Category Archives: Press releases

5-Day Short Rhine River Cruise Plus Swiss Train

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Europeanbarging, specializes in short European river cruises.  We have two 5-day short Rhine river cruise itineraries that offer the chance to experience a Swiss rail train.  These are 2 of the most popular train experiences in Switzerland.

Panorama train cruises: Glacier Express & Jungfraujoch

Discover our itineraries including a panoramic train ride. The Glacier Express is a train unlike any other… Its comfortable carriages, equipped with large picture windows, allow you to contemplate the magnificent and varied panoramas of the Swiss Alps.

Swiss Rail

Marvel at the magnificent spectacle of high mountain ice, snow and rock on an excursion to the Jungfraujoch, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and sparkling glaciers, 365 days of snow and ice guaranteed.  So many gems to discover!

“Before specializing in short European river cruises, I specialized in Swiss Rail travel, so have experienced both of these train rides many times.  They are a great way to experience the Swiss landscape – valleys and ice-mountains of the Glacier Express and the high peaks, cog train and ice palace of the Junfraujoch.  Jan Baumgartner”

The additional benefits on these short Rhine River cruises, is that they start in Strasbourg, France and include some of the charming Alsace towns of Mulhouse or Colmar with their half-timbered houses, and the Black Forest town of Brisach.  Plus, all excursions are included.

Please do try to plan a few days before the cruise or after to explore the great town of Strasbourg – maybe spend a little more time in the charming towns of Colmar and Mulhouse.

GLACIER EXPRESS ITINERARY

With the Rhine cruise and Glacier Express train journey, you travel amid snow-capped mountain passes, dizzying viaducts, and mountain villages frozen in time, this legendary train offers one of Europe’s most spectacular panoramas—all from the comfort of a first-class seat reserved for the first registrants.

You, also get the added experience of a visit to the island of Mainau— on Lake Constance (optional excursion).  Mainau is a garden oasis and great for walking, hiking cycling around the island.  Included excursion is the National Automobile Museum in Mulhouse – the world’s largest car museum.  The car museum is REALLY BIG.  They have a free tram you can take that shows you some highlights, but you do miss a lot of the cars.

JUNGFRAUJOCH CRUISE ITINERARY

On the Rhine cruise and Junfraujoch, This extraordinary cruise elegantly combines the charm of Alsace with the majesty of the Swiss Alps. As you cruise along the Rhine, Strasbourg with its half-timbered houses, the Alsatian vineyards, and picture-perfect villages provide a familiar and welcoming backdrop before the journey takes you higher into the mountains.

The highlight of the itinerary is a ride aboard a Swiss panoramic train, whose large windows frame landscapes of snow-capped peaks, deep gorges, and strikingly beautiful alpine meadows. Two worlds that are polar opposites, yet this cruise brings them together for an unforgettable journey, between river and mountain, plains and peaks.  Visit Colmar’s charming streets and absorb the captivating artwork at the Hansi Village and its museum.

Strasbourg, the European capital with an exceptional architectural heritage, charming canals, their famous cathedral and its astronomical clock.  Beautifully decorated shops catch your eye with every step.  If you manage you stay a few days in Strasbourg before or after your cruise, be sure to take one of the sightseeing canal boats – at night the lights are spectacular.

CROISI EUROPE RIVER CRUISES

The experience on the Swiss trains is great, but the Croisi Europe short Rhine River cruise is also a great experience.

On the Glacier Express itinerary, you cruise on the 154 passenger La Boheme.  It is the title of an opera by Giacomo Puccini and a song by Charles Aznavour, but also the name of a historic region of central Europe, famous for its crystal. The MS La Bohème sails on the Danube and the Rhine, taking cruise passengers to meet the many wonders offered by these two romantic rivers.  The beautifully decorated cabins in blue and yellow, feature a TV, internal ship telephone, en-suite bathroom with shower, safe, individual AC controls and Wi-Fi.

Meals are served on the upper level and feature served main courses with salad and soup as a buffet.  The lounge and bar are located on the upper deck as well.  The cruise price also includes a beverage package with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages included.  On the sundeck, there are covered and uncovered loungers, and morning exercise classes are offered.

On the Jungfraujoch cruise itinerary, the ship is the 154-passenger Monet.  Renovated in 2025, she is named after one of the most famous impressionist painters, Claude Monet. This elegant ship sails on the Rhine and the Danube. It takes cruise passengers to discover the many wonders offered by these two romantic rivers.  In addition to twin bedded cabins, there are 4 triple cabins (with a bunk bed) and 2 single cabins, located on the lower deck.  The ship features the same amenities as the above listed La Boheme.

