River Cruise 2023 Cruises
River Cruises for 2023 aboard the MS Arena
River Cruises for 2023 aboard the MS Arena
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RELAXING JOURNEYS<br />
BY RIVER<br />
aboard MS Arena<br />
<strong>2023</strong><br />
RHINE DANUBE DUTCH WATERWAYS THAMES
MS Arena<br />
2<br />
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Unwind & explore<br />
aboard the MS Arena<br />
Welcome to our collection of <strong>River</strong> <strong>Cruise</strong>s aboard the MS Arena for <strong>2023</strong>. The MS Arena earns its<br />
place in our premier cruise collection as it has all the ingredients for an unforgettable river cruise;<br />
comfort, style, superb dining, a crew with unfaltering service and attention to detail. Offering spacious<br />
accommodation, newly refurbished restaurant and lounge areas you will enjoy modern interior design<br />
along with panoramic windows on this impressive vessel to ensure you will not miss the enchanting<br />
river scenery.<br />
You can discover the mighty Rhine, take a fascinating journey along the Danube to the Black Sea, or<br />
join us on a spring break to see the Bulbfields of Holland in full bloom. This collection also features<br />
some new itineraries cruising the Rhine from Cologne to Passau including an excursion to Salzburg<br />
and exploring the jewels along the Danube, stopping at Romanian capital of Bucharest for lunch.<br />
Why not take a look inside and choose your next journey with Arena <strong>River</strong> <strong>Cruise</strong>s.<br />
FLEXIBLE<br />
BOOKING<br />
Secure your holiday with a<br />
deposit and the option to<br />
transfer your booking to<br />
another date for free*<br />
*Terms and conditions apply<br />
YOUR SAFETY<br />
& WELLBEING<br />
is our utmost priority – we’ll be<br />
introducing stringent hygiene<br />
and safety measures to help<br />
keep you safe on holiday.<br />
PEACE<br />
OF MIND<br />
With our expert teams here in<br />
the UK you’re in the best hands.<br />
As members of ABTA and holders<br />
of an ATOL licence, all of our<br />
holidays are financially bonded.<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com 3
Contents<br />
14-17<br />
24-31<br />
24-31<br />
10-13<br />
14-17<br />
18-19<br />
GENERAL INFORMATION<br />
CRUISES ABOARD MS ARENA<br />
Introduction 2-3<br />
MS Arena 10-13<br />
Why Choose Arena <strong>River</strong> <strong>Cruise</strong>s? 6-7<br />
Springtime in the Gardens of Holland & Belgium 14-15<br />
Travel by Air, Rail or Coach with an Expert Team 8-9<br />
Delightful Holland & Dutch Bulbfields 16<br />
Travelling to your <strong>River</strong> <strong>Cruise</strong> 41<br />
Dutch Waterways & Keukenhof Gardens NEW<br />
17<br />
Coach Travel & Joining Options 42<br />
Treasures along the Rhine & Moselle 18-19<br />
How to Book 43<br />
4 To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com
18-23<br />
38-40<br />
24-31 32<br />
36-37<br />
32-35<br />
The Mighty Rhine to Switzerland 20-21<br />
FESTIVE CRUISES ABOARD MS ARENA<br />
Salzburg & Historic Gems along the Rhine NEW<br />
22-23<br />
Festive Cheer & Markets in the Rhine Valley 32<br />
<strong>Cruise</strong> the Danube to Vienna & Budapest 24-25<br />
New Year Festivities on the Romantic Rhine 33<br />
The Danube to the Black Sea 26-27<br />
Rhine & Moselle Christmas Celebration <strong>Cruise</strong> 34-35<br />
Jewels along the Danube and Bucharest NEW<br />
28-29<br />
PREVIEW MPS CALYPSO <strong>2023</strong> 36-37<br />
Imperial Cities along the Danube 30-31<br />
UK CRUISES ABOARD AFRICAN QUEEN<br />
African Queen 38<br />
Weekend Thames cruise 39<br />
Thames <strong>Cruise</strong> 40<br />
Peace of mind, all of our holidays are financially bonded<br />
5
Why choose<br />
Arena <strong>River</strong> <strong>Cruise</strong>s?<br />
6<br />
Our price promise means our cruises won’t be sold for less!
Here's a few reasons why...<br />
No hidden extras<br />
There’s so much included to ensure you get the most out<br />
of your cruise<br />
Carefully selected cruise ships<br />
Especially chosen for their excellent onboard service<br />
Superb itineraries<br />
Expertly planned and managed to guarantee only<br />
the best<br />
Fascinating optional tours & experiences<br />
With knowledgeable <strong>Cruise</strong> Managers and guides<br />
Experienced <strong>Cruise</strong> Managers<br />
They take care of everything, so you can simply relax and<br />
enjoy your holiday<br />
Booking your cruise is easy<br />
You can choose to book online, or speak to one of our<br />
knowledgeable Holiday Advisors<br />
Flexible booking<br />
Secure your holiday with a deposit and the option to<br />
transfer your booking to another date for free*<br />
*Terms and conditions apply<br />
Peace of mind<br />
As members of ABTA and holders of an ATOL licence, all of<br />
our holidays are financially bonded<br />
WHAT'S INCLUDED?<br />
• Inclusive travel by air, rail or coach<br />
• Comfortable en suite accommodation<br />
with river views<br />
• Superb dining from delicious choices at<br />
breakfast to your fine four-course dinner<br />
• On-board entertainment each evening<br />
• Welcome drink and Captain’s Gala dinner<br />
• Afternoon tea/coffee cake and late<br />
evening snack<br />
• Included excursions on selected cruises<br />
• Complimentary tea and coffee onboard<br />
• An attentive crew to take care of everything<br />
• The services of experienced <strong>Cruise</strong><br />
Managers & <strong>Cruise</strong> Directors<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com 7
Travel by air, rail or coach with<br />
Our inclusive travel options make it easy to join the cruise of your choice. Simply take a look at the<br />
symbol at the top of each itinerary page to see which travel arrangements are available. Alternatively,<br />
make your own way to your chosen cruise’s point of departure.<br />
Air-inclusive<br />
Many of our cruises offer<br />
flights from selected UK<br />
airports, along with return<br />
transfers to your ship. On<br />
some of our cruises regional<br />
flight options are available.<br />
Call our Holiday Advisors for<br />
more information.<br />
Rail-inclusive<br />
On many of our holidays we<br />
offer convenient travel by<br />
rail onboard Eurostar from<br />
London St Pancras to Europe<br />
with onward rail connections<br />
to join your cruise ship.<br />
Coach-inclusive<br />
Travel from regional<br />
departure points across<br />
the UK to join your cruise<br />
via Dover. Overnight hotel<br />
or ferry accommodation is<br />
provided when necessary as<br />
indicated on the cruise page.<br />
<strong>Cruise</strong> only<br />
Make your own travel<br />
arrangements at your<br />
convenience to join your<br />
selected cruise, simply<br />
board your cruise ship at the<br />
embarkation point.<br />
More flexible travel options<br />
Travelling by<br />
Eurostar? Why not<br />
stay overnight in<br />
London?<br />
The hotels we use are close<br />
to St Pancras International,<br />
which makes it really easy<br />
and convenient for you on<br />
the day of departure. Hotels<br />
from £89 per person.<br />
Stay overnight<br />
near the port<br />
Why not stay overnight in<br />
Dover or Ashford? Travel<br />
down the day before your<br />
cruise and park your car for<br />
free. Enjoy a relaxed evening<br />
and breakfast the following<br />
morning before the coach<br />
collects you from outside the<br />
hotel. Prices start from £75<br />
per person.<br />
For full details of all our inclusive travel options please see page 41<br />
Join directly at the<br />
port if you prefer<br />
Travel in the comfort of your<br />
own vehicle and leave your<br />
car in a secure environment<br />
close to the port of departure<br />
until your return. Parking<br />
from £10 a day.<br />
Free return transfer<br />
service from London<br />
stations to Ashford<br />
Take advantage of our free<br />
return transfer service from<br />
selected London stations<br />
to Ashford the day before<br />
and after your cruise for<br />
an overnight stay. Enjoy a<br />
relaxing evening followed by<br />
breakfast the next morning<br />
before our coach collects<br />
you from the hotel for your<br />
on-going journey. Prices start<br />
from £150pp.<br />
8<br />
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an expert team you can rely on<br />
Our Holiday Advisors<br />
From your first enquiry to the day you travel, our<br />
Holiday Advisors are available to talk to you in<br />
person. They have many years’ experience within<br />
the travel industry and provide a dedicated service<br />
to you, giving you all the information and advice<br />
you need, whatever the stage of your booking.<br />
Experienced <strong>Cruise</strong> Managers<br />
A vital part of your holiday is the added value<br />
that our <strong>Cruise</strong> Managers bring. Not only do they<br />
take care of the detail, they are also a great source<br />
of information, especially if you are visiting new places,<br />
ensuring you have an amazing experience every step of the way.<br />
Captain and crew<br />
Our captain and his crew are there to ensure that your experience with<br />
Arena <strong>River</strong> <strong>Cruise</strong>s will be an unforgettable one. With many years of<br />
experience and professional manner in abundance, we’re sure you’ll enjoy<br />
a perfect cruise – only further enhanced by the experts onboard your<br />
floating hotel.<br />
Award-winning group travel services<br />
Are you part of a group, society or just a group of friends? If so and you<br />
have a group of 20 or more people, give our award-winning Group Travel<br />
Services team a call. A river cruise could be just what you’re looking for,<br />
plus you can take advantage of a range of group benefits.<br />
Simply call our Groups team on 01858 435631<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com 9
Our Premier Ship MS Arena<br />
Set sail in style<br />
Step aboard and feel right at home from the minute you set sail<br />
on the stylish and spacious MS Arena. Let the Captain and crew<br />
take care of your every need while you prioritise relaxing and<br />
unwinding in comfort as you glide along the river. Take advantage<br />
of the wellness and fitness suite, treat yourself to a drink or two with<br />
new friends in the Ambassador’s Lounge or soak up the ambience<br />
and spectacular sights from the comfort of the elevated sun deck.<br />
Wherever you choose to spend your time on board, you’ll be in great<br />
hands with the attentive crew and cruise managers who are on<br />
hand to assure you of the perfect river cruise experience.<br />
Cabin accommodation<br />
All of our cabins on board the MS Arena feature outward-facing<br />
floor to ceiling panoramic windows with French balconies, allowing<br />
you to take in the wonderful views of the river and surroundings<br />
from the comfort of your cabin. The spacious cabins feature en<br />
suite bathrooms with a shower and toilet. There’s plenty of space<br />
and storage for your belongings, plus air conditioning, TV, free Wi-<br />
Fi, telephone, hairdryer and a safe all come as standard. You can<br />
choose from accommodation on the Upper Deck or Main Deck;<br />
all with contemporary furnishings, providing the ideal home from<br />
home on your cruise.<br />
Upper Deck Superior Cabin<br />
Enjoy the views from your Upper Deck cabin, which features floor<br />
to ceiling windows and a French balcony. The cabins also feature<br />
comfortable hotel-style beds, an en suite shower and toilet, plus<br />
10<br />
Our price promise means our cruises won’t be sold for less!
PREMIUM PACKAGE<br />
From as little as £20 per night*<br />
Our Premium Package is a great way to add a touch of<br />
something special to your river cruise experience.<br />
This exclusive package is a pre-bookable addition and includes;<br />
• Drinks with your meals (house wine, beer and soft drinks)<br />
• 10% off excursion packages<br />
• A welcome basket of fruit on arrival<br />
• Daily water delivered to your cabin<br />
• A selection of complimentary toiletries<br />
• Free use of the wellness and fitness suite<br />
*prices are per person<br />
air conditioning, TV, telephone, hairdryer and a safe all come as<br />
standard. There’s ample room to make yourself at home, so you can<br />
open the doors and feel the gentle breeze as you sail through the<br />
waters.<br />
Main Deck Superior Cabin<br />
The Main Deck Superior cabins also have floor to ceiling windows<br />
and a French balcony for excellent views of the river. There’s plenty<br />
of room for all your belongings and each cabin features comfortable<br />
hotel-style beds, an en suite shower and toilet, air conditioning, TV,<br />
telephone, hairdryer and a safe.<br />
Main Deck Standard Cabin<br />
Each Main Deck Standard cabin benefits from our floor to ceiling<br />
windows with a French balcony. They also feature twin beds - one<br />
fixed bed and one fold down bed, an en suite shower and toilet, air<br />
conditioning, TV, telephone, hairdryer & a safe.<br />
Main Deck Single Cabin<br />
Each Main Deck Single cabin also features floor to ceiling windows<br />
with a French balcony, one fixed bed, an en suite shower and toilet,<br />
air conditioning, TV, telephone, hairdryer & a safe.<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com<br />
11
FIRST CLASS SERVICE<br />
in superb surroundings<br />
Panorama Restaurant<br />
The bright and spacious Panorama Restaurant on the Main Deck<br />
provides the perfect setting to enjoy a delicious meal while watching<br />
the world drift by. Newly refurbished with panoramic windows along<br />
three sides of the room, you're treated to exceptional views of the river<br />
and its banks, as you enjoy a superb range of freshly-prepared dishes.<br />
Sun Deck<br />
Grab a drink and head to the Sun Deck for 360-degrees of<br />
uninterrupted views; the best views on the ship. Relax with friends as<br />
you travel between ports and take in the beautiful surroundings, or<br />
simply pick the lounger of your choice and soak up the sun and sights<br />
at leisure.<br />
Ambassador's Lounge Bar<br />
Holidays are all about relaxation and there's no better place to do that<br />
than in the comfort of the stylish Ambassador's Lounge Bar. Sink into<br />
a comfy chair with a good book or sip on a cocktail as you take in the<br />
passing scenery.<br />
Wellness Suite<br />
Life on board MS Arena isn’t just about feeling good in your mind, but<br />
feeling good in your body too. Use the available fitness equipment to<br />
burn off some of the irresistible restaurant food, then reward yourself<br />
with an invigorating sauna or some time in the relaxation area.<br />
Charges apply.<br />
Sample Menu<br />
Dinner<br />
Carpaccio of Melon<br />
with Prosciutto and Grissini<br />
<br />
Roast Onion Bouillon<br />
<br />
Two Styles of Lambs Noisette,<br />
Rosemary Jus, White Beans and<br />
Gratinated Polenta Bake<br />
or<br />
Fillet of Tilapia on Lentil<br />
and Balsamico Sauce, Braised Tokaj<br />
Cabbage and Mushy Peas<br />
<br />
Sponge Cake Rolls with Oranges<br />
and Mascarpone Cream<br />
12<br />
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DECK PLAN<br />
Upper Deck<br />
A Lounge area with small<br />
shop and library<br />
B <strong>Cruise</strong> director’s office<br />
C Ambassador’s Lounge Bar<br />
D Stairs to Restaurant<br />
Main Deck<br />
A Reception desk<br />
B Panorama Restaurant<br />
C Stairs to Lounge<br />
Main deck cabin<br />
348<br />
346<br />
344<br />
342<br />
340<br />
338<br />
336<br />
334<br />
332<br />
330<br />
328<br />
326<br />
347<br />
345<br />
343<br />
341<br />
339<br />
337<br />
335<br />
333<br />
331<br />
329<br />
327<br />
325<br />
Main deck superior cabin<br />
248<br />
246<br />
244<br />
242<br />
240<br />
238<br />
236<br />
234<br />
232<br />
230<br />
228<br />
226<br />
247<br />
245<br />
243<br />
241<br />
239<br />
237<br />
235<br />
233<br />
231<br />
229<br />
227<br />
225<br />
324<br />
322<br />
320<br />
318<br />
316<br />
314<br />
312<br />
310<br />
308<br />
306<br />
304<br />
302<br />
323<br />
321<br />
319<br />
317<br />
315<br />
313<br />
311<br />
309<br />
307<br />
305<br />
303<br />
301<br />
224<br />
222<br />
220<br />
218<br />
216<br />
214<br />
212<br />
210<br />
208<br />
206<br />
204<br />
202<br />
223<br />
221<br />
219<br />
217<br />
215<br />
213<br />
211<br />
209<br />
207<br />
205<br />
203<br />
201<br />
A<br />
B<br />
Upper deck superior cabin<br />
A<br />
C<br />
B<br />
D<br />
C<br />
The wellness/ fitness suite is located on the Lower deck. A Sun deck is also available equipped with loungers.<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com 13
THE ULTIMATE FLORAL<br />
EXTRAVAGANZA<br />
Springtime in the Gardens<br />
of Holland & Belgium<br />
aboard MS Arena<br />
Awaken your senses on this ultimate spring adventure, bursting with vibrant colours and incredible sights. See for<br />
yourself one of the world’s largest and most beautiful spring gardens as you walk among seven million tulips, daffodils<br />
and hyacinths at the famous Keukenhof. From the Garden of Europe, your journey continues through the Dutch<br />
countryside, featuring iconic windmills and model gardens. We sail to Kinderdijk, famous for its 19 beautiful windmills,<br />
before we cross over to Belgium to explore Antwerp, before returning to the Netherlands. You’ll be sailing on your stylish<br />
ship the MS Arena, so you can relax knowing that the crew on board will be taking great care of your every need.<br />
Dutch Waterways<br />
14<br />
Our price promise means our cruises won’t be sold for less!
