Azamara Cruises... Worlds Apart

Some people take a cruise for the ship, others for the destination. See why Azamara is the perfect blend of both.
Running time: 6:55min

$300 US Onboard Credit
Royal Caribbean International

$300 Onboard Credit
Norwegian Cruise Line

Save $400 per Couple
Globus

Discovering Central Europe

While cruise ships call at the sea ports of Europe, you can enjoy a river cruise while discovering Central Europe.

The many rivers of the continent were once the centre of commerce and transportation. Towns and villages were built along the river banks and many buildings were designed to face the water. A river cruise gives you a unique perspective on these historic places. It also lets you visit the leading cities of Paris, Vienna, Berlin, Cologne, Prague, Budapest, Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Basel, Strasbourg and many more.

Our preferred partners, Avalon Waterways, Uniworld and Viking River, offer cruises on the following rivers:

• The Danube in Germany, Austria, Slovalia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania.
• The Rhine in Holland, Germany, France and Switzerland.
• The Moselle, Main and The Main-Danube canal in Germany.
• The Elbe in Germany and the Czech Republic.
• The Seine, Saône and Rhône in France.
• The Douro in Portugal and Spain.
• The Nieuwe Maas, Nederrun, Waal and Schelde in Holland and Belgium.

Good reasons to take a river cruise

Consider the many advantages of seeing Europe by river boat:

• Convenience - unpack once and the river boat is your floating hotel.
• Scenic cruising – Daylight cruising of the most scenic areas is a feature. Around the ships there are plenty of picture windows and open deck space for you to enjoy the passing scenery. Many cabins have large windows or French doors.
• Central locations - In most ports, river boats can dock conveniently downtown allowing passengers to step ashore in the heart of the city at their leisure.
• Outstanding excursions - Informative local guides lead sightseeing tours in each town which are included in the fare. Additional organized excursions are available for purchase. Companies are using Quietvox headsets so tour members can always hear the guide.
• English speaking staff & guides - Tour guides and staff speak English on the cruises offered by Ensemble's preferred partners, Avalon Waterways, Uniworld and Viking River Cruises.
• No motion sickness - There's no problem with motion as you aren't on the open sea and boats are stable.
• Friendly companions - With under 300 passengers, there is a great camaraderie on board. These are very friendly cruises.
• Excellent Value - Packages include pre and post cruise stays in great cities, transfers, port excursions, and complimentary wine with dinner making them great value.

Life on board

What can you expect aboard ship when sailing Europe's rivers? Luxurious surroundings, gourmet meals, quality wine, cabaret entertainment and excellent service. Aboard a river boat you'll be well looked after as you glide serenely from town to town.

See our Cruising article on The Luxurious River Boats of Europe for more on the on board experience.

Sounds inviting doesn't it? Consider taking a river cruise when planning your next vacation to Europe. If you're looking for an easy and convenient way to travel that lets you see a lot of interesting places as well as enjoy the countryside, a river cruise could be just right for you.

By Susan Milne

IMPORTANT: When booking, ask us for the appropriate supplier brochure for complete details and terms and conditions for your vacations and as well inquire about any possible past guest savings. Offers are space available and may be withdrawn at anytime without prior notice and are not combinable with other offers (unless stated otherwise). All prices, details and offers are subject to change. We are not responsible for errors or omissions.

Articles written by Susan Milne.