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RIVER CRUISE GUIDE 2017
ALL YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SHIPS, CRUISE LINES AND DESTINATIONS
WIN A $3,300 MEKONG CRUISE FOR TWO RCG_001_024.indd 1
MUSIC & WINE TRENDS ON EUROPE’S WATERWAYS
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Win!
5-DAY MEKONG RIVER CRUISE FOR TWO WORTH OVER $3,300* ■ Showcasing the best of rural Cambodia,
Heritage Line’s Serenity Cruise follows the Tonle Sap and Mekong rivers from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh (or vice versa). The journey takes guests through green landscapes and to ancient temples, in absolute comfort aboard either The Jahan or Jayavarman. The itinerary takes in Siem Reap, Kampong Cham, Kampong Tralach, Wat Hanchey and Phnom Penh. From Siem Reap, the ship crosses the Tonle Sap (Great Lake), home to an incredible number of fish and variety of birds, and meanders along the Tonle Sap River through the spectacular marshlands of Kampong Chhnang province.
Every day begins with a tai chi lesson on the sun deck at sunrise. Days are spent cruising past wetlands, floating houses and fish farms as well as land excursions to see Khmer-styled pottery, join an ox-cart rally and visit ancient temples, including Wat Hanchey. The eighth-century temple sits on a hill overlooking the river, offering one of the most breathtaking views in Cambodia. In Phnom Penh, sightseeing includes the Killing Fields and S21 Genocide Museum – stark reminders of the genocide of the Khmer Rouge, as well as the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and the National Museum. For more information on Heritage Line, see heritage-line.com
HOW TO ENTER Go to cruisepassenger.com.au/competitions and tell us in 25 words or less why you want to cruise through Cambodia. The prize includes a four-night Serenity Cruise for two people on The Jahan or Jayavarman in a Superior Double Cabin, valued at more than $3,300*. * The prize must be used between June and September 2017. Terms and conditions apply. See cruisepassenger.com.au/competitions
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WELCOME The MS AmaReina
New ships and even more shore excursions ■ Like its ocean counterparts, river cruising has evolved in the past 12 months. An array of new ships and shore excursions in Asia, Europe and South and North America means there is even more on offer for those who love to explore the inland waterways of our planet. Our annual guide looks this year at the growing trend towards experiences on shore – a vital part of river-cruise travel, since the land is so close. The appeal of Europe’s waterways is that you can see many countries, experience many cultures and return each evening to your cabin and enjoy fine dining and incredible service. Your luxury hotel takes the journey with you. Australia has led the way in river cruising. Brands such as APT and Scenic – an incredible 30 years old this year – have created new ship designs and pioneered experiences. Both deservedly won accolades in our Cruise Passenger Readers’ Choice awards this year. But 2016 hasn’t been easy. The havoc wreaked by terrorist attacks in France led to US cancellations. The terror attacks in Paris last November took place just as the booking season was about to get underway. Suicide bombings in Brussels in March took the wind out of some of the recovery river cruise lines were just beginning to feel post-Paris. Then, high waters on France’s Seine River made headlines in late May and early June, adding to the river-cruise lines’ woes. We are pleased to note that Scenic has partnered with an insurance firm to offer all guests a River Cruising Travel Guarantee starting in 2017. The insurance plan automatically covers every guest on the commencement of their cruise for any delays or cancellations due to weather, natural disasters, mechanical breakdowns or labour strikes. While the Cruise Lines International Association has yet to announce Australia’s river cruise passenger numbers, their 2015 figures were at an all-time high. The growth in Asia, where many Australian lines are launching new vessels, can only push the figures higher. Adventure, expedition, new itineraries and new lines such as Crystal seem certain to continue the rise of river cruising in the years to come.
Peter Lynch
Publisher, Cruise Passenger
Contents
10 FEATURES
4 River cruise trends 6 Themed cruises 8 Bordeaux 10 Rhine & Moselle 6 RIVER CRUISE LINES
12 APT 14 Captain Cook Cruises 16 CroisiEurope 18 Travelmarvel 20 Uniworld 22 Victoria
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RIVER CRUISE GUIDE
River cruise goes ultra luxe
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Take me to the river
Whether you want to explore European rivers in a new level of luxury, strike out somewhere new or take the kids along, you’ll be spoilt for choice in 2017, writes Lucy Jones.
iver ships, particularly in Europe, tend to be fairly standardised. The locks and bridges restrict the size of the vessels and most lines stick to the same cabin configuration and fit out. In 2017, ultra-luxury ocean cruise line Crystal Cruises is expanding into the rivers with four new purpose built ships joining Crystal Mozart, a refitted vessel launched in 2016. The ships will carry fewer passengers than similar vessels in all-suite accommodation, there will be butler service for every suite and guests will be free to dine wherever and whenever they like. The ships will raise the bar for European river cruising and we expect the rest of the industry to follow suit.
Keeping it in the family
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amilies with young children are usually advised to steer clear of river cruising – there are no waterslides or kids’ clubs to keep them entertained, dining options are limited and more formal, and there won’t be any other children for them to play with. That’s all about to change. For 2017, many lines, including AmaWaterways (in partnership with Disney), Uniworld, Pandaw and Tauck, will be offering dedicated family departures designed specifically to appeal to multi-generational travellers. Ships have been updated to feature larger or interconnecting cabins for family groups and itineraries have been adapted to include more kid-friendly destinations and activities.
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TRENDS
The new generation
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s a general rule, the age bracket of river cruisers tends to skew higher than their ocean counterparts. But from 2017, expect to see a younger demographic hopping aboard. A number of factors are behind the shift, such as the rise of more adventurous destinations, shorter itineraries and more active excursions. River ships are now likely to have a fleet of bicycles on board for shore tours, rather than only offering the standard car/coach option. As US agent Ruth Turpin of Cruises Etc told Luxury Travel Advisor: “Today’s river cruising isn’t your mother’s old ‘sit around in a rocking chair’ kind of cruise”.
