Europeanbarging Offering 10% Discount For All Military Personnel

Europeanbarging, an ARC accredited agency, is offering a Military Discount of 10%, for both active or veterans, on its’ full line of barge and river cruise products.

Their products include: European river cruises, Short European river cruises (4, 5, 6 and 7 days) Luxury European Barge cruises and Casual Bike and Barge cruises.

The river cruise itineraries include the countries of  France, Germany, Italy, Holland, Austria, Hungary, Portugal and Spain.

The luxury barge cruises are offered on the canals of France, Mosel River in Germany, Venice lagoon in Italy, Thames River in England, Scottish Highlands of Scotland and the Shannon River in Ireland.

The casual bike and barge cruises take place in Holland and Belgium, Germany, France and Italy.

“A  river cruise is one of the easiest ways to visit multiple cities throughout Europe, while still enjoying enough downtime to have the relaxed holiday getaway you deserve.  Our spectacular cruise packages are the ideal way to travel in style and beauty.”  Jan Baumgartner, Europeanbarging

AmaWaterways is rated one of the top river cruise lines in the world.  In addition to offering many different itineraries, they have many themed cruise itineraries such as wine, art, food and music.  The rates include 7 night cruise with multi choice excursions, use of bicycles to cycle the area, free Wi-Fi,  all meals including wine with lunch and dinner as well as a one hour happy hour each evening before dinner.  A wide variety of food choices available onboard.  Rates start at $2999 per person in low season, often with discounts up to $750 off.  Military discount would be additional.

AmaLegro docked at night

Europeanbarging offers two different international cruise lines for their short river cruises:

While onboard the German/English cruise line Arosa, you will enjoy a multitude of amenities including all meals, a beverage package, free Wi-Fi and discounts on spa services.  Meals feature food stations offering regional specialties with lots of options.

Rates for your Rhine River Cruise, Danube River Cruise, Douro River Cruise, Rhone River Cruise or Seine River Cruise start as low as $1,429 per person for a 7 night cruise when booked through Europeanbarging.    For singles, there is a low single supplement charged.  Each ship has a few lower deck cabins with 3 beds that will hold 3 persons.  Children 15 and under CRUISE FREE with 1 or 2 adults in the cabin.

For the French/English cruise line Croisi, their rates include all meals, unlimited complimentary onboard beverages, including: beer, fine wine, spirits, mineral bottled water, soft drinks specialty coffees and tea as well as included Wi-Fi.  They offer optional, motorcoach and walking tours as well as active excursions of cycling and hiking.   Several of their ships feature single as well as triple cabins and elevators. A five day Rhine River Cruise starts at $909 per person.

Luxury barges range in price from low $3000’s to over $7000 per person.  There are several barges in the mid to high $4,000’s.  The rates include the 6 night cruise, daily maid service, bicycles on board for cycling, gourmet meals, wine and cheese of the region with lunch and dinner, open bar with alcoholic beverages and all the sightseeing.  Some barges will have a small swimming pool or spa/Jacuzzi.

Barge on Canal du Midi

The prices are based on the features of the barges and food/wines provided. On the lower priced barges, you will be looking at cabins around 90 – 100 sq. ft., compact bathrooms and small shower stall. The wines will be regional wines. The more expensive barges will have larger cabins – 170 – 230 sq. ft. with larger bathrooms, big shower stalls with a glass door. Some of the wines will be premier and grand cru.  Children are not allowed on the barges unless it is a specific children’s week or a family charter.

Many of the casual bike and barge cruises are 7 nights instead of the 6 nights on a regular full service barge.  Prices range from $1940 to $2378 per person.  These barges range from  6, 20, 21, 22, 24 and 34 passengers.

Barge and Bike In Italy

These cruises are typically for serious cyclist as the biking ranges from  20KM – 65KM per day.  Bikes on these barges are typically heavy duty bikes designed for cycling in the  area.  Many bike and barge cruises have electric bikes available at a cost of between $100 – $150 for a week.