7 DAYS FROM<br />
£825<br />
MS ARENA<br />
Keukenhof Gardens<br />
Day 1: UK – Amsterdam<br />
We travel to Amsterdam, capital of the<br />
Netherlands, and enjoy a relaxing evening<br />
onboard our ship.<br />
Day 2: Amsterdam<br />
This morning you have the opportunity to join<br />
our optional coach excursion to the Aalsmeer<br />
Flower Auction, where you can experience<br />
the hustle and bustle of the auction floor and<br />
admire the stunning flowers traded daily from<br />
more than 10 countries (a packed breakfast<br />
will be taken because of the early start). This<br />
afternoon is free to explore at leisure. This<br />
evening you can join another optional excursion<br />
which reveals the best views of Amsterdam on a<br />
cruise around the city’s canals, with cheese and<br />
wine included.<br />
Day 3: Kinderdijk – Dordrecht – Antwerp<br />
This morning we reach Kinderdijk, which<br />
is renowned for its 19 beautifully preserved<br />
windmills. Our optional excursion visits one of<br />
the mills, where we learn about the lifestyle of a<br />
miller and the mechanism of a mill. We return to<br />
the ship and set sail for Dordrecht where you can<br />
join our optional excursion to Appeltern Gardens,<br />
which is home to 200 model gardens bursting<br />
with colour and inspiration. Dinner is served<br />
onboard this evening as we cruise overnight to<br />
Antwerp.<br />
Day 4: Antwerp<br />
We arrive in Antwerp this morning and here you<br />
can join our optional excursion to Kalmthout<br />
Arboretum which is located to the north of<br />
Antwerp. Its origins can be traced back to 1857<br />
where Charles Van Geert started a plant nursery<br />
in the heart of Antwerp, at the location now<br />
occupied by the Zoo and the Central Station.<br />
In Kalmthout he found space to test newly<br />
discovered plants — mainly conifers from China<br />
and Japan. He also introduced the first Belgian<br />
examples of Witch Hazel, Hydrangea, Hosta,<br />
Iris and many other plants. The Kalmthout<br />
Arboretum is a botanical paradise and covers 12<br />
hectares and has a collection of over 7,000 rare<br />
trees and shrubs and many more perennials<br />
and has grown into one of the world’s most<br />
prestigious botanic collections. On our optional<br />
excursion, we include entrance and a guided<br />
tour and there will be free time to explore<br />
at leisure.<br />
Day 5: Antwerp – Rotterdam<br />
This morning’s optional excursion takes you to<br />
the National Botanic Garden of Belgium (Meise)<br />
and the Plant Palace. This is one of the largest<br />
botanic gardens in the world, which also boasts<br />
an enormous glasshouse filled with more<br />
than 10,000 plant species. We return to the<br />
ship for lunch and begin cruising overnight to<br />
Rotterdam.<br />
Day 6: Rotterdam – Amsterdam<br />
After breakfast our coach departs for our<br />
included excursion to Keukenhof Gardens where<br />
there are over seven million bulbs on show.<br />
You can follow the pathways which surround<br />
shimmering lakes, ancient trees and wonderful<br />
works of art, plus browse the pavilions, find<br />
your way around the hedge maze and enjoy the<br />
entertainment taking place throughout the day.<br />
This evening we enjoy our final dinner onboard<br />
the ship and sail overnight to Amsterdam.<br />
Day 7: Amsterdam – UK<br />
We bid farewell to our captain and crew after<br />
breakfast and set off on the return journey.<br />
YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES<br />
l Six nights’ cruise on a full board basis<br />
l Five visits included to Amsterdam, Kinderdijk,<br />
Dordrecht, Antwerp and Rotterdam<br />
l Excursion to Keukenhof Gardens<br />
l Welcome drink & Captain's Gala Dinner<br />
l Afternoon tea/coffee and cake & late evening snack<br />
l Complimentary tea, coffee and WiFi<br />
l Services of a <strong>Cruise</strong> Manager & <strong>Cruise</strong> Director<br />
YOUR TRAVEL OPTIONS<br />
BY COACH<br />
l Coach travel to the port from your local area<br />
l Ferry crossing from Dover<br />
STAY OVERNIGHT IN DOVER OR ASHFORD<br />
l Travel the day before your cruise and stay overnight<br />
in Dover or Ashford with free parking from £75pp<br />
l Take our complimentary return coach service from a<br />
selection of London stations to Ashford with<br />
overnight hotel accommodation before and on the<br />
return from your cruise from £150pp.<br />
BY RAIL<br />
l Travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras<br />
l Return connecting rail journeys<br />
l Coach transfers between station and ship<br />
BY AIR<br />
l Return flights from Heathrow with coach transfers<br />
between airport and ship<br />
l Regional flight options available, call for details.<br />
Prices are subject to change and availability and will<br />
be confirmed at the time of booking.<br />
TOURS & EXPERIENCES<br />
l Aalsmeer Flower Auction<br />
l Amsterdam Canal <strong>Cruise</strong> with cheese & wine<br />
l Windmills of Kinderdijk<br />
l Appeltern gardens<br />
l Kalmthout Arboretum<br />
l National Botanic garden of Belgium<br />
Package Price<br />
Premium Package <br />
see page 11 for details<br />
<strong>2023</strong><br />
dates<br />
No. of<br />
days<br />
£234 per person<br />
Coach<br />
routes<br />
4 April 7 D1, D2 Dover<br />
24 April 7 D1, D3 Dover<br />
30 April 7 D1, D4 Dover<br />
6 May 7 D1, D5 Dover<br />
4, 24, 30 April<br />
& 6 May<br />
DEPOSITS – see page 43<br />
National Botanical Garden<br />
£120 per person<br />
Ferry crossing/<br />
train station/<br />
airport<br />
7 St Pancras &<br />
Heathrow<br />
HOLIDAY PRICES<br />
Tour code: SPGDN<br />
7 days<br />
Coach<br />
7 days<br />
Coach<br />
7 days<br />
Coach<br />
Deck 4 April 24 April 30 April,<br />
6 May<br />
7 days<br />
Air<br />
7 days<br />
Air<br />
7 days<br />
Air<br />
4 April 24 April 30 A pril,<br />
6 May<br />
7 days<br />
Rail<br />
7 days<br />
Rail<br />
7 days<br />
Rail<br />
4 April 24 April 30 April,<br />
6 May<br />
7 days<br />
<strong>Cruise</strong> only<br />
7 days<br />
<strong>Cruise</strong> only<br />
7 days<br />
<strong>Cruise</strong> only<br />
4 April 24 April 30 April,<br />
6 May<br />
Main Standard £825 £875 £915 £925 £975 £1,015 £999 £1,049 £1,089 £699 £749 £789<br />
Main Superior £975 £1,025 £1,065 £1,075 £1,125 £1,165 £1,149 £1,199 £1,239 £849 £899 £939<br />
Upper Superior £1,065 £1,115 £1,155 £1,165 £1,215 £1,255 £1,239 £1,289 £1,329 £939 £989 £1,029<br />
Main Single £1,125 £1,175 £1,215 £1,225 £1,275 £1,315 £1,299 £1,349 £1,389 £999 £1,049 £1,089<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com 15
CELEBRATE THE<br />
ARRIVAL OF SPRING<br />
5 DAYS FROM<br />
£603<br />
Dutch Bulbfields<br />
Delightful Holland<br />
& Dutch Bulbfields<br />
aboard MS Arena<br />
Join us on board the MS Arena and cruise from Amsterdam to Arnhem, Nijmegen and<br />
Rotterdam. We will discover 32 hectares of spectacular blooms and themed pavilions at<br />
Keukenhof Gardens, one of the world’s largest flower gardens. Discover the rich history of<br />
Arnhem on a walking tour with a local expert. Stroll through the old town of Nijmegen - the<br />
oldest city in the Netherlands, nestled on the banks of the Waal <strong>River</strong>. There’s a chance to<br />
take in panoramic views of Rotterdam from the top of the Euromast observation tower. This<br />
is a fantastic cruise that is sure to leave you with fond memories.<br />
Day 1: UK – Amsterdam<br />
We travel to Amsterdam where we board our<br />
ship, the MS Arena and enjoy dinner on board.<br />
Day 2: Amsterdam – Arnhem<br />
Today we depart by coach for our included full<br />
day excursion to Keukenhof Gardens. Here you<br />
have plenty of time to explore the 32-hectare<br />
site and enjoy the swathes of flowers, themed<br />
pavilions and wonderful atmosphere that<br />
surrounds this world-class event. We re-join our<br />
ship in Amsterdam and set sail towards Arnhem.<br />
Day 3: Arnhem – Nijmegen<br />
This morning, there’s the opportunity to join<br />
our optional walking tour of Arnhem, in the<br />
company of a local guide. Arnhem is probably<br />
most famous for The Battle of Arnhem which<br />
was one of the largest battles in WWII. On our<br />
walking tour, you’ll see some of the key battle<br />
locations such as the John Frost Bridge and the<br />
St. Elizabethgasthuis. Learn more about the rich<br />
history of Arnhem as you pass the historic Rozet<br />
Building, as well as Devils House and Sabers<br />
Gate too. Enjoy lunch back on board the ship<br />
as we set sail towards Nijmegen, arriving later<br />
this afternoon. Nijmegen is the oldest city in the<br />
Netherlands, which nestles on the banks of the<br />
Waal <strong>River</strong>. We are berthed here overnight, so<br />
perhaps take a walk through the old town which<br />
takes you on a journey through time, starting<br />
with when the Romans first settled here.<br />
Day 4: Nijmegen – Rotterdam<br />
We sail to Rotterdam this morning, which is<br />
known as ‘Manhattan on the Meuse’ because of<br />
its impressive skyline, which showcases cuttingedge<br />
architecture. This afternoon, there’s the<br />
chance to join our optional excursion where we<br />
take a trip up the Euromast observation tower<br />
where you can see as far as Antwerp on a clear<br />
day. We enjoy our final dinner on board and are<br />
berthed overnight in Rotterdam this evening.<br />
Day 5: Rotterdam - UK<br />
This morning we bid farewell to our captain and<br />
crew and disembark for the return journey to<br />
the UK.<br />
YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES<br />
l Four nights’ cruise on a full board basis<br />
l Four visits included to Amsterdam, Arnhem,<br />
Nijmegen & Rotterdam<br />
l Excursion to Keukenhof Gardens<br />
l Welcome drink & Captain's Gala Dinner<br />
l Afternoon tea/coffee and cake & late evening snack<br />
l Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi<br />
l Services of a <strong>Cruise</strong> Manager & a <strong>Cruise</strong> Director<br />
YOUR TRAVEL OPTIONS<br />
BY COACH<br />
l Coach travel to the port from your local area<br />
l Ferry crossing from Dover<br />
STAY OVERNIGHT IN DOVER OR ASHFORD<br />
l Travel the day before your cruise and stay overnight<br />
in Dover or Ashford with free parking from £75pp<br />
l Take our complimentary return coach service from a<br />
selection of London stations to Ashford with<br />
overnight hotel accommodation before and on the<br />
return from your cruise from £150pp.<br />
BY RAIL<br />
l Travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras<br />
l Return connecting rail journeys<br />
l Coach transfers between station and ship<br />
BY AIR<br />
l Return flights from Heathrow with coach transfers<br />
between airport and ship<br />
l Regional flight options available, call for details.<br />
Prices are subject to change and availability and<br />
will be confirmed at the time of booking<br />
TOURS & EXPERIENCES<br />
l Arnhem City Guided Tour<br />
l Rotterdam Skyline<br />
Package Price<br />
Premium Package <br />
see page 11 for details<br />
<strong>2023</strong><br />
dates<br />
No. of<br />
days<br />
Coach<br />
routes<br />
£72 per person<br />
£80 per person<br />
10 April 5 D1, D2, D3 Dover<br />
17 April 5 D1, D4, D5 Dover<br />
Ferry crossing/<br />
train station/<br />
airport<br />
10, 17 April 5 St Pancras &<br />
Heathrow<br />
DEPOSITS – see page 43<br />
Nijmegen<br />
HOLIDAY PRICES<br />
Tour code: ABULA<br />
5 days Coach 5 days Coach 5 days Air 5 days Air 5 days Rail 5 days Rail 5 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only 5 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only<br />
Deck 10 April 17 April 10 April 17 April 10 April 17 April 10 April 17 April<br />
Main Standard £603 £619 £703 £745 £779 £819 £479 £519<br />
Main Superior £703 £719 £803 £845 £879 £919 £579 £619<br />
Upper Superior £763 £779 £863 £905 £939 £979 £639 £679<br />
Main Single £803 £819 £903 £945 £979 £1,019 £679 £719<br />
16 To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com
A FLORAL EXTRAVAGANZA<br />
AND DELIGHTFUL<br />
DUTCH TOWNS<br />
4 DAYS FROM<br />
£495<br />
MS ARENA<br />
Amsterdam<br />
Dutch Waterways &<br />
Keukenhof Gardens<br />
aboard MS Arena<br />
NEW<br />
This relaxing journey along the Dutch Waterways takes you to Rotterdam, a city rebuilt<br />
almost entirely after the Second World War, yet steeped in history and culture. Travel just<br />
north of Amsterdam to the quaint town of Zaandam, where you can admire authentic<br />
wooden houses in the Zaanse Schans region. Explore seas of vibrant florals at the<br />
spectacular Keukenhof Gardens and spend your final night dining in Amsterdam.<br />
YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES<br />
l Three nights’ cruise on a full board basis<br />
l Three visits included to Rotterdam, Zaandam<br />
& Amsterdam<br />
l Excursion to Keukenhof Gardens<br />
l Welcome drink & Captain's Gala Dinner<br />
l Afternoon tea/coffee and cake & late evening snack<br />
l Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi<br />
l Services of a <strong>Cruise</strong> Manager & <strong>Cruise</strong> Director<br />
YOUR TRAVEL OPTIONS<br />
BY COACH<br />
l Coach travel to the port from your local area<br />
l Ferry crossing from Dover<br />
STAY OVERNIGHT IN DOVER OR ASHFORD<br />
l Travel the day before your cruise and stay overnight<br />
in Dover or Ashford with free parking from £75pp<br />
l Take our complimentary return coach service from a<br />
selection of London stations to Ashford with<br />
overnight hotel accommodation before and on the<br />
return from your cruise from £150pp.<br />
BY RAIL<br />
l Travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras<br />
l Return connecting rail journeys<br />
l Coach transfers between station and ship<br />
BY AIR<br />
l Return flights from Heathrow with coach transfers<br />
between airport and ship<br />
l Regional flight options available, call for details.<br />
Prices are subject to change and availability and<br />
will be confirmed at the time of booking<br />
Premium Package <br />
see page 11 for details<br />
<strong>2023</strong><br />
dates<br />
No. of<br />
days<br />
Coach<br />
routes<br />
£60 per person<br />
14 April 4 D1, D4, D5 Dover<br />
21 April 4 D1, D2, D3 Dover<br />
Ferry crossing/<br />
train station/<br />
airport<br />
14, 21 April 4 St Pancras &<br />
Heathrow<br />
DEPOSITS – see page 43<br />
Day 1: UK – Rotterdam<br />
We travel to Rotterdam where we board<br />
our ship, the MS Arena and enjoy dinner on<br />
board. Rotterdam is located where the Rhine<br />
flows into the North Sea and is known as the<br />
‘Gateway to Europe’. When German and allied<br />
bombers targeted Rotterdam in 1940 in the<br />
Second World War, the city had to be rebuilt<br />
from the ground up with only the Church of<br />
Saint Lawrence left standing. Enjoy a relaxing<br />
evening onboard as we are berthed overnight in<br />
Rotterdam.<br />
Day 2: Rotterdam – Zaandam<br />
We sail from Rotterdam to Zaandam this<br />
morning, arriving in Zaandam mid-afternoon.<br />
Zaandam is located on the banks of the Zaan<br />
<strong>River</strong> and there’s free time to explore this<br />
charming town this afternoon. The Czaar<br />
Peterhuisje (Tsar Peter house) can be found in<br />
the centre of Zaandam and is one of the oldest<br />
wooden houses in Holland built in 1632. Peter<br />
the Great stayed here in 1697 before he left<br />
for the V.O.C. shipyards in Amsterdam. With<br />
his brief stay, he gave this humble wooden<br />
labourer’s house its name and fame. Enjoy a<br />
relaxing evening on board as we are berthed<br />
overnight in Zaandam.<br />
Day 3: Zaandam – Amsterdam<br />
Today we depart by coach for our included full<br />
day excursion to Keukenhof Gardens. Here you<br />
have plenty of time to explore the 32-hectare<br />
site and enjoy the swathes of flowers, themed<br />
pavilions and wonderful atmosphere that<br />
surrounds this world-class event. We re-join our<br />
ship in Amsterdam for our final evening meal<br />
on board.<br />
Day 4: Amsterdam – UK<br />
This morning we bid farewell to our captain and<br />
crew and disembark for the return journey to<br />
the UK.<br />
Zaandam<br />
Keukenhof Gardens<br />
HOLIDAY PRICES<br />
Tour code: ABUL4<br />
4 days Coach 4 days Coach 4 days Air 4 days Air 4 days Rail 4 days Rail 4 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only 4 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only<br />
Deck 14 April 21 April 14 April 21 April 14 April 21 April 14 April 21 April<br />
Main Standard £495 £499 £595 £625 £669 £699 £369 £399<br />
Main Superior £570 £574 £670 £700 £744 £774 £444 £474<br />
Upper Superior £615 £619 £715 £745 £789 £819 £489 £519<br />
Main Single £645 £649 £745 £775 £819 £849 £519 £549<br />
Peace of mind, all of our holidays are financially bonded<br />
17
EXPLORE GERMANY'S<br />
MEDIEVAL CITIES<br />
Treasures along the Rhine & Moselle<br />
aboard MS Arena<br />
Cochem<br />
Set sail through narrow gorges and steep-sided valleys on a breathtaking journey along the river Rhine to the Moselle. Explore Germany’s<br />
medieval cities and sample the finest wines on an unforgettable tour that’s as fascinating and historical as it is romantic and relaxing.<br />
Discover fairy-tale castles, soak up the atmosphere on charming squares and admire the scenery of the Rhine Valley from the heights of a<br />
cable car. At the end of each day, you’ll return to the comfort of MS Arena, where the accommodating captain and crew will take care of your<br />
every need.<br />
Day 1: UK – Amsterdam<br />
We travel to Amsterdam and join our ship, ready<br />
for a relaxing evening onboard.<br />
Day 2: Amsterdam – Dusseldorf<br />
This morning is free to explore the quaint<br />
cobbled streets of Amsterdam at your leisure.<br />
Why not treat yourself to a guided boat tour<br />
around the famous canal network, giving you<br />
the best views of the city from the water. Or you<br />
can visit the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh<br />
Museum or the impressive Rijksmuseum before<br />
setting sail for Dusseldorf at lunchtime.<br />
Day 3: Dusseldorf – Rüdesheim<br />
This morning we arrive in Dusseldorf, the<br />
German city famous for its fashion industry and<br />
huge art scene. You’ll experience a taste of the<br />
old and the new here, with modern and stylish<br />
architecture standing alongside more traditional<br />
buildings. You have the opportunity to join an<br />
optional guided tour of the city or, alternatively,<br />
Wine tasting tour<br />
why not indulge in a spot of retail therapy in the<br />
popular shopping area of Konigsallee. We return<br />
to the ship for lunch, before continuing on our<br />
way towards Rüdesheim.<br />
Day 4: Rüdesheim<br />
We arrive into the quaint wine town of<br />
Rüdesheim around lunchtime. There are two<br />
optional excursions to enjoy today. The first gives<br />
you the chance to visit the unique Siegfried’s<br />
Mechanical Museum and get a bird’s-eye view of<br />
the breathtaking Rhine Valley from a cable car.<br />
This evening you can join our optional tour to visit<br />
a traditional wine cellar and sample some of the<br />
superb wine that the region is so famous for.<br />
Day 5: Rüdesheim – Koblenz – Bernkastel<br />
We leave Rüdesheim this morning and set sail<br />
towards the historic city of Koblenz, one of the<br />
oldest, most beautiful and most diverse cities<br />
in Germany. This afternoon you can join our<br />
optional excursion to explore the pristine Sayn<br />
Palace with its tranquil butterfly garden. This<br />
evening we set sail towards Bernkastel.<br />
Day 6: Bernkastel – Trier<br />
We arrive into Bernkastel around lunchtime. A<br />
destination famous for its wine, there’s no better<br />
place to enjoy a bit of free time to yourself than<br />
in this picturesque 700-year-old town. Meander<br />
around the beautiful market square and pick<br />
your favourite spot to sit and watch the world<br />
go by, surrounded by half-timbered houses and<br />
gently-trickling fountains. Of course, it’s only right<br />
that you should do this with a refreshing glass of<br />
Riesling in hand! This evening, we sail towards<br />
Trier.<br />
Day 7: Trier – Cochem<br />
This morning we arrive into Trier where you can<br />
enjoy some free time exploring this ancient<br />
Roman city, which is one of the oldest in<br />
Germany. You can also join our optional walking<br />
tour which will give you a fascinating insight into<br />
the history and culture of the city, discovering<br />
ancient Roman ruins as you go. Later today, we<br />
return to the ship and set sail for Cochem.<br />
Day 8: Cochem – Andernach<br />
This morning we arrive in Cochem, an idyllic town<br />
set against the stunning backdrop of the Moselle<br />
<strong>River</strong> valley. Dominating the landscape is the<br />
towering, 11th century Reichsburg castle, which<br />
is over 1000 years old and features incredible<br />
panoramic views from the top. You can join our<br />
optional guided tour up to the castle and see<br />
its newly-restored neo-Gothic architecture up<br />
close. After lunch, we’ll continue onto Andernach,<br />
where we berth overnight.<br />
Day 9: Andernach – Bonn<br />
What better way to start our final day than with<br />
some optional wine tasting in Winningen? At<br />
lunchtime, we continue our journey to Bonn,<br />
the former capital of Germany and birthplace<br />
of Ludwig van Beethoven. Here you are free to<br />
explore the city at your leisure, but be sure to<br />
check out the Dragon Rock Railway, leading to<br />
the top of magnificent Drachenfels hill. It’s then<br />
time to cast off for the final time and cruise to the<br />
beautiful city of Cologne, dominated by its huge<br />
Gothic cathedral.<br />
Day 10: Cologne – UK<br />
This morning, we bid farewell to our captain, crew<br />
and ship and begin our return journey to the UK.<br />
18<br />
Our price promise means our cruises won’t be sold for less!