In search of new rivers
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ith the European waterways wellstocked with boats and new vessels launching on Asia’s larger rivers every month, river cruise lines are looking to expand to new destinations. The US has emerged as one of the most promising new hot spots. The new, luxurious French America Line has begun sailing the 150-passenger Louisiane along the Mississippi River from New Orleans. Further ahead, Viking River Cruises, a huge name in European cruising, will launch a ship in the US in 2018 and plans to have three ships based there by 2020. India is also emerging as Asia’s new darling, with new itineraries from Uniworld, TravelMarvel, Pandaw and Assam Bengal Navigation sailing on the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers.
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Good things, small packages
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egular river cruise not intimate enough for you? Then you’re in luck – barge cruising is getting a stylish upgrade for 2017. It is already the fastest growing sector of river cruising, though traditionally it’s been seen as a bit daggy. Belmond is about to launch two luxurious barges as part of its Afloat In France fleet, Pivoine (peony) and Lilas (lilac). The barges will accommodate eight passengers in four suites and have an open deck designed to evoke a floating garden, with a swimming pool and plenty of greenery. Both will sail through the Alsace and Champagne regions of France on six-night cruises with prices starting from €5,200 ($8,591) per person.
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fancy
A little of what you Jazz in Burgundy, kayaking on Venice’s lagoon and onboard concerts are just a few of the diverse activities on offer next year on river cruises. Sally Macmillan reports. MUSIC AND MOVEMENT Orchestra While Europe is steeped in musical history and offers a variety of music-themed river cruises, it’s unusual to find the Irrawaddy River hosting classical French musicians. In February 2017, the new, 42-passenger The Strand Cruise, is offering a four-night musical cruise from Bagan to Mandalay. An eight-piece orchestra will perform a series of intimate concerts in exotic riverside settings, presented by bilingual
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French music expert Elsa Boublil. thestrandcruise.com Classical Tauck’s 12-day Magical Music Along the Blue Danube cruise from Budapest to Prague follows the footsteps of musical luminaries such as Mozart,
Beethoven, Bartók, Schubert, Liszt, Strauss and Haydn. Tauck’s “maestros” – performers and scholars – will host excursions in cities where the musical greats lived, worked and played, and hold musical seminars on the ship, either MS Savor or MS Joy. Highlights include sitting in on an orchestra rehearsal at Vienna’s Auersperg Palace and an evening of ballet, Mozart and dinner at the beautifully baroque Palais Pallavicini. tauck.com.au Jazz Music is at the heart of Avalon Waterways’ 11-day Burgundy and Provence cruise next June. There will be onboard performances and the chance to visit the Vienne Jazz Festival – an annual event that started in 1981 and attracts international and regional jazz performers. avalonwaterways.com.au
CONNOISSEUR’S CHOICE Wine There’s an abundance of river cruises that include food and wine experiences but some are specifically tailored for connoisseurs. APT launched its popular Wine Series last year
and is offering four more in 2017. Australian wine experts Scott McWilliam of McWilliam’s Family Winemakers, Peter Barry from Jim Barry Wines, Cherry Stowman from Taylors Wines and Bruce Tyrrell of Tyrell’s Wines will accompany different cruises in Europe between July and November. They will lead vineyard tours, host onboard tastings and dinners, and present seminars on traditional European wine-making. aptouring.com.au
Cooking Catering to the enormous appetite for culinary schools on cruise ships, Scenic is introducing Scenic Culinaire on its Bordeaux and Rhône itineraries in 2017. Passengers can learn the finer points of French gastronomy in hands-on classes led by expert instructors,
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THEMED CRUISES using local ingredients to produce regional dishes. Scenic Culinaire will run classes for 10 several times on each cruise. scenic.com.au Beer Avalon Waterways has two beer-themed cruises, in April and July. Highlights of the 13-day Budapest to Prague itinerary include a beer and snack in one of Germany’s oldest restaurants, the 17th-century Historische Wurstkuche (Old Sausage Kitchen). German beers will be tasted and discussed on board. avalonwaterways.com.au
ON YOUR BIKE (OR CANOE) Active Most river cruises now include cycling tours, but if you’re looking for more challenging ways to explore ashore, there’s a lot more choice in 2017. Avalon
Main, offering adventurous excursions for luxury lovers. As well as helicopter flights there will be an off-road driving course at the Volkswagen plant in Bratislava and lessons in the sport of Bavarian curling. crystalcruises.com Waterways’ new “Active Discovery” cruises are upping the pace with activities such as hiking, jogging, cycling and canoeing on its nine-day Danube itineraries. avalonwaterways.com.au Off-beat Uniworld’s Go Active itineraries have been designed to appeal to the increasing number of younger cruisers the line is attracting. But whatever your age, you can go gondolarowing and kayaking on the Venetian Lagoon, take Segway rides in Vienna’s Prater Park or go white-water rafting on the River Ilz in Germany’s Bavarian Forest. uniworld.com/au Luxury Crystal River Cruises’ lavishly refurbished Crystal Mozart and upcoming new builds Crystal Bach and Crystal Mahler will sail the Danube, Rhine and
EXPLORING THE PAST History For a more in-depth perspective of specific historical eras, there are cruises that explore World War II history in France and Jewish history in Germany. Next year Uniworld is celebrating the 300th anniversary of the birth of Austrian Archduchess Maria Theresa, the namesake of its stately ship S.S. Maria Theresa. There will be special events on board and ashore on the eightday Danube cruises between Budapest and Passau. uniworld.com/au WWII Avalon Waterways has two WWII-themed cruises next July, an eight-day round trip from Paris and a 16-day Paris to Cote d’Azure itinerary. Both feature full-day excursions to Normandy’s landing
beaches and onboard lectures by the line’s WWII historian. avalonwaterways.com.au Jewish Heritage Uniworld’s Jewish Heritage 10-day cruises sail between Munich and Cologne, visiting important sites of medieval, WWII and modern Jewish history. Tours of magnificent synagogues, Jewish cemeteries and museums are led by local experts
and are complemented by onboard lectures. There will be heartbreaking moments in places such as the Dachau Concentration Camp Memorial and fascinating insights into Jewish history at the former Rothschild palace in Frankfurt; this itinerary promises to be memorable for history buffs of all persuasions, not just Jewish.
