of new aircraft and ships that were already ordered, but the airlines had the luxury of mothballing or selling their older aircraft or cancelling routes.
Cruise lines christened all those new ships and refurbished old ones and generally soldiered on through, and out of, the recession with a growing fleet.
Now the 2011-vs.-2010 numbers are out, and they prove it was a wise move.
The number of cruise passengers has increased 10 per cent to 16.3 million. Canada's numbers climbed to 691,000.
Among large major cruise lines, almost 20,000 new beds - down 20 per cent from last year - are being added, with those numbers decreasing again in 2013. Let's call it fleet rationalization. With oceancruise lines building at a record-breaking pace during the last three years, it appears they are taking a breath.
River-cruise lines, on the other hand, have no intention of slowing the torrid pace of new builds that began in 2011. If my math is right, this year, 14 new river cruisers will be launched, mainly in Europe. A full list and the details on new ships, river cruisers and refurbished ships over the next couple of years will be up on my blog (portsandbows. com) on Saturday (March 10).
Disney Fantasy, Carnival Breeze and Celebrity Reflection probably hold the most interest for North Americans this year, even though all are siblings in a class of ship already on the water.
The Disney Fantasy, second and last in its series, has made major changes to dining areas, the outside top deck, and especially the onboard entertainment. The ship will begin regular sailings on March 31.
The Breeze is also the last in its series. Words seldom used to describe Carnival, "muted tones," are being uttered by those who have seen the decor. Joe Farcus, the legendary and outlandish designer for Carnival, is gone, and the new team is adding a "classier" touch to this "Fun Ship."
Celebrity's "Reflection" makes it five, and done, for the Solstice Class. It will be launched in October, with more staterooms and one more deck.
The river cruisers are being led by Viking's "long ships." Six are being launched this year, generating a good share of the industry buzz. The first of the 190-passenger ships will arrive in less than two weeks, with new builds going into 2013.
The most nostalgic launch on the river will be the first new build in 15 years to sail the Mississippi and other Midwestern rivers. American Cruise Lines' 150-passenger Queen of the Mississippi will debut in late summer.
Added by Mike Davies on March 10, 2012 at 11:11am — No Comments
American Cruise Lines’ Queen of the Mississippi Gets Paddlewheel
March 07, 2012 2:44 PM
American Cruise Lines announced that its 150-passenger paddlewheeler, the Queen of the Mississippi, is nearing completion at Chesapeake Shipbuilding in Maryland. Last week, the massive 23-ton, 28-foot-wide paddlewheel was lifted and installed. A short video documenting the construction milestone can be viewed here. Sea trials are scheduled to begin later on this month.
“This marks an important step in the creation of this authentic riverboat,” said Timothy Beebe, vice president of American Cruise Lines. “The paddlewheel is one of the most important elements of classic riverboats, and this one isn’t just cosmetic — it’s fully functioning.”
The Queen of the Mississippi will be completed in May, with its inaugural cruise scheduled for Aug. 11 from New Orleans to Memphis. Currently, the interior is well underway with carpeting being installed and furniture beginning to go onboard. All sliding glass doors leading to the private balconies are in place and painting is just about complete. The interior will feature wood trim and antique-style accessories.
Staterooms feature private balconies with sliding glass doors and amenities today’s travelers expect, while maintaining the décor of late 1800s Mississippi riverboats. American Cruise Lines will operate the paddlewheeler over the entire Mississippi River System, including the Ohio and Cumberland rivers.
Added by Mike Davies on March 8, 2012 at 11:15am — No Comments
Tauck Number One
Tauck Named Best River Cruise Line by Travel+Leisure
February 29, 2012 7:34 PM
Tauck was named the “World’s Best River Cruise Line” by a majority of readers of Travel+Leisure magazine in its annual readers survey. Full survey results and a complete list of winners are included in Travel+Leisure’s August issue. Travel+Leisure rated river cruise operators based on six different criteria -- service, value, itineraries/destinations, activities, cabins and food.
Tauck CEO Dan Mahar said he believes the breadth of the criteria adds to the meaning of the award. “Too often the focus with cruising is only on the physical infrastructure of the ships, without looking at the total guest experience,” said Mahar. “I firmly believe that our ships are the finest riverboats out there, but we provide our guests with so much more.”
February 29, 2012 7:34 PM
Tauck was named the “World’s Best River Cruise Line” by a majority of readers of Travel+Leisure magazine in its annual readers survey. Full survey results and a complete list of winners are included in Travel+Leisure’s August issue. Travel+Leisure rated river cruise operators based on six different criteria -- service, value, itineraries/destinations, activities, cabins and food.
Tauck CEO Dan Mahar said he believes the breadth of the criteria adds to the meaning of the award. “Too often the focus with cruising is only on the physical infrastructure of the ships, without looking at the total guest experience,” said Mahar. “I firmly believe that our ships are the finest riverboats out there, but we provide our guests with so much more.”
Added by Mike Davies on March 5, 2012 at 6:54pm — No Comments
Amawaterways Sienne Sailings
Add the Seine River in France to the list of places you can visit with fast-growing AmaWaterways.
The California-based river line will launch its first weekly voyages on the Seine starting in March 2013 with an itinerary that starts in Paris and includes stops in the cathedral town of Rouen and the cozy coastal town of Honfleur.
AmaWaterways also plans a new itinerary in 2013 on Portugal's Douro River, where it hasn't offered trips since 2010, and additional sailings on France's Rhone River.
"We have a very strong past passenger client base from Rhine and Danube cruises, and they are looking for other areas," AmaWaterways founder and President Rudi Schreiner tells USA TODAY.
RELATED: River lines add trips on Portugal's Douro PHOTO TOUR: A look inside a European river ship
The seven-night "Paris & Normandy" trips on the Seine will include a visit to Giverny, where Impressionist artist Claude Monet lived for 43 years, as well as the cities of Vernon, Caudebec-en-Caux, Les Andelys and Conflans. They'll take place on the 150-passenger AmaLegro, which debuted in 2007.
AmaWaterways also will offer extended, multiweek France trips in 2013 that combine the new seven-night sailing on the Seine with a seven-night Rhone River cruise (on the 150-passenger AmaDagio) and several nights in Barcelona. Dubbed Jewels of France, the extended trip will be offered starting on March 26, 2013.
Schreiner says voyages on the Rhine and Danube continue to be the biggest draw for North American vacationers interested in river cruising, but a growing base of river-cruise fans looking for new options is supporting new alternatives across Europe as well as in Africa and Asia. He notes that AmaWaterways this year is adding its first safari cruises in Africa and also recently added its first sailings on the Mekong River in Southeast Asia -- both destinations that are drawing more attention from vacationers as well as vacation companies.
One area of river cruising that is struggling mightily this year, he says: Trips on the Nile in Egypt. In the wake of last year's "Arab Spring" revolution, it is "really out. Egypt is really empty," he says.
RELATED: AmaWaterways adds Africa trips
Founded in 2002, AmaWaterways plans to add two vessels in 2013, bringing its total to 15. The 164-passenger AmaPrima, debuting in April 2013, will sail mostly on the Danube. The 108-passenger AmaVida, debuting in March 2013, will sail on the Douro.
AmaWaterways will offer two Douro River itineraries on the AmaVida: A 10-night trip that includes seven nights on the ship and three nights in a hotel in Lisbon; and a 13-night trip that also includes three nights in a hotel in Madrid.
The seven-night cruise portion of the two itineraries will feature visits to the Douro River towns of Porto, Régua, Barc d'Alva, Vega Terrón, Pinhão and Bitetos.
Added by Mike Davies on February 29, 2012 at 11:46am — No Comments
Thousands apply for American Steamboat's 300 positions
Great American Steamboat Co. is hiring 300 people for its inaugural year of Mississippi River cruises and the positions are in great demand.
My Fox Memphis reports that hundreds of people attended the company's job fair held yesterday while thousands more have applied online. The company's employees will work six weeks on the boat followed by two weeks off, according to company president John Waggoner. He said the company provides employees three meals a day and a place to live while on the boat with limited expenses.
"And, when (they) step off the boat (they) have a check waiting for them for about ($4,200) less taxes," Waggoner told My Fox Memphis.
Added by Mike Davies on February 23, 2012 at 11:11am — No Comments
Demand for Europe river cruises keeps pace with capacity increases
Despite a fair amount of new capacity coming onto the European river market this year, the river cruise lines say they are filling their ships for the 2012 season ahead of their 2011 booking pace.
“We are actually running into a space problem here because [river cruising is] doing very, very well,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of Ama Waterways.
Ama is launching the 164-passenger Amacerto on April 12, increasing the capacity of its European fleet by 13.7% and bringing its European fleet size to nine vessels. Karst said Ama is 91.6% booked through Oct. 31 and 85% booked through Dec. 31.
Avalon Waterways is also reporting strong sales for 2012. Avalon Managing Director Patrick Clark said 2012 “is looking very good.” He said sales are up 28% in 2012 compared with this time last year.
In May, the company will launch two ships in Europe: the 166-passenger Avalon Vista and 166-passenger Avalon Visionary, sister ships to the Avalon Panorama.
“The three Panorama-class ships are very close to being sold out,” Clark reported.
With the two new ships, Avalon’s European fleet will number 11 vessels in 2012.
Clark said the best-selling itineraries for 2012 are the 14-night Amsterdam to Budapest cruise, the seven-night Romantic Rhine cruise and the seven-night Danube with Prague and France cruise.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection has seen a 25% uptick in 2012 bookings compared with this time last year, according to Uniworld President Guy Young.
Uniworld has no additional capacity coming in 2012. Young said there is still availability for the year in Europe but space is beginning to get tight on the more popular itineraries during the high season.
He also said the company is doing less discounting than it was a year ago.
The offers Uniworld does have in the market are tactical offers tied to airfare, to help agents and clients overcome the high cost of air to Europe, Young said.
The line that was most vague about its booking levels for 2012 was Los Angeles-based Viking River Cruises, which is launching an unprecedented six new ships this year, bringing the company’s European fleet size to 19 vessels.
The new Viking Longships add about 30% capacity to its European fleet, according to Richard Marnell, senior vice president of marketing at Viking.
Marnell would not divulge what percentage of the company’s European fleet capacity is booked but said, “We are further ahead for 2012 than we were at this point for 2011.”
Moreover, he added: “We’re very pleased with the load factors we received.”
Beyond Europe
Beyond the river cruise lines’ traditional Europe product, emerging markets like the Volga in Russia and the Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia are reportedly selling extremely well.
Uniworld, for example, said it has very limited space left on its Russia and Mekong sailings for 2012. Avalon, too, reported that its Mekong itineraries are doing very well.
As Egypt continues to grapple with political unrest in the lead-up to presidential elections there in June, Nile River cruises have stalled for 2012.
“We are operating all the itineraries that we have brochured,” Young said of Uniworld’s 82-passenger River Tosca ship on the Nile. “But unfortunately, there’s just not a lot of momentum.”
Clark said, “Egypt and Nile cruises are not selling. The current environment is simply not conducive to attracting tourists.”
A peek at 2013
Given the strong booking trends, most river cruise operators have already opened up sales for many of their 2013 departures.
Ama, for example, has made about 80% of its 2013 departures available for booking, something it normally waits until about mid-March to do.
One big trend for next year is interest in Portugal.
Viking is introducing a Portugal and Spain itinerary in 2013 on the relaunched 124-passenger Viking Duoro. And Ama Waterways will also lease a newbuild in Portugal next year: The 106-passenger Amavida will launch on April 2, 2013.
The Viking Duoro was formerly the Duoro Spirit, a ship built in 2011 that Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection has been chartering from its owner, Duoro Azul.
“We are actually running into a space problem here because [river cruising is] doing very, very well,” said Kristin Karst, executive vice president and co-owner of Ama Waterways.
Ama is launching the 164-passenger Amacerto on April 12, increasing the capacity of its European fleet by 13.7% and bringing its European fleet size to nine vessels. Karst said Ama is 91.6% booked through Oct. 31 and 85% booked through Dec. 31.
Avalon Waterways is also reporting strong sales for 2012. Avalon Managing Director Patrick Clark said 2012 “is looking very good.” He said sales are up 28% in 2012 compared with this time last year.
In May, the company will launch two ships in Europe: the 166-passenger Avalon Vista and 166-passenger Avalon Visionary, sister ships to the Avalon Panorama.
“The three Panorama-class ships are very close to being sold out,” Clark reported.
With the two new ships, Avalon’s European fleet will number 11 vessels in 2012.
Clark said the best-selling itineraries for 2012 are the 14-night Amsterdam to Budapest cruise, the seven-night Romantic Rhine cruise and the seven-night Danube with Prague and France cruise.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection has seen a 25% uptick in 2012 bookings compared with this time last year, according to Uniworld President Guy Young.
Uniworld has no additional capacity coming in 2012. Young said there is still availability for the year in Europe but space is beginning to get tight on the more popular itineraries during the high season.
He also said the company is doing less discounting than it was a year ago.
The offers Uniworld does have in the market are tactical offers tied to airfare, to help agents and clients overcome the high cost of air to Europe, Young said.
The line that was most vague about its booking levels for 2012 was Los Angeles-based Viking River Cruises, which is launching an unprecedented six new ships this year, bringing the company’s European fleet size to 19 vessels.
The new Viking Longships add about 30% capacity to its European fleet, according to Richard Marnell, senior vice president of marketing at Viking.
Marnell would not divulge what percentage of the company’s European fleet capacity is booked but said, “We are further ahead for 2012 than we were at this point for 2011.”
Moreover, he added: “We’re very pleased with the load factors we received.”
Beyond Europe
Beyond the river cruise lines’ traditional Europe product, emerging markets like the Volga in Russia and the Mekong in Vietnam and Cambodia are reportedly selling extremely well.
Uniworld, for example, said it has very limited space left on its Russia and Mekong sailings for 2012. Avalon, too, reported that its Mekong itineraries are doing very well.
As Egypt continues to grapple with political unrest in the lead-up to presidential elections there in June, Nile River cruises have stalled for 2012.
“We are operating all the itineraries that we have brochured,” Young said of Uniworld’s 82-passenger River Tosca ship on the Nile. “But unfortunately, there’s just not a lot of momentum.”
Clark said, “Egypt and Nile cruises are not selling. The current environment is simply not conducive to attracting tourists.”
A peek at 2013
Given the strong booking trends, most river cruise operators have already opened up sales for many of their 2013 departures.
Ama, for example, has made about 80% of its 2013 departures available for booking, something it normally waits until about mid-March to do.
One big trend for next year is interest in Portugal.
Viking is introducing a Portugal and Spain itinerary in 2013 on the relaunched 124-passenger Viking Duoro. And Ama Waterways will also lease a newbuild in Portugal next year: The 106-passenger Amavida will launch on April 2, 2013.
The Viking Duoro was formerly the Duoro Spirit, a ship built in 2011 that Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection has been chartering from its owner, Duoro Azul.
Uniworld, in the meantime, will lease a newbuild for 2013, the 118-passenger Queen Isabel, also owned by Duoro Azul.
Viking sailings canceled due to ship delivery delays
Viking River Cruises has pushed back the delivery of two Longships due to construction delays, a move that will impact five sailings, the company said.
The Viking Njord and Viking Freya were supposed to set sail in March, but instead will launch on April 15 and April 18, respectively. Sister ships Viking Idun and Viking Odin will sail their inaugural cruises as scheduled on March 23 and March 24, respectively.
The delays impact the March 22, March 31 and April 9 departures on the Freya, and the March 28 and April 6 departures on the Njord.
The christenings of Viking Odin and Viking Idun will proceed as planned on March 21 in Amsterdam.
“The delay is due to shipyard construction delays,” said Richard Marnell, senior vice president of marketing at Viking. “There’s nothing more specific than that — it’s the effort and complexity of getting four vessels out at the same time.”
Guests booked on canceled sailings can rebook a similar itinerary on a different ship and will receive up to a 50% credit on a future cruise booking.
For guests who do not choose to rebook, Viking is providing a full refund. Travel agent commissions are being protected based on the original booking, Viking stated.
To accommodate affected guests, Viking has extended its 2012 charter of the river cruise ship Bolero, a 172-passenger vessel that sails eight-day Danube itineraries.
The 190-passenger Freya, Idun, Njord and Odin are the first of a new class of vessels called Viking Longships. Two additional Longships, the Embla and Aegir, are slated to launch on July 8 and Aug. 15, respectively.
A defining feature of the new Longships is that three-quarters of the staterooms onboard will feature a balcony, French balcony or both. There will also be more large staterooms and suites than on previous Viking ships.
The Viking Njord and Viking Freya were supposed to set sail in March, but instead will launch on April 15 and April 18, respectively. Sister ships Viking Idun and Viking Odin will sail their inaugural cruises as scheduled on March 23 and March 24, respectively.
The delays impact the March 22, March 31 and April 9 departures on the Freya, and the March 28 and April 6 departures on the Njord.
The christenings of Viking Odin and Viking Idun will proceed as planned on March 21 in Amsterdam.
“The delay is due to shipyard construction delays,” said Richard Marnell, senior vice president of marketing at Viking. “There’s nothing more specific than that — it’s the effort and complexity of getting four vessels out at the same time.”
Guests booked on canceled sailings can rebook a similar itinerary on a different ship and will receive up to a 50% credit on a future cruise booking.
For guests who do not choose to rebook, Viking is providing a full refund. Travel agent commissions are being protected based on the original booking, Viking stated.
To accommodate affected guests, Viking has extended its 2012 charter of the river cruise ship Bolero, a 172-passenger vessel that sails eight-day Danube itineraries.
The 190-passenger Freya, Idun, Njord and Odin are the first of a new class of vessels called Viking Longships. Two additional Longships, the Embla and Aegir, are slated to launch on July 8 and Aug. 15, respectively.
A defining feature of the new Longships is that three-quarters of the staterooms onboard will feature a balcony, French balcony or both. There will also be more large staterooms and suites than on previous Viking ships.
Added by Mike Davies on February 23, 2012 at 10:54am — No Comments
River yacht RIVER CLOUD II
Discover Europe with a difference! With the river yacht RIVER CLOUD II, which is at home on Europe's most beautiful rivers. The luxurious river yacht with the flair of 1930s travel is on course from the Netherlands to the Black Sea, on the Danube, Moselle, Main and Rhine. On the spacious deck one can let one's gaze wander over the breath-taking landscape while castles and palaces glide past and historic cities like Heidelberg, Strasbourg, Vienna and Budapest beckon invitingly.