10 DAYS FROM<br />
£1249<br />
MS ARENA<br />
YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES<br />
l Nine nights’ cruise on a full board basis<br />
l Ten visits included to Amsterdam, Dusseldorf,<br />
Rüdesheim, Koblenz, Bernkastel, Trier, Cochem,<br />
Andernach, Bonn and Cologne<br />
l Welcome drink & Captain's Gala Dinner<br />
l Afternoon tea/coffee and cake & late evening snack<br />
l Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi<br />
l Services of a <strong>Cruise</strong> Manager & <strong>Cruise</strong> Director<br />
YOUR TRAVEL OPTIONS<br />
BY COACH BALTIC<br />
SEA<br />
l Coach travel to the port from your local area<br />
l Ferry crossing from Dover<br />
Thames<br />
English<br />
Channel<br />
NORTH<br />
SEA<br />
NETHERLANDS<br />
Amsterdam<br />
Düsseldorf<br />
Cologne GERMANY<br />
BELGIUM Bonn<br />
Andernach<br />
Koblenz<br />
Rüdesheim<br />
Cochem<br />
Trier<br />
Bernkastel<br />
FRANCE<br />
Moselle<br />
start<br />
STAY OVERNIGHT IN DOVER OR ASHFORD<br />
l Travel the day before your cruise and stay overnight<br />
in Dover or Ashford with free parking from £75pp<br />
l Take our complimentary return coach service from a<br />
selection of London stations to Ashford with<br />
overnight hotel accommodation before and on the<br />
return from your cruise from £150pp.<br />
BY RAIL<br />
l Travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras<br />
l Return connecting rail journeys<br />
l Coach transfers between station and ship<br />
BY AIR<br />
l Return flights from Heathrow with coach transfers<br />
between airport and ship<br />
CZECH REPUBLIC<br />
TOURS & EXPERIENCES<br />
l Dusseldorf City Tour<br />
l Rüdesheim Highlights<br />
l Rüdesheim by Night<br />
l Koblenz Cable Car & Ehrenbreitstein Fortress<br />
l Trier Guided Tour<br />
l Reichsburg Castle<br />
l Winningen Wine Tasting<br />
Package Price<br />
£261 per person<br />
Premium Package <br />
see page 11 for details<br />
£180 per person<br />
<strong>2023</strong><br />
dates<br />
No. of<br />
days<br />
Coach<br />
routes<br />
12 May 10 D1, D4, D5 Dover<br />
Ferry crossing/<br />
train station/<br />
airport<br />
12 May 10 St Pancras &<br />
Heathrow<br />
DEPOSITS – see page 43<br />
Bernkastel<br />
HOLIDAY PRICES<br />
Tour code: RHIMO<br />
10 days Coach 10 days Air<br />
Deck 12 May 12 May<br />
Main Standard £1,249 £1,379<br />
Main Superior £1,469 £1,599<br />
Upper Superior £1,589 £1,719<br />
Main Single £1,689 £1,819<br />
10 days Rail 10 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only<br />
12 May 12 May<br />
Main Standard £1,399 £1,089<br />
Main Superior £1,619 £1,309<br />
Upper Superior £1,739 £1,429<br />
Main Single £1,839 £1,529<br />
Rüdesheim<br />
MS Arena<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com 19
DISCOVER COUNTLESS TREASURES<br />
ON THIS RHINELAND ADVENTURE<br />
The Mighty Rhine to Switzerland<br />
aboard MS Arena<br />
Lake Lucerne<br />
Experience the very best of the Rhine on this romantic journey that’ll see you taking in the sights of three different countries. Explore<br />
Germany, France and Switzerland, using the comfort of the four star MS Arena as your base. Discover ancient old towns, gothic cathedrals<br />
and captivating museums as you go. You’ll get to see some of the Rhineland’s most spectacular sights, from the dizzy heights of the<br />
Rüdesheim cable car overlooking the Rhine Valley to sailing by the sheer cliff faces of the mythical Rhine Gorge and the lush plains of the<br />
Alsace. This is river cruising at its very best.<br />
Day 1: UK – Cologne<br />
We travel to Cologne where we join our ship. This<br />
evening we enjoy a relaxing dinner onboard as<br />
we sail overnight towards Rüdesheim.<br />
Day 2: Rüdesheim<br />
Relax onboard as we cruise along the Rhine<br />
which leads us through the Rhine Gorge and<br />
past the legendary Lorelai. This afternoon we<br />
arrive at the quaint wine town of Rüdesheim.<br />
Here you can enjoy the town’s many highlights<br />
on our optional excursion, including a cable car<br />
ride for panoramic views across the Rhine valley.<br />
This evening we set sail for Speyer.<br />
Day 3: Speyer – Strasbourg<br />
This morning we arrive in the charming town<br />
of Speyer. Easily explored on foot, Speyer has<br />
a magnificent Romanesque Cathedral, as well<br />
as an abundance of museums and the remains<br />
of a medieval synagogue. You can also take<br />
advantage of our optional excursion to the<br />
Speyer Technical Museum which houses vintage<br />
cars, locomotives and an original Boeing 747<br />
Jumbo Jet. Lunch is served onboard before we<br />
sail overnight to Strasbourg.<br />
Day 4: Strasbourg – Basel<br />
This morning we arrive at the magnificent<br />
city of Strasbourg, which is well known for its<br />
world heritage status. Enjoy some free time to<br />
explore the main sights at leisure or take a walk<br />
around the old city. You can enjoy our fantastic<br />
optional excursion cruising along Strasbourg’s<br />
waterways, which is a great way to see the city.<br />
We return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon<br />
sailing to Basel.<br />
Day 5: Basel – Lucerne – Breisach<br />
We arrive this morning into the old University<br />
City of Basel. Here you can join our included<br />
full day excursion by coach to the Swiss resort<br />
of Lucerne. This scenic journey follows a route<br />
that tunnels through the Jura Mountains, before<br />
arriving at Lucerne - the historic and scenic heart<br />
of Switzerland. Here you can visit the beautiful<br />
Chapel Bridge with its prominent water tower,<br />
one of the most photographed landmarks<br />
in Switzerland. Tonight we sail overnight to<br />
Breisach.<br />
Day 6: Breisach – Alsace – Mannheim<br />
This morning we arrive into Breisach, where the<br />
Black Forest meets the Alsace. Here you can join<br />
our optional excursion into the beautiful Alsace,<br />
stopping at the little village of Riquewihr where<br />
Strasbourg<br />
20<br />
Find us on Facebook<br />
arenarivercruises
8 DAYS FROM<br />
£1129<br />
MS ARENA<br />
ENGLAND<br />
Thames<br />
English<br />
Channel<br />
NORTH<br />
SEA<br />
FRANCE<br />
IJsselmeer<br />
Cologne<br />
start<br />
BELGIUM<br />
By coach<br />
Rüdesheim<br />
Strasbourg<br />
Speyer<br />
Basel<br />
GERMANY<br />
Lucerne<br />
Elbe<br />
Mainz<br />
Heidelberg<br />
Mannheim<br />
Alsace<br />
Breisach<br />
SWITZERLAND<br />
ITALY<br />
Peene<br />
Danube<br />
YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES<br />
l Seven nights’ cruise on a full board basis<br />
l Nine visits included to Cologne, Rüdesheim, Speyer,<br />
Strasbourg, Basel, Lucerne, Breisach, Mannheim<br />
and Mainz<br />
l Excursion to Lucerne<br />
l Welcome drink & Captain's Gala Dinner<br />
l Afternoon tea/coffee and cake & late evening snack<br />
l Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi<br />
l Services of a <strong>Cruise</strong> Manager & <strong>Cruise</strong> Director<br />
YOUR TRAVEL OPTIONS<br />
BY COACH<br />
l Coach travel to the port from your local area<br />
l Ferry crossing from Dover<br />
STAY OVERNIGHT IN DOVER OR ASHFORD<br />
l Travel the day before your cruise and stay overnight<br />
in Dover or Ashford with free parking from £75pp<br />
l Take our complimentary return coach service from a<br />
selection of London stations to Ashford with<br />
overnight hotel accommodation before and on the<br />
return from your cruise from £150pp.<br />
BY RAIL<br />
l CZECH Travel by REPUBLIC Eurostar from London St Pancras<br />
l Return connecting rail journeys<br />
Ilzl Coach transfers between station and ship<br />
BY AIR<br />
Inn<br />
l Return flights from Heathrow with coach transfers<br />
between airport and ship<br />
l AUSTRIA Regional flight options available, call for details.<br />
Prices are subject to change and availability and will<br />
be confirmed at the time of booking.<br />
SLOVENIA<br />
TOURS & EXPERIENCES<br />
l Rüdesheim Highlights<br />
l Speyer Technical Museum<br />
l Strasbourg Canal <strong>Cruise</strong><br />
l Alluring Alsace<br />
l Heidelberg<br />
l Mainz Guided Tour & Gutenberg Museum<br />
Package Price<br />
£237 per person<br />
Premium Package<br />
see page 11 for details<br />
£140 per person<br />
Lucerne<br />
we enjoy wine tasting at the famous Dopff &<br />
Irion vineyard. This afternoon we set sail for<br />
Mannheim.<br />
Day 7: Mannheim – Heidelberg – Mainz<br />
We cruise to the river port of Mannheim where<br />
you can join our optional excursion to the<br />
majestic city of Heidelberg, home of Germany’s<br />
oldest university, for time at leisure. We return to<br />
our ship for lunch onboard as we cruise to Mainz<br />
where we arrive later this afternoon. Mainz is<br />
situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Main<br />
<strong>River</strong>s and has been the capital of the German<br />
federal state of Rhineland-Palatinate since 1946.<br />
Join our optional guided walking tour, taking in<br />
the university, the pretty pedestrian precincts<br />
and the fabulous Romanesque cathedral.<br />
We also include entrance to the Gutenberg<br />
Museum. This evening enjoy your final night<br />
onboard as we set sail for Cologne.<br />
Day 8: Cologne – UK<br />
This morning we bid farewell to our captain and<br />
crew and set off on the return journey to the UK.<br />
<strong>2023</strong><br />
dates<br />
Breisach<br />
No. of<br />
days<br />
Coach<br />
routes<br />
21 May 8 D1, D4, D5 Dover<br />
28 May 8 D1, D2 Dover<br />
4 June 8 D1, D3 Dover<br />
11 June 8 D1, D4 Dover<br />
18 June 8 D1, D5 Dover<br />
25 June 8 D1, D2, D3 Dover<br />
21, 28 May,<br />
4, 11, 18 & 25 June<br />
DEPOSITS – see page 43<br />
Ferry crossing/<br />
train station/<br />
airport<br />
8 St Pancras &<br />
Heathrow<br />
HOLIDAY PRICES<br />
Tour code: SWISS<br />
8 days Coach 8 days Coach 8 days Air 8 days Air 8 days Rail 8 days Rail 8 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only 8 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only<br />
Deck 21, 28 May, 4 June 11, 18, 25 June 21, 28 May, 4 June 11, 18, 25 June 21, 28 May, 4 June 11, 18, 25 June 21, 28 May, 4 June 11, 18, 25 June<br />
Main Standard £1,129 £1,179 £1,295 £1,349 £1,339 £1,389 £995 £1,049<br />
Main Superior £1,304 £1,355 £1,470 £1,525 £1,514 £1,565 £1,170 £1,225<br />
Upper Superior £1,369 £1,419 £1,535 £1,589 £1,579 £1,629 £1,235 £1,289<br />
Main Single £1,479 £1,525 £1,645 £1,695 £1,689 £1,735 £1,345 £1,395<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com 21
FROM FAIRYTALE CASTLES TO<br />
DRAMATIC GOTHIC CHURCHES<br />
Salzburg & Historic<br />
Gems along the Rhine<br />
aboard MS Arena<br />
NEW<br />
Salzburg<br />
This relaxing cruise weaves its way through historic sites and charming towns and cities along the Rhine. Throughout your journey, witness<br />
incredible natural displays such as the Rhine Gorge and Rhine valley, or explore the streets of Bavarian towns brimming with Baroque art,<br />
medieval influences, captivating history, and incredible architecture. From magnificent, fairy-tale-inspired castles and romantic fountains, to<br />
dramatic, gothic churches and Austrian Benedictine abbeys, this river cruise takes you on an incredible adventure.<br />
Day 1: UK – Cologne<br />
We travel to our ship, the MS Arena in Cologne<br />
and enjoy dinner on board before we set sail for<br />
Rüdesheim.<br />
Day 2: Rüdesheim - Mainz<br />
Enjoy a leisurely morning cruising. We pass the<br />
legendary Lorelei and continue our cruise along<br />
the Rhine through the spectacular Rhine Gorge.<br />
We stop at the quaint wine town of Rüdesheim<br />
where you can enjoy many highlights on our<br />
optional excursion this afternoon, including a<br />
cable car ride for panoramic views across the<br />
Rhine valley.<br />
Day 3: Mainz- Miltenberg<br />
This morning, we arrive in the fascinating city of<br />
Mainz which is heralded as the wine capital of<br />
Germany. Here you have the morning to explore<br />
or join our optional coach excursion visiting the<br />
majestic city of Heidelberg, home of Germany’s<br />
oldest university. We return to the ship for lunch<br />
and cruise overnight to Miltenberg.<br />
Day 4: Miltenberg - Wurzburg<br />
We arrive at historic Miltenberg this morning<br />
where we have free time to explore. Explore the<br />
half-timbered houses which fill the Old Market<br />
Place or the oldest part of the town which sits<br />
between the Main <strong>River</strong> and the mountain<br />
Greinberg. Enjoy your lunch on board the ship<br />
before we set sail for Würzburg.<br />
Day 5: Würzburg – Bamberg<br />
This morning we arrive in the city of Würzburg,<br />
which served as the home of powerful<br />
prince-bishops for centuries. Join our optional<br />
excursion to visit Würzburg Palace, one of the<br />
finest pieces of baroque art in the world, its 8th<br />
century church and the Fortress Marienberg.<br />
There’s free time to explore at leisure before we<br />
set sail for Bamberg.<br />
Day 6: Bamberg – Nuremberg<br />
This afternoon we arrive at the beautiful<br />
Bavarian town of Bamberg, which is located at<br />
the start of the Main-Danube canal. Surrounded<br />
by seven hills, it boasts the most intact centre<br />
in Germany, with the old town listed as a World<br />
Heritage site because of its authentic medieval<br />
appearance. Join our optional tour of the city to<br />
enjoy the main sights including the cathedral,<br />
Altenburg Castle, the Old Town Hall and the<br />
former Benedictine Monastery. We return to the<br />
ship for our evening meal before we set sail for<br />
Nuremberg.<br />
Day 7: Nuremberg - Regensburg<br />
This morning, we arrive in Nuremberg, Bavaria’s<br />
second largest city after Munich. There’s the<br />
opportunity to join our sight-seeing tour.<br />
Most of the city walls still stand and inside you<br />
can explore the fascinating juxtaposition of<br />
medieval and modern life in an area. Filled with<br />
gothic churches, aristocratic houses, fountains,<br />
memorials, and romantic corners, all dominated<br />
by the Kaiser Castle. We enjoy lunch on board<br />
before sailing onwards to Regensburg.<br />
Day 8: Regensburg – Passau<br />
We arrive at Regensburg this morning, which<br />
is located at the northernmost point of the<br />
Danube and at the confluence of the Danube<br />
and Regen rivers. You’ll have the opportunity to<br />
join our optional city tour this morning, taking<br />
in one of the best-preserved medieval centres,<br />
which is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. This<br />
evening, relax onboard as we sail overnight to<br />
Passau.<br />
Day 9: Passau – Salzburg - Linz – Melk<br />
We arrive in Passau this morning before we<br />
board our coach for our included excursion to<br />
Salzburg. Salzburg, Mozart’s famed birthplace,<br />
and the Sound of Music city, has an abundance<br />
of beautiful architecture, and at its centre is a<br />
UNESCO World Heritage site. Our guided tour<br />
takes in some of the highlights of this historic<br />
city, with its Baroque architecture and fantastic<br />
squares, where you can relax with a typical<br />
Austrian coffee and cake. We re-join our ship in<br />
Linz and this evening we set sail for Melk.<br />
Day 10: Melk - Passau<br />
This morning we arrive in the small town of<br />
Melk, which lies in the beautiful Wachau valley.<br />
Here you can join our optional excursion visiting<br />
the Benedictine Abbey. This is one of the most<br />
famous monastic houses in Austria and has<br />
been occupied by monks for over 900 years. You<br />
can relax onboard for the remainder of the day<br />
as we cruise to Passau overnight. .<br />
Day 11: Passau – Frankfurt (Coach & Rail)<br />
