With the banks of the river along each side its easy to see why River cruising is GREAT.
The ship will usually pull up right in the heart of the small cities/villages and just short walk to the pulse of the centre.
Imagine! Stepping off your floating hotel into towns/cities like Amsterdam, Budapest, Moscow, Cairo or Beijing.
Enjoy the local culture & history by exploring on your own or taking one of the included walking tours with an English speaking guide.
28. Hot Tub on Top Deck Questions? Call 888-203-3012 ... www.cruisebuzz.net
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30. So! When is the best time to take a River cruise ?> Questions? Call 888-203-3012 ... www.cruisebuzz.net Spring Summer Fall
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Editor's Notes
River cruising—a better way to explore River cruising is, quite simply, the best way to travel through many of the world’s most fascinating places. Comfortable, convenient and safe, it offers a greater variety of destinations than you could not encounter any other way—and lets you get in-depth exposure to the culture and history of each region. Both experienced and first-time travelers have discovered the joys of river cruising, making it the fastest-growing segment of the cruising industry.
River Cruising is the new “cool” in cruising, a VERY popular “niche” market within the Cruise Industry. Although not for everyone, it is the new “cool” in cruising and also the fastest growing segment in the cruise industry. Avalon River Cruising via Globus Family of Brands, Uniworld and Viking River are Cruise Holidays preferred partners. There are others, but we as a company have partnered with theses top 3 companies to ensure you the best River cruise experience.
A More Intimate Experience Because River ships are designed to accommodate between 150 and 300 guests ( most being 150-185), it is easy to make new friends, share a drink with the couple you met on the day’s tour, or dine with interesting people in the open-seating restaurant. And you can forget about waiting in long lines .
The Atrium welcomes you onboard the ship when you arrive or can also be used as a conversation area, internet corner or small library.
With the banks of the river along each side its easy to see why River cruising is GREAT. The ship will usually pull up right in the heart of the small cities/villages and just short walk to the pulse of the centre. Imagine! Stepping off your floating hotel into towns/cities like Amsterdam, Budapest, Moscow, Cairo or Beijing. Enjoy the local culture & history by exploring on your own or taking one of the included walking tours with an English speaking guide.
Culture & History Everywhere Walk through an open air architecture museum in the middle of a Russian lake; watch the artists at work in a Meissen porcelainware studio; contemplate the Yangtze from an ancient stone temple beside the river. Such unforgettable experiences can be yours on a river cruise—and you are unlikely to reach these places any other way.
Enjoy breathtaking scenery from just about everywhere on the ship—in the bar, restaurant or lounge (all with panoramic views), on the sun deck with fresh air or from the privacy of your stateroom. And, river cruise vessels keep moving, so you see new vistas and explore new destinations throughout the day, every day. River Cruises often travel at night, so you can wake up in an exciting new place each morning, with no effort on your part.
Experienced travelers agree that a European river cruise is one of the most enjoyable and hassle-free ways to explore Europe's castles, cathedrals and picturesque villages. And with River Cruising, your opportunities to discover the very best these destinations have to offer are endless. Travel along the famous rivers of Europe with a Rhine and Danube river cruise and discover fascinating history and authentic experiences with comprehensive sightseeing plus your own exploration. It's a simple way to travel and you're in the middle of the action, not seeing it from afar. Plus there's plenty of time to unwind. Think of this as your own personal journey of discovery through Europe.
Europe draws us in with her wondrous allure whether it is feeling the warmth of the sun streaming through the rose windows of Notre Dame Cathedral. Tasting rich chocolate sachertorte in a Viennese coffeehouse. Strolling through the vibrant and fragrant Keukenhof Gardens in Amsterdam, or basking in the glow of old-world traditions at the holiday markets in Germany. Imagine discovering the unique scenic treasures of Europe from the luxurious serenity of your river cruise ship. Sailing Europe’s glorious rivers—the Danube, Main, Rhine, Moselle, Rhone, Saone, Seine, and Douro—you will discover the heart of Europe’s charming waterside villages and exciting cultural centers in the most relaxing way to vacation.
Enjoy a spectacular voyage through the heart of Russia along its colorful and historic waterway. Explore bustling and excitement-packed Moscow, then cruise north and visit the enchanting Golden Ring cities of Uglich, Kostroma and Yaroslavl. Continue along the Volga-Baltic Waterways and through Europe’s two largest lakes, Onega and Ladoga to St. Petersburg, one of the world’s most beautiful cities, spread over 101 islands and 66 canals.
