Avalon Expands Theme Cruise Programs for 2012

Avalon Waterways is expanding its themed European river cruises for 2012.

Three itineraries in July and August 2012 focus on European history and politics: 17-day “Jewels of Central Europe” (Paris to Budapest, priced from $4,929; 13-day “The Blue Danube Discovery” (Budapest to Prague, from $2,589) and 12-day “Central European Experience” (Paris to Prague, from $2,489).  Joining travelers on board is a diplomacy expert who has worked at the United Nations, on the NATO/Warsaw Pact and on E.U. security and economic issues. Special lectures give cruisers a unique perspective on Central Europe.

Also new for 2012, Avalon will take “Tulip Time” cruisers to the Floriade, an international exhibition of flowers and gardening held every 10 years.  Other popular themed vacations for the cruise line are wine cruises which sell out year after year. These include:
• 11-day “The Legendary Danube” (Prague to Budapest);
Nov. 1, 2012 departure, priced from $1,899.
• 11-day “Burgundy & Provence” (Côte D’Azur to Paris);
Oct, 29, 2012 departure, priced from $2,349.
• 10-day “Windmills, Vineyards & Paris” (Paris to Amsterdam);
Oct. 18, 2012 departure,priced from $2,489.
• 13-day “The Blue Danube Discovery” (Budapest to Prague); July 23, 2012 departure, priced from $2,589.

Art- and music-themed cruises are also top-selling itineraries. Avalon will bring back its “Art & Impressionist Cruise,” “Burgundy & Provence Jazz Cruise” and “Magnificent Europe Music Cruise” for 2012.
(877-380-1535, www.avalonwaterways.com)