Croisi Europe is a French, family-owned cruise line, offering French and English language cruises.  We have worked with them since 1999.  They are one of the oldest and largest river cruise lines in Europe.  In addition to their river cruise vessels, they have 6 22-passenger barges and 2 small ocean cruising vessels.

For more information, please contact us at jan@europeanbarging.com or 713-240-6753

Danube Wine Cruise hosted by Texas Winery – Barons Creek

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Europeanbarging Presents a Danube Wine Cruise From November 5 – 12, 2023

Europeanbarging, a Texas-based company offering barge and river cruises in Europe, today announced a SPECIAL DISCOUNT of $1000 per person on a Danube Wine Cruise for its clients, slated for late fall, starting from November 5 – 12, 2023.  The discounted rates start at  $2809  per person.

Barons Creek

The cruise, scheduled on the AMA Lea ship will be hosted by the owners of Barons Creek Vineyards – Marc and Marta Chase, as well as their Certified Sommelier – Anthony Makoujy, who will offer several tastings and discussions on their wines and winery, as well as winemaking.  A pairing of their wines will be offered with a special Amawaterways gourmet meal.  In addition to the multiple included excursions offered in each port, there will be many wine-themed excursions as well.

Melk Abbey

Framed by rolling hillsides, lush vineyards, and medieval castles, the Danube River has captivated musicians, artists, and poets throughout the centuries. Travel to legendary destinations on your cruise from Budapest to Vilshofen. Explore a 2,000-year-old city, savor Wachau Valley wines, and experience the timeless beauty and fascinating history of Budapest and Vienna.  Featured stops include:  Budapest • Bratislava • Vienna • Dürnstein • Melk • Linz • Passau • Vilshofen.

Pre-cruise land program in Budapest and post-cruise land program in Prague available.

Barons Creek Vineyards was started back in 2016 as an extended family venture of the Chase Family. In 2018, Marc and Marta Chase took over full ownership and management of  Barons Creek with the help of Texas Wine Maker Russell Smith, Certified Sommelier Anthony Makoujy, and a team of over 50 employees that operate four separate locations throughout Texas.

Certified Sommelier Anthony Makoujy relocated from Napa Valley, CA to join the BCV team back in 2016 and will officially represent Barons Creek throughout all educational components of the cruise along with several other members of the Barons Creek Vineyards team. Club members tell us that Anthony has a very entertaining & engaging way of making wine much more approachable and fun for wine lovers across the board.

Europeanbarging was founded in 1998 and specializes in European barge and river cruise products. Located in Texas, Europeanbarging is an ARC accredited company.

AmaWaterways, the only cruise line that has the privileged of being inducted into La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, one of the world most prestigious culinary organizations, as well as Prestigious Tables et Auberges de France –  leading the way in the cruise industry as one of the most innovative foods and wine experiences both on-board and on-shore.

The $1000 per person discount ends September 30, 2021.

For more information contact Europeanbarging at:  888-869-7907  or   http://www.europeanbarging.com.

Historical Towns Along a Mississippi River Cruise

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Europeanbarging is pleased to announce that they have a selection of luxury small ship river cruises they are offering on US waterways.

American Duchess

There is nothing better than going on a river cruise to explore the hidden gems of our great country.  You can see more and visit areas and experience the local culture.  While cruising along the mighty Mississippi and Ohio Rivers, enjoy sumptuous meals, entertainment and comfortable accommodations while unpacking only once.  Each ship features comfortable lounges, outdoor seating and many include a fitness room and gift shop.

Some options for a US only river cruise itinerary along the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers are: Memphis and Nashville, St Louis and Cincinnati, Louisville and Nashville, Minneapolis and St Louis, Louisville and Pittsburg, as well as the Columbia River in the Pacific Northwest, cruising between Portland Oregon and Spokane Washington or round trip Portland – offering 6 days cruises through some beautiful country side.

As well as US waterways only, there are 4 – 7 night cruises along the St Lawrence in Canada; Great Lakes cruises between Toronto and Chicago;  Canada and New England cruises featuring such itineraries as Portland to Niagara Falls, Niagara Falls and Boston, Chicago and Toronto.

As well as great architecture, gardens, sites and experiences along the cruise route, there are some exciting themed cruise itineraries:  Plantation Homes, Civil War, Bourbon, Holiday Season, BarBQ competitions, Paddleboat races, Music Festivals, Lewis and Clark, Mark Twain, Wine Cruises,

The most well known US only itinerary, is a 7 night cruise on the Mississippi River between New Orleans and Memphis. The itinerary is offered as a 7 or 8-night cruise itinerary which starts in New Orleans or Memphis. Some of the themed itineraries will offer a slight variation to the main itinerary.

Day 1 – Memphis, Tennessee
Embark your luxury cruise ship and settle in.

Day 2- Cruising the Port of the Mississippi Delta
These small river towns have been the inspiration of authors, musicians and artists for centuries.