/ UK (Air)<br />
We disembark in Passau this morning and<br />
travel by coach or rail to our overnight hotel in<br />
Frankfurt. Those travelling by air depart today.<br />
Day 12: Frankfurt – UK (Coach & Rail)<br />
After breakfast we continue our return journey<br />
home.<br />
22<br />
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11 DAYS FROM<br />
£1459<br />
MS ARENA<br />
YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES<br />
l Ten nights’ cruise on a full board basis<br />
l Ten visits included to Passau, Melk, Regensburg,<br />
Nuremberg, Bamberg, Würzburg, Miltenberg, Mainz,<br />
Rüdesheim and Cologne<br />
l Excursion to Salzburg<br />
l Welcome drink & Captain's Gala Dinner<br />
l Afternoon tea/coffee and cake & late evening snack<br />
l Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi<br />
l Services of a <strong>Cruise</strong> Manager & <strong>Cruise</strong> Director<br />
YOUR TRAVEL OPTIONS<br />
BY COACH<br />
l Coach travel to the port from your local area<br />
l One nights’ bed & breakfast accommodation<br />
in Germany<br />
STAY OVERNIGHT IN DOVER OR ASHFORD<br />
l Travel the day before your cruise and stay overnight<br />
in Dover or Ashford with free parking from £75pp<br />
l Take our complimentary return coach service from a<br />
selection of London stations to Ashford with<br />
overnight hotel accommodation before and on the<br />
return from your cruise from £150pp.<br />
BY RAIL<br />
l Travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras<br />
l Return connecting rail journeys<br />
l Coach transfers between station and ship<br />
l One nights’ bed & breakfast accommodation<br />
in Germany<br />
BY AIR<br />
l Return flights from Heathrow with coach transfers<br />
between airport and ship<br />
l Regional flight options available, call for details.<br />
Prices are subject to change and availability and will<br />
be confirmed at the time of booking.<br />
TOURS & EXPERIENCES<br />
l Rüdesheim Highlights<br />
l Heidelberg Highlights<br />
l Würzburg Palace<br />
l Bamberg City Tour<br />
l Nuremberg City Tour<br />
l Regensburg City Tour<br />
l Melk Abbey<br />
Package Price<br />
£274 per person<br />
Premium Package<br />
see page 11 for details<br />
£200 per person<br />
Miltenberg<br />
<strong>2023</strong><br />
dates<br />
No. of<br />
days<br />
Coach<br />
routes<br />
2 July 12 D1, D2, D3 Dover<br />
Ferry crossing/<br />
train station/<br />
airport<br />
2 July 12 St Pancras<br />
2 July 11 Heathrow<br />
20 October* 12 D1, D4, D5 Dover<br />
20 October* 12 St Pancras<br />
21 October* 11 Heathrow<br />
*20 & 21 October departure operates in the reverse. Starting in<br />
Passau and sailing to Cologne<br />
DEPOSITS – see page 43<br />
Würzburg<br />
Bamberg<br />
Nuremberg<br />
HOLIDAY PRICES<br />
Tour code: SALZR/SALZB<br />
12 days Coach 12 days Coach 11 days Air 11 days Air 12 days Rail 12 days Rail 11 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only 11 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only<br />
Deck 2 July 20 October 2 July 21 October 2 July 20 October 2 July 21 October<br />
Main Standard £1,649 £1,495 £1,595 £1,459 £1,795 £1,659 £1,395 £1,249<br />
Main Superior £1,899 £1,745 £1,845 £1,709 £2,045 £1,909 £1,645 £1,499<br />
Upper Superior £2,049 £1,895 £1,995 £1,859 £2,195 £2,059 £1,795 £1,649<br />
Main Single £2,149 £1,995 £2,095 £1,959 £2,295 £2,159 £1,895 £1,749<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com 23
A CAPTIVATING JOURNEY<br />
THROUGH THE HEART OF EUROPE<br />
<strong>Cruise</strong> the Danube to Vienna<br />
& Budapest<br />
including Bratislava, Dürnstein & Melk<br />
aboard MS Arena<br />
Set sail from the ‘three rivers city’ of Passau and embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe. Discover the delights of<br />
Strauss’ famous Danube from the comfort of MS Arena, taking time to explore scenic and historical stops along the way. Take in the beauty<br />
of the Wachau Valley as you visit the Austrian town of Melk; a cluster of terracotta rooftops among a forest of green. You can take advantage<br />
of a full day in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Vienna, plus another full day in the breathtakingly beautiful city of Budapest. Spend time<br />
in the Slovakian capital of Bratislava and wander the cobbled streets of Dürnstein on this enthralling river adventure.<br />
Day 1: UK – Overnight hotel, Germany<br />
(Coach & Rail)<br />
We travel by coach or rail to our overnight hotel<br />
in Germany.<br />
Day 2: Munich – Passau (Coach & Rail) or<br />
UK – Passau (Air)<br />
After breakfast we travel by coach or rail and<br />
board our ship in Passau, known as the ‘three<br />
rivers city’ due to its unique location where the<br />
Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers meet. Those travelling<br />
by air join today. You can then enjoy a relaxing<br />
evening onboard as we set sail and cruise<br />
towards Melk.<br />
Day 3: Melk – Vienna<br />
This morning we arrive in the small town of<br />
Melk, which lies in the beautiful Wachau valley.<br />
Here you can join our optional excursion visiting<br />
the Benedictine Abbey. This is one of the most<br />
famous monastic houses in Austria and has<br />
been occupied by monks for over 900 years. You<br />
can relax onboard for the remainder of the day<br />
as we cruise to Vienna for an overnight stop.<br />
Day 4: Vienna – Budapest<br />
We spend a full day experiencing the delights<br />
of Vienna. Grand palaces, baroque castles,<br />
magnificent squares and striking monuments<br />
are just some of the key features of this beautiful<br />
city, which is a world heritage site. In the<br />
morning you can join our optional city tour<br />
followed by lunch onboard. This afternoon you<br />
can take advantage of our optional excursion<br />
to Schonbrunn Palace, which takes you on a<br />
journey through time as we explore some of the<br />
1,441 rooms. In the early evening we cast off and<br />
cruise towards Budapest.<br />
Day 5: Budapest<br />
Today we arrive into Budapest. Enjoy lunch<br />
onboard the ship before joining our optional<br />
tour of this fascinating city. Budapest is one of<br />
the most beautiful cities in the world with an<br />
extensive area recognised as a world heritage<br />
site. We can explore both sides of Hungary’s<br />
capital which is divided by the meandering<br />
Danube – traditional Buda and the more<br />
cosmopolitan Pest. Most of the famous sites are<br />
concentrated around Castle Hill on the Buda<br />
side, in downtown Pest and along the riverside<br />
walkways. Look out for the Royal Palace,<br />
Fishermen’s Bastion, the Parliament building, St<br />
Stephen’s Basilica, Heroes’ Square and the Chain<br />
Bridge. We return to the ship for a relaxing<br />
dinner onboard then there’s the chance to join<br />
our optional excursion to experience Budapest<br />
by night with a traditional folklore show.<br />
Day 6: Budapest – Bratislava<br />
Enjoy a morning in Budapest or join our<br />
optional excursion which takes you through the<br />
sweeping plains of Hungary to Lajosmizse. Here<br />
we visit a traditional stud farm and enjoy a tour<br />
of the grounds in a horse-drawn carriage, before<br />
watching a spectacular live Puszta horse show.<br />
We set sail in the afternoon and cruise towards<br />
Bratislava.<br />
Day 7: Bratislava – Dürnstein<br />
We reach Bratislava this morning where there’s<br />
the opportunity to join our optional excursion<br />
taking in this historic capital city, which is<br />
dominated by its castle and unique suspension<br />
bridge. We’ll enjoy a walking tour with a local<br />
guide and sample ‘Makovka’ which is a sweet<br />
white chocolate with poppy seed filling. Lunch<br />
is served onboard and the afternoon is free to<br />
explore Bratislava at your leisure before we enjoy<br />
dinner onboard and cruise towards Dürnstein.<br />
Day 8: Dürnstein – Passau<br />
The town of Dürnstein nestles among Austria’s<br />
most famous vineyards and is crowned by the<br />
ruins of the castle that once imprisoned Richard<br />
the Lionheart. It’s a beautiful place filled with<br />
cobbled streets, pretty courtyards and 16th<br />
century houses. After some free time we set sail<br />
for the final time and cruise towards Passau.<br />
Day 9: Passau – Germany (Coach & Rail)<br />
/ UK (Air)<br />
We disembark this morning and travel by coach<br />
or rail to our overnight hotel. Those travelling by<br />
air depart today.<br />
Day 10: Germany – UK (Coach & Rail)<br />
After breakfast we continue our return journey<br />
home.<br />
Bratislava<br />
24<br />
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8 DAYS FROM<br />
£1159<br />
MS ARENA<br />
Budapest<br />
YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES<br />
l Seven nights’ cruise on a full board basis<br />
l Five visits included to Melk, Vienna, Budapest,<br />
Bratislava and Dürnstein<br />
l Welcome drink & Captain's Gala Dinner<br />
l Afternoon tea/coffee and cake & late evening snack<br />
l Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi<br />
l Services of a <strong>Cruise</strong> Manager & <strong>Cruise</strong> Director<br />
YOUR TRAVEL OPTIONS<br />
BY COACH<br />
l Coach travel to the port from your local area<br />
l Ferry crossing from Dover<br />
l Two nights’ bed & breakfast accommodation<br />
in Germany<br />
STAY OVERNIGHT IN DOVER OR ASHFORD<br />
l Travel the day before your cruise and stay overnight<br />
in Dover or Ashford with free parking from £75pp<br />
l Take our complimentary return coach service from a<br />
selection of London stations to Ashford with<br />
overnight hotel accommodation before and on the<br />
return from your cruise from £150pp.<br />
BY RAIL<br />
l Travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras<br />
l Return connecting rail journeys<br />
l Coach transfers between station and ship<br />
l Two nights’ bed & breakfast accommodation<br />
in Germany<br />
BY AIR<br />
l Return flights from Heathrow, Birmingham or<br />
Manchester with coach transfers between airport<br />
and ship<br />
l Regional flight options available, call for details.<br />
Prices are subject to change and availability and will<br />
be confirmed at the time of booking.<br />
TOURS & EXPERIENCES<br />
l Melk Abbey<br />
l Vienna City Tour<br />
l Schonbrunn Palace<br />
l Budapest City Tour<br />
l Budapest by Night<br />
l Puszta Horse Show<br />
l Bratislava Guided Tour<br />
& Chocolate Experience<br />
Package Price<br />
£290 per person<br />
Premium Package<br />
see page 11 for details<br />
£140 per person<br />
Bratislava<br />
Schonbrunn Palace<br />
Melk Abbey<br />
<strong>2023</strong><br />
dates<br />
No. of<br />
days<br />
Coach<br />
routes<br />
11 July 10 D1, D5 Dover<br />
8 August 10 D1, D5 Dover<br />
19 September 10 D1, D5 Dover<br />
18 July 10 D1, D4 Dover<br />
15 August 10 D1, D4 Dover<br />
25 July 10 D1, D3 Dover<br />
5 September 10 D1, D3 Dover<br />
1 August 10 D1, D2 Dover<br />
12 September 10 D1, D2 Dover<br />
11, 18, 25 July, 1, 8, 15,August,<br />
5, 12, 19 September<br />
12 July, 2 August,<br />
6 September<br />
19 July, 9 August,<br />
13 September<br />
26 July, 16 August,<br />
20 September<br />
DEPOSITS – see page 43<br />
Ferry crossing/<br />
train station/<br />
airport<br />
10 St Pancras<br />
8 Heathrow<br />
8 Manchester<br />
8 Birmingham<br />
HOLIDAY PRICES<br />
Tour code: DANUB<br />
10 days Coach 10 days Coach 8 days Air 8 days Air 10 days Rail 10 days Rail 8 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only 8 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only<br />
Deck July & August September July & August September July & August September July & August September<br />
Main Standard £1,259 £1,299 £1,159 £1,199 £1,459 £1,499 £859 £899<br />
Main Superior £1,429 £1,469 £1,329 £1,369 £1,629 £1,669 £1,029 £1,069<br />
Upper Superior £1,535 £1,573 £1,435 £1,473 £1,735 £1,773 £1,135 £1,173<br />
Main Single £1,599 £1,633 £1,499 £1,533 £1,799 £1,833 £1,199 £1,233<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com 25
AN UNFORGETTABLE JOURNEY<br />
ALONG THE MIGHTY DANUBE<br />
The Danube to the Black Sea<br />
Germany – Austria – Hungary – Serbia – Bulgaria – Romania – Slovakia<br />
aboard MS Arena<br />
Wake up to breathtaking views as we follow the course of the Danube on its extraordinary journey to the Black Sea. This fascinating cruise<br />
reveals some of Eastern Europe’s greatest treasures, taking you through no less than seven countries featuring spectacular scenery and<br />
captivating capital cities. Discover awe-inspiring natural wonders, including the picturesque Wachau valley of Austria, the Iron Gate Gorge<br />
which cuts through the Carpathian and the Balkan mountains, and the unique, lesser known cities of Romania, sitting on the banks of the<br />
river. Explore both sides of Budapest, see the beautiful architecture of Bratislava and Belgrade, and wander the pretty streets of Vienna –<br />
city of whirls and waltzes. With something new to see every day, this is a truly unforgettable river cruise.<br />
Day 1: UK – Munich (Coach & Rail)<br />
We travel by coach or rail to our overnight hotel in<br />
the Munich area.<br />
Day 2: Munich – Passau – Vienna (Coach & Rail) /<br />
UK – Passau – Vienna (Air)<br />
After breakfast, we transfer by coach or rail and<br />
board our ship in Passau which is known as<br />
the ‘three rivers city’ due to its unique location<br />
where the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers meet. Those<br />
travelling by air join today. Dinner is served<br />
onboard this evening as we relax and set sail<br />
through the Wachau valley towards Vienna.<br />
Day 3: Vienna – Kalocsa<br />
We arrive in Vienna around lunchtime, where<br />
there will be the opportunity to join our optional<br />
Vienna city tour. Our guided tour takes in the<br />
many highlights of Austria’s beautiful capital,<br />
including an abundance of grand palaces,<br />
baroque castles, magnificent squares and striking<br />
monuments. Later this evening, we set sail for the<br />
charming town of Kalocsa in Hungary.<br />
Day 4: Kalocsa – Belgrade<br />
We arrive in Kalocsa in the early afternoon where<br />
you will have free time to explore. Set on the bank<br />
of the Danube, Kalocsa is one of Hungary’s oldest<br />
towns and dates back to the early 11th century. As<br />
the town evolved it became known for paprika<br />
production and intricate handcrafted embroidery.<br />
This evening we enjoy dinner onboard before<br />
sailing to Mohacs and then onward to Belgrade.<br />
Day 5: Belgrade – Iron Gate<br />
We arrive in the Serbian capital of Belgrade<br />
around lunchtime. The city of Belgrade lies at<br />
the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers.<br />
There is plenty of time to see the highlights of<br />
this fascinating city on our optional tour, which is<br />
a great way to see the main sights; including the<br />
huge Belgrade Fortress and St Sava Church, one<br />
of the biggest churches in the world. We enjoy<br />
dinner onboard this evening and sail overnight<br />
towards the Iron Gate.<br />
Day 6: Iron Gate<br />
Enjoy a full day cruising through the breathtaking<br />
scenery of Eisernes Tor, the Iron Gate, which is the<br />
largest river gorge in Europe and carves a channel<br />
through the Carpathian mountains. The views are<br />
spectacular, with the Derdap national park on the<br />
southern side of the Danube in Serbia and the<br />
Portile de Fier Nature Park on the northern side in<br />
Romania. It’s a fantastic day to spend relaxing on<br />
the sun deck.<br />
Day 7: Ruse – Tulcea<br />
This morning we arrive in Ruse, the fifth largest<br />
city in Bulgaria, where there’s some free time to<br />
