Discover why the road best traveled in Europe...is a river. Whether you've been to Europe once or a dozen times, a Grand River Cruise takes you through the timeless beauty of Europe in a way you've never seen before.
Our ships are custom-built for your maximum comfort and scenic viewing. We sail along the historic waterways of Europe and dock in the heart of the quaintest villages and grandest cities. Arrive rested and ready to spend more time in each destination.
Join us on a Grand River Cruise and let us take you to the most captivating places in the world...in a manner of unequaled personal attention and comfort. We know once you've experienced a Grand River Cruise, you'll never want to travel any other way again.
| 2008
European River Cruises |
|
Rhine, Moselle, Danube, and Main Grand River Cruises
From the complex network of canals crisscrossing the Netherlands and Belgium to the Rhine and Danube Rivers, along with their famous tributaries, the Moselle and the Main, and all the way to the Black Sea, you’ll enjoy scenery as varied and spectacular as the countries you’ll visit...
The colorful landscapes surrounding the charming Belgian and Dutch canals and the imposing castles and steeped-terraced vineyards found along the riverbanks of the Rhine and Moselle as you travel through Germany. The engineering marvel of the Main-Danube Canal connecting the Rhine to the majestic Danube, crowned with hilltop villages, grand cities, and the lush vineyards of the Wachau Valley, and the awe-inspiring Iron Gate Gorge that you sail through to reach the Black Sea.
These legendary rivers and waterways have shaped the history, culture and economy of Europe for thousands of years. Now they will help shape your vacation experience, giving you an intimate and up-close view at how life once was lived in Europe’s sophisticated cities and tiny villages. Travel through the heart of Europe and be prepared to be amazed as history unfolds before your eyes.
|
France Grand River Cruises
France awaits your arrival! From the beaches of Normandy all the way to the Mediterranean Sea and to the heart of France—Paris—you’ll discover joie de vivre is not just a phrase, but a way of life.
Cruise along the Rhône and Saône Rivers from the South of France’s Mediterranean landscapes, through the heart of Provence to the bountiful vineyards of Burgundy. All along the way, you’ll be inspired the way countless artists have for centuries. Think of Van Gogh’s sunflowers or Cezanne’s immortal landscapes. Become entranced by beautiful and culturally enriching cities and quaint, tiny villages.
Or sail along the Seine River from Paris to Normandy and back, and mix romance with nostalgia. You’ll get a unique perspective of Paris, the romantic “City of Lights,” from your cruise ship as the river goes through the middle of the city. Famous sights such as the Eiffel Tower can be viewed from your ship’s deck, and in the evening, many of the city’s buildings, including the Louvre, are beautifully lit. Breathtaking scenery, captivating views and enchanting surroundings are plentiful as you sail north to Le Havre for a nostalgic visit to the beaches of Normandy. And all along the way, uncover why the amazing natural light and lush landscapes have attracted Impressionist artists such as the great Monet.
And for unforgettable an adventure, combine Burgundy and Provence with Paris and Normandy for one Grand France Cruise.
|
Portugal and Spain Grand River Cruises
|
Over the centuries, the Douro River has carved a spectacular and scenic valley endowed with panoramas stretching from stately Porto, in Portugal's center of port wine production, to Spain. And it is the Douro that has been the lifeblood of the region, providing a rich abundance of fruits, olives and grapes, as well as serving as a highway for travelers and for transporting casks of Portugal’s most famous export, Port wine.
Now, you have the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque Douro River, one of Europe's most unspoiled rivers, with its fertile slopes of vineyards, and tiny white villages clinging to the hillsides. Discover a world where nature and architecture stand in perfect harmony. Enjoy the warmth that is characteristic of the friendly faces that will greet you along the way.
Travel onboard the lovely and intimate Douro Queen, the most luxurious and newest ship on the Douro River. Spacious lounges and guest areas offer an elegant and comfortable atmosphere. The Sun Deck provides the perfect spot to enjoy the gorgeous scenery or take a dip in the swimming pool and two whirlpools, an exclusive Douro Queen amenity. Staterooms are outside facing, and are well-appointed with a private bathroom and shower, ample closet space, hotel-style beds, TV with local channels, and individually-controlled air conditioning and heating.
Celebrate the region in comfort and style, and enjoy the tantalizing foods and extensive wines, all while being transported back in time to a land untouched by time.
|
|
Holiday Grand River Cruises
Once upon a time, in 1434, the very first Christkindlesmarkt, Christmas Market, in Dresden, Germany officially began. People from all over the town came on Christmas Eve day to buy their holiday roasts. Then in 1471, the city of Dresden did something very special that would forever change the Christmas Market—they gave stollen, a German Christmas cake, to the poor. From that time forward, Christmas Markets flourished all over Germany.
Experience Germany’s Christmas Markets, along with the Christmas Markets in surrounding countries – Austria, France, Hungary, Slovakia, and Switzerland – and as you do, you’ll discover each country’s own unique “once upon a time” holiday traditions.
Visit Nuremberg's Christkindlesmarkt, the most famous Christmas Market in Germany. Marvel at the small clay figurines that represent the people of a typical village—the butcher, the baker, the candlestick maker—while in Linz. Take a sleigh ride through the Bavarian Forest, and waltz in the New Year in Vienna. These are just a few of the places we’ll escort you to.
Come with us to experience how the Europeans have been celebrating the holidays for centuries, and how you will want to celebrate them for years to come. Choose from four magical itineraries visiting the celebrated Christmas Markets in Austria, France, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia, and Switzerland. Plus, sprinkle a little extra magic into your holidays with a pre- or post-optional extension to some of Europe’s grandest cities.
|
|