This elegant and relaxed mode of travel is complemented by the refined on-board entertainment. Theme cruises such as the 150th anniversary of Gustav Klimt and Claude Debussy or a garden cruise to the "Floriade" place the focus on special cultural highlights and are accompanied by artists and lecturers.
Dates: Garden Cruise, Amsterdam-Regensburg, 16-24.6.2012; Klimt Art Cruise, Budapest-Passau, 19-26.07.2012; Debussy Music Cruise, Koblenz-Amsterdam, 27.10.-3.11.2012, all cruises starting from US$ 3,285.
The river yacht RIVER CLOUD II interprets the maritime ambience of the tall sailing ships SEA CLOUD and SEA CLOUD II in its own special way. It has 44 outside cabins, in addition to which the library, a spacious lounge with bar and the large sundeck offer guests ample room for relaxation. The 80-year-old four-masted bark SEA CLOUD with its high quality standard serves as the model for all other passenger ships that are part of the operator´s fleet. Guests are invited to set sail to the most stunning destinations in Europe, the Lesser Antilles and Central America.
Tauck Introduces French Culinary Cruise on Rhone River
Tauck is introducing a new river cruise on the Rhone that explores the culinary traditions of France. The new 10-day “A Taste of France” itinerary begins with a two-night hotel stay in Paris, followed by a seven-night river cruise through the Rhone Valley aboard Tauck’s Swiss Emerald riverboat. Tauck has crafted the itinerary in collaboration with Churchill & Turen Ltd., the luxury travel agency named the “World’s Best Culinary Tour Specialist” by Conde Nast Traveler magazine. Departures are scheduled for April 25, June 28, Aug. 17 and Oct. 20.
The trip, priced from $5,390 per person, double occupancy, plus air, begins with guided culinary-themed sightseeing in Paris and a two-night stay at the Hilton Arc de Triomphe. In Paris, guests will get an introduction to French sauces with a tasting at the new Alain Ducasse culinary school, Ecole de Cuisine. They’ll also attend a workshop and tastings led by Chloe Doutre-Roussel, author of “The Chocolate Connoisseur,” and visit the former haunts of Chef Julia Child.
Other culinary-themed experiences include a market visit in Provence with local chefs; a visit to Lyon’s famous market Les Halles; a Provencal evening featuring dinner, local wines and entertainment near Pont du Gard, the Roman aqueduct; and a demonstration of French culinary techniques at a cooking school operated by a three-star Michelin chef.
Included in the price are sightseeing, activities and shore excursions, two hotel nights in Paris, all gratuities, complimentary wine with onboard meals, all taxes and port charges, airport transfers, luggage handling, most meals and more.
Contact RiverDiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on February 13, 2012 at 1:32pm — No Comments
AmaWaterways Introduces New Wine Cruises on Rhone River
AmaWaterways will launch a new series of wine cruises on March 25 on the AmaDagio on the Rhone River. AmaWaterways President Rudi Schreiner and Executive Vice President Kristin Karst will host the maiden wine cruise. Also sailing will be Carissa Chappellet, owner and managing director of Chappellet Winery, and Archie McLaren, founder and chairman of Central Coast Wine Classic.
Each wine cruise will features excursions to vineyards and cellars, complimentary wine lectures with the hosts, wine tastings onboard and on shore, and wine pairings with dinner.
The seven-night March 25 “In Celebration of Wine” cruise is part of the 15-day “Provence and Spain” itinerary, which begins with three nights in Paris before embarking the cruise in Lyon. The cruise will explore the Beaujolais wine region, Roman ruins and UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Avignon and Arles. After the cruise, guests will visit the medieval town of Perpignan, France, before ending the trip in Barcelona.
In all, AmaWaterways offers eight wine-themed cruises that also showcase wine regions along the Rhine and the Danube rivers. The “Provence and Spain” trip also departs Nov. 4 and Nov. 11. Other options include the “The Romantic Danube that departs Nov. 3 and Nov. 13, “The Legendary Danube” departing Oct. 31, and “The Enchanting Rhine” departing Nov. 7 and Nov. 10.
Each cruise offers complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks with dinner, accommodations with French balconies, complimentary in-room Hollywood movies and Internet, onboard entertainment every evening, shore excursions daily with headsets, and use of bicycles.
The scenic ‘space-ship’ lands in France
Scenic Tours has announced that the Scenic ‘Space-Ships’ will be extended to France with the deployment of the Scenic Emerald on the Rhone and Saône rivers in Southern France from April 2013. The Scenic ‘Space-Ship’ has 20% more space than average river cruise ships, delivering an unparalleled sense of space and freedom. The ship consists of two full decks of exclusive Private Balcony Suites which are 24% larger than average River Cruise cabins and all 5 star amenities.
Also new for 2013 are a number of fantastic France River Cruising itineraries such as the 14 Day South of France River Cruise that includes a more leisurely 12 night river cruise from Chalon-sur-Saône to Arles. Guests will enjoy wine tasting in Burgundy, explore Roman cities and charming villages, experience a typical French family homestead with a home cooked meal in Tournon, explore the Ardèche countryside, and visit Châteauneuf-du-Pape. There is also the 27 Day Grand European River Cruise that includes the 12 night river cruise from Chalon-sur-Saône to Arles plus a 14 night river cruise from Amsterdam to Basel to discover the canals of Bruges, explore the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and Trier and spend a full day in the Black Forest.
Call RiverDiscounts 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on February 13, 2012 at 1:26pm — No Comments
Viking 2012-13 new ships
Details: The ships will offer popular 7- to 14-night itineraries on popular European waterways; rates start at $1,656/person and include extras like daily guided shore excursions, free Wi-Fi, and select beverages (including wine – plus, beer and soft drinks, new for 2012).
Viking to Refurbish Russian River Fleet & Ramp Up Itineraries
Viking is also planning a full bow-to-stern revamp of its Russian river cruise fleet. Additionally, they’ll be adding itinerary enhancements, and have launched a brand-new section of their website dedicated to inspiring travelers to discover "the real Russia" via a series of video "webisodes". Onboard, expect larger staterooms (many which will be outfitted with private verandas) and renovated common areas – both indoors and on the deck – set to feature Viking’s signature Scandinavian design. Following the transformations, the ships will be renamed Viking Rurik, Viking Helgi, Viking Ingvar and Viking Truvor.
Among the revised itinerary offerings, travelers can now book a new 7-night "Glories of the Hermitage" cruise tour that features exclusive access and private tours of St. Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum; or, enjoy special new cultural offerings on select sailings like performances by musicians from St. Petersburg’s Mariinsky Theatre or encounters with Red Army veterans at Moscow’s Military Museum.
Details: Rates on 7- to 12-night Russian sailings start at $2,088/person and include all of the port fees
Call 800 640 4899Added by Mike Davies on February 12, 2012 at 6:26pm — No Comments
Viking to Refurbish Russian River Fleet & Ramp Up Itineraries
Viking is also planning a full bow-to-stern revamp of its Russian river cruise fleet. Additionally, they’ll be adding itinerary enhancements, and have launched a brand-new section of their website dedicated to inspiring travelers to discover "the real Russia" via a series of video "webisodes". Onboard, expect larger staterooms (many which will be outfitted with private verandas) and renovated common areas – both indoors and on the deck – set to feature Viking’s signature Scandinavian design. Following the transformations, the ships will be renamed Viking Rurik, Viking Helgi, Viking Ingvar and Viking Truvor.
Among the revised itinerary offerings, travelers can now book a new 7-night "Glories of the Hermitage" cruise tour that features exclusive access and private tours of St. Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum; or, enjoy special new cultural offerings on select sailings like performances by musicians from St. Petersburg’s Mariinsky Theatre or encounters with Red Army veterans at Moscow’s Military Museum.
Details: Rates on 7- to 12-night Russian sailings start at $2,088/person and include all of the port fees
Call 800 640 4899Added by Mike Davies on February 12, 2012 at 6:26pm — No Comments
The Douro River Portugal
Porto, Portugal - It's possible to explore Portugal's Douro valley by car but a river cruisepast farms and vineyards where the world famous port and sherry originate is the best way to experience the region's unique landscape.
A band in uniform and carrying wind instruments stands on the quay at Regua awaiting the arrival of the luxuriousMS Douro Queen while the village has also organized a fireworks festival for the tourists aboard the cruise ship.
The friendliness of the locals, combined with the stunning beauty of the Douro Valley, which was designated a UNESCO Heritage Site a decade ago, has seen a marked increase in the number of tourists taking river cruises, such as the one offered on the Douro Queen, in recent years.
The cruise begins with a night on board the ship while it is anchored in the Atlantic port of Porto, situated in front of a stunning historical backdrop and alongside traditional wooden fishing boats. Local producers have erected huge wooden billboards advertising their vineyards on the old boats that used to transport the barrels of port to the famous cellars in Porto.
The banks of the Douro are heavily populated along this section of the river with numerous small factories and run-down industrial complexes where rusty cranes now stand idle.
Further along the Douro Valley, the grapes used for port as well as other high-quality wines ripen in the Portuguese summer sun. Five locks have to be passed along the ship's 211-kilometre trip, beginning with the Crestuma-Lever just a couple of hours outside Porto.
The Douro Queen's first port of call is Regua, close to the Mateus Palace, which was constructed in 1745 and is considered one of the finest country mansions in Portugal. For decades, Mateus was best known for its brand of medium-sweet rose wines but the local vineyards now also produce higher quality wines.
The number of vineyards increases as the ship makes its way towards Pinhao, where the rows of vines turn from green to red in colour as the season moves from summer to autumn. Pinhao is home to the world-famous Sandemann vineyard - or quinta as a vineyard is called in Portuguese - on a hill overlooking the Douro.
Visitors are greeted by an enthusiastic employee decked out in a Portuguese student's cape and wide-brimmed hat just like the famous figure on the company's bottle label. After sampling some port, the tourists board the bus for the journey along the windy road back down to the ship for some lunch.
'Wasn't that an enjoyable experience,' asks tour guide Cideila as the ship resumes its journey up the Douro past steep slate cliffs and toward the lock at Valeira. The river bends sharply and narrows to a width of just 30 metres after Valeria. The waters here vary between turquoise and bright emerald in colour depending on the colour of the sky above.
In autumn, there is a wonderful contrast between the colourful vine foliage and the yellow poplars along the riverbank but the river is at its most alluring in early summer when the temperature is pleasant but the summer sun hasn't yet scorched the meadows a straw colour.
One of the tour's highlights before the turning point at Barca d'Alva is a day-trip to the Spanish university city of Salamanca, with its historic Romanesque, Gothic, Moorish, Renaissance and Baroque monuments. The bus takes its passengers past an arid landscape made up of olive groves, gorse and holm oak. The small farmers in this area raise black Iberian pigs, which are then slaughtered to make the world famous Jamon de Pata Negra ham.
Once safely back on board the Douro Queen, the tourists are treated to a Portuguese barbecue washed down with some sangria and a young white wine known as 'vinho verde.' The ship has to turn at Barca d'Alva as the Spanish part of the River Douro isn't navigable for a cruise ship due to its narrow canyons and steep rapids.
Following a trip to the historical town of Castelo Rodrigo with its 16th century natural stone houses, the cruise ship begins its journey downstream back to Porto, stopping occasionally along the way. Once back in Porto, there is just enough time to explore the city's old town in search of some port or cheap shoes before beginning packing for the journey home.
All that remains is to figure out how many bottles of wine and port can be safely carried home before casting a finally glance at the rough Atlantic waves that contrast with the still waters of the Douro.Added by Mike Davies on February 7, 2012 at 10:49am — No Comments
Great American Steamboat Plans Three Civil War Voyages
The Great American Steamboat Company will operate three Civil War voyages during the inaugural season of the American Queen. The eight- and 10-night theme cruises will include visits to battlefields and on-board entertainment including actors, impersonators, lecturers, balladeers and reenactments.
Fares start at $2,295 per guest, double occupancy, which includes a pre- or post-cruise hotel stay, bottled water and soft drinks, wine and beer at dinner and complimentary shore adventures in each port of call.
The Aug. 10 to 20 voyage sails from New Orleans and visits Vicksburg and Helena, Miss.; Chattanooga, Memphis and Savannah (for Shiloh National Military Park), Tenn.; Paducah, Ky.; and Decatur, Ala.
The Aug. 20 to 30 voyage between Chattanooga and Vicksburg visits Decatur and Florence, Ala.; Savannah for Shiloh National Military Park; Paducah; and Ashport Landing and Memphis, Tenn.
The Aug. 30 to Sept. 7 voyage between Vicksburg and Louisville, Ky., visits Helena, Ark.; Memphis; and Henderson, and Louisville, Ky.
The Aug. 10 voyage, presented by American Experience and Artful Travelers, will feature Ric Burns, who co-produced the PBS series “The Civil War” in 1990, and Mark Samels, executive producer of “American Experience” on PBS.
The Aug. 20 cruise will feature historian A. Wilson Greene, manager with the National Park Service and founding member of the Association for the Preservation of Civil War Sites; James I. “Bud” Robertson Jr., executive director of the U.S. Civil War Centennial Commission; Barry Meadows, who portrays Gen. Ulysses S. Grant; and Al Stone, who portrays Gen. Robert E. Lee.
The Aug. 30 cruise will feature the Hon. Frank J. Williams, founding chairman of the Lincoln Forum and retired chief justice of the Supreme Court of Rhode Island, and Harold Holzer, vice chairman of the Lincoln Forum and co-chairman of the U.S. Lincoln Bicentennial Commission.
Added by Mike Davies on January 23, 2012 at 6:19pm — No Comments
AmaWaterways’ New Africa Boat Touted by Jack Hanna
AmaWaterways, which plans to start Africa river cruise-tours this summer, says that the boat they are chartering was recently touted by zookeeper and travel show host Jack Hanna. The 28-passenger Zambezi Queen was featured on “Jack Hanna’s Into The Wild.”
“I highly recommend the Zambezi Queen,” Hanna said. “It’s a must. Anyone that’s looking to cross something off a bucket list or a way to travel in Africa, this is the way to go. From dining to the resting area to the accommodations and the wonderful staff and riverboat guides that get you up close to the wildlife, everything is top-notch and beyond five star. I’ve done this for 26 years now and this has been the epitome for me and my family to be on this magnificent vessel.”
AmaWaterways’ African cruises include the 16-day “Stars of Africa,” the 16-day “African Sunsets” and the 19-day “Golden Trails of Africa.” The tours include morning and afternoon game drives, beach picnics, wine tours, and visits to local museums such as the Huguenot Museum or Ngorongoro Archaeological Museum. Guests also will experience tribal dancing and visits to local villages.
Added by Mike Davies on January 23, 2012 at 6:17pm — No Comments
Viking Danube review
BUDAPEST, Hungary — There’s an easier way to see Europe than being crammed on a tourist bus or hustling hostels at the end of the day. A river cruise is one of the most relaxing and picturesque ways to view the wonders of the continent, up close and personal.
While many cruise operators prowl the waterways, one of the most comprehensive is Viking Cruises, which boasts 19 ships (six more are coming) and explores virtually every navigable river in Europe, parts of Asia and Africa.
The eight-day Danube cruise embarks in the historic city of Budapest and weaves its way slowly down the green margins of the Danube, through flamboyant Vienna, fairy-tale towns such as Germany’s Regensburg, and the lush vineyards of Austria and Nuremberg. (Or the reverse itinerary.)
The longships hold about 188 passengers, nothing like metropolis-size seagoing cruise ships. Conviviality is the game here, where you can get to know almost everybody on board. Six land excursions to some of the most historic sites en route are included in the passage price.
Budapest, Hungary’s capital, is divided by the Danube, with the mountainous Buda and its old city on the west and Pest, with its commercial district, on the east. At one time the two parts were connected only by a ferry, but now bridges traverse the gap, including the elegant suspension Chain Bridge, which is aglow with lights at night.
The tony shopping district on Vaci Street, the Museum of Terror (once Nazi headquarters, which later housed the Communist police) and the parliament building are part of the tour.
Stop by Heroes’ Square, a site of the Hungarians’ revolt against the Soviets.
From Gellert Hill, you can view the Corot-like landscape of Budapest. The hill is named after St. Gellert, an Italian bishop who was executed by being placed in a barrel studded with nails and rolled into the Danube.
Other sites include Matthias Church with its colorful ceramic roof, the 200-room Castle Palace and the multiple spas associated with the 30 mineral springs in Budapest.
Next stop: Vienna, the center of music and culture with the oldest Ferris wheel in the world, soaring to 213 feet. Vienna is home to almost 100 museums, including such sights as doll collections and Freud’s apartment. You’ll also see the famous Spanish Riding School of Vienna where the Lippizan horses are trained, the Greek-inspired parliament and the central market stretching more than half a mile.
Famous for its dry sacher torte, the Hotel Sacher is where the treat originated. Exclusive shops populate Kohlmarkt Street, and you can’t miss St. Stephen’s with its colorful tile roof, once the tallest tower in Europe.
Renowned for its composers — Strauss II, Mozart, Haydn, Beethoven, Schubert — Vienna boasts a State Opera House that’s booked every night. One of the ship’s optional excursions, about $75, includes an evening concert by the Vienna Residence Orchestra.
A side trip is available to Schonbrunn Palace, patterned after Versailles, the country cottage of the Hapsburgs. Maria Theresa, Marie Antoinette’s mother, bore 16 children with Francis Stephen of Lorraine, and the brood visited in the summer. Schonbrunn Palace houses 1,441 rooms.
Austria’s valleys
Onboard in your stateroom with its sliding glass doors, you can watch the countryside glide by and the most awe-inspiring of all the sites, Austria’s Wachau Valley.
Here, green vineyards scale the mountainside anchored by foothill villages that look like something out of the Grimms’ Fairy Tales. The hamlets of Loiben, Durnstein (Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned here) and Weissenkirchen are incredibly beautiful. Some of them retain their 16th-century houses, and Weissenkirchen is still enclosed by the wall that encircled it in the 16th century.
Visits continue to Melk’s 900-year-old Benedictine Abbey with its library of 16,000 books, and on to Germany and Passau. Located at the confluence of three rivers, Passau houses the baroque St. Stephan’s Cathedral and Europe’s largest pipe organ, with 17,774 pipes, some as small as a needle. Every day at noon (except on Sundays, November to April) one of two organists in the village presents a recital that echoes off the stone pillars.