explore. Ruse is one of Bulgaria's most elegant<br />
cities full of belle époque architecture, an<br />
abundance of museums plus its ruined Roman<br />
fortress, standing guard high over the Danube.<br />
Lunch is served on board the ship before we set<br />
sail towards the Romanian city of Tulcea.<br />
Day 8: Tulcea – Braila – Oltenita<br />
We arrive into Tulcea this morning where we will<br />
visit the Danube Delta on our included excursion.<br />
At lunch time we are transferred by coach to join<br />
a boat trip, where we will cruise along the <strong>River</strong><br />
Danube as it makes its final journey to the Black<br />
Sea. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, consisting<br />
of 2,200 square miles of rivers, marshes and lakes,<br />
is the second largest delta in Europe and is full of<br />
wildlife. Lunch is served onboard so you can relax<br />
and enjoy the spectacular scenery. We rejoin our<br />
cruise in Braila, one of the largest Romanian ports<br />
on the Danube, and set sail for Oltenita.<br />
Day 9: Oltenita – Bucharest – Giurgiu – Iron Gate<br />
We arrive into the picturesque city of Oltenita this<br />
morning. Here you can join our optional excursion<br />
which takes you to the Romanian capital of<br />
Bucharest, where there’s plenty of time to explore<br />
the wide tree-lined boulevards and admire the<br />
many landmarks including Parliament Palace –<br />
one of the largest buildings in the world. We rejoin<br />
our cruise in Giurgiu and set sail for the Iron Gate.<br />
Day 10: Iron Gate<br />
Today we have a full day cruising back through the<br />
magnificent Iron Gate. Relax onboard and watch<br />
the scenery drift by as we head towards Belgrade.<br />
Day 11: Belgrade – Novi Sad<br />
We arrive back into Belgrade at around lunchtime<br />
and from here you can take advantage of our<br />
optional tour of Novi Sad, the second largest city<br />
in Serbia. Take in the city highlights and discover<br />
the historic neighbourhood of Stari Grad on our<br />
optional guided tour of this fascinating city. This<br />
evening we enjoy dinner onboard before sailing<br />
onto Mohacs in Hungary.<br />
Day 12: Mohacs – Pecs – Budapest<br />
This afternoon, there’s the opportunity to join our<br />
optional city tour of Pécs, which is one of the most<br />
interesting cities in Hungary. Lying equidistant<br />
from the Danube to the east and the Dráva to<br />
the south on a plain sheltered from the northern<br />
winds by the hills, Pécs has a microclimate that<br />
26 To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com
15 DAYS FROM<br />
£2199<br />
MS ARENA<br />
Rhine<br />
BELGIUM<br />
Main<br />
Moselle<br />
Iron Gate<br />
Rhine<br />
GERMANY<br />
CZECH REPUBLIC<br />
Ilz<br />
Passau Melk<br />
SLOVAKIA<br />
Inn<br />
Bratislava<br />
Munich<br />
start<br />
Vienna<br />
Budapest<br />
AUSTRIA<br />
HUNGARY<br />
Kalocsa<br />
SLOVENIA Pécs Mohacs<br />
ITALY<br />
CROATIA<br />
BOSNIA &<br />
HERZEGOVINA<br />
Novi<br />
Sad<br />
Belgrade<br />
SERBIA<br />
MONTENEGRO<br />
ALBANIA<br />
Iron Gate<br />
Gorge<br />
MACEDONIA<br />
ROMANIA<br />
Danube<br />
UKRAINE<br />
Bucharest<br />
Braila<br />
Giurgiu<br />
Oltenita<br />
Ruse<br />
BULGARIA<br />
MOLDOVA<br />
Tulcea<br />
BLACK<br />
SEA<br />
YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES<br />
l 14 nights’ cruise on a full board basis<br />
l 15 visits included to Vienna, Kalocsa, Belgrade, Ruse,<br />
Tulcea, Danube Delta, Braila, Oltenita, Bucharest,<br />
Giurgui, Novi Sad, Pecs, Budapest, Bratislava and Melk<br />
l Excursion to Black Sea<br />
l Welcome drink & Captain's Gala Dinner<br />
l Afternoon tea/coffee and cake & late evening snack<br />
l Complimentary tea and coffee<br />
l Services of a <strong>Cruise</strong> Manager & <strong>Cruise</strong> Director<br />
YOUR TRAVEL OPTIONS<br />
BY COACH<br />
l Coach travel to the port from your local area<br />
l Ferry crossing from Dover<br />
l Two nights’ bed & breakfast accommodation<br />
in Germany<br />
STAY OVERNIGHT IN DOVER OR ASHFORD<br />
l Travel the day before your cruise and stay overnight in<br />
Dover or Ashford with free parking from £75pp<br />
l Take our complimentary return coach service from a<br />
selection of London stations to Ashford with overnight<br />
hotel accommodation before and on the return from<br />
your cruise from £150pp<br />
BY RAIL<br />
l Travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras<br />
l Return connecting rail journeys<br />
l Coach transfers between station and ship<br />
l Two nights’ bed & breakfast accommodation<br />
in Germany<br />
BY AIR<br />
l Return flights from Heathrow, Birmingham or<br />
Manchester with coach transfers between airport<br />
and ship<br />
l Regional flight options available, call for details. Prices<br />
are subject to change and availability and will be<br />
confirmed at the time of booking<br />
TOURS & EXPERIENCES<br />
l Vienna City Tour<br />
l Belgrade City Tour<br />
l Bucharest City Tour<br />
l Novi Sad City Tour<br />
l Pecs City Tour<br />
l Budapest City Tour<br />
l Bratislava Guided Tour & Chocolate Experience<br />
l Melk Abbey<br />
Package Price<br />
£255 per person<br />
Bucharest<br />
Premium Package<br />
see page 11 for details<br />
£280 per person<br />
lengthens the summer and is ideal for fruit<br />
production. It has an illustrious past and a number<br />
of excellent museums, monuments and a handful<br />
of universities. Enjoy a relaxed evening onboard as<br />
we cruise to the Hungarian capital of Budapest.<br />
Day 13: Budapest – Bratislava<br />
This morning we arrive in Budapest, considered<br />
by many to be one of the most beautiful cities<br />
in the world. You’ll have the chance to join our<br />
optional city tour taking in all the fantastic<br />
highlights the city has to offer. Explore traditional<br />
Buda or cross the river where you’ll discover the<br />
more cosmopolitan Pest. See the fairytale towers<br />
of Fishermans Bastion before having some free<br />
time to explore the rest of this amazing city. This<br />
evening, we set sail towards the Slovakian capital<br />
of Bratislava.<br />
Day 14: Bratislava – Melk<br />
We arrive into Bratislava in the afternoon where<br />
you can join our optional excursion taking in this<br />
historic capital city, which is dominated by its<br />
castle and unique suspension bridge. We’ll enjoy<br />
a walking tour with a local guide and sample<br />
‘Makovka’ which is a sweet white chocolate with<br />
poppy seed filling, before enjoying a relaxing<br />
dinner onboard our ship. This evening we<br />
continue cruising along the Danube towards<br />
Melk.<br />
Day 15: Melk – Passau<br />
We arrive in the Austrian town of Melk this<br />
morning, which is filled with quaint cobbled<br />
streets and striking buildings. It is also overlooked<br />
by one of the most splendid monastic houses in<br />
Austria – the Benedictine Abbey, which you can<br />
visit on our optional excursion this morning. Relax<br />
and enjoy your last night on board the ship this<br />
evening, as we cruise back towards Passau.<br />
Day 16: Passau – Cologne (Coach & Rail)<br />
/ UK (Air)<br />
After a truly memorable cruise we bid farewell to<br />
our captain and crew and travel by coach or rail to<br />
our overnight hotel in Cologne. Those travelling by<br />
air will be transferred to the airport for the return<br />
flight.<br />
Day 17: Cologne – UK (Coach & Rail)<br />
After breakfast we continue our return journey<br />
home to the UK.<br />
<strong>2023</strong><br />
dates<br />
No. of<br />
days<br />
Coach<br />
routes<br />
22 August 17 D1 D2 D3 Dover<br />
Ferry crossing/<br />
train station/<br />
airport<br />
22 August 17 St Pancras<br />
23 August 15 Heathrow<br />
23 August 15 Birmingham<br />
23 August 15 Manchester<br />
DEPOSITS – see page 43<br />
HOLIDAY PRICES<br />
Tour code: DABLA<br />
17 days Coach 15 days Air<br />
Deck 22 August 23 August<br />
Main Standard £2,359 £2,199<br />
Main Superior £2,635 £2,475<br />
Upper Superior £2,799 £2,639<br />
Main Single £2,959 £2,799<br />
17 days Rail 15 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only<br />
22 August 23 August<br />
Main Standard £2,503 £1,959<br />
Main Superior £2,779 £2,235<br />
Upper Superior £2,943 £2,399<br />
Main Single £3,103 £2,559<br />
Peace of mind, all of our holidays are financially bonded<br />
27
A CAPTIVATING JOURNEY<br />
THROUGH THE HEART OF EUROPE<br />
Jewels along the<br />
Danube & Bucharest<br />
aboard MS Arena<br />
NEW<br />
Bucharest<br />
Join us as we set sail on a spectacular journey where we will visit some of Eastern Europe’s well renowned landmarks such as the Iron Gates<br />
Gorge on the river Danube. Enjoy Vienna’s’ unique charm and exceptional infrastructure, the global city of Budapest, one of the oldest cities<br />
in Europe in Belgrade and Bratislava, the Slovakian capital. There are also more quaint towns to immerse yourself in such as Melk in Vienna<br />
& Linz midway between Salzburg and Vienna – both rich in character and historic buildings to explore.<br />
Day 1: UK – Germany (Coach & Rail)<br />
We travel by coach or rail to our hotel in Germany<br />
for an overnight stay.<br />
Day 2: Hotel – Passau – Vienna (Coach & Rail) /<br />
UK – Passau – Melk (Air)<br />
After breakfast, we journey by coach or rail to<br />
Passau. It is here where we will board our ship –<br />
the MS Arena. Those travelling by air will join us<br />
today. Dinner will be served onboard this evening<br />
as we relax and set sail towards the historic<br />
Austrian town of Melk.<br />
Day 3: Melk – Vienna<br />
We arrive in Melk this morning, which is filled with<br />
quaint cobbled streets and striking buildings. You<br />
can visit the Benedictine Abbey on our optional<br />
excursion this morning. We enjoy lunch on board<br />
the ship before sailing onwards to Vienna, arriving<br />
later this evening.<br />
Day 4: Vienna<br />
We spend a full day experiencing the delights<br />
of Vienna. As well as being a World Heritage<br />
Site the ‘City of Music’ was also the once the<br />
home of Beethoven and Mozart. Accentuated<br />
by its beautiful architecture, it’s full of historical<br />
sightseeing opportunities, expansive palaces and<br />
magnificent museums. There’s the chance to join<br />
our optional city tour to visit the Hofburg led by a<br />
local guide. This afternoon, you can also join our<br />
optional excursion to the Spanish Riding School.<br />
We set sail this evening towards Budapest.<br />
Day 5: Budapest<br />
We arrive in Budapest around lunchtime where<br />
we enjoy lunch onboard the ship. This afternoon<br />
there’s the chance to join our optional tour of this<br />
fascinating city in the company of a local guide.<br />
Budapest is one of the most beautiful cities in<br />
the world with an extensive area recognised as<br />
a World Heritage Site. We also include a wine<br />
tasting tour, before we transfer back to the ship<br />
for dinner on board.<br />
Day 6: Budapest – Mohacs – Belgrade<br />
This morning is free for you to explore Budapest<br />
at your leisure. There is plenty to see, including<br />
lots of stunning architecture such as St Stephen’s<br />
Basilica, the Hungarian parliament building &<br />
Matthias Church just to name a few. We set sail<br />
at lunchtime towards Mohacs and onwards to<br />
Belgrade.<br />
Day 7: Belgrade – Giurgiu<br />
We arrive in the Serbian capital of Belgrade<br />
which lies at the confluence of the Sava and<br />
Danube rivers. There’s the opportunity to join our<br />
optional city tour in the company of a local guide<br />
this afternoon. We drive out to the hill above<br />
the confluence of the Sava and the Danube<br />
and take in the Belgrade Fortress. We continue,<br />
passing some of the key highlights including the<br />
Cathedral Church of St. Michael. We enjoy dinner<br />
onboard this evening and sail overnight towards<br />
Giurgiu.<br />
Day 8: Iron Gate Gorge<br />
Enjoy a full day cruising through the breathtaking<br />
scenery of Eisernes Tor, the Iron Gate,<br />
which is the largest river gorge in Europe and<br />
carves a channel through the Carpathian<br />
Mountains. The views are spectacular, with the<br />
Dierdap National Park on the southern side of the<br />
Danube in Serbia, and the Portile de Fier Nature<br />
Park on the northern side in Romania.<br />
Day 9: Giurgiu – Bucharest – Iron Gate<br />
We arrive in Giurgiu this morning. From here,<br />
we include a full day excursion by coach to the<br />
Romanian capital city of Bucharest on our sightseeing<br />
tour with a local guide. Lunch in a local<br />
restaurant is also included, giving you a flavour of<br />
Romanian food and culture. We return to ship in<br />
Giurgiu for dinner onboard and overnight sailing.<br />
Day 10: Iron Gate<br />
Today we have a full day cruising back through<br />
the magnificent Iron Gates which are the longest<br />
string of gorges in Europe. Passing through<br />
Serbia and Romania, you’ll see the tallest rock<br />
sculpture in Europe of Decebalus, the Dacian<br />
King, the most famous and narrow section of the<br />
Iron gates known as The Great Kazan, ancient<br />
carvings and a National Park as you watch the<br />
scenery drift by as we head towards Belgrade.<br />
Day 11: Belgrade – Mohac<br />
We arrive back in Belgrade at around lunchtime<br />
today where there’s the opportunity to join<br />
an optional tour visiting the Royal Palace. It is<br />
designed in the Serbian-Byzantine style. We<br />
enjoy a walking tour with a local guide where we’ll<br />
see The Royal Palace. We also see Tito`s Memorial<br />
before we set sail this evening for Mohacs.<br />
Day 12: Mohacs – Bratislava<br />
We spend a relaxing day and evening cruising<br />
towards Bratislava – the Slovakian capital that lies<br />
in the southwestern part of the country. The city is<br />
dominated by Bratislava Castle, which stands on<br />
a plateau 85 metres (279 feet) above the Danube.<br />
It was built in the 9th century.<br />
Day 13: Bratislava<br />
We arrive in the Slovakian capital of Bratislava this<br />
evening, where we are berthed overnight.<br />
28<br />
Find us on Facebook<br />
arenarivercruises
15 DAYS FROM<br />
£2159<br />
MS ARENA<br />
YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES<br />
l 14 nights’ cruise on a full board basis<br />
l Nine visits included to Passau, Melk, Vienna,<br />
Budapest, Belgrade, Iron Gate, Giurgiu, Bratislava<br />
and Linz<br />
l Excursion to Bucharest, sight-seeing tour with<br />
lunch in a local restaurant<br />
l Welcome drink & Captain's Gala Dinner<br />
l Afternoon tea/coffee and cake & late evening snack<br />
l Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi<br />
l Services of a <strong>Cruise</strong> Manager & <strong>Cruise</strong> Director<br />
YOUR TRAVEL OPTIONS<br />
BY COACH<br />
l Coach travel to the port from your local area<br />
l Ferry crossing from Dover<br />
l Two nights’ bed & breakfast accommodation<br />
in Germany<br />
STAY OVERNIGHT IN DOVER OR ASHFORD<br />
l Travel the day before your cruise and stay overnight<br />
in Dover or Ashford with free parking from £75pp<br />
l Take our complimentary return coach service from a<br />
selection of London stations to Ashford with<br />
overnight hotel accommodation before and on the<br />
return from your cruise from £150pp.<br />
BY RAIL<br />
l Travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras<br />
l Return connecting rail journeys<br />
l Coach transfers between station and ship<br />
l Two nights’ bed & breakfast accommodation<br />
in Germany<br />
BY AIR<br />
l Return flights from Heathrow, Birmingham or<br />
Manchester with coach transfers between airport<br />
and ship<br />
