DISCOVER EUROPE’S HIDDEN BEAUTIES
Wend your way along the waterways of Europe and discover the hidden gems of the Continent on an enchanting river cruise with Fred. Olsen
ANYONE who has ever holidayed on the Continent will testify that Europe is a treasure trove of fascinating cities and beautiful towns, brimming with history and culture. And there’s no better way to discover its rich heritage and diverse character than on a river cruise.
Fred. Olsen, already known to and loved by many holidaymakers for their smaller-ship sea cruising, launched their brand-new portfolio of 2018 river cruise itineraries earlier this year, offering an enticing way to discover a wider range of destinations along Europe’s most stunning waterways, including the Danube, Rhine, Main and Moselle.
Sailing on the 110-metre, 156-guest Brabant, every guest will enjoy an ever-changing vista from their luxurious bedroom, the spacious lounge or from the comfort of a recliner on the sundeck – a perfect place to enjoy a sundowner against the backdrop of dramatic gorges, castles, ancient vineyards and medieval riverside villages.
With just four decks – Haydn Deck 1, Strauss Deck 2, Mozart Deck 3 and Sun Deck 4 – and fewer than 80 rooms and suites, as well as a 40-strong English-speaking crew, attentive service of the highest calibre is assured, with a relaxing home-from-home atmosphere that offers more than a passing resemblance to the ambience and style of a stylish country-house hotel.
While many river cruises only sail overnight, Fred. Olsen have incorporated a substantial amount of scenic daylight cruising into their itineraries, making the most of the spectacular scenery along each route.
With with 30 departures, ranging from five to 25 nights, between April 5 and November 3, 2018 – including Düsseldorf, Germany to Amsterdam, Budapest, Hungary to Hirsova (Bucharest), Romania; Düsseldorf to Basel, Switzerland; and Hirsova (Bucharest) to Düsseldorf – the most challenging decision will be which to book. We’ve selected a handful of highlights, to whet your appetite.
Springtime Dutch discovery
WITH so much variety in a five-night sailing, this short break is the perfect way to sample the river cruising experience. Starting in Amsterdam, you will be able to visit legendary Keukenhof Gardens and view the vibrant tulips in bloom. Gliding through Dutch countryside, you’ll go on to transit the Pannerden Canal, enjoying beautiful vistas along the way from the elegant comfort of Brabant. As you meander towards Düsseldorf, you’ll pass through towns and cities steeped in seafaring history and brimming with culture.
Five-night fly-cruise via London, from Amsterdam to Dűsseldorf, prices from £999 per person (fly-cruise package)/£749 (cruise-only, excluding flights/transfers), based on two adults sharing a standard room. Selection of dates available: April 5, 2018 (R1801) to April 15, 2018 (R1803).
Sailing from the start of the Danube
AFTER passing the point where the Danube meets the Black Sea, guests will embark on an epic ten-night expedition along one of Europe’s most breathtaking waterways to Budapest. There are plenty of special experiences en route: explore the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve via a small boat; unearth intriguing history in Belgrade; witness a traditional Hungarian horse show; marvel at a Petrovaradin Fortress; head off on a tour of Bucharest; cruise the iconic Iron Gates gorges; and more.
Ten-night R1807 ‘Sailing from the Start of the Danube’ fly-cruise, departing from Hirsova, Romania, on May 13, 2018. Prices start from £1,999 per person for a standard room.
Exploring the scenic Moselle Valley
HEAD off on an effortlessly beautiful week-long journey blending quaint German towns with a taste of historic France. Your cruise on Brabant will incorporate specially scheduled daylight scenic cruising to make the most of the ever-evolving panoramas along the river banks, with the chance to enjoy spectacular cathedrals, fairytale castles and exquisite vineyards. On this unique itinerary Brabant goes one step further still, diverting all the way down the Moselle Valley to Bernkastel-Kues – a passage only accessible to smaller river boats.
Seven-night R1810 ‘Exploring the Scenic Moselle Valley’ fly-cruise, departing from Düsseldorf, Germany, on June 7, 2018. (Other available dates: July 5, 2018, August 2, 2018, August 30, 2018 and September 27, 2018.) Prices start from £1,499 per person for a standard room.