Go with the flow
Picture this: Golden sunlight streaming through the window, and a glass of your favourite European wine in your hand.
Outside, enchanting villages slowly disappear as you glide along the Danube. You’re relaxing on board Travelmarvel’s new river ship after a busy day exploring Hungary’s charming capital, Budapest.
For the next 15 days on your European Gems River Cruise, your hotel sails with you, as you unearth many of Europe’s great cities and quaint towns. Sounds exquisite, doesn’t it?
Why river cruising?
One of the most relaxing ways to explore, river cruising offers travellers a unique perspective of their destination. You’ll wake up in the morning docked close to the action of Europe’s biggest cities including Vienna, Budapest and Amsterdam. On occasion, you’ll open your curtains to the stunning riverside vista of traditional medieval towns.
Gone are the days of elusive sleep and uncomfortable nights sitting on a train. On a river cruise, you’ll unpack once and, with no interior rooms on your river ship, you’ll be rewarded with generous windows and views of the river. For many Suite passengers, you can experience the fresh air through electric slide-down windows that open to a French balcony. What’s more, with little tidal movement, river sailing allows those with less able sea legs to travel much more comfortably. Each morning you can wake refreshed in a new city.
A royal experience
Many local highlights include some of Europe’s most sumptuous castles and royal residences.
Be transported back in time as you waltz through Vienna enjoying city sights like Hofburg Palace, daydream of your life living in the splendour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Augustusburg Castle and discover the fate of King Richard the Lionheart, who was imprisoned in the now ruins of the German Dürnstein Castle.
Indeed, the royal treatment is not only on land – on board, you’ll be treated like kings and queens. You’ll have the finest European food and drink and be privy to onboard experiences like an authentic Bavarian evening, with traditional cuisine and entertainment.
In great hands
As part of the established APT Travel Group, you’ll enjoy peace of mind that you’re well looked after. At each destination you’ll learn from Travelmarvel’s expert tour directors and local guides. While sailing, rest easy knowing that all tipping, transfers and all meals and many drinks are included, so there’s no need to worry about how much you’re spending on board.
We spoke to TV host Kelly Golding about her time on Travelmarvel’s European Gems cruise.
What were your first impressions?
The ship was gorgeous, sparkly new, light-filled, and I was so impressed with the rooms. The French balcony was my favourite feature – you can relax in the privacy of your own room and watch the beauty of Europe from the water. The organised tours are brilliant if you want a guided tour of the cities you visit, like Budapest and Vienna, or you can do your own thing in the time you have allocated.
What was life on board like?
Life on board the ship was so relaxing, but fun. The amenities are so lush and comfortable. Beautiful, full bathrooms in the rooms have the added bonus of great shower pressure. There are views from every corner of the ship, whether you’re relaxing in the lounge, having a lie in, enjoying a drink at the Irish bar, or whiling away a few hours on the top deck taking in the glorious European sunshine.
What was your number one highlight from the cruise?
My number one highlight would be just how relaxing the cruise is, and the excitement I felt when approaching each small European city along the way. Everything is taken care of, and you really are on a floating premium hotel.
Why would you recommend the European Gems River Cruise to RAA members?
If you’re after a relaxing holiday offering a taste of Europe, without having to unpack at each destination, this is for you. Serene, picturesque, informed guided tours and enough activity without it being overwhelming, you can look forward to friendly faces greeting you day and night, and having all the cooking taken care of.