Day 3- Vicksburg, Mississippi
Vicksburg perfectly blends Southern culture and heritage with exciting modern attractions. As a major battle site during the Civil War, this Southern town carries a history unlike any other.

Day 4- Natchez, Mississippi
This charming river town was founded in 1716, making it the oldest city on the Mississippi River. It’s known for its elegance, hospitality and impressive preservation of history – found on every street corner. Enjoy the unique shops, restaurants, museums and historic home

Day 5- Baton Rouge, Louisiana
Baton Rouge grants a strikingly different experience from those of the small-town stops throughout the journey. In this energetic port, history facing museums and landmarks fraternize with forward-looking art and industry.

Day 6- St Francisville, Louisiana
St. Francisville today is a testament to the lifestyle of a bygone era, with its plethora of charming antebellum-period homes and striking architecture. With over 140 buildings on the National Register of Historic Places, beautiful plantation homes nestled in the rolling countryside and bustling Main Street shops, this quaint town situated on the bluffs of the Mississippi River has a style all its own.

Nottoway Plantation

Day 7- Nottoway Plantation
While the boat is docked, visit the sugarcane estate – the largest standing antebellum mansion in the South. Nottoway Plantation is an intricate building with impressive detail. Original furnishings mingle with era-appropriate antiques to create an atmosphere that does justice to the home’s original ambiance.

Day 8 – New Orleans, Louisiana
Your Mississippi River Cruise ends after a sumptuous breakfast.

Many of the cruise itineraries are round trip but if a one way itinerary is desired, there are options of flying to ports or even 1 way car rentals can be set up.  Some ports are ideal to travel by train to get to.

Check with Europeanbarging to see what current promotions are available.  888-869-7907  jan@europeanbarging.com

 

Europeanbarging Introduces the Viva Tiara for 2020 River Cruises

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We are pleased to introduce a new European river cruise line – VIVA.
The Viva line is a mid range priced cruise line with beautiful ships and great service. The parent company has been leasing and chartering their ships since 1973 and has one of the largest fleets in Europe.

Viva Tiara Ship

The first reflagged ship will be the 153 passenger Viva Tiara, who will go thru a total remodel in January and February of 2020 (though she had a remodel in 2018).  She will have a new color scheme and furnishing in a restful teal and white theme.

 

Upon entering the ship, there is a beautiful 2 story atrium with sweeping wrought iron and wood staircase to the upper level (a lift is located to the side of the stairs), chandeliers, reception desk and customer service desk and on-board boutique are on the upper Diamond deck.  There is also a stylish lounge with panoramic bar and dance floor, the comfortable Bistro Bar with Internet corner in the rear.

The Panorama restaurant is situated on the Ruby Deck and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Breakfast is a buffet, lunch is a buffet salad bar and served entree and dessert, dinner is fully served.  Main entree choices will consist of a seafood, meat and vegetarian choice.  Afternoon tea consists of cakes and sandwiches.

On the Emerald deck the guest can enjoy relaxing moments in the wellness area with fitness equipment, whirlpool, sauna, steam bath and solarium. The decks are connected by a lift (not going to the Emerald deck).

Sundeck of the Viva Tiara

The sun deck features lounge chairs for guests, a putting green, jacuzzi, walking track and weather permitting – fitness equipment for use.

New Viva Tiara cabin colorsAll cabins on the Diamond and the Ruby deck have French balconies. The outward-facing cabins are equipped with flat-screen TV, radio, stocked minibar, safe, hair dryer, air-conditioning, shower and WC.

 

“I am very excited about this cruise line and the new destinations in their itineraries – many of which I have not visited yet.”        Jan Baumgartner, Europeanbarging

The ship features English and German language.

Unique Itineraries

As mentioned above, the Viva Tiara has some interesting ports on the Rhine and Dutch cruise itineraries – both are round trip Dusseldorf).  On the 5 night Dutch and Rhine itinerary, in addition to Amsterdam and Nijmegen, there are stops in Emmerich, Deventer, Kampen, Enkhuizen and Rees (Germany).  The 7 night also features stops in Hoorn, Rotterdam and Dordricht.

The 5 night Rhine River itinerary features the towns of Niederlahnstein,  and Oestrich-Winkel, in addition to Cologne, Mainz, Frankfurt, Boppard.  The 7 night also includes Koblenz, Mannheim, Speyer and Strasbourg.

On the Danube River, the 5 night cruises include round trip Passau with stops in Vienna (overnight), Bratislava and Linz. The 7 night itinerary  additionally includes Budapest,

For Advent season, there are lovely 4 and 5 night cruises on the Rhine and Danube Rivers, where you visit the heart of Europe and experience the delight of its traditional holiday markets.