The medieval city of Regensburg (the Danube’s oldest) is next, with its 12th-century Old Stone Bridge, its town hall, the gothic St. Peter’s Cathedral with its famous stained glass windows, and houses that make you think you’ve been snagged in a time warp. Optional excursions to Weltenburg Abbey and the Danube Gorge are available.
The ship passes through 25 locks on this trek; most impressive is the Main Danube Canal on the way to Nuremburg, where it slides through 16 locks that lift the water to 1,330 feet.
Dark, light history
The final stop is Nuremberg, once famous for its toys and crafts but now better known for the fascination it held for Hitler and as the site of postwar trials of Nazi officials. You can visit the impressive Documentation Center — located in the north end of the huge Congress Hall, which was built by the Nazis but never used.
Here are the Nazi Party Rally grounds seen in newsreels. Standing among the massive stonework, the stairs rising to the dais where Hitler ranted, one can almost hear the roar of the crowd.
In the Palace of Justice, visitors can stand where 21 Nazi war criminals were tried after Germany’s defeat in World War II. A wall has been added to shorten the room, and a crucifix now hangs above the judge’s seat.
When you go
PAPERS: Passports, no visas for American citizens.
MONEY: Hungary uses the forint; Germany and Austria the euro, current exchange is 1 euro equals about $1.27.
TIME ZONES: Seven hours ahead of Central Standard Time.
SMOKING: Not permitted indoors on the ship.
TRANSFERS: Covered and well implemented by the staff.
EXCURSIONS: Divided into robust and leisurely. The leisurely permits more time for photography.
AIR TRANSPORTATION: If you arrange your air travel through the cruise line, you might get a better value, as transfers, taxes, etc. are covered, with more than 165 gateways available.
TIPPING: Not mandatory in Austria. On the ship, it’s usually $10 per day per passenger.
FOOD: Cuisine onboard varies as you pass through each country, with specialties of that region emphasized. You don’t want to miss the strudel, German sausages or Hungarian goulash. If you don’t like any of that, you may have a steak or salmon every night. Wine is free with dinner and lunch.
TEMPERATURE: The best time to visit is spring or fall, as the summer can be scorching.
ELECTRICITY: Onboard 220V with some 110 outlets. Hair dryers provided. free wi-fi onboard
SHIP RESERVATIONS: 1-800-640-4899,
Added by Mike Davies on January 13, 2012 at 9:34am — No Comments
Uniworld Antoinette review
Uniworld has been voted No.l. by readers of Conde Nast and Travel & Leisure magazines. It was also voted No.l. for the best dining and cabins by Zagat.
The S.S. Antoinette was so compact it took a minute to leave your cabin and go into the dining room. There was no reserved seating. What I particularly liked was the buffet counters they had set up so no matter what time of day or night it was, you could get coffee, tea, hot chocolate, sandwiches, cookies and pastries. I was amazed that they had eleven chefs on board, and on the last night the captain introduced them all which I thought was a classy thing to do. It was like staying in a lovely London hotel suite, since the Red Carnation Hotel group is a sister company and the same interior designer does all their vessels. I loved the heated mirrors and towel racks in the marble bathroom, and the glass covered balcony with comfortable armchairs and a television was out of the ordinary. There is no comparison between the other cruise lines I have been on and Uniworld. It was luxury, holds only 164 passengers, fantastic service, gourmet food, with wonderful entertainment and lectures. I was impressed with the movie theatre, the pool, gym and spa.
The wine, beer and soft drinks were all free with meals, and the menu was outstanding.
This ship was the utmost in luxury. Magnificent art work, lamps, flowers, and the lounge was marvelous. I have never been on a vessel which had such comfortable couches and chairs you didn’t want to leave. It was such a pleasure to sit and listen to the wonderful artists and craftsmen they brought on board at various stops to entertain the passengers. One chap was the most outstanding glass blower I have ever seen. The vases and jewelry he made was top quality and very reasonably priced. We had everything from jazz, to opera, to a delightful German lady tell us about the history of Christmas family customs.
They have cruises which are suitable for multi-generational families. The various itineraries are great value, when you consider what items are free, such as excursions, use of laundry room, wine and beer, free internet and Wi-Fi, and a very important item, free transportation to and from the airport. On a cruise last summer I had to pay $125.00 each to take us to Rome airport.
This ship was the utmost in luxury. Magnificent art work, lamps, flowers, and the lounge was marvelous. I have never been on a vessel which had such comfortable couches and chairs you didn’t want to leave. It was such a pleasure to sit and listen to the wonderful artists and craftsmen they brought on board at various stops to entertain the passengers. One chap was the most outstanding glass blower I have ever seen. The vases and jewelry he made was top quality and very reasonably priced. We had everything from jazz, to opera, to a delightful German lady tell us about the history of Christmas family customs.
They have cruises which are suitable for multi-generational families. The various itineraries are great value, when you consider what items are free, such as excursions, use of laundry room, wine and beer, free internet and Wi-Fi, and a very important item, free transportation to and from the airport. On a cruise last summer I had to pay $125.00 each to take us to Rome airport.
Added by Mike Davies on January 13, 2012 at 9:31am — No Comments
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises named as Condé Nast Traveler’s 2012 Gold List Superstar and Platinum Circle Member
Award-winning boutique river cruise brand, Uniworld, is delighted to announce its inclusion in the internationally renowned premium travel publication, Condé Nast Traveler’s, prestigious 2012 Gold List winners for the world’s finest hotels, resorts, and cruise lines. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is thrilled that it was once again included in the “World’s Top 12 Cruise Lines” category. Published in America alongside the prestigious brands of Vogue,Vanity Fair and The New Yorker, Condé Nast Traveler is synonymous with luxury travel and is recognised as one of the leading publications in its field, thus making this accolade a true standout achievement for Uniworld.
This year, as a way to mark 25 years of Condé Nast Traveler, the magazine celebrated the “superstars” of the Gold List in their Platinum Circle honour, which includes Uniworld, who has made the Gold List every year for the past five year’s running. Earlier this year, Uniworld was also rated as the world’s number one “Best River Cruise Line” inCondé Nast Traveler’s prestigious 2011 Readers’ Choice Awards.
Commenting on yet another accolade for the brand, Uniworld’s General Manager Australia, John Molinaro said: “We are extremely honoured that Uniworld has again been recognised in Condé Nast Traveler’s prestigious Gold List.”
The significance of being included as a Platinum Circle member reaffirms Uniworld’s commitment to consistently delivering the best river cruise experience possible to our guests. We are also very proud to be included in a roll-call of well-respected cruise lines such as Crystal, Silversea and Seabourn,” added Molinaro.
Australia’s most loved Murray River cruising icon has been revived, heralding a river renaissance
Following a change of ownership in February 2011, the motor vessel Proud Mary has assumed her original, renowned name.For new marketing manager of Proud Mary, Matthew Sims, the equity in this iconic Australian brand was too strong to ignore.
“The first thing we did when we took over management was to conduct a brand audit which included market research,” reports Mr Sims. “What we discovered amazed even us.
“We found there was exceptional awareness of the brand Proud Mary and the respect and love of the vessel and the river experience it provided was very, very deep.
“For so many South Australian, Australian and international visitors, the name Proud Mary conjures up memories of luxury river cruising and a unique wildlife, cultural and heritage experience unequalled anywhere in Australia – and indeed the world.”
The name Proud Mary was dropped in 2007 when it was named Murray River Expeditions. Mr Sims said that change created confusion in the market place with tourists and tourism operators alike.
“While the change of name back to Proud Mary will end the confusion, our revival is more than just a name change. The whole brand is undergoing a renaissance starting from new staff, new gourmet cuisine, new wine lists and a big boost in our level of customer service. It’s comprehensive and exciting,” says Mr Sims.
The renaissance comes at an opportune time when heavy rainfall in the river’s catchment areas of the Darling River and the Victorian alpine regions along the Goulburn River, has provided massive inflows to the Murray, refreshing this famous waterway.
“The wildlife on the river is now so prolific that we can guarantee a unique wildlife experience, along with the cultural and historical discoveries our customers revel in,” reports Mr Sims.
“It’s a great time to be on the river and we couldn’t be prouder to be operating our much-loved better-than-ever river cruising experiences under the iconic Proud Mary name.
“For everyone here at Proud Mary it is definitely a case of ‘back to the future’ and we look forward to welcoming river lovers onboard for a cruise like no other.”
The MV Proud Mary has operated for over 30 years offering lunch cruises as well as 2,3 and 5 night cruise packages based at Murray Bridge, only 45 minutes from Adelaide.
The 18 deluxe cabins, gourmet meals and the vessel’s intimate size provide a luxury, boutique cruise option with a strong emphasis on the daily nature-based shore excursions.
The cruises feature ecological walks, aquaculture discoveries from small boat tours into lagoons and inlets, historic township exploration and a visit to the oldest archaeological digs in Australia, the Aboriginal Ngaut Ngaut conservation site.
Added by Mike Davies on January 9, 2012 at 9:13am — No Comments
Budapest to Vienna Ferry Service not for comfort or views
Our travel plans for next year include a week in Vienna and we would like to add a day trip to Budapest during this time. We considered a river cruise between the two cities, but as our budget and time are limited, it is not a viable option for us. What can you tell us about the Twin City ferry service that connects these cities? I can only find information on the schedule between Vienna and Bratislava.
A. What you need to check out is the Budapest-Vienna Hydrofoil Lines that operate a six-hour service between Vienna and Budapest with a stop in Bratislava en route. This is a transportation service and shouldn't be considered if you are looking for a relaxing scenic trip along the Danube. You'll also need to overnight in Budapest as it is not possible to do a round trip in one day.
Many passengers consider the highlight of this service to be when the vessel passes through the large locks operating at the hydroelectric power station near Gab-cikovo, Slovakia. Canal enthusiasts from around the world travel this route just to experience the interesting transit through the locks.
You might want to read a few of the reviews at vien-nahydrofoil.hotels-in-budapesthungary.com when considering this transportation option. Check out the luggage restrictions and also the lack of specific seat reservations, which means you would have to check in early to get the best location on the hydrofoil. This site also warns that hydrofoils are not recommended to people who have claustrophobia. That statement in itself is a little off-putting. One option is to take the hydrofoil one way and return by rail or coach.
The Twin City ferry service you had looked into is a pleasant 75-minute river journey from downtown Vienna to the old town of Bratislava, Slovakia. It is a great trip for travellers looking for a short day trip on the Danube as the ships skim along the river for approximately 50 kilometres.
The opportunity to enjoy the scenic river views of modern cities and ancient castles along the route, plus the chance to visit the shops and restaurants in Bratislava, can makes this short trip very worthwhile. Rates and schedules are listed on twincityliner.com.
There is a good rail service between Bratislava and Budapest if you want to continue your trip to Hungary.Added by Mike Davies on January 7, 2012 at 2:07pm — No Comments
Growing emphasis on rivers
Two ships, the Great American Steamboat Company's American Queen and American Cruise Line's Queen of the Mississippi, will launch new operations on the Mississippi River. This comeback signals a revival of river cruising in the U.S.
In contrast to their oceangoing counterparts, the river cruise lines continue to float out new ships, and Viking, which will launch six new-builds in 2012, is leading the way. River vessels have long been spartan and basic, but the more astute cruise lines -- especially Uniworld -- are redefining the concept so ships are as much a part of the experience as the ports.
European river boats are placing greater emphasis on cabin comfort and dining than they did in the past.
Added by Mike Davies on January 6, 2012 at 11:04am — No Comments
Viking River Cruises expands to oceans
STX France SA has received an order to build two luxury cruise ships from Viking Ocean Cruises, an affiliate of Viking River Cruises. The vessels will be delivered in spring 2014 and spring 2015, respectively, and will be part of Viking's new Ocean Cruise brand. An option for a third ship is being considered.
The vessels will be operated primarily on the Mediterranean seas and be dedicated mainly to Viking's US, British and Australian customers.
The vessels will have a length of 230 meters and a width of 26.5 meters. They will each include 888 passengers in 444 cabins with a complement of 444 crew members.
The contract will represent about 2.5 million man-hours. Construction is expected to start in mid-September 2012 for the first vessel and in mid-September 2013 for the second vessel. The contract is subject to financing.
Well known as the world's leading river cruise company Viking ranks as an upscale owner. Viking River Cruise currently operates a fleet of 23 river vessels, and has 8 river cruise vessels under construction. River cruising is destination oriented and the two ocean going vessels will similarly be designed with destination cruising in mind.
Added by Mike Davies on December 21, 2011 at 12:57pm — No Comments
Blount adds more Mississippi cruises for 2012
Warren, R.I.-based Blount Small Ship Adventures will sail its 96-passenger Grand Caribe on six Mississippi and Cumberland river departures in 2012, up from the three it sailed this year.
Blount will operate Nashville-Memphis, Memphis-New Orleans and New Orleans-Nashville cruises.
Prices start at $2,359 for an eight-day cruise.
At 184 feet in length and a draft of 6.5 feet, the long and narrow coastal cruiser Grand Caribe is not at all like the two paddewheelers that will ply the Mississippi next year.
American Cruise Lines’ new 140-passenger ship, Queen of the Mississippi, is slated to enter service in August. The Great American Steamboat Co.’s 400-passenger American Queen will relaunch in April.
The Grande Caribe was built in 1997 and was renovated in 2009.
Blount will operate Nashville-Memphis, Memphis-New Orleans and New Orleans-Nashville cruises.
Prices start at $2,359 for an eight-day cruise.
At 184 feet in length and a draft of 6.5 feet, the long and narrow coastal cruiser Grand Caribe is not at all like the two paddewheelers that will ply the Mississippi next year.
American Cruise Lines’ new 140-passenger ship, Queen of the Mississippi, is slated to enter service in August. The Great American Steamboat Co.’s 400-passenger American Queen will relaunch in April.
The Grande Caribe was built in 1997 and was renovated in 2009.
Added by Mike Davies on December 2, 2011 at 9:47am — No Comments
Great American Steamboat Co. Unveils River Boat Shows
Great American Steamboat Company has unveiled entertainment details for its 2012 inaugural sailing season onboard the 436-passenger Steamboat American Queen. Expect a mix of everything from Big Band to pop, jazz to Rat Pack-era music, river jug music to showboat-style cabaret acts. In addition, musical stars from the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s including B.J. Thomas, the Lovin’ Spoonful, The Platters and Bill Haley’s Cometswill perform.
River Show Line-Up
For clients who want to dance to “In the Mood” and other Big Band hits, The Glenn Miller Orchestra show will entertain passengers on the July 27, Aug. 3 and Dec. 28 departures. The Harry James Orchestra, directed by Fred Radke who played first trumpet for Miller, will play such hits as “All or Nothing at All,” “Ain’t She Sweet,” and “Up a Lazy River” on the April 19 and April 27 voyages. Clients can reminisce about the era of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, as Rat Pack genre singers backed by the line’s onboard orchestra will perform during the May 8, 15 and 22, June 28 and 18, Oct. 22 and Dec. 14 cruises. B.J. Thomas will be onboard Steamboat American Queen on July 11, 18 and 22 to sing “Raindrops Keep Fallin’ on My Head,” “Hooked on a Feeling,” and “I Just Can’t Help Believing.” On the same voyages, guests will also hear the Lovin' Spoonful perform such hits as “Do You Believe in Magic” and “Summer in the City.” Agents might tell clients who are fans of doo-wop and early rock n’ roll music about the Sept. 7 cruise, as both The Platters and Bill Haley’s Comets will perform. The New Orleans Jazz All-Stars will be onboard Steamboat American Queen on the April 13 and April 19 cruises. The Juggernaut Jug Band will perform authentic river music, also called jug music on the May 4 and 29, Sept. 28 and Oct. 12 cruises. Bluegrass, country and blues enthusiasts might check out the April 27 cruise, featuring Storefront Congregation. For 2012 holiday season cruises departing Nov. 19, Dec. 9 and Dec. 14, the classically trained Annie Moses Band family will perform seasonal music. In addition, the line is bringing back the so-called Riverlorian concept from the former Delta Queen Steamboat Company. Mary Charlton, who has served as the Riverlorian onboard Delta Queen, Mississippi Queen and American Queen in the past, is returning to Steamboat American Queen in that role.
Added by Mike Davies on December 2, 2011 at 9:46am — No Comments
Coming in 2012: Avalon to Launch New-Build on the Mekong
Avalon Waterways is the
latest line to cash in on the popularity of Asia's Mekong, by all accounts the
river of the moment.
Avalon's new 32-guest Avalon Angkor, featured in
its Vietnam, Cambodia and China brochure, starts service in April 2012 and will
be the line's first custom-built vessel to launch outside Europe.
The vast Mekong is far from overcrowded, but it has certainly become fashionable. AmaWaterways has
two ships there, La Marguerite and the new AmaLotus; Uniworld has introduced the
new River Saigon; and Viking has announced the charter of RV Tonle from local company Pandaw River Cruises, which itself operates four other boats on the Mekong.
True, the numbers are small (AmaLotus takes 124 passengers, making it the largest), but the fact that three
years ago there were no major operators featuring the Mekong and now there are
four is testament to the river's growing fame. All the lines offer pretty much
the same itinerary, usually an extended tour taking in Hanoi, Siem Reap (for the
Angkor Wat temple complex, Cambodia's biggest attraction) and Ho Chi Minh City
in the south.
Avalon's offering, though, is slightly different in that Avalon Angkor will be the first ship to cruise all the way between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap. Its rivals moor at Kampong Chhnang, at the southern end of
the massive Tonle Sap lake, while Siem Reap lies at the northern end.
Avalon's guests will therefore avoid up to seven hours in a coach as they'll sail the length of the lake.
The basic itinerary is a 14-day tour including three nights in a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City; seven nights on the river; two nights in a hotel in Siem Reap; and one in Bangkok. Avalon does, however, offer Hanoi and the scenic Halong Bay, as well as a couple of days in Laos, all of which can be bolted on to the basic itinerary.
Avalon
Angkor is being built in the colonial style typical of the area, finished in brass and teak with wooden louvre shutters shading floor-to-ceiling windows in each stateroom. Cruises include most sightseeing, complimentary wine with dinner and from 2012, all gratuities on board. Prices start at £3,915 (for U.K.
passengers, including flights) or $3,819 for U.S. passengers (excluding air).
latest line to cash in on the popularity of Asia's Mekong, by all accounts the
river of the moment.