Included in the price: 6 or 7 night cruise, guide for the cycling tours , breakfast buffet, including makings for your packed lunch, dinner (3 courses) on boat, water with meals, clean towels and  bed linen delivered half way through the cruise and bike rental (with helmets).  Children are allowed on the bike and barge cruises.

Europeanbarging welcomes all inquiries to help you find the perfect cruise.  888-869-7907

Interesting Facts Along the Danube River

The mighty Danube River is the longest river in the entire European Union. It runs through or forms a part of the border for 10 countries, originating in Germany’s Black Forest and ending in the Ukraine where it flows into the Black Sea.

The Danube River has an important part in European culture and history, dating back when it was the north boundary of the Roman empire. It’s also home to the great Austrian musician Johann Strauss .

Cathedral in Linz along the Danube River

Those longing for the charm of Old World Europe will experience the very heart of the continent, where kings and queens were crowned and some of the world’s best musicians – such as Mozart and Beethoven,  composed and performed for the courts. Great European capital  cities like Budapest, Vienna, Linz and Bratislava remain an incredible experience, as well as such excursions to the beautiful  Austria’s Lake District and the Czech Republic’s charming mountain town, Ceský Krumlov – both tours offers by AmaWaterways .  From fortresses and grand abbeys perched high above the Danube to iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, be romanced by the Danube with all her regal and romantic splendor.

Visit Regensburg and you can discover the best of both worlds, visiting one of the oldest medieval cities in Germany and the largest medieval town north of the Alps.  Along with nearly 1,500 buildings listed as being of historical interest — find picturesque cobblestone streets and alleys, colorful buildings and cafés –  the oldest working bridge in Germany and perhaps the oldest restaurant in the world,  lively public squares and a vibrant Old Town that was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In modern times, it is known for being one of Pope Benedict XVI’s residences; he taught at the university when he was known as Revered Joseph Ratzinger.

Regensburg is sometimes called both “Germany’s medieval miracle” and “the northernmost city of Italy” due to its lively streets and lovely outdoor summer cafés.  Regensburg was the start of the Route of Emperors and Kings in the medieval period and the route continued to Passau, Vienna, Linz before ending in Budapest.   Soak up the atmosphere or admire the rich history.

Known as the “City of Three Rivers” since the mighty Danube River is joined by both the Inn River and the Ilz River, Passau is a historic town who can trace their roots past the 2nd Century BC. First founded by the Celts and then a Roman town for 400 years, the city traded hands a few times.

The picturesque city of Passau is known for its Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture as well as its promenades, winding lanes and quaint Bavarian shops (expect to fall in love with a cuckoo-clock or two). It is also home to the historic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, which for most of its life housed the world’s largest cathedral organ (that honor now goes to a church in Downtown Los Angeles). Left undamaged during World War II, the Old Town was left as it has been for hundreds of years.

Another excursion offered on several Danube River itineraries is to the beautiful city of Salzburg, Austria.  Besides acting as the birthplace for one of the most famous musicians and composers in history, many may recognize this backdrop from a more recent musical accomplishment. The beautiful, rolling hills and lush, green landscape of this town was employed as the setting for the Tony Award winning musical, and Academy Award winning movie-musical, The Sound of Music. After its initial cinematic release in 1965, The Sound of Music became the highest grossing film of all time, beating out Gone with the Wind, and held the title for five years post-release.

This iconic masterpiece follows the story of the von Trapp family as they struggle with the Nazi takeover of Austria in the late 1930’s. However, many do not realize that the lively and entertaining movie is based on true events, written about in the memoirs of Maria von Trapp, the inspiration for Julie Andrew’s Golden Globe winning performance. The Story of the Trapp Family Singers, an autobiography written by Maria von Trapp, describes the true story of the musically-inclined family, from her original role as tutor for one of the von Trapp children, to the family’s escape to America upon the Nazi annexation of Austria.

