Tag Archives: Rhine River Cruise

The Northern Dutch City of Hoorn

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Europeanbarging presents Arosa Cruises to Hoorn on the Arosa Flora and Silva

Hoorn is a town in North Holland and was once the capital of West Friesland. It features many beautiful houses from the Golden Age, when the Dutch East India and the West India Companies had offices here. Cape Horn, is the the most southerly point of the Americas and was discovered by Willem Schouten  The cape was named after his home town.  Another famous explorer from Hoorn was Jan Coen, who founded Jakarta in Indonesia.

Dutch City of Hoorn

Enjoy a stroll along the Hoorn Harbor and see the diversity of ships in the harbor. There are some very old sailing vessels that are still sailed today.  As you walk into town there is a fortified gate from 1532 that was originally a defense tower. It was named Hoofdtoren, In front of Hoofdtoren stands a wooden landing made in 1464 named the Houten Hoofd.  In 1651 a bell tower was constructed on top of the tower. The lock to the main harbor dates back to 1778. There are several canals leading from the main town and many shops and bars at the harbor.  Walking along the cobbled and brick streets and along the canals you will find lots of interesting architecture and shops.  While we were in Hoorn there was a world soccer game going on and I think the whole town was in a bar at the harbor so we had the whole town to explore mostly on our own.  Everyone started coming out of the bar as we headed back to our ship and they were in good spirits leading us to think their team won.

Sites of interest include Staten Parliament, built in 1632 and located in the town square – Rode Steen.  It is now the Westfries Museum.  The museum has an extensive collection of paintings, silver objects, porcelain, historic firearms etc. The exhibition of this vast collection covers 25 rooms, one of which is a style-room. In 1953, 15th century cellars were discovered under the building. These cellars are now part of the exhibition for archaeological objects from Hoorn and its surroundings.

St. Jans Gasthuis museum holds temporary exhibits.  Near this museum is  the Bossehuizen  which is a collection of 3 houses built in 1612 and featuring friezes depicting the defeat of the Spanish Admiral Bossu in 1573.

Arosa offers 2 Northern Rhine itineraries that stop in Hoorn. The 7 night Experience the Northern Rhine cruising Holland and Belgium, and  the 9 night Experience the Rhine and the Sea, which cruises northern Holland as well and Holland and Belgium.  April departures on these North Rhine River cruise itineraries include Amsterdam and the Keukenhof Gardens. Rates from $1484 for 7 night.  Rates include all meals, beverage package, Wi-Fi and use of the ship’s fitness and spa facilities.

Taking in this fabulous city of historical and architectural wonders will be a great delight. Book your trip with us today!  Europeanbarging.com  888-869-7907

 

Choosing the Right European River Cruise

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If you’re up for a romantic getaway or perhaps a unique and wonderful vacation, you might want to consider a European river cruise. A river cruise may be exactly what you need to relax far from your busy and stressful life, away from your job and the hustle of a fast-paced city life. There is nothing more peaceful than floating down a scenic river on a lovely cruise ship.

River Ship on the Elbe River in Dresden Germany

River Ship on the Elbe River in Dresden Germany

A river cruise allows you to see more and do more than touring from a bus, a train or a car. You can see breathtaking landscapes more comfortably, whether you are in your cabin, on the open decks, the lounge or even while dining. Plus, you don’t have to worry about transportation from point to point, packing or unpacking your bags to every place you visit. You get to see a lot of places conveniently and comfortably.

You can be as active as you like on a river cruise as there is a wide range of activities on board and ashore to keep you interested and occupied.
So if you decide to treat yourself to one of the European River Cruises, of course, you will need to consider a lot of things. If you want to end your vacation with pleasant memories and go home satisfied, you have to choose the right travel date, the right ship, and the right itinerary.

Most European river cruising companies provide a high quality experience for the traveler. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing the best European river cruise line:

Itinerary. The first thing you should consider would be the itinerary. Which companies offer the itinerary that suits you the best? Which itinerary are you interested the most? One of the most popular European river cruise itinerary is the Danube River Cruise.