Avalon's new 32-guest Avalon Angkor, featured in
its Vietnam, Cambodia and China brochure, starts service in April 2012 and will
be the line's first custom-built vessel to launch outside Europe.
The vast Mekong is far from overcrowded, but it has certainly become fashionable. AmaWaterways has
two ships there, La Marguerite and the new AmaLotus; Uniworld has introduced the
new River Saigon; and Viking has announced the charter of RV Tonle from local company Pandaw River Cruises, which itself operates four other boats on the Mekong.
True, the numbers are small (AmaLotus takes 124 passengers, making it the largest), but the fact that three
years ago there were no major operators featuring the Mekong and now there are
four is testament to the river's growing fame. All the lines offer pretty much
the same itinerary, usually an extended tour taking in Hanoi, Siem Reap (for the
Angkor Wat temple complex, Cambodia's biggest attraction) and Ho Chi Minh City
in the south.
Avalon's offering, though, is slightly different in that Avalon Angkor will be the first ship to cruise all the way between Ho Chi Minh City and Siem Reap. Its rivals moor at Kampong Chhnang, at the southern end of
the massive Tonle Sap lake, while Siem Reap lies at the northern end.
Avalon's guests will therefore avoid up to seven hours in a coach as they'll sail the length of the lake.
The basic itinerary is a 14-day tour including three nights in a hotel in Ho Chi Minh City; seven nights on the river; two nights in a hotel in Siem Reap; and one in Bangkok. Avalon does, however, offer Hanoi and the scenic Halong Bay, as well as a couple of days in Laos, all of which can be bolted on to the basic itinerary.
Avalon
Angkor is being built in the colonial style typical of the area, finished in brass and teak with wooden louvre shutters shading floor-to-ceiling windows in each stateroom. Cruises include most sightseeing, complimentary wine with dinner and from 2012, all gratuities on board. Prices start at £3,915 (for U.K.
passengers, including flights) or $3,819 for U.S. passengers (excluding air).
Contact RiverDiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on November 8, 2011 at 9:29am — No Comments
Scenic River Cruises to Feature Floriade Flower Show
Scenic Cruises offers an 18-day “Jewels of Europe” river cruise that includes three days at Floriade, a flower and garden exhibition that takes place every 10 years. In 2012, Floriade runs from April 5 through Oct. 7.
The cruise also includes a private medieval banquet in Marksburg Castle, a day to experience village life, an organ recital at Melk’s Benedictine Abbey, and a private Viennese concert of Strauss and Mozart music.
Prices for the four departures in May, July, August and September start at $8,115 per person, double, and are all-inclusive, even gratuities. The 15-day “Jewels of Europe” cruise between Amsterdam and Budapest also has dozens of departures April through October with just a one-day visit to Floriade; prices on those cruises start at $6,235.Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899Added by Mike Davies on November 8, 2011 at 9:25am — No Comments
“Incredibly on the Ganges”
Heritage River Cruises (India) management team is proud to announce that the second season of the “Incredibly on the Ganges” cruises has started.
During the Monsoon season the ship has undergone significant technical improvements by our marine engineers and the maintenance of all cabins and public areas by our carpenters has made them looking better than ever.
The hotel staff has attended refreshment courses for what the F&B and HK services are concerned, a new improved beverage menu has been prepared and our chefs have added more gourmet dishes to our already delicious cuisine, a mix of Indian and international dishes.
All our crew has also been trained to improve the response plan in case of emergency and the safety on board including a first aid course.
Rv Bengal Ganga cast off from Kolkatta’s Botanic Garden jetty on the 1st of October in a very auspicious period of the year, blessed by the celebrations of the Durga Puja, the most important festival of the Hindu’ calendar especially in West Bengal and Bihar states.
This season (October 2011 to April 2012) we have scheduled 14 cruises and all of them will be operated.
12 Nights /13 Days (10 Nights cruising / 2 Nights in Hotel)
UPSTREAM: Calcutta (Kolkata) – Kalna – Matiari – Murshidabad – Jangipur – Farakka – Raj Mahal – Karagola – Bateshwarsthan – Sultanganj – Munger – Nalanda – Bodhgaya – Varanasi
12 Nights /13 Days (9 Nights cruising / 3 Nights in Hotel)
DOWNSTREAM: Varanasi – Bodhagaya – Nalanda – Munger – Sultanganj – Bateshwarsthan – Karagola – Raj Mahal – Farakka – Jangipur – Murshidabad – Chourigacha – Matiari – Kalna – Calcutta (Kolkata)
PRICE INCLUDES
Hotel accommodation and all meals as indicated by the programs – Indian Brand Mineral Water at the time of meals - Sightseeing as described in the Itinerary – English / German Speaking Guide (French upon request) - All Entrance Fees
– Transfers by car/minivan/coach as per programs – all entrance fees - camera fees (still) – local assistance - Government Service Tax, fuel surcharges if applicable (*)
Rates from $6,999- $8,999 per person Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on November 2, 2011 at 9:24am — No Comments
SCENIC CRUISES ANNOUNCES NEXT GENERATION OF RIVER SHIP
Larger Staterooms/Suites, 3 Dining Choices, Butler Service and Full-Size 'Sun Lounge' Enclosed Balconies.
Scenic Crystal - will be launched April 2012 and will offer 85 staterooms for a guest capacity of 169. Setting a new high standard for river ships, the 135-meter Scenic…
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Added by Mike Davies on October 28, 2011 at 4:00pm — No Comments
New river cruise ship will feature convertible indoor/outdoor balconies
The newest river ship of Scenic Cruises (scenictours.com), the 165-passenger Scenic Crystal, will debut
in Europe next April with a new feature: balconies that become enclosed with the
push of a button.
in Europe next April with a new feature: balconies that become enclosed with the
push of a button.
Eighty-five percent of the staterooms and suites on the 135-meter ship will
have "Sun Lounge" balconies that guests can convert from an outdoor sunning area
to a fully-enclosed, all-weather room extension – the way it works is you push a
button and a hidden panel of glass rises up.
have "Sun Lounge" balconies that guests can convert from an outdoor sunning area
to a fully-enclosed, all-weather room extension – the way it works is you push a
button and a hidden panel of glass rises up.
If that sounds like something out of The Jetsons, keep in mind river
cruising is a rapidly expanding and increasingly competitive industry, with more
than a dozen new ships debuting next year.
cruising is a rapidly expanding and increasingly competitive industry, with more
than a dozen new ships debuting next year.
READ MORE: Why is river cruising so popular?
"We asked our ship designers to wow us and they did more than that with the
Crystal as it goes beyond any other river cruise ship in comfort and
technology," said Scenic Cruises founder Glen Moroney.
Crystal as it goes beyond any other river cruise ship in comfort and
technology," said Scenic Cruises founder Glen Moroney.
Scenic Crystal is the sixth ship introduced in four years by the company,
which is a division of Australia's Scenic Tours and operates ships on rivers in
Europe, Russia and Egypt. The line calls its river vessels "Space-Ships."
which is a division of Australia's Scenic Tours and operates ships on rivers in
Europe, Russia and Egypt. The line calls its river vessels "Space-Ships."
Officials are boasting the new ship will also have "larger" staterooms and
suites, ranging from 164 to 315 square feet, and including a new category for
the line, Deluxe Balcony Suites, with 225 square feet of space.
suites, ranging from 164 to 315 square feet, and including a new category for
the line, Deluxe Balcony Suites, with 225 square feet of space.
There will be butler service throughout, and all staterooms and suites will
also come with hotel-like amenities including flatscreen TVs, wireless Internet,
large walk-in showers, Egyptian linens and glass-front minibars.
also come with hotel-like amenities including flatscreen TVs, wireless Internet,
large walk-in showers, Egyptian linens and glass-front minibars.
The ship's dining choices will include a fine dining venue with a windowed
"Show Grill," a main restaurant featuring a private Chef's Table, and a River
Café serving casual breakfast and lunch. The ships will also have a 24-hour
fitness center, expansive lounge and three outdoor viewing areas.
"Show Grill," a main restaurant featuring a private Chef's Table, and a River
Café serving casual breakfast and lunch. The ships will also have a 24-hour
fitness center, expansive lounge and three outdoor viewing areas.
Scenic Crystal will sail on the Danube and other rivers on eight- to 15-day
itineraries. Fares include excursions, wine and beer at lunch and dinner,
gratuities and transfers.
itineraries. Fares include excursions, wine and beer at lunch and dinner,
gratuities and transfers.
Contact Riverdiscounts.com 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on October 21, 2011 at 9:46am — No Comments
Scenic Cruises to Launch Sixth River Ship in April 2012
European river cruise operator Scenic Cruises will launch its sixth ship, the 169-passenger Scenic Crystal, in April 2012 with a series of voyages including an eight-day Gems of the Danube itinerary, priced at $3,245 to $5,615 per person, double occupancy, and 11-day “Gems of the Danube and Prague” sailings for $4,415 to $6,785.
The new ship will also offer 15-day Jewels of Europe sailings between Budapest and Amsterdam for $4,895 to $10,915. Prices are all-inclusive and include gratuities. The new ship will feature Scenic “Sun Lounge” balconies, which convert from outdoor lounging areas to fully-enclosed, all-weather room extensions via a hidden glass panel. Scenic Crystal will also offer three dining choices, one with a window into the galley and a private chef’s table, and butler service throughout the ship. For more information, call 800-640-4899.
Added by Mike Davies on October 19, 2011 at 10:17am — No Comments
AmaWaterways Launches Africa River Cruise-Safari Program
AmaWaterways is launching a new Africa river cruise and land program with six departures in 2012. Three packages include four-night Chobe River cruises on the 28-passenger Zambezi Queen, which begin in Kasane, Botswana. Guests explore Chobe National Park on drives in the morning and from the river in traditional dugout canoes. Wildlife includes lions, hippos, giraffes and elephants.
The Zambezi Queen has 14 balcony staterooms and suites measuring from 215 to 300 square feet. The boat has a dining room, lounge, pool and reading room. The top deck is air conditioned, but accommodations have large fans. Wine and beer is included with lunch and dinner.
The cruise includes a visit to a Kasenu village for interaction with the local community, a traditional Boma dinner and an African barbeque on an island in Namibia.
The 16-day “Stars of Africa” package includes three nights in Cape Town, South Africa; three nights in Kruger National Park; one night in Johannesburg; the four-night cruise; and two nights at Victoria Falls. The Cape Town stay includes a full-day wine tasting tour, the Taal Monument and Huguenot Museum, full-day tour to Cape of Good Hope, and a funicular to Table Mountain. The package is priced from $8,995 per person, double, not including international air. Sample air fare from New York is $1,250 for economy; inter-Africa air is available from $1,175. Transfers are included with purchase of international and inter-Africa air.
The 16-day “African Sunsets” package includes three nights in Cape Town, two nights in the Okavango Delta, two nights in the Savute safari area, the river cruise, and two nights at Victoria Falls. Fares start at $11,995 per person, double.
The 19-day “Golden Trails of Africa” package includes one night in Nairobi, two nights in the Amboseli National Park, one night at Lake Manyara National Park, two nights at Ngorongoro National Park, three nights in the Serengeti National Park, the river cruise, and two nights at Victoria Falls. Fares start at $11,995.
Hotel check-in dates for 2012 are June 15, July 13, July 20, Aug. 31, Oct. 26 and Nov. 30. There are 17 departures in 2013. For more information, call 800-640-4899.
Added by Mike Davies on October 17, 2011 at 5:44pm — No Comments
Viking Enhances Russia Program with Renovated Ships
Viking River Cruises, which will celebrate its 15th anniversary next year, has enhanced its program in Russia, where the company first offered cruises. The company will return to Russia with bow-to-stern renovations of its four Russian ships, the only fleet entirely owned and operated by a Western company.
To commemorate the transformations and to honor Viking’s heritage, the ships will be renamed -- Viking Rurik, Viking Helgi, Viking Ingvar and Viking Truvor. In addition to multiple itinerary updates, new for 2012 is an eight-day program, called “The Glories of the Hermitage,” that includes exclusive access and private tours at one of the world’s greatest museums. Also launching is a new microsite, atwww.TheRealRussia.com, which includes a video tour of the country through a series of behind-the-scenes “webisodes.”
“Of all places in the world, we started in Russia. In fact, the idea for our company was born because my daughter had traveled along the Volga with her mother and grandmother,” said Torstein Hagen, founder and chairman of Viking River Cruises.
Launching in 2012, the renovated Viking Rurik (previously Viking Peterhof) is named after Rurik, the Viking warrior who founded and ruled the area known as Rus, which is now Russia. The Viking Helgi, Viking Ingvar and Viking Truvor are named for Rurik’s descendants, the original Russian explorers.
In addition to redefining the interior space to create significantly larger staterooms, Viking Rurik’s refurbishment is highlighted by private verandas added to all staterooms on the Upper and Middle decks, which house four Suites, two Junior Suites and 60 Veranda Staterooms. The two-room Suites, each 405 square feet, will have separate sleeping and sitting areas, two Sony 26-inch flat-panel televisions, a walk-in closet and a full bathroom with two sinks and a separate bathtub and shower. Other in-room amenities for all staterooms include hotel-style beds, a safe, a refrigerator and premium bath products.
Like its sister ships, Viking Rurik’s public areas such as the restaurant, lounge, library and bar will also be renovated to feature Viking’s signature Scandinavian décor. Other upgraded ship areas include a shaded sun deck and a walk-around open air promenade deck.
All four ships sail the “Waterways of the Czars” itinerary, traveling between Moscow and St. Petersburg. The 13-day itinerary features multiple days in each city to tour highlights such as Moscow’s Red Square, St. Basil’s Cathedral, St. Petersburg’s Hermitage Museum and Catherine’s Palace. Ports of call include Kizhi Island, home to an open air architecture museum and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Golden Ring cities of Uglich and Yaroslavl.
For 2012, Viking is introducing a variety of new excursions. On select departures, Viking has will host performances by musicians from St. Petersburg’s Mariinsky Theatre, as well as a Smithsonian Institution lecture series on Russian history, myths and legends. A similarly exclusive program will provide a behind-the-scenes look at the vast art vaults of the Hermitage Museum. Other new highlights include meeting Red Army veterans at Moscow’s Military Museum, visiting a school where young Russians learn restoration techniques to preserve the country’s architecture, and home-hosted visits in Uglich or St. Petersburg’s Kommunalkas (communal apartments).
New onboard programs and services include Viking’s Concierge Services and Viking’s signature on-deck “A Taste Of …” event, highlighting a selection of Russian cuisine, such as Siberian pelmeni (ravioli), traditional borscht and blini.
The new “Glories of the Hermitage” program showcases the Hermitage Museum with special access and private tours by Hermitage scholars. Viking guests can discover many of the museum’s greatest works, including those displayed at the off-site, state-of-the-art storage facility, which is not open to the public.
Added by Mike Davies on October 10, 2011 at 5:26pm — No Comments
U.S. Homeports You've Never Sailed From and the World's Largest Steamboat
The Southern-style brunch was held to introduce the Great American Steamboat
Company (GASC), a new line that hopes to resuscitate overnight Mississippi River
cruising, a niche nearly dead since 2008. With less than eight months to launch,
CEO Jeffrey Krida and company were eager to talk ship.
In April 2012,
GASC's 436-passenger American Queen, the world's largest steamboat, will
commence a season of three- to 10-night voyages out of a variety of southern and
Midwest homeports, including New Orleans, Pittsburgh, Louisville, Cincinnati,
St. Louis and Memphis. The boat with the big red sternwheel will make visits to
historic ports like Vicksburg, a Civil War buff's dream in Mississippi, and Mark
Twain's birthplace of Hannibal, Missouri. An onboard "riverlaurian" will provide
the necessary storytelling flourishes and a fleet of motor coaches designed to
look like steamboats will carry passengers on tours of America's river towns.
Onboard, dining will play first fiddle. Menus created by Natchez-based
chef Regina Charboneau will include regionally sourced ingredients like wild
honey from Mississippi and artisan cheeses from the river towns along the
routes. Several mentions were made of the debris po' boy, a sandwich served at
the famous Mother's in New Orleans made with the savory bits of roast beef left
over after a carving. Expect beignets with breakfast, gourmet hot dogs for lunch
and Charboneau's peppered beef brisket for dinner.
"Southern cooking
runs through the veins," she quipped, before adding that there will be
heart-healthy options available by request.
Krida also spoke solemnly of
Americans' "constant disappointment with being treated with indifference [when
it comes to service]." To combat these expectations of apathy, the line is
trying to find really nice people -- seriously -- instead of simply sourcing
experienced crewmembers. You can't train natural demeanor, said Krida, but you
can train a genuinely nice person to be a great crewmember. (The ship's crew,
167 strong, will be all American.)
Before
launching, American Queen (originally part of the now-defunct Delta Queen
Steamboat Company) will get a $6 million sprucing to make the Victorian decor --
chandeliers, upholstery, polished wood throughout -- pop. Cabins will get new
bedding and flat-screen TV's, and a pair of top-deck dining venues are being
added, one a grill, the other offering casual eats 24 hours a day.
All
that nostalgic charm, service and gourmet Southern cuisine will come with a
price. Cruises will start at about $1,000 for a three-nighter and typically
average roughly $400 per person, per night. Fares include a one-night pre-cruise
stay in luxury hotels. Despite the luxe rates, execs spoke of the desire to
eliminate nickel and diming, so things like wine with dinner and shore tours
will be included.
The $6 million refurb will also deal with some issues
of class. For instance, the plastic chairs on balconies will be swapped with the
wicker-and-cushion variety. Said Krida, "Why would you pay $400 a night to sit
in a mold-injected plastic chair on your balcony?"
So what about starting
a new, luxury-priced cruise company in the midst of a struggling economy?
Getting some of the capital certainly proved more challenging, admitted Krida.
But he's confident that the product and the pent-up demand for cruising
America's heartland will spell success. A big sale always helps, too. "Our first
booking was for a back-to-back cruise in the Mark Twain Suite for $30,000," he
said with a smile.Added by Mike Davies on October 10, 2011 at 5:22pm — No Comments
Company (GASC), a new line that hopes to resuscitate overnight Mississippi River
cruising, a niche nearly dead since 2008. With less than eight months to launch,
CEO Jeffrey Krida and company were eager to talk ship.