Affordable Pricing

What’s the greatest thing about this cruise trip? You’ll get to enjoy the above mentioned perks all for an affordable price. Visit your dream European destinations aboard a luxury ship starting from less than $1,000. This all-inclusive trip ensures you’ll be getting your money’s worth.  Cruise rates start $714 for a 5 night cruise in early spring on the lower deck – $1535 for a Jr suite on the upper deck, a 7 night cruise in spring and summer on the lower deck $1995 – $2725 for a Jr suite on the upper deck.  Cruise rates on the Viva Tiara include the cruise, port taxes, Gratuities, all meals, wine, and a beverage package – Soft Drinks, as well as tea and coffee, Beer, wine, throughout the day and evening between 10am and midnight. Sightseeing excursions are not included and can be booked onboard.

We are offering a 20% discount off the rates for 2020 departures booked and paid in full by Dec 30th, 2019.

Book your European river cruise now – 888-869-7907  or jan@europeanbarging.com.

Visit Istanbul in 2020 on a Gem’s of the Southeast Danube Cruise

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Europeanbarging is pleased to announce, that with the 2020 departures of AmaWaterways Gem’s of the Southeast Europe, clients have the chance to experience Istanbul with a 3 night pre or post cruise land program.

Gems of the Southeast river cruise itinerary covers the lower Danube cruising between Budapest Hungary and Giurgiu Romania and includes 5 countries.  In addition to Hungary and Romania, guests will visit Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria on the cruise and Turkey and Austria for pre or post cruise programs

Blue Mosque in Instanbul

Istanbul, once known as Constantinople is a city rich in cultures and history with much to offer.  It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited spots of the world, it’s exotic architecture including mosques, colorful basilicas, cathedrals and centuries old  ancient bazaars. Istanbul is located on the Bosphorus peninsula and was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. Istanbul lies at the crossroads between the East and the West, Istanbul is Turkey’s largest city and a city with vibrant mix of cultures

Some of the sites to experience in Istanbul during your land program include:

 Visit the great sites including the iconic Blue Mosque and beautiful Hagia Sophia (cathedral-turned-museum) it was the center of the  Roman and Byzantine city and is a great place to begin exploring Istanbul. At the Hippodrome, see the Egyptian Obelisk of Theodosius  (the oldest monument of Constantinople) and the Serpent Column from the Delphi oracle remain, having been in this same location since the 4th century.  The four bronze horses that used to be on top of the emperor’s box  were looted during the crusades at this ancient chariot-racing arena.  They are now on the façade of Saint Mark’s Basilica in Venice.

The Old City reminds one of the ancient times of the Roman Empire. The centuries-old city walls stand out. Extending for nearly 14 miles (22 kilometers) and stretching from the Sea of Marmara to the Golden Horn, these walls have stood for centuries.  They were demolished twice in their history: first, by the Latin Crusaders who intended to head toward the Holy Land in 1204 and again in 1453 by the Ottoman Turks in their attempts to conquer the city.

The Valens Aqueduct (located within the old walls), was once part of the Roman aqueduct. It was the single longest ancient aqueduct system ever to be built – nearly 270,000 square feet (250,000 meters). Completed by Roman Emperor Valens in the late 4th century AD, it was used by the Byzantines and later the Ottomans, and was operational until the end of the 19th century.

Topkapi Palace, dating back to the 15th century, is rich in the history of the Ottoman Empire. Overlooking the ocean, from it’s hillside location, its 27 towers and three miles of stone wall were at one time an official royal residence of the Ottoman sultans and the seat of the Turkish government. It is a museum now and considered the largest and oldest palace in the world. Inside, take a look at the harem’s quarters, and the seat of government.  Some of the artifacts inside the museum include:  collection of old weapons used by the sultans, palace kitchens with their huge porcelain collections, and the treasury with its collection of jewels and clocks, including the Topkapi Dagger and the stunning 86 carat Spoonmaker’s diamond.

With the 3 night land program in Istanbul, guests will embark on a walking tour that will visit the Hagia Sophia, formerly a church, then a mosque before becoming a museum;  the Blue Mosque and for those interested a guide will take you to the Grand Bazaar.  The second day spend at the spectacular Ottoman Sultans’ Grand Palace of Topkapi, home to every Sultan from the 15 – 19th centuries.

Cruise departures start in March and conclude in November.  March 22, November 1 and 8 are also Wine Themed itineraries.  Cruise rates start at $2899 per person and include the 7 night cruise, all meals, wine with meals, daily happy hour, multi choice excursions and Wi-Fi.

Experience Istanbul in all its splendor as part of your pre- or post-cruise hotel/land extension on 2020  Gems of the Southeast cruises!

For more information contact Europeanbarging.com at 888-869-7907 or jan@europeanbarging.com