Cologne, Vienna, Moscow…because so many cities and towns developed along waterways, they were literally made to be accessible by river. Some of these cities are just not available to ocean cruisers, and bus passengers spend precious hours on the highway, checking in and out of hotels. River cruising brings you more of these destinations than you could see any other way.
The Mekong River winds its way from the Tibetan plateaus of China’s Yunnan province, through the rainforests, plains and rice fields of five Southeast Asian countries before meeting the South China Sea. In terms of length, it’s the 12th largest river in the world, but in terms of historic, cultural and ecological richness-the Mekong has no equal. The sagas of ancient empires, colonial powers and modern conflicts have unfolded along her banks. And, through it all, the Mekong remains first and foremost a lifeline. Temples, trade routes and fishing villages in the river’s path are today untouched by time, just as the way of life they represent. And nowhere are the river’s riches more apparent than in the neighboring-but distinct countries-of Vietnam and Cambodia.
"Egypt is the gift of the Nile." So wrote the Greek scholar, Herodotus. From the cities to rural villages, where life goes on as it did thousands of years ago, a cruise along the Nile is like watching 5,000 years of culture unfold before your eyes. Marvel at the contrasts as you sail past simple villages surrounded by luxuriant palm groves, fertile plantations, romantic desert hills, lush oases, modern cities and ancient colonnaded temples and pyramids.
Africa, with its incredible natural beauty, fascinating wildlife and diverse cultures is becoming an increasingly popular destination among North American travelers.
Imagine!!!! Coasting along the Rhone river. The weather is warm and the breeze is soft as you make your way from just outside of Nice (port of Arles) towards the enchanting city of Avignon and the most picturesque part of Provence. Along the way as you sit on the top deck and enjoy the scenery you may see a father & his son fishing along the river bank, lovers strolling arm and arm along the walk way and experience the wonders of River Cruising.
Sailing from Nuremburg to Vienna during the last week of November and the month of December is a sight from storybooks. Every village/city is dressed up for the festive season and the “Christmas markets” are a highlight. Rows of brightly decorated wooden huts abound Christmas tree ornaments, wooden toys, and handicrafts. Get a little inner warmth with a cup of “svarene vino” (hot mulled wine) and a traditional hot sausage from one of the stalls. Decorated trees beckon you as you wander through the quaint streets & stores nestled among the cobble stone walk-ways into the town centre where cafe’s entice you into their embrace providing you with lambskin chair throws and blankets so that you can enjoy the ambiance from an outside table setting.
Most shore excursions are included. Offering historic walking tours throughout the village or a short bus ride to a famous church and experience a private organ or choir recital. Optional excursions are also available (extra cost) arranged by the cruise line so you can plan your own excursion with my assistance. If planning your own excursions please keep in mind schedules may change due to the water level of the rivers during different times of the year.
One of the greatest features with River cruising is the easy access, no long line for embarking or disembarking. No long line ups in the restaurant or other amenities onboard. Similar to ocean liners you only unpack once while gliding through a country or countries, unlike motor coach tours where you are off/on and packing & unpacking almost daily. Children under 12 yrs are not normally allowed and children 12yrs and above are not encouraged normally. River cruises do not offer children programs or offer any children activities onboard. Yes they can participate in the included walking shore excursions or take their own “family” trips but overall you do not see many children onboard a river cruise if any depending on the time of the year. Transfer on arrival & departure are included if you take suppliers air. In cases where you prefer to book independent air or use travel points then transfers may be an optional charge or I can assist you with a private transfer.
Travel Your Way Enjoy the guided walks, in-depth tours and excursions planned for you in each destination—or sightsee on your own, with time allocated for independent activities. Smooth Sailing The flat-bottomed shape of river cruise ships ensures a safe and smooth ride without any worries about motion sickness. No need to spend days “getting your sea legs” as with ocean cruising—which means more time to really enjoy your vacation.
Most ships boast spacious staterooms all with a River view and most with French balconies or windows that open. A French balcony is actually a false balcony, with a floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door that opens to a railing with a view of the surrounding scenery. Basically all river cruise companies that offer their product in North America have English speaking crew and tour guides. Tipping – at the end of your cruise you may or may not be required to tip the staff for their service during your time on-board. Some companies include tipping and any additional tipping is at your decretion. On ships were tipping is not included you will receive with your tickets a suggested amount and you can either pay this in cash or on your on-board account. If you wish to charge this to your account it may not be a bad idea to confirm this once you are onboard.