In April 2012,
GASC's 436-passenger American Queen, the world's largest steamboat, will
commence a season of three- to 10-night voyages out of a variety of southern and
Midwest homeports, including New Orleans, Pittsburgh, Louisville, Cincinnati,
St. Louis and Memphis. The boat with the big red sternwheel will make visits to
historic ports like Vicksburg, a Civil War buff's dream in Mississippi, and Mark
Twain's birthplace of Hannibal, Missouri. An onboard "riverlaurian" will provide
the necessary storytelling flourishes and a fleet of motor coaches designed to
look like steamboats will carry passengers on tours of America's river towns.
Onboard, dining will play first fiddle. Menus created by Natchez-based
chef Regina Charboneau will include regionally sourced ingredients like wild
honey from Mississippi and artisan cheeses from the river towns along the
routes. Several mentions were made of the debris po' boy, a sandwich served at
the famous Mother's in New Orleans made with the savory bits of roast beef left
over after a carving. Expect beignets with breakfast, gourmet hot dogs for lunch
and Charboneau's peppered beef brisket for dinner.
"Southern cooking
runs through the veins," she quipped, before adding that there will be
heart-healthy options available by request.
Krida also spoke solemnly of
Americans' "constant disappointment with being treated with indifference [when
it comes to service]." To combat these expectations of apathy, the line is
trying to find really nice people -- seriously -- instead of simply sourcing
experienced crewmembers. You can't train natural demeanor, said Krida, but you
can train a genuinely nice person to be a great crewmember. (The ship's crew,
167 strong, will be all American.)
Before launching, American Queen (originally part of the now-defunct Delta Queen
Steamboat Company) will get a $6 million sprucing to make the Victorian decor --
chandeliers, upholstery, polished wood throughout -- pop. Cabins will get new
bedding and flat-screen TV's, and a pair of top-deck dining venues are being
added, one a grill, the other offering casual eats 24 hours a day.
All
that nostalgic charm, service and gourmet Southern cuisine will come with a
price. Cruises will start at about $1,000 for a three-nighter and typically
average roughly $400 per person, per night. Fares include a one-night pre-cruise
stay in luxury hotels. Despite the luxe rates, execs spoke of the desire to
eliminate nickel and diming, so things like wine with dinner and shore tours
will be included.
The $6 million refurb will also deal with some issues
of class. For instance, the plastic chairs on balconies will be swapped with the
wicker-and-cushion variety. Said Krida, "Why would you pay $400 a night to sit
in a mold-injected plastic chair on your balcony?"
So what about starting
a new, luxury-priced cruise company in the midst of a struggling economy?
Getting some of the capital certainly proved more challenging, admitted Krida.
But he's confident that the product and the pent-up demand for cruising
America's heartland will spell success. A big sale always helps, too. "Our first
booking was for a back-to-back cruise in the Mark Twain Suite for $30,000," he
said with a smile.Added by Mike Davies on October 10, 2011 at 5:22pm — No Comments
AmaWaterways Marks 10th Anniversary With New Ships, New Itineraries And New Excursions
Award-winning river cruise line AmaWaterways marks its tenth anniversary
in 2012 with the introduction of the company’s twelfth ship, the m/s AmaCerto,
with new culinary escorted tours in Europe, new wine route cruises on the Rhone
and four cruises featuring the Floriade World Horticultural Expo in the
Netherlands.
in 2012 with the introduction of the company’s twelfth ship, the m/s AmaCerto,
with new culinary escorted tours in Europe, new wine route cruises on the Rhone
and four cruises featuring the Floriade World Horticultural Expo in the
Netherlands.
AmaWaterways Executive Vice President and Co-Owner, Kristin Karst, said “This is a
year which promises to be our most successful on record in terms of new ships,
itineraries and innovative onboard and on shore programmes.”
year which promises to be our most successful on record in terms of new ships,
itineraries and innovative onboard and on shore programmes.”
New programmes in Europe for 2012 include “Culinary Delights — Bites
and Sights” shore excursions. These specially-crafted complimentary guided walking tours present an exciting option for passengers interested in the story of Europe through the ages, as told from
a culinary perspective. The tours will include wine tastings, visits to local
markets, tapas bars and other culinary-themed locations. An expanded programme of
complimentary guided bike tours can help ward off any guilt from “overindulging”
in local delights.
and Sights” shore excursions. These specially-crafted complimentary guided walking tours present an exciting option for passengers interested in the story of Europe through the ages, as told from
a culinary perspective. The tours will include wine tastings, visits to local
markets, tapas bars and other culinary-themed locations. An expanded programme of
complimentary guided bike tours can help ward off any guilt from “overindulging”
in local delights.
AmaWaterways will once again offer its “Jewish Heritage” tours on select sailings
in 2012. The popular “In Celebration of Wine” theme cruises will expand to include select Rhone River cruises from Lyon to Arles. And the Floriade World Horticultural Expo, which takes place every ten years in the Netherlands, will be featured on four different AmaWaterways itineraries in 2012.
in 2012. The popular “In Celebration of Wine” theme cruises will expand to include select Rhone River cruises from Lyon to Arles. And the Floriade World Horticultural Expo, which takes place every ten years in the Netherlands, will be featured on four different AmaWaterways itineraries in 2012.
Having been the industry leader in Europe for the past decade, AmaWaterways will feature its most
impressive fleet yet for 2012. The line’s intimate, custom-designed vessels include the “Sensational Six” on the Danube, Rhine, Main, Mosel and Rhone: the MS AmaDagio, MS AmaLegro, MS AmaDante, MS
AmaCello, MS AmaLyra and MS AmaDolce. These luxurious ships
accommodate 148-150 passengers, with French balcony staterooms ranging from 170-255 sq. ft.
impressive fleet yet for 2012. The line’s intimate, custom-designed vessels include the “Sensational Six” on the Danube, Rhine, Main, Mosel and Rhone: the MS AmaDagio, MS AmaLegro, MS AmaDante, MS
AmaCello, MS AmaLyra and MS AmaDolce. These luxurious ships
accommodate 148-150 passengers, with French balcony staterooms ranging from 170-255 sq. ft.
The two newest AmaWaterways vessels, the 161-passenger MS AmaBella (2010) and MS AmaVerde
(2011) have exclusive “Twin Balconies,” (ie. a step-out balcony and a French balcony) in the majority of staterooms; the largest average stateroom size (214 sq. ft.) in Europe, plus suites up to 350 sq. ft. in size. The ships also feature two main dining rooms, a casual wine bar and intimate Chef’s Table restaurant.
(2011) have exclusive “Twin Balconies,” (ie. a step-out balcony and a French balcony) in the majority of staterooms; the largest average stateroom size (214 sq. ft.) in Europe, plus suites up to 350 sq. ft. in size. The ships also feature two main dining rooms, a casual wine bar and intimate Chef’s Table restaurant.
The 164-passenger MS AmaCerto, launching in the spring of 2012, will have additional distinctive features, such as a glass elevator and al fresco café. As with every AmaWaterways vessel in Europe, membership in the prestigiousChaîne des Rôtisseurs ensures a fine gastronomic
experience, with complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks at dinner.
experience, with complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks at dinner.
All AmaWaterways vessels in Europe offer complimentary in-stateroom Internet and first-run Hollywood movies, ship-wide Wi-Fi, complimentary daily shore excursions and a fleet of bicycles
for guests’ free use. In addition to spacious, comfortable lounges, the ships also include a
fitness area, massage, hair and beauty salon, a whirlpool and walking track on
the Sun Deck and heated swimming pool on the MS AmaBella, MS AmaVerde and MS
AmaCerto.
for guests’ free use. In addition to spacious, comfortable lounges, the ships also include a
fitness area, massage, hair and beauty salon, a whirlpool and walking track on
the Sun Deck and heated swimming pool on the MS AmaBella, MS AmaVerde and MS
AmaCerto.
In Russia, guests can enjoy the “Russian Waterways” itinerary between Moscow and
St. Petersburg on the newly-redesigned 212-passenger MS AmaKatarina.
St. Petersburg on the newly-redesigned 212-passenger MS AmaKatarina.
In Vietnam and Cambodia, the magnificent new 124-passenger MS AmaLotus has joined MS La Marguerite in offering unforgettable 7-night cruises on the Mekong River from Siem Reap, Cambodia to Ho Chi Minh
City, Vietnam.
City, Vietnam.
On the following 2012 cruise itineraries and U.S. departure dates, Riverdiscounts.com will provide “Triple Savings” On French Balcony cabins.
$200 off per person
1 category stateroom upgrade
Transfers
Transfers are for all clients that join us for the official program dates of the land and cruise vacation. Clients that purchase the land and cruise vacation receive complimentary transfers to the
ship from the airport where the land program originates and from the ship to
the local airport where the cruise disembarks. For the category upgrade clients
will be able to upgrade from C to B or B to A at no additional cost!
ship from the airport where the land program originates and from the ship to
the local airport where the cruise disembarks. For the category upgrade clients
will be able to upgrade from C to B or B to A at no additional cost!
Provence & Spain,
4/8/2012. 4/15/2012
4/8/2012. 4/15/2012
The Romantic Danube 4/14/2012
Tulip Time Cruise 3/27/2012
Vineyards of the Rhine & Mosel 3/31/2012
Black Sea Voyage 4/10/2012
The Romantic Danube 5/27/2012
Enchanting Rhine 7/21/2012
Enchanting Rhine, 8/4/2012
Melodies of the Danube 6/26/2012
Blue Danube Discovery 7/8/2012
Europe's Rivers & Castles 7/21/2012
Legendary Danube 7/28/2012
Black Sea Voyage 7/24/2012
Europe's Rivers & Castles 8/9/2012
The Romantic Danube 7/8/2012
Blue Danube Discovery 7/16/2012
Legendary Danube 7/22/2012
Terms andConditions:
Dates listed are
U.S./Canada departure dates. Offers are valid on new FIT bookings made from
Oct. 1 to 31, 2011, and are not combinable with any other offers. Upgrade is
based on availability and does not apply to Category A+ and Jr. Suites. All
land programs are additional and are at brochure fare. Port charges of $147 per
person per week are additional. French balcony staterooms are featured in cabin
category C and above.
U.S./Canada departure dates. Offers are valid on new FIT bookings made from
Oct. 1 to 31, 2011, and are not combinable with any other offers. Upgrade is
based on availability and does not apply to Category A+ and Jr. Suites. All
land programs are additional and are at brochure fare. Port charges of $147 per
person per week are additional. French balcony staterooms are featured in cabin
category C and above.
Riverdiscounts 800-640-4899
Added by Mike Davies on October 2, 2011 at 11:22am — No Comments
American queen and Queen of the Mississippi returning
At their peak in the 19th century, more than 11,000 steamboats plied the rivers of America, playing an indispensable role in building a great nation.
The riverboat lifestyle fascinated Mark Twain, who wrote about the drifting gamblers and showmen and women who brought excitement to the cities and small towns along the shore.…
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Added by Mike Davies on September 20, 2011 at 11:31am — No Comments
Free Amsterdam stay and Triple Savings
AmaWaterways is offering a complimentary stay in Amsterdam to guests who book one of two Christmas and New Year’s cruises. The complimentary stays are one or two nights.
Those who book the Christmas and New Year’s cruise aboard the AmaLyra will get a two-night Prague pre-cruise stay, the eight-night Nuremberg-to-Amsterdam cruise and a complimentary night on board the ship in Amsterdam. The U.S. departure date is Dec. 22 with a cruise embarkation date of Dec. 25.
Those who book…
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Added by Mike Davies on September 19, 2011 at 12:35pm — No Comments
Scenic Free Air
Scenic Cruises is offering a number of holiday cruises, including one that sails
to three capital cities in four countries via three rivers. The
Amsterdam-to-Budapest cruise departs Dec. 21 with reduced pricing starting at
$5,385 per person, double.
to three capital cities in four countries via three rivers. The
Amsterdam-to-Budapest cruise departs Dec. 21 with reduced pricing starting at
$5,385 per person, double.
The all-inclusive, air-inclusive cruise sails on the Rhine, Danube and the
man-made Main-Danube Canal to ports in the Netherlands, Germany, Austria and
Hungary. The company operates what it calls “Space-Ship” vessels…
Continueman-made Main-Danube Canal to ports in the Netherlands, Germany, Austria and
Hungary. The company operates what it calls “Space-Ship” vessels…
Added by Mike Davies on September 19, 2011 at 12:30pm — No Comments
French Country Waterways Offers Up to 40 Percent Savings
French Country Waterways has announced special pricing on two luxury barge cruise itineraries -- the Upper Loire Valley and Central Burgundy. The six-night Oct. 9 and Oct. 23 sailings are priced at $4,547 and $4,687 per person, double, aboard the eight-passenger Princess, and $3,847 on the 12-passenger, all-suite Horizon II. This compares to regular rates of $6,495. Other October savings dates are also available.
The Princess sailing includes a private cellar tour and wine tasting in…
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Added by Mike Davies on September 13, 2011 at 9:21am — No Comments
AmaWaterways Introduces New AmaLotus on Mekong River
AmaWaterways has launched its second new vessel on the Mekong River, the 124-passenger AmaLotus. The seven-night maiden voyage set sail this week after a traditional Vietnamese praying ceremony at the shipyard. The AmaLotus joins La Marguerite sailing from Siem Reap, Cambodia, to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
AmaLotus has a décor that combines Colonial elegance with regional Khmer accents. It has 624-square-foot suites, 10 Junior…
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Added by Mike Davies on September 13, 2011 at 9:19am — No Comments
New Yangtze Cruise Ships
Beijing (OPENPRESS) September 6, 2011 - Yangtze.com specializes in Yangtze River Cruise discounts and specials for individual clients and organizations. Yangtze has added new cruise ships to its line of offerings as well as updated the website with new information.
The new website lists the top 10 new cruise ships available for reservations as well as departure times and dates, description of the cruise and available cabins. The…Continue
The new website lists the top 10 new cruise ships available for reservations as well as departure times and dates, description of the cruise and available cabins. The…Continue
Added by Mike Davies on September 8, 2011 at 8:47am — No Comments
Viking River Cruises Finalizes Sponsorship of “Masterpiece” on PBS
Viking River Cruises has finalized an agreement to become a national corporate sponsor for the TV series “Masterpiece” on PBS. Viking joins corporate funder Franklin Templeton in supporting America’s longest-running weekly primetime drama series beginning in the fourth quarter of 2011.
“With demographics that match so closely and research showing that the series ranked among our customers’ favorites, we knew that ‘Masterpiece’ was a perfect partnership,” said Richard…
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Added by Mike Davies on August 31, 2011 at 11:07am — No Comments
Natchez Woman to Oversee Cuisine on Memphis-Docked American Queen
NATCHEZ, Miss. (AP) – As a steamboat company prepares to return the American Queen riverboat to work on the Mississippi River, a Natchez woman is preparing to serve as its chef.
Regina Charboneau says she hopes the Queen makes 25 to 30 stops a year in her home town, bringing more than 460 passengers and a full crew to Natchez.
The American Queen, which is owned by The Great American Steamboat Company and docked in Memphis, has been out of commission for the past few…
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Added by Mike Davies on August 31, 2011 at 11:05am — No Comments
Riverdiscounts.com is offering 10% off all Amawaterways river cruises
AmaWaterways has released a 128-page brochure detailing its offerings in 2012, the company’s 10th anniversary. In 2012, the line will operate nine vessels in Europe, all featuring French balconies or twin balconies, and amenities such as complimentary in-room Internet, ship-wide Wi-Fi and guided bicycle tours.
Popular European itineraries commence in the spring with “Tulip Time” cruises in the Netherlands and Belgium. The new 164-passenger twin balcony AmaCerto will make its debut with…
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Added by Mike Davies on August 31, 2011 at 11:01am — No Comments
Uniworld Offers Itineraries to Floriade’s World Horticultural Expo
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has crafted two itineraries that visit the 2012 World Horticultural Exposition, Floriade, in Venlo, the Netherlands. The show, held only once every 10 years, displays flowers, plants and trees presented by more than 100 exhibitors from dozens of countries.
The River Ambassador will operate the cruises, which also visit Germany’s UNESCO-designated Upper Middle Rhine Valley, Brussels, Maastricht and more. The seven-night “Gems of Germany, Belgium & the…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on August 31, 2011 at 10:51am — No Comments
Viking to Add 6 Ships
In a surprise announcement, Viking River Cruises says it will speed up introduction of its revolutionary new Longships series of vessels and launch six in 2012. The news was shared with passengers today on its Viking Prestige, which is cruising the Danube.
Four of the vessels had been scheduled to launch… Continue
Four of the vessels had been scheduled to launch… Continue
Added by Mike Davies on August 22, 2011 at 3:22pm — No Comments
AmaWaterways adds Giant flower expo
Fast-growing river line AmaWaterways has unveiled 2012 Europe sailings that include a stop at the Floriade World Horticultural Expo in the Netherlands, an event that takes place just once every 10 years.
A visit to the giant flower show will be part of the line's early spring "Tulip Time" cruises on the waterways of the Netherlands and Belgium, which begin and end in Amsterdam. The seven-night trips will take place on several AmaWaterways ships including the…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on August 19, 2011 at 11:05am — No Comments
American Queen Steamboat Will Call Memphis Home
The city of Memphis now owns a $9 million interest in The American Queen steamboat, the only overnight cruise boat working the Mississippi River when it leaves its Memphis port in April.
When the U.S. Maritime Administration signed off on the sale of the massive steamboat to HMS Global Maritime and its…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on August 15, 2011 at 2:14pm — No Comments
Tauck launches new ship
Connecticut-based Tauck christened its fourth new riverboat in five years in a ceremony in Cologne, Germany, this week.
Three generations of the Tauck family were present for the naming of ms Treasures, with Robin Tauck, granddaughter of the company's founder, serving as the ship's godmother. Entertainment included a local pipe-and-drum band.
The 118-passenger ship is doing its debut season on the Danube, Rhine and Main rivers.…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on August 13, 2011 at 11:56am — No Comments
Two paddlewheelers for 2012 on the Mississippi
The American Queen, the largest steamboat in the world, will be back on the river in the spring, cruising for the newly formed Great American Steamboat Co.