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Go with the flow Sue Bryant sips her way along three waterways through France’s beautiful, wine-filled Bordeaux region.
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here’s a vineyard in the arrivals area at Bordeaux airport. I’m not sure how pure its produce is, given that it’s at an airport, but its spindly vines are certainly a clue that you’re entering one of France’s most prestigious wine-growing regions. I’m on the first voyage of APT’s new program out of Bordeaux, in south-west France, to sail three waterways (the Garonne, the Dordogne and the Gironde estuary) and drink wine. River cruising here is a relatively new phenomenon. Although this region is spectacularly beautiful and packed with historic and gastronomic interest, the estuary and rivers are heavily tidal and tricky to navigate, and there aren’t many docking spots. Four years ago, there was one cruise line here and now there are six, most recently APT, which has chartered AmaWaterways’ AmaDolce to offer week-long cruises packed
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with experiences – and wine. This is a different kind of river cruising to itineraries offered on the Rhine or the Danube. Distances are short, so there’s little time spent actually sailing. Nor is there much dramatic scenery away from those endless vineyards, just salty marshes, fishing huts on spindly stilts and wooded banks punctuated by the occasional hamlet. The waterways are broad and the skies enormous, the scent of the Atlantic on the breeze. European spring, it turns out, is a magical time to travel. The countryside is soft and green, the vines are bursting into leaf and meadows are covered in a fuzz of mauve and white wildflowers. In between wine estates are magnificent oak forests, which provide wood for the barrel-making industry and where, in season, dogs forage for truffles and locals hunt wild boar. One of APT’s distinguishing features is the choice of excursions it includes
CRUISE LINE: APT VESSEL: AmaDolce LAUNCHED: 2009 RATING: 4.5 LENGTH: 110 metres PASSENGER DECKS: 4 PASSENGER CAPACITY: 148 CREW: 45 FACILITIES: Small gym, massage, library, bicycles, sun deck, Jacuzzi. BOOKINGS: 11-day APT Bordeaux River cruise (including three nights in Paris) is priced from $8,395 per person twin share. See aptouring.com.au
and every day brings a choice of trips to magnificent châteaux and legendary wineproducing towns such as Pauillac and Saint-Emilion. We wander round medieval Bergerac, the setting for Edmond Rostand’s play about the lovelorn Cyrano, who is immortalised in two different statues and a themed pizza in various tourist restaurants. A fantastic food market sprawls through the town centre,
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BORDEAUX
Clockwise from left: Saint-Emilion; wine in the vineyards; Chef’s Table; La Cité du Vin, Bordeaux; Blaye
tables groaning with early-season asparagus and strawberries, creamy goats cheeses and golden Monbazillac wines. We tour the 11th century Château de Cognac, birthplace in 1494 of King Francois I (who built the chateaux of Fontainebleu and Chambord) and home today of Baron Otard Cognac, which sells its finest blend at a whopping €3,850 ($5,500) a bottle. More unusually, some passengers opt for an afternoon at a sturgeon farm where part of the tour is actually catching and holding an enormous, smelly fish. The reward is a caviar tasting. In Blaye, we wander round the hulking, 17th century citadel that dominates the town. There’s a tiny village nestled inside, all hobbit houses set in gardens of fruit trees and orange poppies. One night, we’re all whisked off to the gorgeous Château Pape Clément outside Bordeaux, for dinner
in a pavilion designed by Gustave Eiffel, overlooking a sea of vineyards. Masterminding all this is Emma Leslie, APT’s superb cruise director, who is escorting a group of passengers on this cruise and then for a second week on the Rhône. Along with the choice of tours (not to mention the all-inclusive bar), Emma’s attention to detail is what gives APT the edge. For example, we’ve all been coveting the embossed wooden boxes in which top producers present their wine. One day, a big pile of boxes appears in the ship’s lobby. “You’ve drunk all the wine on board so we thought you might like a souvenir,” jokes David, the ship’s hotel manager. We spend the rest of the week figuring out how to fit the boxes in our luggage. The 148-passenger AmaDolce is a comfortable home, all the more so as we’re a small group of about 50, mainly Australian with a smattering of Brits. The food is
excellent, from rich soups to French classics and an irresistible cheese board, although there aren’t many takers for the frogs’ legs that appear on the lunch buffet one day and I hear a few wisecracks about cane toads. Thoughtful little touches provide a sense of familiarity, like a jar of Vegemite on the breakfast buffet. A green-and-yellow boxing kangaroo flag flies from the foremast, too. “A guest gave it to me as a gift on my last ship,” explains Captain Louis. “I always fly it now when there are Australians on board.” A cruise in this region has two faces: the countryside with all its wine, and Bordeaux itself, sprawling elegantly along a half-moon curve of the Garonne, all magnificent 18th century architecture and hidden squares with street cafes. June saw the opening of La Cité du Vin, a cavernous wine-themed museum that’s changed the city’s skyline. Next year, an extension to the super-fast train line Ligne à Grande Vitesse means Paris will be only two hours away, which will make things easier for Australians doing the popular combination of Paris, Bordeaux and the Rhône cruise. Bordeaux cruising has got off to a flying start – and it’s only going to get better.
THE VERDICT Highs: The Chef’s Table tasting menu, included in the price – don’t miss it. Lows: Relatively little time actually sailing. Best suited to: Wine lovers, Francophiles, groups of friends, couples, over 60s.
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RIVER CRUISE GUIDE
Pearls
OF EUROPE
Six countries, a rich history and dramatic landscapes unfold on a cruise between Basel and Amsterdam. Brian Johnston discovers why the Rhine and Moselle rivers are ideal for novice cruisers.
