American Cruise Lines Fall Offerings feature Columbia & Snake, Mississippi, Hudson, Puget Sound & San Juan Islands

American River Cruises is offering fall cruises up New York’s Hudson River

American Cruise Lines (www.americancruiselines.com), operator of the newest riverboats and small cruise ships in the United States, just launched its Fall Cruise Collection, a selection of cruises handpicked to showcase the beautiful 2013 fall season. Cruise itineraries include the Columbia & Snake Rivers, the Upper Mississippi River, Hudson River, and American Cruise Lines’ newly launched itinerary, Puget Sound & San Juan Islands.

Columbia & Snake Rivers: In October of 1805, Lewis and Clark and the Corps of Discovery paddled down the Columbia River on the famous expedition into the West. Today, the autumn colors and migratory wildlife that Meriwether Lewis described in his famous journal are much the same aboard Queen of the West, as it follows their exact route. Autumn is the perfect time to relive the historic expedition and experience the Northwest’s rich tapestry of landscapes and fascinating human endeavors. Featured Dates: October 12, 26

Upper Mississippi River: Autumn time cruising on the Mississippi River is a spectacular time to experience the American Heartland. The upper portion of the river features stunning scenery and quaint historic rivertowns. 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 glide by the colorful display of changing foliage and take in the breathtaking views around every bend of the river. Featured Dates: October 19, 26

Hudson River Fall Foliage: Surrounded by the Catskill Mountains on the western shore and the Taconic and Berkshire Hills to the east, the Hudson is rich in both history and beauty. This popular cruise showcases the bright changing colors and towering mountains for which the Hudson River Valley is so well known. The cities and towns along the way feature some of the most magnificent architecture in America. Featured Dates: October 19, 25

Puget Sound & San Juan Islands: Guests will leave relaxed and rejuvenated after eight days enjoying the delicious crisp autumn air of Puget Sound and the San Juan Islands. In autumn, clear skies and sparkling water offer a powerful contrast with the colorful coast where nestled between Canada’s Vancouver Island and the U.S. mainland are hundreds of islands that are home to a diverse natural wonderland filled with wildlife. Featured Dates: October 12, 19

“The fall season 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 cruise collection showcases one of the most beautiful and anticipated seasons in America with various sailings offered during peak foliage. Each cruise offers an experience unlike any other.”

American Cruise Lines operates the newest fleet of riverboats and small cruise ships in the industry and offers more than 35 itineraries along the rivers and inland waterways of the Pacific Northwest, Alaska, the Mississippi River and the U.S. East Coast, from Maine to Florida. To learn more about American Cruise Lines, visit www.americancruiselines.com or call 800-814-6880, www.facebook.com/americancruiselines or follow at twitter.com/american_cruise.

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Virgin Vacations Has 2-For-1 Offer on November Danube River Cruises Booked by Sept 26

Virgin Vacations has slashed prices on its November Danube River Cruises, with a close-out sale offering two for the price of one when booked by September 26 © 2012 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com

Virgin Vacations has slashed prices on its November Danube River Cruises, with a close-out sale offering two for the price of one when booked by September 26.

Depending on cabin class, prices begin at $799 per person – half off the regular $1,599 per person price on November departures– for an 8 day Nuremberg– Vienna cruise in an upgraded C category outside cabin, or $999 in A Category with French balcony, regularly priced at $1,999 for November.

Travelers can choose from 9 different cruise and land itineraries, ranging from 8 – to 12-days. Longer itineraries also include a stay in Prague and/or Budapest and are priced up to $1,399 ($2,799 regular). Cruises sail between Vienna and either Regensburg or Nuremberg, visiting the small towns and cities situated along the famous Danube River.

Departure dates range from November 8 to 18, depending on itinerary. All prices are per person, based on double occupancy and availability. Air fare is additional.

For details and to book a cruise, visit http://www.virgin-vacations.com/promo/deals/river-cruises/.