The American Queen will compete with a new 140-sternwheeler, the Queen of the Mississippi, being built for American Cruise Lines, which previously announced plans to launch Civil War-themed cruises on the Mississippi next summer
Congressman Steve Cohen, D-Tenn., announced the U.S. Maritime Administration…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on August 12, 2011 at 12:01pm — No Comments
A rare Item: No single supplement river cruises
Solo Traveler Offer - Single Supplement Waived on Select River Cruise Departures*
Grand Black Sea Cruise
October 14, 2011
Burgundy & Provence
October 22, 2011
Paris to Normandy's Landing Beaches
October 3, 2011
October 10, 2011
October 31, 2011
October 10, 2011
October 31, 2011
The Legendary Danube
October 22, 2011
October 26, 2011
October 26, 2011
European Splendor
October 11,…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on August 3, 2011 at 12:50pm — No Comments
Tauck wins best River Cruise Lines. Adds France
Travel + Leisure magazine has just announced the results of their annual "World's Best" readers survey awards, and I'm thrilled to tell you that Tauck has been named the "World's Best River Cruise Line!" This prestigious honor is just the latest bit of great news in an eventful summer for Tauck river cruising - next month they be christening their newest riverboat, the ms Treasures, and will have have their first-ever cruises on the Rhône River in France in August.
Contact…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on August 3, 2011 at 10:58am — No Comments
PBS' 'Masterpiece' gets corporate sponsor Viking River Cruises
The PBS program "Masterpiece" is marking its 40th year in style.
"Masterpiece" executive producer…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on August 3, 2011 at 10:52am — No Comments
AmaWaterways Relocates the MS AmaDagio to Southern France
AmaWaterways is relocating the 150-passenger MS AmaDagio to the Rhone River inSouthern France, beginning with the 2012 season.
The MS AmaDagio will be cruising a 7-night itinerary from Lyon to Arles and back again from late March through the end of the year, as part of the “Provence and Spain” river cruise vacation program.
This program… Continue
The MS AmaDagio will be cruising a 7-night itinerary from Lyon to Arles and back again from late March through the end of the year, as part of the “Provence and Spain” river cruise vacation program.
This program… Continue
Added by Mike Davies on July 28, 2011 at 8:19am — No Comments
Paddlewheelers back on the Mississippi
Journey to the heart and soul of America on American
Cruise Lines’ brand new Mississippi Riverboat, Queen of the
Mississippi. While the churn of the paddlewheel blends with the sounds of
the river, you’ll rediscover the America of the pioneers, the America of
boundless optimism and unlimited possibilities. The Queen of the
Mississippi will embody the spirit of traditional Mississippi River
cruising and the grandeur…
ContinueCruise Lines’ brand new Mississippi Riverboat, Queen of the
Mississippi. While the churn of the paddlewheel blends with the sounds of
the river, you’ll rediscover the America of the pioneers, the America of
boundless optimism and unlimited possibilities. The Queen of the
Mississippi will embody the spirit of traditional Mississippi River
cruising and the grandeur…
Added by Mike Davies on July 26, 2011 at 10:48am — No Comments
Avalon Expands Theme Cruise Programs for 2012
Avalon Waterways is expanding its themed European river cruises for 2012.
Three itineraries in July and August 2012 focus on European history and politics: 17-day “Jewels of Central Europe” (Paris to Budapest, priced from $4,929; 13-day “The Blue Danube Discovery” (Budapest to Prague, from $2,589) and 12-day “Central European Experience” (Paris to Prague, from $2,489). Joining travelers on board is a diplomacy expert who has worked at the United Nations, on the NATO/Warsaw Pact and…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on July 18, 2011 at 1:48pm — No Comments
RiverDiscount.com Announces Uniworld 2012 River Cruise Programs
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises in 2012 will offer 32 itineraries ranging from eight to 32 days in Europe and Russia. Two programs, “Gems of Germany, Belgium & the Netherlands” and “Grand Treasures of Europe” will include the Netherlands’ internationally famous Floriade, a world horticultural exposition presented once every 10 years.
Uniworld will also launch three new programs involving shore excursions. Experienced travelers who have already seen some of Europe’s most popular…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on July 18, 2011 at 1:30pm — No Comments
Tauck’s Fourth New Riverboat
Tauck announced that Robin Tauck will serve as godmother to the company’s new Treasures riverboat. The Tauck family, company executives, travel agents and journalists will gather for the ship’s christening on Aug. 10 in Cologne Germany. The ms Treasures will be the fourth new Tauck riverboat launched since 2006, giving the company a growing fleet on Europe’s rivers. Lee Tauck, Robin Tauck’s mother, christened the Swiss Sapphire in 2008, and… Continue
Added by Mike Davies on July 11, 2011 at 12:22pm — No Comments
American Safari Cruises Releases 2012-13 Brochure
American Safari Cruises has released its 2012-13 cruise brochure detailing voyages for its three yachts in Southeast Alaska, Mexico’s Sea of Cortés, the Columbia and Snake rivers, Hawaii and Washington and British Columbia. (travelpulse.com)
Added by Mike Davies on July 5, 2011 at 8:55am — No Comments
Viking Prestige Amsterdam christening
In a moving ceremony in Amsterdam this week, the 188 passenger Viking Prestige was officially named by godmother Janice Farrar-Titus.
Ms Farrar-Titus, wife of the late renowned cruise industry innovator, Warren Titus, bestowed a blessing on Prestige before breaking a bottle of champagne on her bow.
“May you begin your cruising days under a rainbow and sunny skies, and may you follow that rainbow around the bends in the river to the pot of gold,” Ms Farrar-Titus…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on July 5, 2011 at 8:51am — No Comments
Completely renovated ships provide elevators, balconies in Russia
River cruising in Russia offers a number of benefits: tremendous value, especially considering the cost of hotels in Moscow and St. Petersburg; access to ancient towns like Uglich and Yaroslavl; remarkably good guides included; and an English-speaking floating home without the bother of packing and unpacking and going from air travel to car or bus. However, the standards have been uneven and, now, the cruise lines are offering drastic renovations; this year brings significantly upgraded…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on June 16, 2011 at 11:01am — No Comments
2012 River Cruise Ship Will Be Ultra Luxurious
Chatsworth, CA) Award-winning river cruise line AmaWaterways has announced details about its much-anticipated MS AmaCerto, the vessel whose debut in Europe next year will usher in a new era of river cruising. The 164-passenger MS AmaCerto will advance the innovative design concepts of the MS AmaBella…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on June 15, 2011 at 8:10am — No Comments
North America Cruises as Alternative to Europe
Blount Small Ship Adventures is promoting its North America cruises as an alternative to travelers looking to avoid the high cost of international air travel. The company offers numerous cruises to beautiful and historic locations in the United States and Canada. All cruises depart from highly traveled ports in major cities, helping to keep airfare costs low and in some cases eliminating air travel altogether.
“Our guests don’t have to spend exorbitant amounts of money on their vacation…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on June 13, 2011 at 4:27pm — No Comments
Would you believe a luxury 7 night river cruise from $999
I have just posted a couple of unbelievable luxury river cruise offers:
7 night fall cruises from $999 per person
3 Nights free Prague hotel add on with summer 7 night sailings.
Take a look Rivercruiseliquidator.com
Added by Mike Davies on June 13, 2011 at 4:23pm — No Comments
AmaWaterways Sponsors English School in Cambodia
AmaWaterways announced the opening of the ODA Free Village English School in the province of Siem Reap, Cambodia, which is sponsored by the river cruise line in conjunction with the ODA Orphanage. The school brings English-language skills to local children of grammar-school age.
AmaWaterways passengers touring the Angkor Archaeological Park as part of their 16-day “Vietnam, Cambodia and the Riches of the Mekong” itinerary can visit the school during their excursion to the…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 24, 2011 at 1:11pm — No Comments
Paddle wheelers return to the Mississippi River
The trouble began in 2001, six years after… Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 21, 2011 at 2:16pm — No Comments
For 2012, Avalon to add two ships in Europe
COCHEM, Germany — In the spring of 2012, Avalon Waterways will introduce two
sister ships to the Panorama — the Vista and the Visionary.
Onboard the Panorama’s christening cruise this
past weekend, Avalon executives announced that the 164-passenger Vista will be
almost identical to the 164-passenger Panorama at 443 feet in length.
The 128-passenger Visionary will be the same
class of ship but 361 feet, which gives Avalon better docking options along the…Continue
sister ships to the Panorama — the Vista and the Visionary.
Onboard the Panorama’s christening cruise this
past weekend, Avalon executives announced that the 164-passenger Vista will be
almost identical to the 164-passenger Panorama at 443 feet in length.
The 128-passenger Visionary will be the same
class of ship but 361 feet, which gives Avalon better docking options along the…Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 17, 2011 at 10:00am — No Comments
Uniworld Launches Douro Spirit to Cruise Douro River Valley
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises’ new 128-passenger river ship the Douro Spirit arrived in Porto on April 30, 2011, where guests gathered for a cocktail reception and the official christening of the ship, followed by dinner. The inaugural event included many dignitaries and executives, including Allan J. Katz, United States ambassador to Portugal.
“Uniworld is proud to have the new Douro Spirit to take our guests through this breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage region,” said…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 16, 2011 at 1:33pm — No Comments
An Enchanting Cruise Through Provence Aboard 'Enchanté'
A cruise through Provence with European Waterways aboard luxury 8-passenger
hotel barge ‘Enchanté’ is like no other. After some Spring cruises along the
300-year-old Canal du Midi, she embarks in June on a series of delightful
cruises throughProvence, known for its gorgeous climate and fine cuisine.
hotel barge ‘Enchanté’ is like no other. After some Spring cruises along the
300-year-old Canal du Midi, she embarks in June on a series of delightful
cruises throughProvence, known for its gorgeous climate and fine cuisine.
Passengers joining Enchanté…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 16, 2011 at 1:28pm — No Comments
New style of river cruise ship debuts in Europe
MAINZ, Germany -- The growing arms race between river cruise lines that
operate in Europe took a big step forward over the weekend with the unveiling of
what's being billed as the first "suite ship."
operate in Europe took a big step forward over the weekend with the unveiling of
what's being billed as the first "suite ship."
Christened on Saturday in a dockside ceremony in Mainz, Germany, Avalon
Waterways' 166-passenger Avalon Panorama features 64 extra-wide cabins, dubbed
Panorama Suites, that offer 200 square feet of living space. That's about 30%
more than the standard river ship…
ContinueWaterways' 166-passenger Avalon Panorama features 64 extra-wide cabins, dubbed
Panorama Suites, that offer 200 square feet of living space. That's about 30%
more than the standard river ship…
Added by Mike Davies on May 16, 2011 at 10:44am — No Comments
Mike Davies reply on Budapest and Prague
Mike,
Thank you so much for your detailed info. on Budapest and Prague. I'm sure it will be very helpful for our trip. Again, we so appreciate the time you spent to help us.
Peggy Schaffer
Added by Peggy Schaffer on May 14, 2011 at 5:53pm — No Comments
Viking Launches Prestige In July
Viking Prestige, the company’s second “green” ship and the first of 10ships in…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 12, 2011 at 9:27am — No Comments
Advance notice of a price drop
I am placing a special offer on www.rivercruiseliquidators.com with a genuine Free cruise offer later today. This is a great value with one cruise free and half price upgrades. For any member looking for a first quality river cruise for 2011 here they are.
Windmills, Vineyards & Paris
14 days from Amsterdam to Paris or 15 days incl. travel
• June 24, 2011 departure
14 days from Amsterdam to Paris or 15 days incl. travel
• June 24, 2011 departure
10 Night Cruise only Amsterdam…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 10, 2011 at 9:53am — No Comments
Victoria Cruises on the Yangtze
Victoria Cruises has reestablished its exclusive relationship with Ritz Tours to offer six China itineraries incorporating Victoria Cruises' voyages on the Yangtze River. Among the co-ventures is the 14-night “Glories of the Yangtze” itinerary aboard the recently renovated Victoria Prince, with sightseeing in Beijing, Xi'an, Chongqing and Shanghai. Highlights include the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Summer Palace, and the Badaling section of the Great Wall (Beijing); the Terra Cotta… Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 7, 2011 at 9:53am — No Comments
The next Great Lakes cruise destination
That's the hope of local officials in the city, where a $21.5 million port
development project is underway in the hopes of luring the small cruise vessels
that ply Lake Erie.
development project is underway in the hopes of luring the small cruise vessels
that ply Lake Erie.
The Detroit Free Press reported
that the new development will debut next month as part of the ongoing
revitalization of Detroit's riverfront and…
Continuethat the new development will debut next month as part of the ongoing
revitalization of Detroit's riverfront and…
Added by Mike Davies on May 7, 2011 at 9:50am — No Comments
Self Drive River Cruising
The Le Boat 1500 is a significant investment by TUI Travel PLC & confidence in growth opportunities for Le Boat with 29 boats joining the fleet in 2011, and 100 more scheduled for 2012, with more to follow each year. Built by world-renowned Groupe Bénéteau, the Le Boat 1500 Series is a new generation hybrid cruiser offering a range of exciting features. Great customer-oriented modifications have been added since launching at the Paris Boat…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 7, 2011 at 9:45am — No Comments
Dick West Returns to Galapogos cruising
Cruise West fans might not have to wait much longer to find a cruise product
similar to the defunct brand's style.
similar to the defunct brand's style.
The former chairman of Cruise West said his comeback cruise and tour company
would launch operations in the Galapagos by the end of this year, and would
start taking bookings this summer.
would launch operations in the Galapagos by the end of this year, and would
start taking bookings this summer.
Dick West said that his new company, Explor Tours, would offer a product
similar to Cruise West, his family cruise line that went…
Continuesimilar to Cruise West, his family cruise line that went…
Added by Mike Davies on May 7, 2011 at 9:35am — No Comments
Pacific Delight Debuts New Mekong River Cruise
Asia tour specialist Pacific Delight Tours has debuted a new Mekong River cruise experience from Cambodia to Vietnam, priced from $1,599 per person. The eight-day cruise features accommodations in an outside stateroom on the five-star La Maguerite or Amalotus, both of which are AmaWaterways vessels.
Land-only pricing for the eight-day Mekong River Cruise starts at… Continue
Land-only pricing for the eight-day Mekong River Cruise starts at… Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 3, 2011 at 9:18am — No Comments
Spectacular MS AmaVerde Debuts in Europe
Award-winning river cruise line AMAWATERWAYS is proud to introduce its latest
custom-designed new build ship in Europe, the MS AMAVERDE. The spectacular
vessel — a sister ship to the MS AMABELLA — features the most innovative design
and luxurious amenities of any ship on the great waterways of Europe.
custom-designed new build ship in Europe, the MS AMAVERDE. The spectacular
vessel — a sister ship to the MS AMABELLA — features the most innovative design
and luxurious amenities of any ship on the great waterways of Europe.
The 161-passenger AMAVERDE boasts the exclusive AMAWATERWAYS “Twin Balcony”
stateroom design, consisting of a French Balcony for unimpeded views and fresh…
Continuestateroom design, consisting of a French Balcony for unimpeded views and fresh…
Added by Mike Davies on April 30, 2011 at 9:44am — 1 Comment
Düsseldorf Schedules 50 Percent Increase in Rhine River Cruise Stops
Düsseldorf Schedules 50 Percent Increase in Rhine River Cruise Stops
March 20, 2011 8:41 PM
The number of river cruises to include Düsseldorf, Germany, as a new stop is expected to increase by 50 percent this year. Bookings of Düsseldorf city tours by river cruise operators have increased steadily by about 20 percent annually over the past years, reports…
Added by Mike Davies on March 21, 2011 at 1:28pm — No Comments
River Barging In Europe Update
European WaterwaysThe twenty luxury hotel barges operated by European Waterways now cruise through the inland navigation canals of nine countries in Europe. Starting with its first barge, the Anjodi, in 1977, the company added two twelve-passenger units, La Belle Epoque and L'Impressioniste, in…
Added by Mike Davies on March 21, 2011 at 1:23pm — No Comments
Uniworld S.S. Antoinette Is Christened in Amsterdam
Added by Mike Davies on March 20, 2011 at 9:14am — No Comments
Amawaterways’ Exclusive 2011 Jewish Heritage Tours
AmaWaterways presents a unique opportunity to experience Jewish heritage, history and culture in Europe. Three exclusive “Jewish Heritage Cruises” will highlight centuries-old traditions, as well as modern day museums and monuments dedicated to conserving the rich Jewish legacy of the region. Complimentary Jewish Heritage tours will include synagogue visits, Jewish districts tours and sightseeing of landmarks of significance to Jewish history. A dedicated guide will lead the tours, which are…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on March 16, 2011 at 9:29am — No Comments
American Cruise Lines’ Queen of the West Renovation Near Completion
American Cruise Lines announced today that the multi-million dollar renovation of the Queen of the West, which operates one week cruises from Portland, Oregon, is now nearing completion. Reconstruction of major areas including passenger staterooms, community areas, the galley and engine room, continues in Portland and progress remains ahead of schedule.
The renovations will provide a more comfortable and elegant atmosphere for cruise passengers.New furniture for the entire ship, custom… Continue
The renovations will provide a more comfortable and elegant atmosphere for cruise passengers.New furniture for the entire ship, custom… Continue
Added by Mike Davies on March 14, 2011 at 4:44pm — No Comments
Paddle wheelers return to the Mississippi River
The trouble began in 2001, six years after… Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 21, 2011 at 2:16pm — No Comments
For 2012, Avalon to add two ships in Europe
COCHEM, Germany — In the spring of 2012, Avalon Waterways will introduce two
sister ships to the Panorama — the Vista and the Visionary.
Onboard the Panorama’s christening cruise this
past weekend, Avalon executives announced that the 164-passenger Vista will be
almost identical to the 164-passenger Panorama at 443 feet in length.
The 128-passenger Visionary will be the same
class of ship but 361 feet, which gives Avalon better docking options along the…Continue
sister ships to the Panorama — the Vista and the Visionary.
Onboard the Panorama’s christening cruise this
past weekend, Avalon executives announced that the 164-passenger Vista will be
almost identical to the 164-passenger Panorama at 443 feet in length.
The 128-passenger Visionary will be the same
class of ship but 361 feet, which gives Avalon better docking options along the…Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 17, 2011 at 10:00am — No Comments
Uniworld Launches Douro Spirit to Cruise Douro River Valley
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises’ new 128-passenger river ship the Douro Spirit arrived in Porto on April 30, 2011, where guests gathered for a cocktail reception and the official christening of the ship, followed by dinner. The inaugural event included many dignitaries and executives, including Allan J. Katz, United States ambassador to Portugal.