This is a typical lounge and observation area on a river cruise – A multi purpose room with daily events and nightly entertainment, dancing, high tea or just relax.
Spacious dining room with spectacular views as you dine. An ‘open” sitting concept allows clients to eat where they wish and with whom each and every night. Although dinner time is normally a set time frame, the dining room is large enough to handle everyone. Tables are configured from 2 – 8 and large groups can request a larger table however reserving tables are not allowed on most ships. Attire is casual but no jeans allowed in the evening. Men are not required to wear a suit & tie however will wear a sports jacket. One evening during a 7 day cruise the Captain will host the “Captains” dinner and most men will wear a sport jacket (no tie) and ladies a nice dress (not formal) or pant suit.
Just another shot of a typical dining room onboard allowing you to see the openness and views while dining.
Classic, Gourmet Cuisine Enjoy sumptuous breakfasts and wonderful lunches and dinners, created by European and celebrity chefs. Menus combine regional specialties with American fare to delight the most discriminating palate. While meals are casual, open-seating affairs, the atmosphere is always elegant & the scenery ever changing.
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 regional wines as you share your discoveries and highlights of the day with your new friends and traveling companions. Most but not all River Cruises include house wine with dinner (a wine list is provided, should you wish an optional wine at lunch or dinner (additional cost in some cases). 24 hr coffee & tea service Some River Cruises also offer soft drinks and beer
A typical stateroom, with French sliding glass doors. Every stateroom has an “outside” river view, and most windows on the newer ships open to the fresh air. Experience the comfort of hotel-style beds with European linens and duvets, and satellite television with CNN and other programming.
A larger stateroom and normally extra amenties
Although not all river cruises offer all activities like games on the top deck, Spa, Fitness room, hair salon and in some cases even a small pool, you will find many or all on the newer ships. SPOIL YOURSELF!!
When you book your river cruise its also important to include when possible a 1-3 night pre or post package in your embarkation or disembarkation ports or even a area close by. We have preferred companies that specialize in packages just like this and we can customize to your likes and interests. Whether you wish a private car transfer from the airport directly to the ship, or decide to over-night for 1 or 3 nights, sightseeing or even city tours with suggestions for dinner and shopping we can assist you. Ask one of our Cruise Holidays specialist about our new Customized Vacations desk to assist you are valued clients with pre/post hotel options and customized shore excursions to add value and memories to your vacation.
Spring/ summer or Fall – every time brings special highlights whether it’s the Kerenholf gardens in the spring-time in Holland or the many sights during the summer months. The fall boasts pleasant weather and late fall (end of Nov and Dec) enjoy the Xmas markets. Spring and fall are the most popular as in the summer the weather can be quite warm and also more crowed. There are pro/cons for both spring and summer. Spring has a lot to offer but weather is cooler so guests will not be able to enjoy the out-door decks/hot tubs etc as much. The same for the fall time. However for older clients they may wish the spring or fall as the weather can reach high 80F during the summer months, making walking etc difficult. During the festive season it rarely snows, but a warm jacket/gloves and scarf are needed and warm walking shoes or boots.
Seniors, music & art groups, members like garden or bridge clubs, church groups, Alumni and Wine groups to name a few would love River Cruising. Family reunions, charities or just social gatherings also are key areas you may consider if you are thinking of putting together a group, the list is endless. I would be happy to speak to you future after the presentation or set up an appointment to discuss in more detail.
Do you belong to a group or organization that maybe interested in chartering a River Cruise ship. Do you know approx. 60-70 couples that share a common interest? You may belong to a bridge or garden group, Shiners' or Women's group. It may not be such a stretch. A lot of River cruises that hold 130-160 guests maybe the perfect venue. By chartering the ship the itinerary can be changed as well as on-board features to encompass your groups wishes and desires. Pricing will be attractive and itinerary designed with your needs making it easy to promote. Inclusions can be added into the price that the group may request. I would be happy to assist you with any additional questions you may have.
We are at the end of our presentation but before we finish I would just like to make you aware of a few unexpected pointers. When docking in various port cities/villages things can be get interesting. River boats actually tie up to one another sometimes however not all the time but during the busy season, you may find when you open your window one morning you may be facing directly into another ships cabin – so beware (PJ’s may be a consideration)