 

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AmaWaterways Introduces New Paris & Normandy Itineraries on the Seine River

AmaWaterways has just iintroduced 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.

Celebrating the land of Claude Monet, Victor Hugo and Napoleon Bonaparte, AmaWaterways invites guests to explore the rich history and culture of France with two new 2013 itineraries: Paris & Normandy and The Jewels of France. The Francophile cruises will visit classic French landmarks, enchanting towns and famous wine regions.

“These itineraries take our guests through the heart of France,” said AmaWaterways Founder Rudi Schreiner. “From the design of the French Balconies onboard our ships to the locally-sourced ingredients, menus selections and wines, AmaWaterways combines old-world French charm with a luxury travel experience.”

AmaWaterways’ French cruises highlight the charm of the Seine and Rhone Rivers with visits to Paris, Vernon, Giverny, Rouen, Les Andelys, Conflans, Barcelona, Perpignan, Arles, Avignon, Viviers, Tournon, Vienne, Tréveux and Lyon. The itineraries include shore excursions through Roman ruins and medieval villages, wine tastings at rustic French vintners, expeditions to the famous Normandy beaches and walking tours through some of Europe’s most beautiful cities and picturesque harbors. AmaWaterways’ new 2013 French cruise itineraries are as follows:

PARIS & NORMANDY – Aboard the AmaLegro, the seven-night Seine River cruise will travel through Europe’s enchanting cities of Vernon, Rouen, Les Andelys and Conflans before returning to Paris. Excursions include visits to the village of Giverny, where Monet lived for 43 years and tours of Honfleur, a charming French harbor town made famous from artist’s paintings. Passengers will say “Oui” to a stroll through Rouen, the historic capital of Normandy, followed by an unforgettable excursion to the famous Normandy beaches. Visit the charming town of Les Andelys, home of the impressive Château Gaillard. The trip bodes “au revoir” in the magical city of Paris, where guests will spend two nights. North American travelers can book voyages from March 29 – Nov. 8, 2013.

JEWELS OF FRANCE – Combining two of France’s most beautiful rivers, the seven-night Rhone River cruise and the seven-night Seine River cruise showcase Europe’s most charming cities. Starting with 3-nights in Barcelona, passengers will explore Spain’s second largest city. In Arles, France, passengers will board the AmaDagio to cruise through France’s legendary wine regions. Excursions include wine tastings; exploring Roman ruins at Pont du Gard & Uzes and visits to the Renaissance palace in Grignan. Disembarking in Lyon, France, passengers will travel to Paris aboard the high-speed TGV train to embark on a seven-night Seine River cruise aboard the AmaLegro through historic northern France. Passengers will visit charming villages, the French harbors made famous by many artists, the famous Normandy Beaches and the impressive Château Gaillard before returning to Paris. North American travelers can book voyages from March 26 – Oct. 25, 2013.

The AmaLegro and AmaDagio are luxurious cruising experiences featuring spacious staterooms and suites, which range up to 255 sq. feet. Passengers will enjoy Chaîne des Rôtisseurs culinary creations with free-flowing wine, and unforgettable shore excursions that will immerse them in the local culture and history.

In-room furnishings include plush down bedding, a cozy sitting area, flat-panel TV, hair dryer, safe, terry bathrobes, slippers, individually controlled air-conditioning, ample closet space and bottled water replenished daily. The bathroom features a shower with multi-jet shower heads, spa bath and body toiletries and a magnifying mirror. Passengers can stay connected with complimentary Internet & Infotainment System with Hollywood movies. Other amenities include a massage and beauty salon. Special highlights include lectures, themed dinners, cooking demonstrations and onboard music performances. For passengers wanting to explore the serene paths along the rivers, AmaWaterways offers a fleet of bicycles onboard.

To download AmaWaterways’ 2012 and 2013 brochures, and for more information, visit www.amawaterways.com. To book, contact a local travel agent or visit www.amawaterways.com, like on Facebook and follow 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 Rhône 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).