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s Scenic Pearl pulls away from dock in Basel, Switzerland, passengers mingle on the deck. In no time, green countryside appears as the Rhine points northwards over 700 kilometres towards Amsterdam. Vineyards and gorges, medieval villages and crumbling castles will pass along the way, and you’ll soon realise why this is such a popular river-cruise route. The ship is hardly across the Swiss border into Germany when it stops at Breisach, a lively, bar-filled town topped by a splendid church. From here, a shore excursion takes guests into the Black Forest, lovely enough to keep noses stuck to coach windows as dark forest, plunging gorges and cow-chewed farmland unfold. A short hike is all the excuse we need to indulge in Black Forest cake bursting with cherries and cream. Next day, Scenic Pearl is docked at Kehl, across the Rhine from Strasbourg. The landscape changes to vineyards and geranium-draped houses. Strasbourg is a gorgeous city of canals and a whopping cathedral, surrounded by half-timbered buildings from a book of fairy tales. This change is an indication of the cruise’s variety, and makes it a great choice for rivercruise novices. You board in Switzerland, visit France, Luxembourg and Belgium, and disembark in the Netherlands. From Alps to lowlands, Middle Ages to modernity, there’s always something new and changing. Germany, however, is the core of the journey. You’ll spend a day on excursion in Heidelberg, Germany’s oldest university city, famous for its romantic ruined castle, which tops the old town like a crumbling crown. Later, the ship embarks on perhaps the highlight of this cruise, the Rhine Gorge. The centre of wine production and 10
river trade for centuries, this section of the Rhine is dotted with battlemented towns, rolling vineyards and castles on crags. As the ship cruises through the gorge, passengers use their own Scenic “Tailormade” audio systems to learn about the history and legends of this dramatic region. As Scenic Pearl sails northwards, passengers fall into a pleasant routine of indulgent buffet breakfasts, followed by shore excursions into the surrounding landscape or nearby towns. Some use their Tailormade on self-guided tours at their own pace. Navigating through frequent locks on this most regulated of rivers fascinates many passengers. In the evenings, the ship’s 167 guests are treated to meals such as lobster tail on saffron risotto with snow peas, or herb-encrusted rack of lamb with grilled zucchini. Somehow, there always seems to be room for peach melba or baked Alaska for dessert. The Rhine Gorge ends where the Rhine meets the Moselle at Koblenz, a town flanked by agreeable promenades with views across to Festung Ehrenbreitstein, one of Europe’s largest fortresses. As a special treat, passengers are taken across to the ramparts of the fortress by cable car to enjoy a cocktail with a view. The following days are spent on the Moselle, a smaller, more intimate river with closer views, and villages rather than towns. Vineyards tumble into the water. At Cochem, we visit Reichsburg Castle, high above the town on a bend in the river that is one of Europe’s most romantic spots. The sailing is glorious all the way along the Moselle to flower-filled Bernkastel, where an optional excursion takes passengers to curious little Luxembourg, or alternatively
FACT FILE CRUISE LINE: Scenic VESSEL: Scenic Pearl RATING: 4 LENGTH: 135 metres PASSENGER DECKS: 2 PASSENGER CAPACITY: 167 CREW: 53 ENTERED SERVICE: 2011 FACILITIES: Crystal Dining, River Café, Table la Rive, Panorama Lounge, wellness area, sun deck, walking track. BOOKINGS: 15-day Romantic Rhine & Moselle cruise from Basel to Amsterdam is priced from $8,195 per person twin share. See scenic.com.au
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RHINE & MOSELLE Clockwise: Reichsburg Castle at Cochem; Junior Suite on Scenic Pearl; canal in the old town of Bruges; Bicycles by a canal in Amsterdam
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to Trier, an ancient German city with ruins dating back to Roman times. By journey’s end, Scenic Pearl is gliding through the Netherlands, where the landscape has flattened out and big skies form ever-changing Dutch paintings. It’s a marvel to observe how water management has created this entire landscape, with its locks, dykes and network of canals. A foray into Belgium sees Scenic Pearl anchor in Antwerp, where the day is best spent on an excursion to Bruges. This wonderful town sits on canals with watery vistas towards church spires and medieval clock towers. Horse-drawn carriages clip-clop across the main square, where visitors slurp ice-creams and admire grand buildings. A gala farewell dinner and a hilarious and off-beat evening show from the ship’s crew make for a happy final hurrah. It seems appropriate that Amsterdam, a city defined by water, is the final destination and a fitting end to a great river journey.
THE VERDICT Highs: Roomy cabins and butler service on the ship; and the big variety of sights and landscapes along the way. Lows: There isn’t enough time to see everything in depth, as river cruising leads you ever onwards. You’ll want to sail this route again. Best suited to: Couples aged 40 and above. There are no amenities specifically for children.
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RIVER CRUISE GUIDE
APT LUXURY RIVER CRUISING A luxurious fleet, five-star service and unique experiences ensure an unforgettable journey. DESTINATIONS
Austria, Belgium, Botswana, Bulgaria, Cambodia, China, Croatia, France, India, Luxembourg, Myanmar, Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Serbia, Slovakia, Vietnam
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o cruise through the heartland of Europe, Asia or Africa with APT, the leaders in worldwide luxury river cruising, is to embark on a truly unforgettable departure from the ordinary. With almost 90 years as Australia’s leading travel company, and more than 20 years of experience on the waterways, APT operates its very own fleet of 21 custom-built river ships, two of which have been voted as award-winners by Cruise Passenger readers.
