Europe’s Danube River with Cruise West – July 16, 2009 – Chairman’s Cruise

Introducing Cruise West’s newest trip of a lifetime on the picturesque, historic Danube River. Leisurely cruise the medieval trade route between Vienna and Bucharest winding along forested mountains, beautiful landscapes, rich farmlands and the narrow gorge of the Iron Gate. Enter the heart of famous old cities, see fairytale castles, Gothic cathedrals, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and Old World villages changed little over time. Experience the romance, culture, architecture and history of this important transportation corridor.

Chairman’s Cruise - On July 16, 2009, join Cruise West Chairman Dick West and his family on the inaugural voyage on the Danube River. This 10-night cruise aboard the newly built 148-guest M/S Amadeus Diamond travels from Vienna to Bucharest, visiting UNESCO World Heritage Sites, medieval towns, inspiring cities and picturesque landscapes.


Vienna, Austria
Arrive in Vienna and transfer to the ship for welcome cocktails and dinner. Overnight aboard the MS Amadeus Diamond in the Vienna harbor. D

Vienna
Take a city tour of the heart of old Vienna, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Head back to the ship to enjoy lunch onboard. The afternoon is at your leisure to discover more of Vienna on your own. Prior to embarkation your Danube River mood is set by a classical music performance onboard. BLD

Budapest, Hungary
Take a city tour of Budapest, the “Queen of the Danube,” including the castle district. The afternoon is at your leisure. Depart in the evening as you experience the beauty and lights of “Budapest by Night.” BLD

Kalocsa, Hungary
Excursion to the Hungarian Puszta with lunch at a traditional horse farm with horse show entertainment. Your evening entertainment is a Hungarian operetta program onboard. BLD

Osijek, Croatia and the River Drava
Take a city tour of Osijek before touring through the Croatian Danube Basin to visit a famous vineyard near Vukovar where you’ll taste some delightful wines. BLD

Belgrade / Kostolac, Serbia
Your city tour of Belgrade includes a visit to the Kalemegdan Fortress and Museum, housing exhibits of archaeological excavations. Board a bus to Viminacium, a former Roman settlement complete with Roman baths, period attire and a museum. Reboard your ship in Kostolac for an evening of Serbian folk music onboard. BLD

River Cruising
Spend the day cruising the river, passing the famous Iron Gate, the most attractive stretch of the Danube. BLD

Svistov / Rousse, Bulgaria
Today’s excursions are to Veliko Tarnovo with its unique architecture and Arbanassi, known for its Bulgarian National Revival architecture. Travel by bus to Rousse to reboard your ship. In the afternoon cruise to Somova with lectures on the Danube Delta flora and fauna from a specialist. This evening is the Captain's farewell toast and dinner. BLD

Somova / Hirsova, Romania
Take an excursion to the Danube Delta, the best-preserved Delta in Europe and the largest reed bed in the world. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to over 320 species of birds and 45 freshwater fish. Enjoy breakfast at the Nunnery of Saun and lunch at the 5-star Grand Hotel Rex. Take a tour of the historic city and harbor of Constanta. Later this afternoon visit Murfatlar, one of Romania’s best-known wineries for wine tasting. BLD

Hirsova / Bucharest, Romania
Transfer to Bucharest by bus where you’ll overnight. Enjoy lunch and take a city tour of Bucharest, the magnificent boulevards and city center, including a visit to the Patriarchic Church and the Village Museum, one of Europe’s oldest outdoor museums. BLD

Bucharest / Home Transfer to the airport for your return flight home or continue on to your Transylvania Post-Cruise Program. B


July 16th rates subject to availability.

$6,249 per person Category A
$6,549 per person Category AA
$6849 per person Catetory AAA
$7,149 per person Suite

Air fare quotes available upon request. Insurance is highly suggested and based on age at time of travel.