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Avalon Waterways announces new ships, new itineraries for river cruising for 2013; $1000 off ‘Book Now’ deals

Melk Abbey in Austria has a perch above the Danube River is visited on Avalon Waterways' new 'Austrian Highlights & Bavaria" itinerary © 2012 Karen Rubin/news-photos-features.com.

On the heels of announcing two new Suite Ships in Europe and Avalon Choice^SM – an entirely new concept in river cruising – for 2013, Avalon Waterways is also unveiling plans to add five new itineraries (plus a new themed cruise) to its roster of cruise options.

“Our choice cruise options will now include more journeys through northern Holland, Austria, Central Europe and Germany,” said Patrick Clark, managing director of Avalon Waterways. “In addition, we’re giving cruisers the chance to discover the divine tastes and incredible flavors of northern France on a new Culinary Cruise. And, in Asia, we’re adding an exciting new cruise along China’s mighty Yangtze River, aboard two new ships.”

NEW EUROPE CRUISES:

Thanks to increased demand for “passion travel,” Avalon Waterways is expanding its popular wine-, music-, art-, legacy- and holiday-vacations to include a NEW! culinary-themed cruise, 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,” Clark said. “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.”

Another sure-to-be-hit for those interested in cruising Europe is Avalon’s 8-day NEW! Tulips of Northern Holland vacation, priced from $2,449. “Every year, our traditional Tulip Time Cruise sells out,” said Clark. “Now, we’re giving our travelers who love the beauty and history of Holland’s tulips a chance to combine some well-known sights with off the beaten path experiences.”

Originating in Amsterdam, on this itinerary, cruisers will enjoy the region of “North Holland” where tulip fields abound before cruising farther north to the region known as “Friesland,” famous for its black and white cows. They’ll sail across the Ijsselmeer and take a walking tour of the small town of Hoorn. They will also visit the ZuiderZee Museum in Enkhuizen, the Batavia shipyard in Lelystad and a windmill outside the fishing village of Volendam, with even more excursion choices in Arnhem and Rotterdam.

Other new European cruises for Avalon for 2013:

• NEW! Austrian Highlights & Bavaria: On this 9-day cruise vacation, travelers will visit Austria’s capital, Vienna, as well as charming small towns like Melk, Dürnstein and Grein before heading into Germany’s Bavaria. This new vacation also includes time in Munich and a visit to Oberammergau. Priced from $2,579 land/cruise (priced from $1,849 cruise-only).
• NEW! Capitals of Central Europe: With both 10- and 12-day options, this itinerary focuses on Europe’s splendid capital cities – Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest – as well as the many small towns that dot the landscape along the way. Priced from $2,939 land/cruise (priced from $2,299 cruise-only).
• NEW! Highlights of Germany: On this 13-day journey from Munich to Basel, Avalon guests will visit two of King Ludwig’s most famous castles: Newuschwanstein, the inspiration for Sleeping Beauty’s castle, and Linderhof. They will also enjoy a beer tasting in Nuremberg and exploration throughout Regensburg, one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities. Itinerary visits also include UNESCO World Heritage sites in Bamberg and Würzberg. Priced from $4,129 land/cruise (priced from $3,399 cruise-only).

NEW ASIA OFFERINGS:

In 2013, Avalon Waterways is introducing two new ships in Asia – The Century Legend and Century Paragon – and adding a fourth itinerary (a Small Group Discovery vacation): 15-day NEW! Enchanting China & the Yangtze River, priced from $3,629.

According to Clark, on this new itinerary, travelers can experience China in-depth. They’ll visit world-famous sights in Beijing, Xi’an, Lijiang, Shanghai and Hong Kong, including such must-see sites as the Forbidden City, Great Wall, Sacred Way of the Ming Tombs, Terracotta Warriors, Yu Yuan Gardens and Stanley Market. We’re also offering them amazing, immersive experiences such as attending a special cloisonné and lacquer workshops, a noodle-making demonstration, calligraphy class, rickshaw ride through Beijing’s hutongs and a sampan ride on Hong Kong’s harbor.