APT’s range of itineraries reflects the company’s commitment to creating flexible, all-inclusive cruising experiences. APT’s extensive fleet of river ships benefit from spacious suite designs, luxurious appointments and amenities, as well as stylish public areas to relax. With many of these ships boasting revolutionary and exclusive Twin-Balconies, featuring a conservatorystyle area complemented by a spacious Outside Balcony, APT
Sample the finest flavours of Europe
BEST FOR
HISTORY & CULTURE
PHOTOGRAPHY
FOOD & WINE
SHOPPING
ADVENTURE
ENTERTAINMENT
CONTACT
APT 1300 278 278 info@aptouring.com.au aptouring.com.au
DINING In Europe, on select ships and suites, choose from up to seven options, including the exclusive Chef’s Table restaurant, while in Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar, enjoy exclusive dining experiences and menus crafted by celebrity chef and APT Ambassador Luke Nguyen. Regardless of the destination, APT provides an incredible range of dining options to suit everyone’s tastes, while taking guests on an indepth culinary journey through each specific region and culture visited.
ACCOMMODATION APT is at the forefront of river ship development, offering the most innovative suites on the world’s most iconic rivers. With many of APT’s ships featuring exclusive twin balcony suites (with a spacious outside balcony as well as a panoramic balcony) and beautifully appointed ensuite bathrooms – APT’s five star floating hotels offer a truly unforgettable cruising experience in luxury and style.
remains the leader in innovative river ship design and style. Your river cruising experience goes beyond the comfort and style of APT’s ships, with locally guided small-group shore excursions and APT’s unique Signature Experiences and Freedom of Choice™ Sightseeing Inclusions ensuring a truly personalised discovery. In addition to this, selected Europe river cruises also feature exclusive Royal Signature Experiences. Indulgent and unforgettable, these include the ultimate imperial rail journey aboard the Majestic Imperator Train, a lavish banquet at Namedy Castle, an incredible private classical concert at City Palace in Vienna, and a private tour and dinner at the 13thcentury Château de Cazeneuve, once home to the Kings of Navarre and later, King Henri IV of France and his wife Queen Margot.
HIGHLIGHTS With APT, you will be treated like royalty from the moment you book, until your safe return home. Your river cruise experience is enhanced by the personal service of APT cruise directors and the exceptional onboard service teams, exclusive Royal Signature Experiences, Freedom of Choice™ Sightseeing inclusions, Signature Experiences, nightly onboard entertainment, onboard bicycles to explore in Europe and a huge range of unique itineraries through the world’s incredible waterways.
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APT The MS AmaReina
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Enjoy exclusive Royal Signature Experiences
VESSELS: 21 river ships PASSENGERS: 106-164 ENTERED SERVICE: 2006 MONTHS OF OPERATION: All year round FACILITIES: Outside of the luxurious suites, APT’s expansive public areas offer the perfect environment for you to take in the ever-changing scenery in absolute comfort. From stylish public lounges to relaxing sun decks with 360-degree views, time onboard your five-star floating hotel is sure to be a holiday highlight in itself. On selected ships you will also enjoy a heated whirlpool, swim-up bar and a fitness centre, as well as a massage and beauty salon offering a range of relaxin g treatments. WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:
• Freedom of Choice™ Sightseeing,
Exclusive Twin Balcony Suites
Signature Experiences and exclusive Royal Signature Experiences • All meals on the cruise • All beverages throughout selected cruises • Small-group shore excursions • All tipping and airport transfers • Entertainment • Port taxes • Private butler service (selected cruises and suite categories)
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RIVER CRUISE GUIDE
CAPTAIN COOK CRUISES Discover the beauty of the Murray River on the modern and romantic paddlewheeler, PS Murray Princess.
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urray Princess replicates paddlewheelers that first cruised the Murray in the 1800s and offers three-night Discovery Cruises, four-night Outback Heritage Cruises, seven-night Murraylands and Wildlife Cruises and the new seven-night Upper Murraylands Cruise, starting in April 2017. On all cruises, wildlife lovers can spot a variety of wildlife, including kangaroos, hairynosed wombats and tortoises. Bird watchers will love the
DESTINATIONS
Murray River, South Australia
abundance of native birds. Get up close to bird life and the amazing 20-million-year-old limestone cliffs on the “DragonFly” flat-bottomed boat cruise. Led by on-shore guides, guests can enjoy nature walks, eco-tours and learn about the thriving ecology of the river. Food on Murray Princess is a highlight of the cruise. Guests will enjoy a hearty, hot buffet breakfast each morning, a twocourse or buffet lunch, and a three-course or buffet dinner.
Enjoying a chat with the Captain
BEST FOR
HISTORY & CULTURE
FOOD & WINE
PHOTOGRAPHY
WILDLIFE
CONTACT
Captain Cook Cruises – Murray Princess 1300 729 938 bookings@murrayprincess.com.au murrayprincess.com.au
DINING Dining is an integral part of cruising life. Murray Princess features a single-sitting dining room, which also features a dance floor, small stage, bar and buffet servery. The dining room is accessible by lift or stairs. Menus (both buffet and a la carte) are international and feature local produce, prepared by onboard chefs. All dietary requirements can be catered for.
ACCOMMODATION Murray Princess offers plenty of choice with 60 cabins, including inside and outside cabins and staterooms, each with private ensuite bathroom, air-conditioning, electric blankets, soap, shampoo, towels and daily servicing. Staterooms also have mini-bars, fridges, kettles and Nespresso coffee machines. Inside cabins are located on the lower deck and have portholes facing outside. The outside cabins open onto the outside deck area.
Extend your cruise with options such as a full-day tour of Australia’s richest and bestknown wine region, the Barossa and a two-day tour of iconic Kangaroo Island. All cruises depart Mannum, an 80-minute drive from Adelaide. A complimentary coach transfer is available, and secure car parking is available in Mannum. • 3-night Discovery Cruise (weekly) departs 4.30pm Friday, returns 9am Monday, from $787 • 4-night Outback Heritage Cruise (weekly) departs 4.30pm Monday, returns 9am Friday, from $1,076 • 7-night Murraylands and Wildlife Cruise (twice weekly) departs 4.30pm Monday and Friday, returns 9am Friday and Monday, from $1,605 • 7-night Upper Murraylands Cruise departs selected Fridays from April 21 2017, from $1,902. Prices are per person and based on Early Booking Saver fares.