Features and Inclusions. Does the company provide entertainment for the guests, like TVs, movies, or music? Does it have a free internet access on board? Does it offer free drinks? Is the food good? Are the cabins conducive for rest and relaxation? Does it have pampering services like a spa or a massage? These are some of the things you would want to consider if you want a relaxing and hassle-free river cruise experience.

Cost. River cruise lines vary in cost, though there are differences in quality of product and services. You should check the fine print and hidden charges. And also check for surcharges on some services and amenities offered. Some companies also offer discounts if you book in advance.

Most European river cruise companies have already built their reputation in offering high quality and wonderful river cruise experiences. AmaWaterways River Cruises is known for its high quality services and extras. You can enjoy riding a bicycle and multiple choice excursions in each port, free of charge. And not only that, their crew and staffs are friendly, outstanding, efficient, and welcoming to ensure you a great experience on board.

Europeanbarging, with over 20 years experience specializing in European river cruises and luxury barging, can assist in finding the perfect cruise vessel and itinerary. Europeanbarging.com; 888-869-7907

Why You Should Go on a Short River Cruise

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A Short River Cruise in Europe is a great way to check out river cruising without costing a lot of money. A 4 day Rhine River Cruise or a short Danube Cruise are great first cruise itineraries to experience.

Arosa Silva

Arosa Silva

Traveling throughout Europe is fun and exciting — it is one of those adventures that should be on everyone’s bucket list. Europe gives travelers that beautiful balance of both ancient and modern times.

If you like to have a more intimate and cozy travel experience around this timeless and beautiful continent, then you should go for a short river cruise. It will surely be an unforgettable journey as you traverse astounding waterways such as the Danube, the Main, and the Rhine and see historic cities and beautiful villages by the shore.

Here are some of the advantages of traveling on a short river cruise.
1. They’re brief.
Short river cruises in Europe usually last 3 to 7 days, depending on the cruise you choose. You will be able to enjoy the scenery and bask in European culture without having to stay too long on the ship. It is the perfect vacation for families with small children, an add-on to an existing trip, or for those who simply want a quick getaway. You will be able to experience so much in a short time.
You don’t have to spend more than a month in Europe to enjoy its luxurious culture and beautiful landscapes. For instance, you can visit Budapest, Hungary and Vienna, Austria in a three-night Danube river Cruise or view the castles along Germany’s Rhine River on a four to six day river cruise.
2. They are more personal.
Compared to ocean cruises, a short river cruise lets travelers enjoy smaller vessels, which is a more intimate setting — the best retreat for those on a romantic vacation. In most big cruise vacations, you will find yourself amidst at least 2000 travelers.
3. You don’t have to unpack multiple times.
If you want to travel around multiple locations in Europe and you are going by land, you will find that you will have to unpack and pack again multiple times. The river cruises will bring you to as many locations as you want and you have to unpack only once — it is such a convenience.
On the other hand, if you don’t mind exploring while on water but you want to sleep and rest on land, you can still enjoy a short river cruise.
4. They offer guided visits on various tourist spots.
Don’t think that you will stay on the cruise while you are traveling — there will be stops, shore excursions, and guided tours when you reach particular tourist attractions. Cruises also allow travelers to explore the towns by themselves. And since you are in fascinating Europe, some interesting stops that will highlight your trip may include outdoor museums, churches, castles, cheese factories, vineyards and even tulip gardens. Of course, you still have the option to stay on the vessel all day if you prefer.

Our international cruise line rates include the nights cruise, all meals, beverage package of non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks as well as included Wi-Fi.  Rates start at $648 – $1068 for a 5 day cruise.

You don’t have to spend a lot of money or a lot of time to enjoy Europe. Plan short excursions such as a 4 day Rhine river cruise with your loved ones, family, and/or friends today!

Europeanbarging has been in business since 1998 and has experience in helping travelers find the perfect cruise experience. Check out our website or give us a call for short river cruises  888-869-7907   – http://www.europeanbarging.com/Group_River_Cruises/3_7_day_european_river_cruises.htm

 

 

Ama Family Friendly River Cruises

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River cruises with connecting cabins and third or fourth accommodations

AmaWaterways is introducing two new river ships in Europe in 2016 that will offer family friendly river cruises.  The new 158-passenger sister ships AmaViola and AmaStella will have some connecting cabins, which are appreciated by families and groups traveling together.