AMA Waterways cruises the Danube, with itineraries cruising between Budapest and Regensburg as well as Vilshofen to Budapest.  Discover a wealth of art, history and cultural treasures as you cruise to some of Europe’s most famous destinations. From Budapest, journey to Bratislava, Vienna, Passau and the 2,000-year-old town of Regensburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, visit magnificent cathedrals and Baroque abbeys, sample Vienna’s sinfully rich Sacher torte cake, experience the breathtaking scenery of the Wachau Valley winemaking region and traverse Europe’s Continental Divide.

Croisi River Cruise offers 3 – 7 day European River Cruises and is the oldest river cruise line in Europe as well as being family owned.  The cruise line has over 42 vessels cruising the waterways of Europe.  Danube itineraries include a 5 day and 8 day round trip Vienna cruise on the Danube as well as a 6 day cruise between Passau and Budapest.

Prices include the cruise, all meals, beverage package with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and Wi-Fi.  Excursions are additional.

AROSA CRUISE LINE cruises the Danube,  featuring short river cruises with English and German language onboard.  There is no fixed seating or table arrangements on board.  All meals are served as buffet.  There are chefs at all meals with an open kitchen preparing these dishes as you watch – so everything is fresh.
One night a week there is a special sit down wine and culinary special dinner for a small additional fee.

The ships have bicycles with helmets on board for cycling tours.   Arosa is also known for their superior spa facilities onboard.  Arosa offers 4 night, 5 night and 7 night round trip Passau river cruise itineraries.  Arosa also allows children 15 and under to cruise free with their parents in the same cabin.  They limited triple cabins and 1 set of connecting cabins per deck on a few of their ships.

Prices include the cruise, all meals, beverage package with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and Wi-Fi.  Excursions are additional.

For more information on any of the Danube River cruise itineraries or other rivers, please call or email:713 240 6753 or 888 869 7907  jan@europeanbarging.com

Cycling Options While on a AMA Waterways River Cruise

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

Jeanine barge cruising Burgundy

The Jeanine barge, cruises through the Saône-et-Loire and La Côte d’Or regions of France. Cruising along the Canal du Centre and canal de Bourgogne and its wonderful rural landscapes. At the crossroads of the great wine appellations, we cruise alongside the great vineyards of the Côte Chalonnaise and the Côte de Continue reading

Madeleine barge cruising Alsace France

A Blend of Germany and France, the Alsace Region has a full complement of beautiful architecture and landscapes – including rich vineyards of delectable wine grapes.

A cruise aboard a canal barge promises a peaceful break where you take the time to discover “la douce France” in a different way. The MS Madeleine a true cocoon of charm, sails on the French canals and offers its passengers an original and authentic experience.

Madeleine Barge

The MS Madeleine is a beautiful Premium canal barge, measuring 38,50 meters long and 5,07 meters wide. It can accommodate 22 passengers, in 11 cabins spread over two decks. The size of the cabins is 9 m2 (including a PRM cabin of 11 m2) offering amenities and providing guests with all the comforts they need during their stay.

On board, everything has been taken care of down to the smallest detail and the 6 crew members guarantee a personalized service. The decoration is stylish with an elegant and intimate atmosphere.

Located on the upper deck is the restaurant, which offers delicate cuisine in a refined setting, a lounge bar, and a relaxation area with a jacuzzi. Comfortable sun loungers are provided on the sun deck, the ideal place to relax and admire the surrounding landscapes. A journey aboard the MS Madeleine promises an unforgettable getaway on the water.

 

The Madeleine navigates in the beautiful region of Alsace / Lorraine France.  A journey through Alsace, perhaps the most picturesque province in France, means an endless string of discoveries – art and architecture, gourmet food and wine, history and heritage.

Prices are mid $3,000 – so a great value for all the inclusions of 6-night cruise, all meals, beverages, and excursions – including several visits to vineyards for wine tastings, Wi-Fi, and bicycles for cycling the towpaths.

For more information, to check availability,  or to book a cruise, please get in touch with  us at:  jan@europeanbarging.com  or   713-240-6753 /  888-869-7907