“Uniworld is proud to have the new Douro Spirit to take our guests through this breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage region,” said…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 16, 2011 at 1:33pm — No Comments
An Enchanting Cruise Through Provence Aboard 'Enchanté'
A cruise through Provence with European Waterways aboard luxury 8-passenger
hotel barge ‘Enchanté’ is like no other. After some Spring cruises along the
300-year-old Canal du Midi, she embarks in June on a series of delightful
cruises throughProvence, known for its gorgeous climate and fine cuisine.
hotel barge ‘Enchanté’ is like no other. After some Spring cruises along the
300-year-old Canal du Midi, she embarks in June on a series of delightful
cruises throughProvence, known for its gorgeous climate and fine cuisine.
Passengers joining Enchanté…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 16, 2011 at 1:28pm — No Comments
New style of river cruise ship debuts in Europe
MAINZ, Germany -- The growing arms race between river cruise lines that
operate in Europe took a big step forward over the weekend with the unveiling of
what's being billed as the first "suite ship."
operate in Europe took a big step forward over the weekend with the unveiling of
what's being billed as the first "suite ship."
Christened on Saturday in a dockside ceremony in Mainz, Germany, Avalon
Waterways' 166-passenger Avalon Panorama features 64 extra-wide cabins, dubbed
Panorama Suites, that offer 200 square feet of living space. That's about 30%
more than the standard river ship…
ContinueWaterways' 166-passenger Avalon Panorama features 64 extra-wide cabins, dubbed
Panorama Suites, that offer 200 square feet of living space. That's about 30%
more than the standard river ship…
Added by Mike Davies on May 16, 2011 at 10:44am — No Comments
Mike Davies reply on Budapest and Prague
Mike,
Thank you so much for your detailed info. on Budapest and Prague. I'm sure it will be very helpful for our trip. Again, we so appreciate the time you spent to help us.
Peggy Schaffer
Added by Peggy Schaffer on May 14, 2011 at 5:53pm — No Comments
Viking Launches Prestige In July
Viking Prestige, the company’s second “green” ship and the first of 10ships in…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 12, 2011 at 9:27am — No Comments
Advance notice of a price drop
I am placing a special offer on www.rivercruiseliquidators.com with a genuine Free cruise offer later today. This is a great value with one cruise free and half price upgrades. For any member looking for a first quality river cruise for 2011 here they are.
Windmills, Vineyards & Paris
14 days from Amsterdam to Paris or 15 days incl. travel
• June 24, 2011 departure
14 days from Amsterdam to Paris or 15 days incl. travel
• June 24, 2011 departure
10 Night Cruise only Amsterdam…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 10, 2011 at 9:53am — No Comments
Victoria Cruises on the Yangtze
Victoria Cruises has reestablished its exclusive relationship with Ritz Tours to offer six China itineraries incorporating Victoria Cruises' voyages on the Yangtze River. Among the co-ventures is the 14-night “Glories of the Yangtze” itinerary aboard the recently renovated Victoria Prince, with sightseeing in Beijing, Xi'an, Chongqing and Shanghai. Highlights include the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, the Summer Palace, and the Badaling section of the Great Wall (Beijing); the Terra Cotta… Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 7, 2011 at 9:53am — No Comments
The next Great Lakes cruise destination
That's the hope of local officials in the city, where a $21.5 million port
development project is underway in the hopes of luring the small cruise vessels
that ply Lake Erie.
development project is underway in the hopes of luring the small cruise vessels
that ply Lake Erie.
The Detroit Free Press reported
that the new development will debut next month as part of the ongoing
revitalization of Detroit's riverfront and…
Continuethat the new development will debut next month as part of the ongoing
revitalization of Detroit's riverfront and…
Added by Mike Davies on May 7, 2011 at 9:50am — No Comments
Self Drive River Cruising
The Le Boat 1500 is a significant investment by TUI Travel PLC & confidence in growth opportunities for Le Boat with 29 boats joining the fleet in 2011, and 100 more scheduled for 2012, with more to follow each year. Built by world-renowned Groupe Bénéteau, the Le Boat 1500 Series is a new generation hybrid cruiser offering a range of exciting features. Great customer-oriented modifications have been added since launching at the Paris Boat…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 7, 2011 at 9:45am — No Comments
Dick West Returns to Galapogos cruising
Cruise West fans might not have to wait much longer to find a cruise product
similar to the defunct brand's style.
similar to the defunct brand's style.
The former chairman of Cruise West said his comeback cruise and tour company
would launch operations in the Galapagos by the end of this year, and would
start taking bookings this summer.
would launch operations in the Galapagos by the end of this year, and would
start taking bookings this summer.
Dick West said that his new company, Explor Tours, would offer a product
similar to Cruise West, his family cruise line that went…
Continuesimilar to Cruise West, his family cruise line that went…
Added by Mike Davies on May 7, 2011 at 9:35am — No Comments
Pacific Delight Debuts New Mekong River Cruise
Asia tour specialist Pacific Delight Tours has debuted a new Mekong River cruise experience from Cambodia to Vietnam, priced from $1,599 per person. The eight-day cruise features accommodations in an outside stateroom on the five-star La Maguerite or Amalotus, both of which are AmaWaterways vessels.
Land-only pricing for the eight-day Mekong River Cruise starts at… Continue
Land-only pricing for the eight-day Mekong River Cruise starts at… Continue
Added by Mike Davies on May 3, 2011 at 9:18am — No Comments
Spectacular MS AmaVerde Debuts in Europe
Award-winning river cruise line AMAWATERWAYS is proud to introduce its latest
custom-designed new build ship in Europe, the MS AMAVERDE. The spectacular
vessel — a sister ship to the MS AMABELLA — features the most innovative design
and luxurious amenities of any ship on the great waterways of Europe.
custom-designed new build ship in Europe, the MS AMAVERDE. The spectacular
vessel — a sister ship to the MS AMABELLA — features the most innovative design
and luxurious amenities of any ship on the great waterways of Europe.
The 161-passenger AMAVERDE boasts the exclusive AMAWATERWAYS “Twin Balcony”
stateroom design, consisting of a French Balcony for unimpeded views and fresh…
Continuestateroom design, consisting of a French Balcony for unimpeded views and fresh…
Added by Mike Davies on April 30, 2011 at 9:44am — 1 Comment
Düsseldorf Schedules 50 Percent Increase in Rhine River Cruise Stops
Düsseldorf Schedules 50 Percent Increase in Rhine River Cruise Stops
March 20, 2011 8:41 PM
The number of river cruises to include Düsseldorf, Germany, as a new stop is expected to increase by 50 percent this year. Bookings of Düsseldorf city tours by river cruise operators have increased steadily by about 20 percent annually over the past years, reports…
Added by Mike Davies on March 21, 2011 at 1:28pm — No Comments
River Barging In Europe Update
European WaterwaysThe twenty luxury hotel barges operated by European Waterways now cruise through the inland navigation canals of nine countries in Europe. Starting with its first barge, the Anjodi, in 1977, the company added two twelve-passenger units, La Belle Epoque and L'Impressioniste, in…
Added by Mike Davies on March 21, 2011 at 1:23pm — No Comments
Uniworld S.S. Antoinette Is Christened in Amsterdam
Added by Mike Davies on March 20, 2011 at 9:14am — No Comments
Amawaterways’ Exclusive 2011 Jewish Heritage Tours
AmaWaterways presents a unique opportunity to experience Jewish heritage, history and culture in Europe. Three exclusive “Jewish Heritage Cruises” will highlight centuries-old traditions, as well as modern day museums and monuments dedicated to conserving the rich Jewish legacy of the region. Complimentary Jewish Heritage tours will include synagogue visits, Jewish districts tours and sightseeing of landmarks of significance to Jewish history. A dedicated guide will lead the tours, which are…
Continue
Added by Mike Davies on March 16, 2011 at 9:29am — No Comments
American Cruise Lines’ Queen of the West Renovation Near Completion
American Cruise Lines announced today that the multi-million dollar renovation of the Queen of the West, which operates one week cruises from Portland, Oregon, is now nearing completion. Reconstruction of major areas including passenger staterooms, community areas, the galley and engine room, continues in Portland and progress remains ahead of schedule.
The renovations will provide a more comfortable and elegant atmosphere for cruise passengers.New furniture for the entire ship, custom… Continue
The renovations will provide a more comfortable and elegant atmosphere for cruise passengers.New furniture for the entire ship, custom… Continue
Added by Mike Davies on March 14, 2011 at 4:44pm — No Comments
New River Cruise Ships for 2011
Added by Mike Davies on March 4, 2011 at 10:07am — No Comments
S.S. Antoinette Private balconies and movie theater on the river
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is counting the days to the introduction of its new Antoinette, which will begin sailing along the Rhine River in late March. Newly built at the De Hoop shipyard in the Netherlands, the Antoinette will be Uniworld’s longest ship at 443 feet and widest at 37.5 feet.
De Hoop, which has been building ships for over 120 years, worked closely with Uniworld and its sister company, Red Carnation Hotels, to set a new standard in river cruise ships. “The…
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Added by Mike Davies on February 25, 2011 at 9:00am — No Comments
AmaWaterways Launches Online Gift Registry Service
February 15, 2011 9:56 PM
AmaWaterways has launched a celebration travel gift registry service in conjunction with Honeymoonwishes.com. The complimentary service allows passengers to register their river cruises marking a special occasion such as an anniversary, honeymoon or birthday in much the same manner as a traditional wedding, engagement or baby shower…
Added by Mike Davies on February 16, 2011 at 12:29pm — No Comments
Spring Barging In Europe
The Anjodi
The 8 passenger Anjodi is of classic Dutch design, specifically rebuilt to navigate the 300 year old Canal du Midi. She has been completely re-furbished in the tasteful tradition of African hardwoods, hand-crafted panelling and shining brass, creating a comfortable and…
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Added by Mike Davies on February 15, 2011 at 11:49am — No Comments
Uniworld’s New Antoinette Embodies the Spirit of Versailles
Uniworld’s New Antoinette Embodies the Spirit of Versailles
February 08, 2011 10:21 PM
Uniworld’s newest river cruise ship, the S.S. Antoinette, is designed to feel like the Château de Versailles in France.
A blue 10-foot Baccarat chandelier with huge sapphires, originally hung in New York’s famed Tavern on the Green, graces the two-story lobby.…
Added by Mike Davies on February 10, 2011 at 10:34am — No Comments
Premier Boutique River Cruise company tops Conde Nast Traveler Readers’ Poll
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has dominated Conde Nast Traveler’s Annual Readers’ Poll, with seven of its luxury boutique river cruise ships ranked in the top 20 River Ships of the world by its readers, with the River Beatrice and River Princess taking out first and second place.
Now in its 11th year, Conde Nast Traveler has introduced a River Ship category to its prestigious poll with Uniworld’s River Beatrice and River…
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Added by Mike Davies on February 8, 2011 at 11:09am — No Comments
This weeks best values for River Cruising
Legendary Danube 12 days July or August. All meals on board, wine with diner, free internet, bicycles from $1,999 per person. Amsterdam to Paris 12 Days French Balcony April or July from $2,381 per person.…
Added by Mike Davies on February 7, 2011 at 4:41pm — No Comments
River cruise lines cancel Nile voyages through end of March
Two companies that offer river cruises in Egypt -- tour giant Abercrombie & Kent and Uniworld -- today extended their suspensions of Nile river trips through March 31.
Both of the companies earlier this week had canceled Nile voyages through the end of February, citing the growing unrest in the country.
"As always, the safety and security of our staff is our top priority," Uniworld said in a statement posted on its website.
Uniworld also announced that…
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Added by Mike Davies on February 7, 2011 at 9:52am — No Comments
Pandaw's New River Cruise Ship for Burma
Our Irrawaddy and Chindwin river expeditions are almost full for next season so we will be launching a…
Added by Mike Davies on February 2, 2011 at 6:12pm — No Comments
Viking River Cruises Successfully Transports Passengers from Cairo via Charter Plane
Following travel warnings issued by the U.S. State Department, Viking River Cruises moved swiftly to transport passengers who were in Cairo to Frankfurt, Germany. All 91 guests are now safely in a Frankfurt hotel and will travel home to the United States tomorrow.“It was a lifelong dream for me to…Continue
Added by Mike Davies on February 2, 2011 at 9:16am — No Comments
Amawaterways Photo River Cruise
A photographers delight 7 night Danube Holiday Markets cruise with a Prague add on option. Join Lesa Snider, a nationally recognized author and teacher of photography, photo editing and graphic presentation, will be…
Added by Mike Davies on February 1, 2011 at 11:10am — No Comments
New "Wild" Scottish Cruise Itinerary For 2011
Inlets and Islands of Wild Argyll" 6-night cruise from Holy Loch
August 13th 27th and September 3rd 2011.
The award winning specialist Scottish cruise company, The Majestic Line, has launched a new "wild" cruise itinerary for 2011, responding to customer requests for a more remote experience. The Majestic Line is one of the world's smallest sea cruising companies with only two vessels sailing the Argyll Coastline on the West Coast of Scotland, each carrying 11 guests on board.…
ContinueAugust 13th 27th and September 3rd 2011.
The award winning specialist Scottish cruise company, The Majestic Line, has launched a new "wild" cruise itinerary for 2011, responding to customer requests for a more remote experience. The Majestic Line is one of the world's smallest sea cruising companies with only two vessels sailing the Argyll Coastline on the West Coast of Scotland, each carrying 11 guests on board.…
Added by Mike Davies on February 1, 2011 at 10:48am — No Comments
UPPER IRRAWADDY River Cruise
The Irrawaddy River is the life-line of Myanmar that flows almost down the very centre of the country for 2000 km. It feeds the farmlands of the dry central zone and allows easy transportation of goods up and down the country.
The Irrawaddy passes through spectacular landscapes especially the Second Defile…
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Added by Mike Davies on January 31, 2011 at 9:59am — No Comments
Riverdiscounts offers $1,090 Coach $2,999 Business pricing with Tauck River cruises
With a new Tauck river cruise bookings to Europe, riverdiscounts is offering a two-tiered pricing structure, with a flat rate of $1,090 for coach class and $2,990 for business class to cities across Europe and from select U.S. gateways.
Air will be with Star Alliance airlines like Lufthansa and…
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Added by Mike Davies on January 25, 2011 at 2:13pm — No Comments
French River Barges 50% off the companion price
A luxury, all-inclusive 6-night cruise on a hotel barge along some of France's most beautiful inland waterways. We currently have some very tempting offers on four hotel barges in France - three in Burgundy and one on the sun-drenched Canal du Midi.
There is 50% off the companion price* aboard…
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Added by Mike Davies on January 24, 2011 at 12:00pm — No Comments
THE CHINDWIN RIVER
The Chindwin River is the second most important river in Myanmar as well as being the largest tributary of the mighty Ayeyarwaddy. It meanders through beautiful valleys and jungles, lofty blue mountains rising in the distance or towering over towns and villages on the banks.
Chindwin is a river less travelled, and apart from its religious monuments it offers spectacular sceneries.
A journey on the Chindwin is perhaps one the most beautiful river cruise of South East…
ContinueA journey on the Chindwin is perhaps one the most beautiful river cruise of South East…
Added by Mike Davies on January 24, 2011 at 11:53am — No Comments
New French Barging Itineraries
French Country Waterways, which has offered elegant vacation experiences aboard its own fleet of luxury canal barges for more than 25 years, is celebrating 2011 with an impressive roster of cruise itineraries – including a return to the Upper Loire valley – as well as the return of its eight-passenger luxury Princess; in addition, the 12-passenger Adrienne will be cruising in Alsace-Lorraine for the first time, splitting the season between this region and her classic Champagne itinerary.…
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Added by Mike Davies on January 17, 2011 at 11:56am — No Comments
Amawaterways Mekong River
There just aren't that many river boats operating on the Mekong River, which means so many of the villages were not accustomed to tourists. Yet, people were exceptionally friendly; they seemed to delight in stopping, waving and smiling at us.
"Every time we…
Added by Mike Davies on January 16, 2011 at 9:41am — No Comments
Cruising on Ha Long Bay
Emeraude Classic Cruises is introducing a three-day/two-night soft adventure itinerary in Vietnam’s Halong Bay. The Emeraude's new soft adventure options run from rock-climbing to butterfly trekking on Cat Ba Island. In between, there’s middle ground in kayaking.
"Halong Bay is so much more compelling when it's not a passive experience," said Kurt Walter, group general manager of Apple Tree Group Hospitality. "Yes, it’s one of the most magnificent seascapes you've ever seen, but when…
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Added by Mike Davies on January 14, 2011 at 11:32am — No Comments
New Nile River Cruise Guide
The brand new Nile Cruising Pocket Guide (£5.99) is to be published on January 31 byBerlitz, the publishers of the annual Complete Guide to Cruising and Cruise Ships. The Nile guide provides a wealth of information on exploring the River Delta and recommends a slow and leisurely cruise on a felucca to gain a deeper understanding…
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Added by Mike Davies on January 14, 2011 at 11:30am — No Comments
A New money saving offer
Avalon 10% Early Payment Air-Inclusive Promo
Vacations: All 2011 Europe vacations (including extensions) departing May 1, 2011 or later. Excludes Egypt.
Offer: Book and pay in full an air inclusive Europe Avalon and receive 10% pp off the cruise category E price. Pay in full by March 1, 2011.
Book: Jan 5-Mar 1, 2011
Depart: May 1-Dec 31, 2011
Avalon $400 per couple Cruise/Land Only
Vacations: All 2011 Avalon Europe
Offer: Book a 2011 Europe Avalon…
ContinueVacations: All 2011 Europe vacations (including extensions) departing May 1, 2011 or later. Excludes Egypt.
Offer: Book and pay in full an air inclusive Europe Avalon and receive 10% pp off the cruise category E price. Pay in full by March 1, 2011.
Book: Jan 5-Mar 1, 2011
Depart: May 1-Dec 31, 2011
Avalon $400 per couple Cruise/Land Only
Vacations: All 2011 Avalon Europe
Offer: Book a 2011 Europe Avalon…
Added by Mike Davies on January 6, 2011 at 10:30am — No Comments
Amawaterways will add the Koblenz, Germany, horticultural and cultural festival
Amawaterways is including a major cultural and horticultural festival on several itineraries this spring and summer as the Koblenz National Flower Show opens from April 15 to Oct. 16, 2011.
Situated along the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, Koblenz, Germany’s narrow lanes, busy squares and impressive historic buildings reflect its 2,000-year-old history which extends back to Roman times.