HIGHLIGHTS • Three-, four- and seven-night cruises • Themed and special-event cruises • History and eco-tours with expert local guides • Cruising on an authentic working paddlewheeler • Onboard entertainer and live music • Bar and two lounges with spectacular two-storey window • Friendly, knowledgeable crew • Historic ports, ancient gorges, big river bends and lush vineyards • Magnificent views from the sun deck
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CAPTAIN COOK CRUISES PS Murray Princess, the largest inland paddlewheeler in the Southern Hemisphere
Relax in the Paddle Wheel Lounge
FACT FILE VESSELS: PS Murray Princess PASSENGERS: 120 ENTERED SERVICE: 1987 MONTHS OF OPERATION: Year-round FACILITIES: Bar and two lounges, spa, sauna & gym, sun deck, dining room, free wi-fi, gift shop, library, lift (Randell, Cadell and Sturt Decks only), guest laundry, 24-hour tea and coffee facilities, tender boats. WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:
• Complimentary return coach transfers
Going through Lock No. 1 at Blanchetown
from Adelaide with return also able to go via Adelaide Airport • Complimentary secure car parking in Mannum • All meals • Guided nature walks and eco excursions • Onboard presentations • Use of spa, sauna and gym • Captain’s Dinner and Dance • Live entertainment • 24-hour self-service tea and coffee bar
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RIVER CRUISE GUIDE
CROISIEUROPE A new generation of stylish paddlewheel vessels. DESTINATIONS
France, Southern Europe (Spain, Portugal, Italy), Northern Europe (Holland, Belgium, Germany, Poland), Central Europe (Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria)
BEST FOR
HISTORY & CULTURE
PHOTOGRAPHY
FOOD & WINE
SHOPPING
ADVENTURE
CONTACT
CroisiEurope (Australia) 1300 276 474 (1300 CROISI) res@croisieurope.com.au cruiseabroad.com.au
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roisiEurope, the longest operating European river company, celebrating 40 years in 2016, is a French family-owned business. From the beginning, its philosophy was to provide affordable four-star cruising at the best price while still including little luxuries and additions you’d expect on board. This has been achieved by controlling everything from building and maintaining its own vessels to the bulk purchase of food and wines. The company has lead the way over many years for all river
cruise operators by regularly opening up new rivers to cruise. For example, in 2015 it built a modern-design paddlewheel vessel to access the shallow waters of the Loire River in France, which cannot be accessed by traditional European river vessels. So successful was this design that another vessel is to be launched in 2016, which will be the first to take guests from Berlin to Prague on the Elbe and Vltava rivers. Currently, its 30 vessels operate on 18 rivers across the European continent, plus nine different French canals.
On offer is a wide range of five- to 12-day itineraries. CroisiEurope is also the leader in combining European cruises on a number of different rivers into a multi-river itinerary, with all transfers and accommodation between cruises included. For 2016, there is a choice of nine combinations. Alternatively, there are short stop-overs in Paris (three nights) or Venice (four nights) where the vessel is moored in the heart of the city. You can either explore the city independently or take short sightseeing cruises offered by the ship. All meals and alcohol are included. CroisiEurope offers a truly international experience and not an Australian experience in Europe. The passenger mix is 45 per cent French with the remainder from Englishspeaking nations and other European countries. English and French are the spoken and written languages on board.
Canal barges Jeanine and Anne-Marie
DINING Dining on board CroisiEurope is a gastronomic delight. You will experience gourmet cuisine prepared by CroisiEurope’s team of French chefs, offering the experience of French haute cuisine, as well as serving local specialities on the rivers each ship cruises. Add to that a range of exquisite French and local wines, all complimentary, and you have a dining experience to reminisce about for years.
ACCOMMODATION Cabins are all fresh and modern due to a yearly refurbishment. A choice of cabins with either a picture window, floor-to-ceiling window or French balcony (on new vessels only) provides optimal light and views. All cabins have individual climate control, TV, private bathrooms with shower and hair dryer.
HIGHLIGHTS Cruising in Europe isn’t just Amsterdam to Budapest. There is now an exciting array of alternate destinations such as Amsterdam to Berlin. As well, you can experience the modern paddlewheeler that has opened up the Loire and also Berlin to Prague on the Elbe. For a truly peaceful and slow-paced experience, a canal barge cruise through Champagne, Burgundy or one of the other five French regions may suit you.
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CROISIEUROPE
Loire Princesse
Dare to compare
MS Lafayette – wake up to this
FACT FILE
Dine in style with a view
VESSELS: 30 European river boats & 7 canal barges PASSENGERS: Canal barges: 20-24. River boats: 96-160 ENTERED SERVICE: Most ships are less than five years old, either new or renovated MONTHS OF OPERATION: 12 FACILITIES: Open sun deck with deck chairs, observation lounge (all weather), library, panoramic dining room, bar lounge with dance floor, boutique, bicycles (on barges only) WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE: • Accommodation • Welcome cocktails • Gourmet French meals • Complimentary wine, spirits, beer & soft drinks all day and with meals • Tea/coffee • Entertainment • Shore excursions with English speaking guides and headsets on packaged cruises • Wi-Fi • Gratuities are not compulsory • Port charges
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RIVER CRUISE GUIDE
TRAVELMARVEL PREMIUM EUROPE RIVER CRUISING Discover Europe in comfort and style with the perfect balance of comprehensive inclusions and free time. DESTINATIONS
Austria, Belgium, Croatia, Czech Republic, Estonia, Finland, France Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Portugal, Russia Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, The Netherlands
BEST FOR
HISTORY & CULTURE
PHOTOGRAPHY
FOOD & WINE
SHOPPING
CONTACT
Travelmarvel 1300 300 036 info@travelmarvel.com.au travelmarvel.com.au
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ravelmarvel invites you towns on your doorstep, you will aboard its premium river be spellbound by what is a truly ships, the Travelmarvel amazing way to travel. Diamond, Travelmarvel Jewel, Travelmarvel also offers Travelmarvel Sapphire, ms unique Insider Experiences, Douro Queen or ms Surikov for which delve deeper into the local a breathtaking discovery of tastes and traditions through Europe’s rich history, culture hand-picked touring activities, and cuisine. On board, you unique special stays and will enjoy service like you have memorable meals that allow you never experienced before, as to experience the real essence of Travelmarvel’s dedicated cruise Europe. These experiences are director and friendly onboard offered at no extra cost and will crew ensure that the service they provide Tour Rüdesheim with a local guide is in itself a holiday highlight for guests. With a perfect balance of included touring and free time, Travelmarvel’s European river cruises have been designed with your enjoyment in mind. While expert local guides will take you to all of the must-see sights and hidden gems, you’ll never feel rushed and will enjoy the freedom and flexibility of exploring more of Europe in your own time. Waking to historic cities and DINING With Travelmarvel, discover why Europe is famous for its fine food and exquisite wine. For the entirety of the cruise, expert chefs use fresh produce to create a range of culinary delights that offer a taste of the cultures and traditions of the region.