“In 2013, our travelers can choose from a 4-to 24-day cruise as well as a cruise-only voyage or an extensive cruise-plus-land journey,” said Clark. “We have put together more than 100 cruise package possibilities on the greatest waterways in the world with hundreds of guaranteed departures to fit cruisers’ interests in Europe, Egypt, China, Southeast Asia and the Galápagos Islands.”

DEAL ALERT: Right now, Avalon Waterways is offering travelers a few ways to save on its 2013 cruises including offering up to $1,000 off per couple on “Book Now Sailings” as well as an early airfare price guarantee for Europe sailings. For details, click here.

To book an Avalon Waterways vacation or request brochures visit a preferred travel agent or by calling 877.380.1535. For more information,  visit www.avalonwaterways.com.

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WLCVacations Debuts Artisan Food Trails Cruise in Ireland Aboard Luxury River Barge Shannon Princess

To mark St. Patrick’s Day, WLCVacations debuts the Artisan Food Trails cruise in Ireland aboard luxury river barge, Shannon Princess. Available from April through October, the 7-day program showcases artisan experiences along the fabled River Shannon, as well as the gastronomic delights of the region with onboard cooking demonstrations.

“This extraordinary cruise will offer guests to the chance to immerse themselves in the rich flavors of the country, all while taking in the breathtaking scenery along the tranquil waters of the River Shannon,” says Ana Valente, president of WLCVacations.

The 10-passenger Shannon Princess will journey roundtrip from Dublin through rolling green hills and exotic wildlife, passing by crumbling ivy-covered ruins, ancient Celtic monasteries and sleepy market villages. The program will feature shore visits to local cheese makers, smoke houses, artisan bakers, farmers markets and more. Among the new experiences scheduled include

Sampling fresh oysters from Galway Bay’s oyster beds

Strolling through Portumna Castle’s Kitchen Garden where Shannon Princess’s Chef stocks up her galley

Indulging in award-winning Wilde Team’s chocolate in Tuamgraney

Touring a family-run organic goat farm in Athlone Town specializing in cow’s milk cheeses

Onboard, passengers will be treated to a unique taste of Ireland with Master Chef Olivia’s signature meals. All carefully-crafted meals are prepared with natural ingredients chosen from local producers and country markets along the Shannon. In addition, guests will have the opportunity to concoct the dishes themselves by participating in the chef’s private seasonal foraging and cooking lessons. Prices for the cruise start at $3,888 per person.

For more information on the Artisan Food Trails cruise aboard Shannon Princess, visit www.WLCVacations.com.

See also:

Barging through Burgundy: A visit to Chagny Market and slideshow

Barging through Burgundy, Day 2: Chateau de Rully and slideshow

Barging through Burgundy, Day 3: Hotel-Dieu, Beaune and slideshow

Barging Through Burgundy, Day 4: Clos de Vougeot, ‘mother church’ of wine and slideshow

Barging through Burgundy, Day 5-6: Walking Tour of Dijon’s Old City and slideshow

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WLC Vacations River Cruise Company Promotes Family Cruising to Europe, Galapagos

A river cruise of Europe’s important cities may be one of the fantasy trips you might think to put off until you are an “empty-nester” and the kids are off on their own, but now, such experiences are being tailored for families.

World Luxury Cruise Vacations (WLCVacations) is now offering a variety of family cruises – essentially, introducing special activities into the itinerary that are engaging to young travelers.

“Experiencing a vacation with family can be one of the best ways to learn about each other and make life long memories,” says Jean-Francois Dabrowski, co-founder of World Luxury Cruise Vacations and France Cruises. “WLCVacations recommends trying a riverboat cruise. These cruises can be conveniently tailored to any family, making vacationing a breeze. And there are always many activities to keep everyone completely satisfied.”