Ama waterways introduces 2 new river cruise ships in Cologne Germany

Ama waterways introduces 2 new river cruise ships in Cologne Germany

 

The AmaViola and AmaStella will also have several cabins available for a 3rd or 4th occupants under the age of 18. The triples have a convertible chair. The only quads will be the suites with the third bed being a convertible chair and the fourth bed being a convertible sofa. Triples are located in Categories AA and AB and the Suites, cat. SS, are the only quads. Rate will be 50% of the brochure fare.

Most of the accommodations on the ships will have the line’s signature Twin Balconies — one full balcony and a French balcony in each stateroom or suite. The vessels also will have marble-appointed bathrooms, multi-jet showerheads, plush linens, salon and massage services, fitness rooms, and heated pools with swim-up bars. Complimentary unlimited wine, beer and soft drinks are available with lunch and dinner; complimentary bottled water is provided daily in all staterooms.

Amawaterways is proud to be the only river cruise line invited to join one of the world’s most prestigious culinary organizations founded in 1950 in Paris. Every AmaWaterways vessel cruising in Europe is an official member of La Chaine des Rotisseurs. Membership is considered an achievement of world-class culinary achievement.

“One of the best features of the AmaWaterways cruises is that there are multiple tour excursions available to choose from. This is great for clients that have already been to a port and are interested in other excursions.” Jan Baumgartner, Europeanbarging

The AmaStella will start out her season with cruises in Holland during Tulip season and then move down to the Danube where she will cruise between Vilshofen and Budapest with land extensions in Prague and Munich. She will end the season with Christmas Market cruises on the Danube.

The AmaViola will also start her season with three departures of Holland Tulip cruises followed by 2 Rhine River Cruises between Amsterdam and Basel before starting her Danube River Cruise between Budapest and Vilshofen. Two of these cruise itineraries will be Wine Themed departures on October 30th and November 13, 2016. She will also end her season with Christmas Market cruises on the Danube between Budapest and Nuremburg.

Cycling Options While on a AMA Waterways River Cruise

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Those who have travelled to Europe will agree to the fact that there are many people riding bikes on the road. Many years back when European cities were being developed, they were arranged around a hub and designed in such a way that residents could live within a practical distance to the city center.  Today, many people in Europe prefer using bicycles to commute. Countries like Netherlands and Germany have made it easy for people using bicycles as a means of transport by weaving bike paths and including stoplights on roads.
Europeanbarging is pleased to offer cycling options on AmaWaterways river cruises in Europe.

Bicycles_Danube_Lifestyle_PR

“Riding bicycles is a convenient, healthy and beautiful way to move around the city. AMA Waterways gives you an opportunity to explore amazing places in Europe. AMA Waterways is one of the first river cruise lines to carry bicycles on board, so that customers can experience biking alongside captivating riverside pathways.” Jan Baumgartner, Europeanbarging

If you are looking to join the exclusive guided bike tours or discover Europe on your own, there are many ways you can do this on a bicycle during your cruise.
There are English speaking guides on the bike tours. As you ride your bike through historic villages and grand capitals, you will learn more about the history of the place you will be cycling through.

Whenever you feel like venturing out by yourself, you can always jump on your complimentary bicycle whenever you want and cycle down the riverside path to discover more. You will be provided will locks and helmets.

Whenever you cycle through Europe, you will have a great feeling that makes you feel good-a feeling of connection. You will be discovering the history of the destination and local culture, which is very important in creating an unforgettable memory that you will share with your friends and family.

Cycling opportunities include:
• Cycle through Vienna to discover Klosteneuberg and enjoy a cup of coffee and cake
• Cycle through Bamber, a historic town and also UNESCO World Heritage Site and discover its famed market gardens and breweries.
• Cycle through Antwerp and discover fortress, hidden quarters and museums

AmaWaterways offers its customers a unique way to discover European sights and scenery. Most importantly, there is no charge for using the bicycles on board, and as a guest, you have the freedom to venture out on your own.

Additional information is available from Europeanbarging.com 888-869-7907