Leading the Way in River Cruising
A Day On A European River CruiseYour ship departs after midnight and cruises quietly through the night to the next destination. Early risers can watch the sunrise from the Sun Deck while savoring a cup of freshly brewed coffee or walk laps on the Sun Deck before heading to the restaurant for the delectable morning buffet. During breakfast, arrive in a charming town or a major city where local guides await to show you the highlights of their home town during the all-inclusive sightseeing tours. Spend the morning exploring ashore before returning to your ship in the afternoon, to cruise to your next destination.
Today, European river cruising has become the most enjoyable way to explore the Old World in truly grand style. Since the 1992 completion of the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal, you can sail on one continuous 3000 mile-long river network and visit 13 countries on a 150-passenger ship.
- Cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest, crossing the Continental Divide with an elevation of 1,330 feet. Or, start your vacation in Prague, then cruise from Nuremburg to Trier on the Main, Rhine and Mosel rivers and conclude your trip in magnificient Paris.
- You can venture out to Eastern Europe cruising through the narrow gorges of the Iron Gates, sail along the Romanian-Bulgarian border to Bucharest, then stay overnight in Bulgaria before ending your journey in what was known for centuries as the world's greatest city, Istanbul.
- Or, start your vacation in Paris before traveling in style onboard the high-speed TGV train to Lyon, where you begin your cruise through Provence, and then end with a grand finale in romantic Barcelona.
Refresh in your stateroom and then join your friends and fellow travelers in a restaurant for a delicious lunch and magnificient scenery. Later, stretch out on a comfortable chaise lounge on the Sun Deck and let the world float by.
Or play a game of giant chess, sip your favorite drink at the bar or listen to an interesting lecture presented in the Main Lounge. Treat yourself to a relaxing massage or take in the scenic views from the fitness area while working out on the treadmill. You may want to retire to your stateroom, open the sliding glass door of your French balcony and breathe in the refreshing country air.
Your personal stateroom Infotainment System provides easy Internet and e-mail access, worldwide English news stations, and a large selection of great movies and music programs. Indulge in the European tradition of afternoon tea time hosted in the Panorama Lounge for a selection of European cookies and light desserts accompanied by soft piano music.
All-Inclusive Adventures Ashore
Our shore excursion programs give you an in-depth and authentic view of the cultures and histories of the cities you visit. You will see the city highlights and discover the places only the locals know about.
With our personal, detailed knowledge of Europe and its treasures of hidden secrets, our itineraries are cultural adventures filled with discovery. Experience the facinating history and local traditions as you cruise past tranquil landscapes, alluring hamlets, and magnificent hilltop castles.
Shake hands with the Mayor or share a toast with the Wine Queen during our cruise through the picturesque Mosel Valley. Be our guest for special regional wine tastings or a unique glass-blowing demonstration. Arrangements have been made throughout your cruise especially for you to experience some of the most interesting sightseeing available. Europe's most charming towns and friendly people are waiting to welcome you!
A New Experience Every Night
Every evening, the chef tries to surprise you with a gourmet meal selection and accompanying complimentary free-floating read and white wine. After dinner, local entertainers perform onboard or you are taken into town for prearranged engagements. There is time to explore the nightlife ashore or dance to piano music in the Main Lounge -- each moment is designed for your pleasure during your cruise.
As the stars shine overhead and the moon casts its reflection, romance and excitement fill the air along the riverbank. Toast your friends and savor our perfectly paired free-flowing regional wines as you share your discoveries and highlights of the day with your new friends and traveling companions.
- After dessert, join us in the Panorama Lounge to watch local folklore dancers perform an authentic Bavarian Schuhplattler or listen to musicians perform classical selections.
- Dance the night away with the locals at the many open-air festivals and events during the warm summer months. Your ship is docked close to the heart of each town and city so you can easily venture ashore to delve into the spirit of each city's exciting evening culture, traditions, and activities.