ACCOMMODATION The journey is every bit as exciting as the destination, with all ships featuring staterooms and suites, outside balconies, French balconies or picture windows depending on your vessel, and expansive public areas to relax. Offering the ambience and amenities of a premium hotel, everything on board has been designed to enhance the experience and provide impressive views of the ever-changing scenery.
take you to the World Heritagelisted Augustusburg Castle, to the Eiffel Tower for a French dining experience, on a tour through Naschmarkt in Vienna and much more. If you wish to extend your Travelmarvel experience beyond your premium river cruise, there is an extensive range of land journeys you can take advantage of. Extend your stay in the enchanting cities of Paris and Prague, or explore the delights of Eastern Germany. Traverse Europe’s alpine wonderland or journey over to Spain and Portugal. Uncover the iconic art and history of Italy or journey along the Dalmatian Coast and across the Balkans. Whichever fascinating path you choose, Travelmarvel offers incredible value and provides the most pleasurable way to venture across this marvellous continent.
HIGHLIGHTS Just some of the highlights include visiting the home of a local Miltenberg family for coffee and cake, cruising the Amsterdam canals in a glass-top boat, indulging in an authentic Bavarian experience including traditional food, folk music and dance, touring a Viennese food market, visiting Melk Abbey, enjoying a twilight cruise along the Danube and much more.
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TRAVELMARVEL
Travelmarvel Jewel in Durnstein
Fisherman’s Bastion, Budapest
FACT FILE VESSELS: Travelmarvel Jewel, Travelmarvel Diamond, Travelmarvel Sapphire, ms Douro Queen, ms Surikov PASSENGERS: 130-170 ENTERED SERVICE: 2010 OVERALL MONTHS OF OPERATION: March-October and December FACILITIES*: French balconies in the majority of staterooms, 360-degree view sun deck, stylish lounge and bar, fitness centre, hair salon, 24-hour reception, 24-hour tea and coffee bar, onboard bicycles. (*Not all listed facilities are on all ships) WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:
• All meals on cruise including four-course dinners
• Wine, beer and soft drinks with all onboard lunches and dinners on selected itineraries
• Small-group shore excursions with local guides
French Balcony Stateroom
Dine in style with a view
• Onboard entertainment • All port taxes, airport transfers & gratuities • Onboard Wi-Fi
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RIVER CRUISE GUIDE
UNIWORLD BOUTIQUE RIVER CRUISE COLLECTION The world’s only authentic boutique cruise line offers itineraries to suit every traveller. DESTINATIONS
Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cambodia, China, Czech Republic, Egypt, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Italy, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Serbia, Slovakia, Switzerland, The Netherlands, Vietnam
U
niworld Boutique River Cruise Collection, the world’s only authentic boutique cruise line, offers expertly planned itineraries with something to entice every traveller. From the rivers of Europe and Russia to the more exotic destinations of India, Cambodia, Vietnam, China and Egypt, Uniworld’s cruises and cruise/tours provide an intimate and up-close view of some of the world’s oldest civilisations.
With the motto “no request too large, no detail too small”, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises is the leader of luxury river cruising in Europe, offering an all-inclusive holiday experience. Cruising Europe’s greatest rivers in comfort and luxury, you will receive the highest standards of excellence in expertise, impeccable service, unique and one-of-a-kind luxury ships, exquisite cuisine, and a choice of innovative, and personalised shore excursions.
Castelo Rodrigo
BEST FOR
HISTORY & CULTURE
PHOTOGRAPHY
FOOD & WINE
SHOPPING
ADVENTURE
FAMILY
CONTACT
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises 1300 780 231 clients@uniworldcruises.com.au uniworld.com
DINING Uniworld’s farm-to-table philosophy ensures chefs are working with the freshest, highestquality local ingredients, bringing to life regional and seasonal highlights of the destinations visited. Our menus are designed to offer a variety of choices including Signature Dishes and Travelling Lite options. All meals are paired with fine local wines selected by our dedicated onboard sommeliers. A variety of dining venues and experiences are also offered.
ACCOMMODATION Each one-of-a-kind, exquisitely appointed Uniworld ship is a floating boutique hotel. Each ship is uniquely designed as its own masterpiece of elegance and sophistication blended perfectly with modern luxuries so guests feel at home. With an average capacity of just 130 guests and the highest staff-to-guest ratio of all river cruise lines, staff go above and beyond to create an extraordinary onboard experience.
Seeking to make river cruising as luxurious and effortless as possible, Uniworld’s all-inclusive European voyages provide guests with unsurpassed convenience as they travel some of the world’s greatest waterways. With the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the river cruise industry (with one staff member to every three guests), Uniworld prides itself on the attention to detail and personalised service our guests receive, assuring their holiday experience will be everything it should be and more. Matching the uniqueness of Uniworld’s ships and service, innovative onshore programs are tailored to suit a range of tastes and desires. With Uniworld exclusive “Choice is Yours”, “Go Active”, “Gentle Walking”, “Village Day” and “Do as the Locals Do” programs, guests will be offered authentic experiences immersing them in the local culture, and will gain an insider’s view of the places visited.