l Regional flight options available, call for details.<br />
Prices are subject to change and availability and will<br />
be confirmed at the time of booking.<br />
Belgrade<br />
TOURS & EXPERIENCES<br />
l Melk Abbey<br />
l Vienna City Tour & The Vienna Hofburg<br />
l The Spanish Riding School, Vienna<br />
l Budapest City Tour & Wine Tasting<br />
l Belgrade City Tour<br />
l Royal Palace - Belgrade<br />
l Bratislava & Primate's Palace<br />
l Linz Old Town & Linz Castle<br />
Package Price<br />
£338 per person<br />
Premium Package<br />
see page 11 for details<br />
£280 per person<br />
Bratislava<br />
Linz castle<br />
<strong>2023</strong><br />
dates<br />
No. of<br />
days<br />
Coach<br />
routes<br />
26 September 17 D1, D4, D5 Dover<br />
Ferry crossing/<br />
train station/<br />
airport<br />
26 September 17 St Pancras<br />
27 September 15 Heathrow,<br />
Manchester,<br />
Birmingham<br />
DEPOSITS – see page 43<br />
Day 14: Bratislava – Linz<br />
This morning is free to explore Bratislava at<br />
leisure or you can join our optional excursion<br />
taking in the historic capital and the Primate's<br />
Palace by train and foot. The tour begins at the<br />
monumental building of the Slovak National<br />
Theatre. Along the promenade you will get to<br />
the Gothic St. Martin's Cathedral - the coronation<br />
church, you will see the city walls alongside the<br />
oldest university building in the city and the<br />
famous St. Michael's Gate.<br />
Day 15: Linz – Passau<br />
We arrive in Linz this afternoon where there’s the<br />
chance to join our optional excursion visiting the<br />
baroque old town and Linz Castle, with a local<br />
guide. We include entrance to the castle which is<br />
now a museum housing a collection of 19th and<br />
20th Century artworks. We set sail this evening<br />
for an overnight sailing to Passau.<br />
Day 16: Passau – hotel (Coach & Rail) / UK (Air)<br />
After a truly memorable cruise we bid farewell to<br />
our captain and crew and travel by coach or rail to<br />
our overnight hotel in Germany. Those travelling<br />
by air will be transferred to the airport for the<br />
return flight to the UK.<br />
Day 17: Cologne – UK (Coach & Rail)<br />
After breakfast we continue our return journey<br />
home to the UK.<br />
HOLIDAY PRICES<br />
Tour code: JEWEL<br />
17 days Coach 15 days Air<br />
Deck 26 September 27 September<br />
Main Standard £2,295 £2,159<br />
Main Superior £2,569 £2,433<br />
Upper Superior £2,735 £2,599<br />
Main Single £2,835 £2,699<br />
17 days Rail 15 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only<br />
26 September 27 September<br />
Main Standard £2,459 £1,895<br />
Main Superior £2,733 £2,169<br />
Upper Superior £2,899 £2,335<br />
Main Single £2,999 £2,435<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com 29
EXPERIENCE THE HISTORICAL<br />
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE GREAT DANUBE<br />
Imperial Cities of the Danube<br />
including Vienna, Budapest & Bratislava onboard MS Arena<br />
Vienna<br />
Step aboard and let our attentive captain and crew guide you on an unforgettable journey along the Danube. For those who are short on<br />
time, this is the ideal itinerary, encompassing some of the highlights that there are to see along Europe’s second longest river. Explore<br />
the birthplace of classical music in Vienna, fall in love with the world’s most beautiful city in Budapest and discover Slovakia’s unique and<br />
ancient capital city, Bratislava. This is how river cruising is meant to be.<br />
Day 1: UK – Munich (Coach and Rail)<br />
We travel by coach or rail to our overnight hotel<br />
in the Munich area.<br />
Day 2: Munich – Passau (Coach and Rail)<br />
/ UK – Passau (Air)<br />
After breakfast, we’ll travel by coach or rail and<br />
board our ship in Passau, where we’ll be joined<br />
by those who have travelled by air. Known as the<br />
‘three rivers city’, Passau is situated where the<br />
rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz all meet, so there’s no<br />
better place to begin our cruise. This evening,<br />
enjoy a relaxing dinner onboard as we set sail<br />
towards Vienna.<br />
Day 3: Vienna – Budapest<br />
Arriving in the early afternoon, you have plenty<br />
of time to explore Vienna and the option to join<br />
a guided tour of the Austrian capital too. The<br />
birthplace of classical music boasts a UNESCO<br />
World Heritage historical centre, more than 150<br />
grand palaces and no fewer than 27 baroque<br />
castles. Home to spectacular squares and<br />
magnificent monuments, it really is a magical<br />
city. After an afternoon of sightseeing, we return<br />
to the ship and begin our onward journey<br />
towards Budapest.<br />
Day 4: Esztergom – Budapest – Bratislava<br />
This morning, en route to Budapest, we’ll<br />
continue our relaxing cruise along the mighty<br />
Danube as we pass by the impressive Esztergom<br />
Basilica. Sitting atop Castle Hill, it’s the largest<br />
church in Hungary and has a 72-metre-high<br />
central dome that can be seen for miles around.<br />
Our captain will slow the ship right down as<br />
we drift by, so there’s plenty of opportunity to<br />
capture a stunning photograph of the sights<br />
from our vantage point on the water. Then it’s<br />
full speed ahead as we continue our journey to<br />
Budapest, where we arrive at around lunchtime.<br />
Here you can spend the afternoon exploring<br />
what many refer to as one of the most beautiful<br />
cities in the world. There’s an optional city tour<br />
available where you’ll get to take in all the key<br />
sights, such as the Royal Palace, Fishermen’s<br />
Bastion, the Parliament building and more.<br />
Divided into two by the flowing Danube, you’ll<br />
experience Castle Hill and the traditional Buda<br />
side of the city, as well as the cosmopolitan<br />
side of Pest too. We set sail for Bratislava in the<br />
evening.<br />
Day 5: Bratislava – Weissenkirchen<br />
At around lunchtime today we arrive into<br />
the ancient city of Bratislava, the capital of<br />
Slovakia. The skyline is dominated by the<br />
striking Bratislava Castle and the city’s unique<br />
suspension bridge; demonstrating the blend of<br />
the traditional with the modern. Join our optional<br />
guided walking tour, where you’ll experience<br />
the city’s highlights , as well as sampling the<br />
sweet delicacy ‘Makovka’ too. Relax onboard this<br />
evening, as we cruise towards Weissenkirchen.<br />
Day 6: Weissenkirchen – Passau<br />
This morning, we arrive in the picturesque<br />
village of Weissenkirchen in the heart of Austria’s<br />
Wachau Valley. You’ll enjoy some free time here,<br />
where you can explore the village and wander<br />
along the banks of the river, before we continue<br />
to Passau.<br />
Day 7: Passau – Germany (Coach and Rail)<br />
/ UK (Air)<br />
After breakfast, we bid farewell to our captain<br />
and crew and travel by coach or rail to our<br />
overnight accommodation in the Cologne area.<br />
Those travelling by air will be transferred to the<br />
airport for the return flight.<br />
Day 8: Germany – UK (Coach and Rail)<br />
After breakfast, we continue our return journey<br />
home to the UK..<br />
Esztergom<br />
30<br />
Our price promise means our cruises won’t be sold for less!
6 DAYS FROM<br />
£959<br />
MS ARENA<br />
YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES<br />
l Five nights’ cruise on a full board basis<br />
l Five visits included to Passau, Vienna, Budapest,<br />
Bratislava and Weissenkirchen<br />
l Welcome drink & Captain's Gala Dinner<br />
l Afternoon tea/coffee and cake & late evening snack<br />
l Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi<br />
l Services of a <strong>Cruise</strong> Manager & <strong>Cruise</strong> Director<br />
YOUR TRAVEL OPTIONS<br />
BY COACH<br />
l Coach travel to the port from your local area<br />
l Ferry crossing from Dover<br />
l Two nights’ bed & breakfast accommodation<br />
in Germany<br />
Main<br />
Main Danube<br />
Canal<br />
GERMANY<br />
Passau<br />
Munich<br />
start<br />
POLAND<br />
CZECH REPUBLIC<br />
Weissenkerchen<br />
SLOVAKIA<br />
Bratislava<br />
Vienna<br />
Esztergom<br />
AUSTRIA<br />
Budapest<br />
SLOVENIA<br />
CROATIA<br />
HUNGARY<br />
STAY OVERNIGHT IN DOVER OR ASHFORD<br />
l Travel the day before your cruise and stay overnight<br />
in Dover or Ashford with free parking from £75pp<br />
l Take our complimentary return coach service from a<br />
selection of London stations to Ashford with<br />
overnight hotel accommodation before and on the<br />
return from your cruise from £150pp<br />
BY RAIL<br />
l Travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras<br />
l Return connecting rail journeys<br />
l Coach transfers between station and ship<br />
l Two nights’ bed & breakfast accommodation<br />
in Germany<br />
BY AIR<br />
l Return flights from Heathrow with coach transfers<br />
between airport and ship<br />
l Regional flight options available, call for details.<br />
Prices are subject to change and availability and will<br />
be confirmed at the time of booking.<br />
TOURS & EXPERIENCES<br />
l Vienna City Tour<br />
l Budapest City Tour<br />
l Bratislava Guided Tour & Chocolate<br />
Experience<br />
Package Price<br />
£100 per person<br />
Premium Package<br />
see page 11 for details<br />
£100 per person<br />
Fisherman's Bastion<br />
<strong>2023</strong><br />
dates<br />
No. of<br />
days<br />
Coach<br />
routes<br />
10 October 8 D1 D2 D3 Dover<br />
Ferry crossing/<br />
train station/<br />
airport<br />
10 October 8 St Pancras<br />
11 October 6 Heathrow<br />
15 October 8 D1 D4 D5 Dover<br />
15 October 8 St Pancras<br />
16 October 6 Heathrow<br />
DEPOSITS – see page 43<br />
HOLIDAY PRICES<br />
Tour code: CDANU<br />
8 days Coach 6 days Air<br />
Deck 10, 15 October 11, 16 October<br />
Main Standard £995 £959<br />
Main Superior £1,120 £1,084<br />
Upper Superior £1,195 £1,159<br />
Main Single £1,245 £1,209<br />
8 days Rail 6 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only<br />
10, 15 October 11, 16 October<br />
Main Standard £1,159 £659<br />
Main Superior £1,284 £784<br />
Upper Superior £1,359 £859<br />
Main Single £1,409 £909<br />
Weissenkirchen<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com 31
GET INTO THE FESTIVE SPIRIT &<br />
EXPLORE SOME OF GERMANY'S<br />
BEST CHRISTMAS MARKETS<br />
5 DAYS FROM<br />
£579<br />
YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES<br />
l Four nights’ cruise on a full board basis<br />
l Three visits included to Cologne, Rüdesheim<br />
and Koblenz<br />
l Welcome drink & Captain's Gala Dinner<br />
l Afternoon tea/coffee and cake & late evening snack<br />
l Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi<br />
l Services of a <strong>Cruise</strong> Manager & <strong>Cruise</strong> Director<br />
Cologne<br />
Festive Cheer & Markets<br />
in the Rhine Valley<br />
aboard MS Arena<br />
Fully immerse yourself in the festive season, as you enjoy a magical Christmas market<br />
experience like no other. <strong>Cruise</strong> along the mighty Rhine’s waters, pass through winter<br />
wonderlands, the breathtaking Rhine Gorge, and visit beautiful cities and villages on this<br />
journey to see some of Europe’s oldest and largest Christmas markets. Our course takes<br />
us to; Rüdeshiem, Koblenz and Cologne where you can shop and soak up the magical<br />
atmosphere, and with the ship close by you can wander back when you’re ready and sit and<br />
relax on board with a warming drink.<br />
Day 1: UK – Cologne<br />
We travel to Cologne where we join our ship<br />
and enjoy a relaxing evening as we sail towards<br />
Rüdesheim.<br />
Day 2: Rüdesheim<br />
Enjoy a leisurely morning as we cruise along the<br />
mighty Rhine, passing the legendary Lorelei<br />
and continuing through the spectacular Rhine<br />
Gorge. In the early afternoon we arrive into<br />
Rüdesheim where you have free time to enjoy<br />
the Christmas Markets, a delightful event held<br />
in the town’s Chocolate-box old quarter, or you<br />
can join our optional excursion; Rüdesheim<br />
Delights, to visit the wonderful Mechanical<br />
Music Museum of Siegfried before enjoying a<br />
delicious mug of glühwein. This evening there<br />
is also the opportunity to join our excursion to<br />
a traditional wine cellar to sample some of the<br />
region’s delicious wine.<br />
city’s quaint lanes and atmospheric squares<br />
filled with beautiful old buildings.<br />
Day 4: Koblenz – Cologne<br />
After breakfast we cruise up the Rhine to<br />
discover the beautiful city of Cologne. The<br />
hive of festive activity takes place around the<br />
cathedral and the old town, where you will find<br />
a maze of pretty stalls also offering outstanding<br />
arts and crafts. There are also a number of<br />
smaller markets to enjoy including the Harbour<br />
Christmas Markets held on the Rhine, with<br />
snowy white pagoda tents reminiscent of a<br />
ship’s sails.<br />
Day 5: Cologne – UK<br />
This morning we bid farewell to our captain and<br />
crew and disembark for the return journey to<br />
the UK.<br />
YOUR TRAVEL OPTIONS<br />
BY COACH<br />
l Coach travel to the port from your local area<br />
l Ferry crossing from Dover<br />
STAY OVERNIGHT IN DOVER OR ASHFORD<br />
l Travel the day before your cruise and stay overnight<br />
in Dover or Ashford with free parking from £69pp<br />
l Take our complimentary return coach service from a<br />
selection of London stations to Ashford with<br />
overnight hotel accommodation before and on the<br />
return from your cruise from £69pp<br />
BY RAIL<br />
l Travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras<br />
l Return connecting rail journeys<br />
l Coach transfers between station and ship<br />
BY AIR<br />
l Return flights from Heathrow with coach transfers<br />
between airport and ship<br />
l Regional flight options available, call for details.<br />
Prices are subject to change and availability and<br />
will be confirmed at the time of booking<br />
TOURS & EXPERIENCES<br />
l Rüdesheim Delights<br />
l Rüdesheim by Night<br />
Package Price<br />
Premium Package<br />
see page 11 for details<br />
2022<br />
dates<br />
No. of<br />
days<br />
Coach<br />
routes<br />
£72 per person<br />
£80 per person<br />
1 December 5 D1 D2 D5 Dover<br />
Ferry crossing/<br />
train station/<br />
airport<br />
1 December 5 St Pancras<br />
1 December 5 Heathrow<br />
5 December 5 D1 D3 D4 Dover<br />
5 December 5 St Pancras<br />
5 December 5 Heathrow<br />
9 December 5 D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 Dover<br />
9 December 5 St Pancras<br />
9 December 5 Heathrow<br />
DEPOSITS – see page 43<br />
HOLIDAY PRICES<br />
Tour code: MRCGX<br />
5 days Coach 5 days Air<br />
Deck 1, 5, 9 December 1, 5, 9 December<br />
Main Standard £579 £689<br />
Main Superior £639 £749<br />
Upper Superior £679 £789<br />
Main Single £729 £839<br />
5 days Rail 5 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only<br />
1, 5, 9 December 1, 5, 9 December<br />
Main Standard £739 £439<br />
Main Superior £799 £499<br />
Upper Superior £839 £539<br />
Main Single £889 £589<br />
Day 3: Rüdesheim – Koblenz<br />
This morning we sail to Koblenz, at the<br />
confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Here<br />
we have free time to visit the Koblenz Christmas<br />
Market, with over 130 festively decorated<br />
wooden stalls offering a range of handmade<br />
gifts and Christmas decorations. Enjoy a glass or<br />
red or white glüwein whilst listening to festive<br />
music playing. Alternatively you can explore the<br />
Rüdesheim<br />
MS Arena<br />
32<br />
Our price promise means our cruises won’t be sold for less!
