New itineraries, ships and offerings draw more cruise travelers to European rivers

(BPT) - Europe continues to attract the attention of American travelers, and travel on river cruises is one of the best ways to see many of the continent’s sights and explore much of its history. In response to strong demand, cruise lines are offering many new and expanded services to accommodate this growing travel interest:

Expanding to new rivers. Many river cruise lines are bolstering their cruise portfolios by expanding to rivers where they haven’t before offered itineraries. Such is the case with Tauck, a leader in premium quality guided travel for 88 years, which is adding two new cruises on the Seine River in 2014. “Cruising the Seine Plus Versailles, Paris & London,” 14 days, begins with an included two-night stay in London at the landmark Savoy, complete with guided sightseeing. Guests travel next to France for a nine-day cruise along the Seine, before enjoying an in-depth exploration of Paris and a two-night stay in Versailles at the Trianon Palace Versailles, a Waldorf Astoria property.

“Rendezvous on the Seine,” 10 days, includes a two-night stay in Paris. A subsequent seven-day cruise on the Seine is highlighted by a tour of Normandy’s historic D-Day beaches, an excursion to seaside Honfleur, guided tours of abbeys and chateaux, and a farm visit and tasting of local specialties in Etretat.

Added offerings on existing rivers. Many of the popular rivers already traveled by cruise lines will have additional options added. These rivers include the Danube - where travelers can visit Regensburg, Germany and travel to Bratislava, Slovakia – and the Rhine, where visitors love exploring nearby Amsterdam, Cologne and everything between to Basel, Switzerland.

New ships. Many river cruise lines are expanding their fleets to keep up with demand, and Tauck is no exception. Next year the company will launch a pair of “newbuilds,” the ms Savor and ms Inspire. At 443 feet, the ships will be the longest in the company’s fleet, but the new vessels will accommodate far fewer passengers than same-sized ships in other lines, to ensure a less crowded and more intimate atmosphere. As with its existing ships, Tauck will also staff the new riverboats with a Cruise Director and three professional Directors to provide the highest possible levels of service.

Those interested in more information on Tauck’s river cruise offerings can visit the company’s website at www.tauck.com, or call 800-468-2825.