HIGHLIGHTS Uniworld’s innovative onshore programs are designed to offer personalised experiences to suit every guest. Offering freedom of choice and flexibility, “Go Active” options, immersive local experiences and Uniworld exclusive excursions, Uniworld provides experiences to suit all travellers. Uniworld also offers a number of specialty-themed journeys, including the Monarch & Connoisseur Collections, Holiday Season cruises and Generations Family Adventures.
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UNIWORLD BOUTIQUE RIVER CRUISE COLLECTION SS Maria Theresa
FACT FILE
The Van Gogh Lounge Suite
VESSELS: 19 PASSENGERS: Average of 130 guests across the fleet MONTHS OF OPERATION: All year round FACILITIES: Exquisitely appointed riverview staterooms and suites with marble bathrooms, Main Lounge with full-service bar, Captain’s Lounge and Library, restaurant, sun deck with life-sized chess, well-equipped fitness centre, Serenity River Spa, guest laundry, elevator, 24-hour specialty tea and coffee bar, free internet and wi-fi access. WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:
• All meals onboard • Unlimited beverages on board in Europe
• Shore excursions hosted by Englishspeaking local guides
• Gratuities on board and on shore in Europe and Russia
• Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
• Internet and wi-fi access • Scheduled airport transfers on arrival and departure days
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RIVER CRUISE GUIDE
VICTORIA CRUISES Set sail down the Yangtze and experience the wonders of China on one of the world’s great river cruises. DESTINATIONS
China
magical as they appear on postcards. At eight kilometres long, Qutang is the shortest, yet its narrow passage makes for a dramatic pass. In contrast, Xiling is the longest at about 65 kilometres (in fact, it comprises seven gorges) and its features are varied and spectacular. Wu is known for its overall beauty, particularly its forest-covered peaks and sheer cliffs. When you embark on a Victoria Cruises Yangtze River cruise, you will receive a welcome that is warm and friendly.
Three Lesser Gorges
BEST FOR
HISTORY & CULTURE
T
o venture along the mighty Yangtze River aboard one of Victoria Cruises’ luxury vessels is more than a mere river cruise – it’s an experience, a trip of a lifetime. Whether you begin the journey from cosmopolitan Chongqing or Yichang, in the Hubei Province, prepare for a trip filled with treasured moments, where the giant man-made Three Gorges Dam commands almost as much tourist interest as the naturally carved Three Gorges themselves. The Three Gorges – Xiling, Qutang and Wu – are as
PHOTOGRAPHY
Apart from soaking up the atmosphere of the Three Gorges from the privacy of the cabin’s balcony (or from on deck), you will have the chance to explore one of the tributaries in smaller craft. A side trip from Wushan along the Daning River takes groups through the Three Lesser Gorges - Dragon Gate, Misty and Emerald Green. Two popular stops along the main Yangtze are historic Fengdu, known as the “ghost city” and noted for its collection of Buddhist and Taoist temples, and Shibaizhai, a Chinese “architectural gem” - a ninestorey red pavilion which hugs one side of a rocky formation and soars 220 metres. A cover of cloud adds much mystique to the region, with cameras constantly snapping to capture the atmosphere. It all makes for a memorable journey.
FOOD & WINE
CONTACT
Helen Wong’s Tours 1300 788 328 hwtaus@helenwongstours.com helenwongstours.com
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DINING A mix of authentic Chinese cuisine and Western specialties is served during single seating in the Dynasty Dining Room on each ship, with American-style buffet breakfasts, buffet lunches and Chinese banquet-style dinners. Passengers staying in suites and executive deck cabins have access to the à la carte dining area, with more Western-style specialties and à la carte dining arrangements.
ACCOMMODATION Ships feature cabins in four categories: Superior Cabin, Executive Suite, Deluxe Suite and Shangri-La Suite. All cabins are fully air-conditioned and have satellite TV with HBO and CNN broadcasts, and Wi-Fi is available on all ships. All cabins have private balconies for viewing the magnificent scenery, and bathrooms with bathtub and shower.
HIGHLIGHTS Apart from the Three Gorges, explore Yangtze tributaries, notably the Daning River, in smaller vessels. These boats take in the Lesser Three Gorges – Dragon Gate, Misty and Emerald – where monkeys play on the banks and a 2,000-year-old coffin “hangs” from a cliff 50 metres above. Shore excursions to the Fengdu Ghost City or Shibaozhai Temple are other highlights along the Yangtze River.
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VICTORIA CRUISES
Victoria Katarina
FACT FILE VESSELS: Victoria Anna, Victoria Grace, Victoria Jenna, Victoria Katarina, Victoria Lianna, Victoria Sophia, Victoria Selina PASSENGERS: 130-378 ENTERED SERVICE: 1994-2011 OVERALL MONTHS OF OPERATION: Yearround FACILITIES*: Each ship has a full-time Western cruise director and a river guide, full-service bar, laundry, health clinic, fitness room, beauty salon, reading room, safe deposit boxes, shopping boutiques, telephone, internet and fax. WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PRICE:
• Accommodation • Meals • Entertainment • Shore excursions (when booked in Australia)
• Lectures on history and culture, tai chi Well-appointed cabins
Dine in style with a view
lessons, painting and calligraphy lessons
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Cambodia, from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh (or vice versa) on board one of two beautifully appointed river vessels – The Jahan or Jayavarman. Both ships are designed to emulate the glories of a by-gone era. Jayavarman was inspired by a French-Colonial cruise liner, with pastel colours, intricate woodcarving and lacquer paintings. The Jahan evokes the opulent vessels of British India and showcases the talents of local woodworkers and artists. If you’d like to win a Mekong River cruise for two on one of these beautiful river vessels, go to cruisepassenger.com.au/competitions to enter.
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