Situated along the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, Koblenz, Germany’s narrow lanes, busy squares and impressive historic buildings reflect its 2,000-year-old history which extends back to Roman times.
The nearly 120 acres devoted to the Flower Show will take…
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Added by Mike Davies on December 21, 2010 at 3:07pm — No Comments
RiverDiscounts adds new line with 7 night cruises from $999
We are please to announce that we are now representing the eight Amadeus ships. The standard cabins are 161 sq ft , the suites 236 sq ft. This cruise line offers the excursions as an optional addition which reduces the cost of the cruise. We can now provide an 8 day cruise from $999 per person.
Danube Rhapsody from $999
Classical Rhine Cruise from $1,199
Classical Rhine Cruise from $1,199
Rhine Tulip Time from $1,099
Prague & Danube 11 days from…
Added by Mike Davies on December 20, 2010 at 5:59pm — No Comments
French Country Waterways Adds Alsace-Lorraine Itinerary
French Country Waterways in April will offer sailings in the Alsace and Lorraine regions on the recently built 12-passenger Adrienne. The deluxe barge will sail between Strasbourg and Nancy every Sunday from April 3 through July 2. Six suites offer king-size beds, individual thermostat controls, extra pillows, fresh flowers, heated towel bar, hair dryer and 110- and 220-volt electrical outlets. Prices are $5,295 to $6,295 per person, double occupancy.
Highlights of the…
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Added by Mike Davies on December 9, 2010 at 11:02am — No Comments
Avalon Updates dining for 2011
Avalon next year will introduce comfort-centered enhancements fleet-wide, including the Comfort Collection by Avalon, a bedding suite that offers a choice of pillows as well as orthopedic mattresses, high-comfort mattress covers, European-style duvets, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, extra blankets and bed configuration options. Avalon also will offer L’Occitane toiletries and robes and slippers in each room fleet-wide.
Also in 2011,
Avalon will unveil a number of…
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Added by Mike Davies on December 7, 2010 at 3:24pm — No Comments
Holiday Market Cruises Expansion
By: Michelle BaranDecember 06, 2010
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The weather outside is frightful, but Christmas cruising in Europe is still delightful, according to river cruise operators.
Thanks to Europe’s scenic and festive Christmas markets in the towns along the Continent’s inland waterways, river cruise companies have been able to extend their profit-making seasons into the holidays and new year with Christmas…
Thanks to Europe’s scenic and festive Christmas markets in the towns along the Continent’s inland waterways, river cruise companies have been able to extend their profit-making seasons into the holidays and new year with Christmas…
Added by Mike Davies on December 7, 2010 at 2:13pm — No Comments
Tauck Names New European Riverboat MS Treasures
Tauck named its newest riverboat the MS Treasures. Currently under construction at the Vahali Shipyards in Gendt, the Netherlands, the Treasures will feature the new beds and enhanced cabin décor that Tauck is implementing fleet-wide for 2011. The vessel will be christened in August 2011 in Germany and will be deployed on five different Tauck itineraries, including the Blue Danube cruise and a 24-day, transcontinental Grand…
Added by Mike Davies on December 5, 2010 at 10:32am — No Comments
River cruise bedding wars wage on
By: Michelle Baran
Travel Weekly
November 29, 2010
When travelers take a river cruise next year, they will have a choice of Hungarian down pillows or super-combed Egyptian cotton linens, Christy towels or L’Occitane bath products, as river cruise companies continue to up the ante on cabin amenities and decor.
Tauck World Discovery is the latest river cruise…
ContinueTauck World Discovery is the latest river cruise…
Added by Mike Davies on November 30, 2010 at 7:27pm — No Comments
Avalon all suite ship sales ahead of schedule
Avalon Waterways' newest addition to its modern fleet, Avalon Panorama, due to launch in May 2011, is already 75% sold after only 5 months on sale in the UK demonstrating the current demand for the ultimate in luxury European river cruises.
The first of its kind in the industry, offering two full decks of suites with wall-to-wall sliding panoramic windows, the Panorama Suites are 200 square feet, 30% larger than the industry standard. The Royal…
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Added by Mike Davies on November 29, 2010 at 4:04pm — No Comments
European Waterways Launches Special Offers for 2011 Season
European Waterways is kicking off its 2011 season with special offers on all-inclusive hotel barge cruise vacations throughout Europe. The company also is adding three new barges.
European Waterways offers 50 percent off the companion price on select vessels for departures throughout the 2011 season when booked by Dec. 15. Other offers include 10 percent off whole-boat charter prices on select vessels and departures if booked by Jan. 7. Guests can also get a complimentary…
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Added by Mike Davies on November 23, 2010 at 3:59pm — No Comments
Rakang logjam fails to deter cruises, says Pandaw
A vast island of floating logs, interspersed with dead fish and debris stretching 50km up the Rajang River in Malaysian Borneo, has failed to dent or deter the RV Orient Pandaw from operating cruises on the river.
Malaysia’s Star newspaper reported last week that the vast logjam had reached Sibu town downstream “leaving many people shocked by the scale of what is turning out to be an environmental disaster”.
“This is unprecedented and beyond imagination,” Sarawak State… Continue
Malaysia’s Star newspaper reported last week that the vast logjam had reached Sibu town downstream “leaving many people shocked by the scale of what is turning out to be an environmental disaster”.
“This is unprecedented and beyond imagination,” Sarawak State… Continue
Added by Mike Davies on November 23, 2010 at 3:57pm — No Comments
New group working to buy Delta Queen
An investor group that includes a former captain…
Added by Mike Davies on November 23, 2010 at 3:56pm — No Comments
River Cruise Newbuilds for 2011
River Cruise ships making their debut in 2011 are so far from the vessels we saw 10 years ago that they hardly seem to be the same breed. Designers have found ways to make staterooms larger and have added amenities such as king-size beds, luxury linens, flat-screen televisions, full and French balconies, complimentary Internet access and room service. New vessels have as many as four restaurants, heated pools, fitness rooms and saunas. Here are some newbuilds that are sure to appeal to your…
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Added by Mike Davies on November 23, 2010 at 3:50pm — No Comments
Ritz Tours Offers 17-Day China, Yangtze River Package
Ritz Tours is offering a 17-day Majestic China & Yangtze River program priced from $4,899 (plus tax) per person double occupancy. The Premiere Series program offers travel in China and a Yangtze River cruise exploring over 5,000 years of history and culture with visits to the Summer Palace and Three Gorges. Ritz Tours is running an Early Booking Offer of $500 per person on its Premiere Series itineraries on bookings made and deposited by Dec. 17.
The package includes…
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Added by Mike Davies on November 23, 2010 at 3:47pm — No Comments
On board the Creativity
France cruise part 2
Thursday we traveled from Paris to Conflans arriving after lunch. The afternoon offered two excursions. Augers the village where Van Gough died. This is where he painted the fields and cemetery of Dame d Auvers. The second Excursion was to St Germain where Josephine the wife of Napoleon lived out her life.
At 7:00 p.m. The ship sailed for Vernon. After diner was the staff show.
Friday was Vernon the tours offered were to Giverny the gardens… Continue
Thursday we traveled from Paris to Conflans arriving after lunch. The afternoon offered two excursions. Augers the village where Van Gough died. This is where he painted the fields and cemetery of Dame d Auvers. The second Excursion was to St Germain where Josephine the wife of Napoleon lived out her life.
At 7:00 p.m. The ship sailed for Vernon. After diner was the staff show.
Friday was Vernon the tours offered were to Giverny the gardens… Continue
Added by Mike Davies on November 3, 2010 at 2:02pm — No Comments
On Board the Creativity in France
We arrived at 6:00 a.m. and took the Paris shuttle to the Hotel that Avalon uses in Paris as a reception area. They have coffee and juices and you can leave your bags as you cannot board until 4:00 p.m.
We took a cab to Notre Dame (8 Euros) and walked around ilse de Cite. On the first evening every one was ready for bed after the transatlantic flights. I always suggest an extra night before a river cruise to "Catch up".
The following morning was a Panoramic tour…
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Added by Mike Davies on October 28, 2010 at 10:03am — No Comments
PASSENGERS “IN CUISINE” WITH NEW COOKING SCHOOL EXCURSION
Amawaterways adds Cooking School Excursion
Lyon is known as the “gastronomic capital of France,” and now passengers on our “Provence and Spain” itinerary can experience the city’s culinary marvels first-hand. Our new complimentary cooking school excursion in Lyon is magnifique, according to passenger feedback. That’s no surprise. The hands-on cooking demonstration at the celebrated venue, “In…
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Added by Mike Davies on October 19, 2010 at 7:20pm — No Comments
Amawaterways new ships with TWO Balconies Chefs Table 2 Restaurants
We’re happy to report that the new additions to our fleet for 2011 are on track and on schedule! The brand-new 161-passenger AMAVERDE, will debut in the spring, offering a custom design and incredible amenities to match her sister ship, the AMABELLA (2010). Staterooms average 214 square feet, with the majority of them boasting revolutionary “Twin balconies” consisting of a full balcony plus a French balcony. Additionally, the ships feature a range of… Continue
Added by Mike Davies on October 19, 2010 at 7:16pm — No Comments
New Pandaw Ship for the Mekong
Next month work begins in Saigon on the RV Saigon Pandaw. The Saigonwill…
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Added by Mike Davies on October 15, 2010 at 9:00am — No Comments
IRRAWADDY RIVER CRUISE MYANMAR (BURMA)!
The irrawaddy River has witnessed the history of Myanmar and gave it life. On its banks are located ail the "must see" highlights of the Golden Land from the city of Pyay (Prome), where the roots of the Bamar civilization can be found, to the Royal Capitals of Mandalay, Amarapura and Ava passing through the glorious city of Bagan with its 3,000 temples and pagodas where sat the First Myanmar Empire.
There is no better way to…
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Added by Mike Davies on October 14, 2010 at 9:24am — No Comments
Oberoi Zahra Nile Cruiser Honored for Tourism, Biodiversity
The Oberoi Zahra, The Oberoi Group’s luxury cruiser on the Nile in Egypt, received the Award of Excellence in Tourism and Biodiversity from the Ministry of Tourism, Egypt. For the second year in succession, The Oberoi Zahra was recognized for its commitment to excellence and effort in promoting tourism to Egypt.
This year the luxury cruiser was also acknowledged for its initiatives towards the conservation of biological diversity.
The Oberoi…
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Added by Mike Davies on October 9, 2010 at 9:38am — No Comments
Uniworld’s new ‘Imperial Capitals Of Europe’ visits eight countries in 15 days
Uniworld is offering a new itinerary designed for those travellers who wish to spend more leisure time in the cities of Istanbul, Budapest and Vienna.
On Uniworld’s new 15-day ‘Imperial Capitals of Europe’ itinerary, travellers will take a journey…
Added by Mike Davies on October 4, 2010 at 12:30pm — No Comments
Amawaterways cruises from $999
We have just added many close outs for Amawaterways. 7 night cruises from $999. 2011 Cruise with Free air. Take a look. Rivercruiseliquidator.com
Added by Mike Davies on October 2, 2010 at 9:26am — No Comments
Uniworld Close Outs
Added by Mike Davies on October 1, 2010 at 8:29am — No Comments
Ama Announces Features of Vineyards Cruise
Amawaterways has announced new details regarding its upcoming Vineyards of the Rhine and Mosel cruise this fall.
The Vineyards of the Rhine and Mosel cruise departs Nov. 12 on the Amalegro. The itinerary includes visits to world-famous wineries, off-site dinners hosted by renowned winemakers, onboard lectures and more. Hosted by Amawaterways president Rudi Schreiner, the seven-night cruise will travel from Amsterdam, the…
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Added by Mike Davies on September 26, 2010 at 9:30am — No Comments
Viking Adds New Ships, Itineraries
For 2011, Viking River Cruises is launching two new ships and refurbishing two ships. The new Viking Prestige, a 188-passenger sister ship to the company’s flagship, Viking Legend, with its efficient and silent hybrid propulsion, will sail the eight-day Romantic Danube itinerary from Budapest, Hungary, to Nuremberg, Germany.
Viking Emerald is the line’s newest, elegant ship sailing China’s Yangtze River. With this 264-guest vessel,…
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Added by Mike Davies on September 26, 2010 at 9:28am — No Comments
Dick West Says Goodbye
On Wednesday, Cruise West Chairman Dick West was in his company’s offices in Seattle packing up personal items and memories. After two years of trying to find outside investors, he has regretfully thrown in the towel after making desperate attempts to save the company, including mortgaging his own home. The sad closure of Cruise West is the end of an era started 64 years ago by Dick’s father, the late Chuck West, known in the travel industry as “Mr. Alaska.”
Dick West broke…
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Added by Mike Davies on September 26, 2010 at 9:19am — No Comments
Sternwheeler returns to the Mississippi
American Cruise Lines has announced it is expanding to the Mississippi River system
with a brand new sternwheeler, already under…
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Added by Mike Davies on September 21, 2010 at 10:34am — No Comments
Amawaterways new ships and updates
AMAWATERWAYS is Europe's fastest-growing and most innovative river cruise line. New for 2010/2011, AMA is launching three new ships, AMALotus on the Mekong, AMAKatarina, the most luxurious ship on Russia's waterways, and AMAVerde, a 5* vessel cruising Europe's waterways. AMAWaterways has just launched a new customer loyalty scheme and upgraded its in-cabin entertainment, and is currently offering free flights with festive 2010 sailings. Read on for…
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Added by Mike Davies on September 20, 2010 at 5:34pm — No Comments
River Cruise Review Amawaterways South Of France
French cities and towns always look as if they must be very busy and productive, but not on the day you happen to visit them. They never really are, and that is their charm, and witness to a laid-back lifestyle others either envy or find frustrating.
Lyon was no exception, despite its being the third-biggest city in France and billed as the country’s culinary capital. We arrived on a Saturday and struggled to find un sandwich and a beer on the banks of the Rhône, the river where we…
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Added by Mike Davies on September 19, 2010 at 1:17pm — No Comments
Final Word On Cruise West
Letter from Richard West
I am so very sorry to report the closure of Cruise West, the largest US flag cruise line. After 64 years our family business has succumbed to the global economy. We are heartbroken that we are going to be disappointing so many wonderful travel partners and guests, many of whom have become part of our extended family over the years. We did everything we…
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Added by Mike Davies on September 19, 2010 at 1:13pm — No Comments
Cruise West Folds
SEATTLE, Sept. 17 /PRNewswire/ -- Cruise West today announced that they will cease operations on Saturday, September 18th. For the last year, Cruise West has aggressively pursued a number of options with interested parties to maintain operations, including investment, selling assets, and selling the company. In part because of the most recent dip in the markets and the continued lack of economic…
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Added by Mike Davies on September 18, 2010 at 8:00am — No Comments
Cruise West ship sold to Danish investors
International Shipping Partners Inc., a Miami-based ship management company, said the 1991-built vessel was sold to TN Cruise K/S, Denmark, a company controlled by a group of Danish investors.
Added by Mike Davies on September 14, 2010 at 8:33pm — No Comments
Murray River with Captain Cook
Enjoy the sun, fun and river breeze of the Murray River this summer and save 25% on all 3, 4 and 7 night Murray River, Captain Cook Cruises.
The sale is valid until 28 February 2011 and valid for travel from 3 January 2011 to 28 February 2011.
Experience the summer beauty of the Murray River like never before as passengers steam down the river between the… Continue
The sale is valid until 28 February 2011 and valid for travel from 3 January 2011 to 28 February 2011.
Experience the summer beauty of the Murray River like never before as passengers steam down the river between the… Continue
Added by Mike Davies on September 14, 2010 at 7:04am — No Comments
The Mekong and the Volga river cruise markets expand
Beyond the river cruise markets that have seen some of the most development over the last decade, namely Europe and China, some major U.S. river cruise operators are now pushing into the more secondary markets of Russia and Southeast Asia.
Last month, Viking River Cruises announced that it would have a 15-day itinerary on the Mekong River through Vietnam and Cambodia for the 2010-11 season. And earlier this year, Ama Waterways said it plans to introduce a second 124-passenger ship on…Continue
Last month, Viking River Cruises announced that it would have a 15-day itinerary on the Mekong River through Vietnam and Cambodia for the 2010-11 season. And earlier this year, Ama Waterways said it plans to introduce a second 124-passenger ship on…Continue
Added by Mike Davies on September 7, 2010 at 7:44am — No Comments
Avalon Holiday Market Review
We took the Avalon Waterways (owned by Globus) MS Tranquility as part of the Christmastime Cruise Tour WNV1201 starting in Prague with land transport to Nuremberg then cruising on the Danube River from Nurmberg to Vienna
Added by Mike Davies on September 6, 2010 at 8:01am — No Comments
Pandaw Claims back Cruise Ship
Pandaw River Cruises is heading to the Indian courts claiming an Indian company, Pandaw India, has stolen its river ship.
There was confusion last week when Pandaw India began offering cruises on the Ganges on board RV Bengal Pandaw, formerly named Pandaw IV, beginning in September this year.
However, Pandaw River Cruises (PRC) released a statement soon after saying the companies are not related and, in actual fact, Pandaw IV was stolen and renamed…Continue
There was confusion last week when Pandaw India began offering cruises on the Ganges on board RV Bengal Pandaw, formerly named Pandaw IV, beginning in September this year.
However, Pandaw River Cruises (PRC) released a statement soon after saying the companies are not related and, in actual fact, Pandaw IV was stolen and renamed…Continue
Added by Mike Davies on September 5, 2010 at 8:23am — No Comments
Wine Now Included on All Pandaw Cruises
Added by Mike Davies on September 1, 2010 at 11:10am — No Comments
Wine & Food Cruise on the Columbia River
This fall, American Safari Cruises will launch the seven-night Wine & Culinary cruise down the Columbia River that will feature Cordon Bleu-trained Executive Chef Kirsten Dixon of Alaska’s Winterlake Lodge, a guest sommelier, private wine tours and tastings and complimentary massage and yoga classes.
On October 2, guests will travel one-way, between Portland in Oregon, and Lewiston in Idaho. On board the 36-guest yacht,…
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Added by Mike Davies on August 31, 2010 at 10:18am — No Comments
7 Night French Balcony River Cruise for two from $2,699
We have just announce an exceptional close out. 7 night french balcony cruise including all meals ,wine with diner, shore excursions, bikes on board, free internet.From $2,699 for TWO
Added by Mike Davies on August 31, 2010 at 8:39am — No Comments
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