For example, Dabrowski is recommending families consider the Castles Along the Rhine cruise aboard the magnificent River Ambassador. This package includes the seven-night cruise in a river-view stateroom; a children’s walking tour in Koblenz with characters, a scavenger hunt and an ice cream treat; a visit to the Technik Museum in Speyer with more than 3,000 exhibits, including walk-in exhibits of aircrafts and a German submarine; a visit to the Siegfried Mechanical Music Museum in Rudesheim, showcasing a collection of mechanical musical instruments; a visit to the Chocolate Factory Museum in Cologne; an onboard cooking class with the pastry chef where kids can make their own desserts; a ship tour for the children and family members with the captain; games, movies and a playroom with a PlayStation; and German language classes onboard. Prices for this 7 day cruise start at $1,899 per person (50% off for all children 4 – 18 on the European cruises)

An optional excursion to Europa-Park, a theme park in rust, Germany, can be purchased onboard. The excursion departs from Strasbourg.

WLCVacations has partnered with Metropolitan Touring to promote the new Young Pirates program to the Galapagos. This program is for young Galapagos Explorers between ages 7 to 12 years old.  It showcases a fun and exciting way of absorbing Galapagos kids’ style. Children enjoy specially designed menus and earlier dinner hours. The chefs and kitchen staff have created a “kids’ continental breakfast” with Galápagos muffins, fruit yogurt, orange juice and chocolate milk, and for dinners a choice of meals children all over the world enjoy, such as hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken nuggets and fish and chips, plus vegetarian options. The children are provided a Journal of Expedition and Young Pirates booklet. Activities will include bracelet weaving, molding with play-dough and bead necklace making, coloring (Multicolored Ecuador and Galapagos: Discover it and Paint it), Ecuamemory cards, maps (Where am I?), animal puzzles, Galapagos videos and movies for children, treasure hunts, Galapagos trivia, reading time, stargazing and conversations (What have I learned?).

Prices for the Santa Cruz 3 Night Galapagos Islands Cruise start at $1,500 per person; prices for the Isabela II 4 Night Galapagos Cruise start at $2,143 per person; prices for the La Pinta 7 Night Luxury Galapagos Islands Cruise start at $4,656 per adult, with 50% charged for the first child and the second child goes free.

Also, a cruise aboard the canal barge Magna Carta can be customized for any family. This program is distinguished by an onboard chef who prepares meals according to the tastes of the family. There are always many activities to keep everyone’s interest. Adults can relax in peace and quiet with coffee and liqueurs while a few feet away, children may find themselves steering the vessel along a tree-lined canal, perhaps in the barge jacuzzi or biking together. Ashore, in addition to traditional cultural visits, families can arrange for horse riding, water sports, tennis and many other activities. Child equipment such as high-chairs, car seats, child bike seats, travel cots, children’s bicycles and more are available on request at no extra cost. Prices for this 6 day cruise start at $3,800 per adult, 50% less for children.

Complete details and prices for these cruises and more can be found at www.WLCVacations.com and www.FranceCruises.com.

World Luxury Cruise Vacations (WLCVacations), founded in 2008, is a global business model approach to luxury canal and riverboat cruises that was initiated nearly a decade ago by industry leader France Cruises (FranceCruises.com). The founders, Jean F. Dabrowski and Ana P. Valente, have traveled on ships throughout the world to bring tailored, in-depth research to their clientele. Since 2000, they have created and customized tours and cruises in Europe to meet the needs of sophisticated travelers who expect the best. Now the team applies its expertise by launching WLCVacations, offering unparalleled, personalized service combined with magnificent itineraries on the fascinating waterways of the world.

Visit www.wlcvacations.com, 877 579 SHIP (7447), or email: info@wlcvacations.com

–Karen Rubin, Travel Features Syndicate

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