CELEBRATE AGAINST THE<br />
UNIQUE BACKDROP OF<br />
THE RHINE VALLEY<br />
Koblenz<br />
New Year Festivities on<br />
the Romantic Rhine<br />
aboard MS Arena<br />
Step aboard the MS Arena and get ready for a New Year’s Eve like no other! We’ll cruise the<br />
romantic waters of the Rhine and walk the cobbled streets of quaint riverside towns, before<br />
reaching the beautiful city of Koblenz where the festive atmosphere really sets in with our<br />
cracking party. Great food, great entertainment, great company – enjoy it all from the warmth<br />
of the MS Arena, and when you’re ready to turn in, your cabin is just a short walk away. Whether<br />
you’re travelling alone, with a partner or as part of a group, by the time the clock strikes<br />
midnight you’ll be celebrating with friends against the unique backdrop of the Rhine valley.<br />
6 DAYS FROM<br />
£859<br />
YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES<br />
l Five nights’ cruise on a full board basis<br />
l Four visits included to Cologne, Andernach,<br />
Boppard and Koblenz<br />
l Welcome drink & Captain's Gala Dinner<br />
l Afternoon tea/coffee and cake & late evening snack<br />
l Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi<br />
l New Year’s Eve gala dinner<br />
l Services of a <strong>Cruise</strong> Manager & <strong>Cruise</strong> Director<br />
YOUR TRAVEL OPTIONS<br />
BY COACH<br />
l Coach travel to the port from your local area<br />
l Ferry crossing from Dover<br />
STAY OVERNIGHT IN DOVER OR ASHFORD<br />
l Travel the day before your cruise and stay overnight<br />
in Dover or Ashford with free parking from £69pp<br />
l Take our complimentary return coach service from a<br />
selection of London stations to Ashford with<br />
overnight hotel accommodation before and on the<br />
return from your cruise from £69pp<br />
BY RAIL<br />
l Travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras<br />
l Return connecting rail journeys<br />
l Coach transfers between station and ship<br />
BY AIR<br />
l Return flights from Heathrow with coach transfers<br />
between airport and ship<br />
l Regional flight options available, call for details.<br />
Prices are subject to change and availability and<br />
will be confirmed at the time of booking<br />
TOURS & EXPERIENCES<br />
l Winningen Wine Tasting<br />
Package Price<br />
Premium Package<br />
see page 11 for details<br />
2022<br />
dates<br />
No. of<br />
days<br />
Coach<br />
routes<br />
£39 per person<br />
£120 per person<br />
28 December 6 D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 Dover<br />
Ferry crossing/<br />
train station/<br />
airport<br />
28 December 6 St Pancras<br />
28 December 6 Heathrow<br />
DEPOSITS – see page 43<br />
FESTIVE COLLECTION<br />
Day 1: UK – Cologne<br />
We travel to Cologne and join our ship for a relaxing<br />
evening.<br />
Day 2: Cologne – Andernach – Boppard<br />
This morning we sail to Andernach, an attractive<br />
walled town with a pretty riverside promenade.<br />
During the afternoon you can join our optional<br />
excursion to the picturesque town of Winningen for<br />
some wine tasting. Here you can sample delicious<br />
local wines and find out all about the cultivation<br />
and origin of the grapes and how they are made<br />
into wine. Relax on board this evening as we sail<br />
overnight to Boppard.<br />
Day 3: Boppard<br />
Relax onboard this morning and enjoy the passing<br />
scenery as we cruise towards Boppard, where you<br />
have the afternoon at leisure to explore. Once a<br />
Roman fort, Boppard is made up of lively squares<br />
and quiet lanes where traces of its early Roman<br />
heritage are evident. Enjoy a relaxing stroll or<br />
indulge in a glass or two of some of the best wines<br />
the Middle Rhine has to offer.<br />
Day 4, New Year’s Eve: Boppard – Koblenz<br />
After breakfast we set sail for Koblenz where you are<br />
free to explore the quaint lanes and atmospheric<br />
squares, filled with beautiful old buildings. Be sure<br />
to pack your glad rags for tonight’s highlight, our<br />
wonderful New Year’s Eve gala dinner and party<br />
night onboard. Enjoy atmospheric Koblenz as<br />
fireworks light up the sky and we celebrate<br />
the arrival of the New Year.<br />
Day 5, New Year’s Day: Koblenz – Cologne<br />
Happy New Year! This morning we continue<br />
our course down the Rhine arriving into<br />
Cologne during the early afternoon. This<br />
beautiful city is the largest on the Rhine<br />
and is dominated by its cathedral, a gothic<br />
masterpiece which hovers above the<br />
rooftops. You are free to explore this vibrant<br />
city at leisure, before we enjoy our final dinner<br />
and a relaxing evening onboard.<br />
Day 6: Cologne – UK<br />
This morning we bid farewell to our captain<br />
and crew and disembark for the return<br />
journey to the UK.<br />
Cologne<br />
HOLIDAY PRICES<br />
Tour code: NEWYR<br />
6 days Coach 6 days Air<br />
Deck 28 December 28 December<br />
Main Standard £859 £975<br />
Main Superior £959 £1,075<br />
Upper Superior £1,009 £1,125<br />
Main Single £1,109 £1,225<br />
6 days Rail 6 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only<br />
28 December 28 December<br />
Main Standard £995 £699<br />
Main Superior £1,095 £799<br />
Upper Superior £1,145 £849<br />
Main Single £1,245 £949<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com 33
A MAGICAL CHRISTMAS WITH<br />
EVERYTHING TAKEN CARE OF<br />
Rhine & Moselle Christmas<br />
Celebration <strong>Cruise</strong><br />
aboard MS Arena<br />
Our Rhineland Christmas cruise is the perfect getaway, cruising along the Rhine and the Moselle rivers. We<br />
spend Christmas Eve in romantic Boppard, surrounded by gothic architecture, why not enjoy a glass or two<br />
of wine from the many wine cellars offering the best of local produce. Christmas Day, relax on board before<br />
visiting Rudesheim, wander along the famous Drosselgasse and the chocolate-box old quarter, make sure<br />
you try a glass of Gluwein to keep you toasty. Everything is taken care of, from delicious festive food to a fun<br />
filled programme of entertainment. Enjoy a festive cruise at the most magical time of the year.<br />
NORTH<br />
SEA<br />
IJsselmeer<br />
NETHERLANDS<br />
Elbe<br />
Boppard<br />
Rhine<br />
Cologne<br />
BELGIUM<br />
start<br />
Koblenz<br />
Alken<br />
FRANCE<br />
Cochem<br />
Moselle<br />
GERMANY<br />
Andernach<br />
Boppard<br />
Rüdesheim<br />
Main<br />
Neckar<br />
34<br />
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arenarivercruises
8 DAYS FROM<br />
£1079<br />
YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES<br />
l Seven nights’ cruise on a full board basis<br />
l Seven visits included to Cologne, Andernach,<br />
Cochem, Alken, Boppard, Rüdesheim and Koblenz<br />
l Welcome drink & Captain's Gala Dinner<br />
l Afternoon tea/coffee and cake & late evening snack<br />
l Complimentary tea, coffee and Wi-Fi<br />
l Traditional Christmas lunch<br />
l Services of a <strong>Cruise</strong> Manager & <strong>Cruise</strong> Director<br />
YOUR TRAVEL OPTIONS<br />
BY COACH<br />
l Coach travel to the port from your local area<br />
l Ferry crossing from Dover<br />
FESTIVE COLLECTION<br />
Cochem<br />
Day 1: UK – Cologne<br />
We travel to the beautiful city of Cologne where<br />
we join our ship for a relaxing evening.<br />
Day 2: Cologne - Andernach<br />
This morning we sail to Andernach, an attractive<br />
walled town with a pretty riverside promenade.<br />
During the afternoon you can join our optional<br />
excursion to the picturesque town of Winningen<br />
for some wine tasting. Here you can sample<br />
delicious local wines and find out all about the<br />
cultivation and origin of the grapes and how<br />
they are made into wine. Relax on board this<br />
evening as we sail overnight to Cochem.<br />
Day 3: Andernach – Cochem – Alken<br />
This morning we arrive into Cochem, an idyllic<br />
town set against the stunning backdrop of<br />
the Moselle <strong>River</strong> valley. Enjoy a morning at<br />
leisure exploring this picturesque town which<br />
is dominated by the towering, 11th century<br />
Reichsburg castle, which is over 1000 years old<br />
and features incredible panoramic views from<br />
the top. Lunch is served onboard as we set sail<br />
and cruise to Alken.<br />
Day 4, Christmas Eve: Alken – Boppard<br />
Relax onboard this morning and enjoy the<br />
passing scenery as we cruise towards Boppard,<br />
where you have the afternoon at leisure to<br />
explore. Once a Roman fort, Boppard is made<br />
up of lively squares and quiet lanes where traces<br />
of its early Roman heritage are evident. Enjoy<br />
a relaxing stroll or indulge in a glass or two of<br />
some of the best wines the Middle Rhine has to<br />
offer.<br />
Day 5, Christmas Day: Boppard – Rüdesheim<br />
Merry Christmas! This morning we leave<br />
Boppard and continue cruising upriver to<br />
the quaint wine town of Rüdesheim where<br />
we will enjoy a traditional British Christmas<br />
lunch onboard. This afternoon you can join<br />
our optional excursion to Rüdesheim which<br />
includes a visit to the wonderful Mechanical<br />
Music Museum of Siegfried and a mug of<br />
Glüwein. In the evening you can join our<br />
optional excursion to see Rüdesheim at night,<br />
where you will visit the captivating street known<br />
as the Drosselgasse. Alternatively, you can stay<br />
onboard and enjoy the festivities.<br />
Day 6, Boxing Day: Rüdesheim – Koblenz<br />
This morning we sail to Koblenz, at the<br />
confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers,<br />
cruising through the spectacular Rhine Gorge<br />
and past the famous Lorelei rock. Here we have<br />
free time to explore the city at leisure.<br />
Day 7: Koblenz – Cologne<br />
This morning we continue our course down the<br />
Rhine arriving into Cologne during the early<br />
afternoon. This beautiful city is the largest on<br />
the Rhine and is dominated by its cathedral,<br />
a gothic masterpiece which hovers above the<br />
rooftops. You are free to explore this vibrant city<br />
at leisure before we enjoy our final dinner on<br />
board this evening.<br />
Day 8: Cologne – UK<br />
This morning we bid farewell to our captain and<br />
crew and disembark for the return journey to<br />
the UK.<br />
STAY OVERNIGHT IN DOVER OR ASHFORD<br />
l Travel the day before your cruise and stay overnight<br />
in Dover or Ashford with free parking from £69pp<br />
l Take our complimentary return coach service from a<br />
selection of London stations to Ashford with<br />
overnight hotel accommodation before and on the<br />
return from your cruise from £69pp<br />
BY RAIL<br />
l Travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras<br />
l Return connecting rail journeys<br />
l Coach transfers between station and ship<br />
BY AIR<br />
l Return flights from Heathrow with coach transfers<br />
between airport and ship<br />
l Regional flight options available, call for details.<br />
Prices are subject to change and availability and<br />
will be confirmed at the time of booking<br />
TOURS & EXPERIENCES<br />
l Rüdesheim Delights<br />
l Rüdesheim by Night<br />
l Winningen Wine Tasting<br />
Package Price<br />
Premium Package<br />
see page 11 for details<br />
2022<br />
dates<br />
No. of<br />
days<br />
Coach<br />
routes<br />
£111 per person<br />
£140 per person<br />
21 December 8 D1 D2 D3 D4 D5 Dover<br />
Ferry crossing/<br />
train station/<br />
airport<br />
21 December 8 St Pancras<br />
21 December 8 Heathrow<br />
DEPOSITS – see page 43<br />
HOLIDAY PRICES<br />
Tour code: CHRIS<br />
8 days Coach 8 days Air<br />
Deck 21 December 21 December<br />
Main Standard £1,079 £1,169<br />
Main Superior £1,219 £1,309<br />
Upper Superior £1,289 £1,379<br />
Main Single £1,379 £1,469<br />
8 days Rail 8 days <strong>Cruise</strong> only<br />
21 December 21 December<br />
Main Standard £1,199 £879<br />
Main Superior £1,339 £1,019<br />
Upper Superior £1,409 £1,089<br />
Main Single £1,499 £1,179<br />
Koblenz<br />
MS Arena<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com 35
Ship highlights<br />
• Captain Wido's new ship for <strong>2023</strong><br />
• A 3 star plus ship<br />
• A traditional, friendly ship<br />
• Sails along the Rhine, Moselle and Dutch Waterways<br />
<strong>2023</strong> cruises aboard MPS Calypso<br />
Captain Wido and Arena <strong>River</strong> <strong>Cruise</strong>s are thrilled to<br />
introduce you to the newest addition to our fleet: the<br />
MPS Calypso. Sailing along the Dutch and German<br />
Waterways, Captain Wido’s stunning new ship which set<br />
sail for the first time in April 2022, visiting some familiar<br />
favourites as well as some exciting new destinations. We<br />
can’t wait to welcome you on board.<br />
Set sail in style<br />
The three-star plus MPS Calypso offers all the familiar charm and<br />
home-from-home comforts. Passengers are guaranteed a friendly<br />
welcome and the highest quality service from Captain Wido and his<br />
carefully selected crew, for whom nothing is too much trouble.<br />
Restaurant<br />
Situated on the Main Deck, you can enjoy spectacular river views as<br />
you dine in the ship’s welcoming restaurant. Breakfast is a delicious<br />
affair with an international choice, lunch is a selection of delicious<br />
treats, and each evening the chefs on board will freshly prepare your<br />
four- course dinner which will include seasonally available dishes.<br />
Restaurant<br />
36<br />
Our price promise means our cruises won’t be sold for less!
MPS Calypso cruises <strong>2023</strong><br />
<strong>Cruise</strong> Departures <strong>2023</strong> Duration<br />
Dutch Bulbfields April 4 or 5 days<br />
Delights of the<br />
Dutch Waterways<br />
May<br />
7 days<br />
Four <strong>River</strong>s Explorer May & July 10 days<br />
Lounge bar<br />
During your cruise you can spend time in the cosy lounge<br />
watchingthe world go by, reading a good book or chatting with<br />
fellow guests. It’s here the on-board musician and crew put on light<br />
hearted entertainment and for those that want to indulge there’s a<br />
dance floor too.<br />
Sun Deck<br />
The Sun Deck is quite simply the perfect way to enjoy some time<br />
for yourself, relax, enjoy a drink or simply sit back and take in the<br />
stunning scenery as you glide by. You’ll find there is everything<br />
you need here with plenty of comfortable chairs and tables or sun<br />
loungers to soak up the sun.<br />
Rhine & Moselle Explorer<br />
June, July, August<br />
& September<br />
8 days<br />
<strong>Cruise</strong> the Rhine<br />
to Switzerland<br />
June & July<br />
10 days<br />
Rhine in Flames August & September 8 days<br />
To pre-register for these cruises<br />
call us on 01858 438318<br />
Sun Deck<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com 37
Introducing African Queen<br />
Set sail in style<br />
Beautifully converted by its loving owners,<br />
the award-winning African Queen is one of<br />
only a handful of floating hotels that sails<br />
along the beautiful Thames <strong>River</strong>. Located<br />
on the Mapledurham Estate just outside<br />
Reading on the Thames, the African Queen<br />
sleeps 12 passengers in cosy, comfortable<br />
cabins. Guests can enjoy fine food and a<br />
warm and friendly atmosphere, whilst taking<br />
in scenic views and the best the Thames has<br />
to offer. The barge also includes a bar, dining<br />
area and sun deck to ensure your stay on<br />
this character-filled home-from-home is a<br />
memorable one. Sail through the heart of<br />
charming Wind in the Willows country and<br />
wake each morning in the middle of the<br />
wonderful English countryside. This welcome<br />
retreat from the rush of modern-day life is a<br />
unique experience and sees guests returning<br />
year after year, thanks to wonderful company<br />
Upper Deck deck<br />
Crew<br />
Cabin Deck deck<br />
Engine<br />
Wheel<br />
House<br />
Store<br />
Galley<br />
Bar/Lounge<br />
& Dining Room<br />
and the first class hospitality from owners<br />
Andy and Bonny. Whether it’s a weekend<br />
break, a week away in the summertime or a<br />
cosy festive escape, the African Queen is an<br />
unforgettable experience.<br />
Cabin accommodation<br />
The African Queen has eight cabins – choose<br />
from twins, doubles, a double superior and<br />
singles cabins. All Cabins have en-suite<br />
facilities and a small window that opens and<br />
allows plenty of natural light in.<br />
Restaurant<br />
While Andy is the host, his wife Bonny is<br />
responsible for the great meals served<br />
onboard. You can enjoy the hospitality and<br />
home-cooked cuisine in the dining area,<br />
where you can indulge in delicious hearty<br />
breakfasts and tea-time snacks, as the crew<br />
serve a mixture of traditional English cuisine<br />
and delicious Cape Malay-style dishes.<br />
Deck Deck Plan Plan<br />
Sun Deck<br />
Superior double cabin – 2 berth<br />
Standard single cabin – 1 berth<br />
Cabin Deck − Suite Cabin Deck − Double Cabin Deck − Twin Cabin Deck − Single<br />
Standard twin cabin – 2 berth<br />
Standard double – 2 berth<br />
Lounge/Bar<br />
The communal area offers a bar with<br />
comfortable seating. It provides a great<br />
setting to mingle with your fellow guests<br />
and enjoy a few drinks as you sail along with<br />
opulent views of the Thames.<br />
Standard Twin Cabin<br />
“<br />
Lovely break with great<br />
food and a perfect cabin.<br />
The crew were a delight<br />
and there was never a<br />
dull moment. This trip is<br />
so well organised with<br />
lots of fun and laughter.<br />
Such a beautiful stretch<br />
of the Thames too.<br />
“<br />
Mr Evans<br />
38<br />
Our price promise means our cruises won’t be sold for less!
EXPLORE THE ENGLISH<br />
COUNTRYSIDE ON THIS<br />
UNIQUE BARGE<br />
AFRICAN QUEEN<br />
<strong>River</strong> Thames<br />
Thames Weekend <strong>Cruise</strong><br />
aboard African Queen<br />
Join us for a weekend to explore the English countryside and enjoy delicious food,<br />
wonderful company, along with the first class hospitality aboard the award-winning African<br />
Queen. This beautiful barge has been restored into a floating hotel, offering all guests a<br />
welcome retreat from the rush of modern-day life. Enjoy a unique experience as we sail on<br />
the Thames through the heart of Wind in the Willows country.<br />
Day 1: Mapledurham<br />
Board the African Queen in the village of<br />
Mapledurham near Reading at 5pm. We are<br />
introduced to the captain and crew and enjoy<br />
a welcome drink followed by Cape Malay, a<br />
South African dish served this evening.<br />
Day 2: Mapledurham - Goring-on-Thames –<br />
Mapledurham<br />
After breakfast we set sail upstream through<br />
the heart of Wind in the Willows country to<br />
reach the pretty village of Goring-on-Thames.<br />
Enjoy some free time and lunch ashore. Later<br />
this afternoon we cruise to Mapledurham<br />
followed later by a three course evening meal.<br />
Day 3: Mapledurham<br />
A delicious breakfast is served on board before<br />
disembarking at 11am.<br />
YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES<br />
l Free secure parking at embarkation point<br />
l Two nights’ cruise on a full board basis<br />
l Two visits included to Mapledurham and<br />
Goring-on-Thames<br />
<strong>2023</strong> dates<br />
19 May 4 August 13 October<br />
30 June 8 September<br />
DEPOSITS – see page 43<br />
3 DAYS FROM<br />
£329<br />
HOLIDAY PRICES <br />
Tour code: AFRIW<br />
Cabin<br />
<strong>Cruise</strong> only 3 days<br />
Standard Double £329<br />
Standard Twin £339<br />
Superior Double £344<br />
Standard Single £349<br />
INSURANCE & DEPOSITS – see page 43<br />
Mapledurham<br />
Life on deck!<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com 39
STEP ABOARD THIS UNIQUE BARGE<br />
AND DISCOVER THE INSPIRATION<br />
BEHIND A TIMELESS TALE<br />
5 DAYS FROM<br />
£775<br />
YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES<br />
l Free secure parking at embarkation point<br />
l Four nights’ cruise on a full board basis<br />
l Six visits included to Mapledurham,<br />
Goring-on-Thames, Wallingford, Caversham,<br />
Sonning and Henley-on-Thames<br />
l Dinner & Theatre performance in Watermill at<br />
Sonning Dinner Theatre<br />
l A BBQ onboard followed by quiz night<br />
<strong>2023</strong> dates<br />
19 April 12, 19 July 13, 27 September<br />
3, 31 May 9, 23 August 4, 25 October<br />
14 June<br />
DEPOSITS – see page 43<br />
HOLIDAY PRICES<br />
Tour code: AFRIC<br />
Goring Locks<br />
Thames <strong>Cruise</strong><br />
aboard African Queen<br />
Date Cabin <strong>Cruise</strong> only 5 days<br />
April,<br />
25 October<br />
May, June,<br />
July, August,<br />
September &<br />
4 October<br />
Standard Double £775<br />
Standard Twin £785<br />
Superior Double £805<br />
Standard Single £815<br />
Standard Double £795<br />
Standard Twin £805<br />
Superior Double £825<br />
Standard Single £835<br />
Step aboard the award-winning African Queen and enjoy a unique experience as we sail on<br />
the Thames through the heart of Wind in the Willows country. This beautiful barge has been<br />
restored into a floating hotel, offering all guests a welcome retreat from the rush of modernday<br />
life. Join us as we wake each morning in the middle of the English countryside and enjoy<br />
delicious food, wonderful company and beautiful scenery throughout the day, along with<br />
first class hospitality.<br />
Day 1: Mapledurham – Goring-on-Thames<br />
You board the African Queen at 2pm in the<br />
small village of Mapledurham near Reading. We<br />
are introduced to the captain and crew before<br />
setting sail through the heart of Wind in the<br />
Willows country to reach the pretty village of<br />
Goring-on-Thames. Enjoy some free time ashore<br />
followed by Cape Malay, a traditional South<br />
African dish served this evening.<br />
Day 2: Goring-on-Thames – Wallingford –<br />
Mapledurham<br />
After breakfast we continue sailing upstream,<br />
passing beautiful countryside to reach the<br />
market town of Wallingford, former home<br />
of Agatha Christie and regular TV location of<br />
Midsomer Murders. Here we have some time to<br />
step ashore before the African Queen cruises<br />
downstream stopping for lunch at a riverside<br />
inn. We cruise to Mapledurham where we moor<br />
for the night and enjoy a light supper onboard.<br />
Day 3: Mapledurham – Caversham – Sonning<br />
Today we sail downstream to Caversham for<br />
some free time ashore at this historic town.<br />
We enjoy lunch onboard the African Queen<br />
and continue sailing to Sonning, a picturesque<br />
village described by English writer of Three<br />
Men in a Boat, Jerome K. Jerome, as ‘the most<br />
fairy-like nook on the whole river’. This evening<br />
we have dinner at the Mill at Sonning Dinner<br />
Theatre, the only dinner theatre in the UK<br />
which was also the inspiration for Toad Hall in<br />
The Wind in the Willows, before watching a<br />
wonderful performance in this beautiful 18th<br />
Century watermill.<br />
Day 4: Sonning – Henley-on-Thames<br />
This morning we continue downstream to<br />
Henley-on-Thames, recognised around the<br />
world for its annual royal regatta. The historic<br />
town is only few strides from the Thames and is<br />
filled with beautiful buildings. You can explore<br />
the town, walk along the Thames path, visit the<br />
<strong>River</strong> and Rowing Museum and see the statues<br />
of Sir Steve Redgrave and Sir Matthew Pinsent,<br />
or enjoy a 3D exhibition dedicated to Kenneth<br />
Grahame’s novel The Wind in the Willows<br />
(entrances not included). A barbecue is served<br />
back onboard followed by an entertaining<br />
quiz night.<br />
Day 5: Henley-on-Thames – Mapledurham<br />
We enjoy a final morning cruising back to<br />
Mapledurham where a delicious roast dinner is<br />
served onboard before disembarking at 3pm.<br />
Wallingford<br />
Dinner & performance at the Mill in Sonning<br />
Bonny & Andy Cowley<br />
Standard Double Cabin<br />
40<br />
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TRAVELLING TO YOUR RIVER CRUISE<br />
You can join your cruise by air, rail or coach with our flexible travel options that give you the choice of<br />
several ways to travel to your chosen cruise.<br />
AIR INCLUSIVE<br />
HOLIDAYS<br />
Flight options<br />
RAIL INCLUSIVE<br />
HOLIDAYS<br />
Travel by rail to your cruise<br />
COACH INCLUSIVE<br />
HOLIDAYS<br />
FREE local pick-up points<br />
For added convenience, many of our cruises<br />
include an air inclusive option with flights<br />
from either London Heathrow, Manchester<br />
or Birmingham and return transfers to the<br />
ship included. Where available you will find<br />
a choice of departure airports shown on the<br />
holiday page. Simply make your way to the<br />
relevant airport, check in your luggage, and<br />
board the plane for your short flight.<br />
On some of our cruises regional flight<br />
options are available to Amsterdam,<br />
Cologne or Munich.<br />
Call our Holiday Advisors for more<br />
information.<br />
Eurostar puts Europe on our doorstep and<br />
is a really convenient way to travel to meet<br />
the ship. Departing from London St Pancras<br />
International, you can be whisked off<br />
effortlessly whilst relaxing in your reserved<br />
seat. You have the freedom to stretch<br />
your legs whenever the mood takes you<br />
and purchase drinks and snacks from the<br />
buffet carriage. At Brussels, Amsterdam,<br />
Paris or Lille you will continue your journey<br />
by connecting rail travel to your final<br />
destination.<br />
If you would like that little bit extra, why not<br />
upgrade your ticket to Standard Premier Class<br />
from just £75 per journey (£150 return) and enjoy:<br />
l Dedicated coaches with spacious seats and<br />
power sockets<br />
l A light meal with hot and cold drinks served at<br />
your seat<br />
l Complimentary magazines<br />
On many of our cruises you can take<br />
advantage of our convenient and free local<br />
coach departures as shown on page 42, this<br />
means you can join the holiday and travel<br />
in comfort on a modern, executive coach<br />
from a town or city near you to the port of<br />
departure.<br />
Your tour coach, complete with toilet and air<br />
conditioning, takes you via ferry or Channel Tunnel<br />
to your ship and will be available to make the<br />
most of some of the exciting excursions that we<br />
have arranged for you, ensuring that the time you<br />
have with us is as comfortable and enjoyable as<br />
possible.<br />
Front seats on the coach – £10pp<br />
Guarantee a seat on our coach in the first<br />
three rows for your journey to and from<br />
your ship.<br />
MEET AT YOUR<br />
CRUISE SHIP<br />
Make your own travel arrangements at<br />
your convenience to join your selected<br />
cruise, simply board your cruise ship<br />
at the embarkation point. For details<br />
of dates and prices to ‘Join at the Ship’<br />
see your chosen cruise page.<br />
JOIN AT THE PORT<br />
AND PARK<br />
You can choose from a wider choice<br />
of departure dates if you join at the<br />
departure port. Leave your car in a<br />
secure car park close to the port of<br />
departure and be collected/returned by<br />
our coach.<br />
Car parking at Dover Eastern Docks £10<br />
per day. Prices are subject to change.<br />
OVERNIGHT HOTEL –<br />
WITH CAR PARKING<br />
For ferry crossings from Dover you<br />
can book overnight accommodation<br />
with breakfast close to the port of<br />
departure and be collected/returned by<br />
our coach from just £138 per person –<br />
including car parking for the duration<br />
of your holiday.<br />
Enjoy the Holiday Inn (formerly the<br />
Leaf Hotel), Dover and the Ashford<br />
International Hotel, an ideal overnight<br />
stay, close to the port with breakfast<br />
included prior to meeting up with<br />
your fellow travellers when the coach<br />
collects you from the hotel.<br />
Prices for an overnight stay start at<br />
£138 per person per night for a twin/<br />
double bedded room, single bedded<br />
room £98 per person per night.<br />
Car parking is subject to availability<br />
and conditions, it may be necessary to<br />
park nearby.<br />
To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com 41
COACH TRAVEL &<br />
JOINING OPTIONS<br />
Sit back and relax in style as our comfortable, modern<br />
coaches take you to join your <strong>River</strong> <strong>Cruise</strong>. Our friendly<br />
and professional Coach Drivers are with you all the way<br />
and wherever you live in the country there’s a joining<br />
option to suit you - simply refer to the coach joining<br />
options listed.<br />
Flight, Eurostar and Join at Ship travel options are also<br />
available, see page 41 for more information.<br />
Whichever option you choose our friendly Holiday<br />
Advisors are available to assist, please call 01858 438318<br />
OTHER REGIONS & TRAVEL OPTIONS:<br />
If there isn’t a convenient coach joining point for you, why<br />
not consider the following options:<br />
Make your own way to join our coach at the docks<br />
at Dover<br />
Travel independently to central London the day before<br />
your cruise and take advantage of our complimentary<br />
return coach shuttle service with overnight hotel<br />
accommodation in Ashford including breakfast on your<br />
outbound and return journeys. See joining points below.<br />
Make your own way to Kent for our overnight hotel<br />
options in Dover or Ashford the day before your cruise,<br />
with complimentary parking for the duration of your<br />
holiday. Our coach will collect you the following<br />
morning after breakfast. From £138 pp.<br />
Most of our cruises also have air and rail options<br />
available, see page 41 for more information.<br />
ASHFORD SHUTTLE DEPARTURE POINTS<br />
Pick-Up Point<br />
London<br />
London Euston<br />
London Kings Cross<br />
London Liverpool Street<br />
London Paddington Station<br />
London Waterloo<br />
London Victoria Coach Station<br />
London St Pancras International<br />
Shuttle departs from London stations between 2pm and 3pm.<br />
Exact times will be confirmed in your travel documents.<br />
YOUR JOURNEY<br />
Our routes include sailings to Europe via Dover.<br />
All of the coach companies used by us have been selected<br />
on their reliability to provide modern, comfortable coaches<br />
and friendly drivers. On some routes it may be necessary to<br />
use a taxi or a feeder coach before you join your main coach.<br />
Regular stops during your journey will be made.<br />
Upon our return to the ports, our coaches will arrive back at<br />
the following times:<br />
Dover – approx. 17:00<br />
All departure times given are approximate and will be confirmed on your<br />
final documentation.<br />
SOUTH EAST: ROUTES D1 - D5<br />
Coach via Dover - Travel aboard P&O Ferries for the<br />
90 min crossing to Calais.<br />
Joining options:<br />
Complimentary coach pick-ups are available from<br />
the joining points listed below. Take a note of your<br />
Route Code and refer to your chosen river cruise<br />
page to see the dates available to you.<br />
Travel independently to Dover Docks on the day of<br />
departure to join your coach. Our Holiday Advisors<br />
can organise car parking for the duration of your<br />
cruise and overnight hotels if required.<br />
Pick-Up Point Route Code Time<br />
Bedfordshire<br />
Luton D4 05:15<br />
Berkshire<br />
Newbury D3 03:45<br />
Reading D3 04:30<br />
Buckinghamshire<br />
Milton Keynes D4 04.30<br />
Essex<br />
Colchester D5 04:00<br />
Chelmsford D5 04:40<br />
Brentwood D5 05:10<br />
Romford D5 06:00<br />
Thurrock Services D5 07:15<br />
Hampshire<br />
Portsmouth (North) D2 03:00<br />
Havant D2 03:15<br />
Hertfordshire<br />
South Mimms Services D4 06:45<br />
Kent<br />
Chatham D1 06:30<br />
Medway Services D1 06:30<br />
Maidstone Services D1 07:00<br />
Canterbury D1 07:00<br />
Ashford D1 07:45<br />
Dartford D4 07:45<br />
Sevenoaks D3 07:45<br />
Ashford Int Hotel D1-D5 08:00<br />
Holiday Inn Dover D1-D5 08:45<br />
Dover Docks D1-D5 09.00<br />
Northamptonshire<br />
Northampton D4 03:45<br />
Oxfordshire<br />
Oxford D3 03:45<br />
Suffolk<br />
Ipswich D5 03:15<br />
Surrey<br />
Woking D3 06:15<br />
Reigate D3 07:00<br />
Sussex (East)<br />
Brighton D2 05:15<br />
Hove D2 05:00<br />
Sussex (West)<br />
Chichester D2 03:45<br />
Worthing D2 04:30<br />
Crawley D2 06:00<br />
Wiltshire<br />
Swindon D3 03:00<br />
42 To book call us on 01858 438318 or visit arenarivercruises.com
HOW TO BOOK<br />
BOOKING IS EASY<br />
Simply call 01858 438318<br />
Monday to Friday 9am–5.30pm<br />
& Saturday 9am–1pm<br />
or book online at arenarivercruises.com<br />
FOREIGN OFFICE ADVICE<br />
For the latest travel advice from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office<br />
including security and local laws, plus passport and visa information<br />
check www.gov.uk/travelaware<br />
DEPOSITS<br />
To confirm your chosen holiday you will be required to pay<br />
a deposit at the time of booking as listed below:<br />
UK <strong>Cruise</strong>s Duration Price<br />
3 – 4 days £100<br />
5 days or more £175<br />
European <strong>Cruise</strong>s 4 – 6 days £175<br />
7 days or more £350<br />
TRAVEL INSURANCE<br />
Travel insurance is a virtual aspect to booking a holiday, giving you<br />
protection against unforeseen circumstances.<br />
We recommend booking travel insurance through our preferred<br />
insurance provider Staysure.<br />
l Pre-existing medical condition cover<br />
l Cancellation cover up to £5,000*<br />
l Superior COVID-19 protection**<br />
Call them on 0808 281 2404<br />
Or visit staysure.co.uk<br />
* £5,000 cancellation cover available on Comprehensive policies only.<br />
**As rated by a large UK independent consumer association<br />
Peace of mind, all of our holidays are financially bonded<br />
43
DISCOVER MORE<br />
FROM THE ARENA TRAVEL GROUP<br />
HOLIDAYS BY RAIL<br />
Relax and enjoy one of our expertly planned fully escorted<br />
holidays by rail.<br />
Travel by Eurostar and regional trains throughout Europe and choose from a range of short breaks,<br />
classic tours or walking holidays plus our collection of Great British breaks too.<br />
Call 01858 438332 or visit arenarailholidays.com<br />
REQUEST<br />
YOUR NEW<br />
BROCHURE<br />
TODAY!<br />
BOXWOOD GARDEN TOURS<br />
Visit some of the world's most beautiful and exclusive gardens.<br />
Boxwood Tours offer high quality garden holidays with a chance to visit some of the most exclusive and<br />
beautiful gardens in the UK, Europe and beyond. Led by experts, each tour also features meetings with<br />
garden owners and head gardeners wherever possible.<br />
Call 01341 241717 or visit boxwoodtours.co.uk<br />
REMEMBRANCE TOURS<br />
Explore events that have shaped world history.<br />
Our Remembrance Tours promise experiences that are both poignant and memorable. Our expert<br />
guides have lots of knowledge, to guide you on captivating experiences and destinations, allowing you<br />
to explore the powerful stories behind them.<br />
Call 01473 917308 or visit arenatravel.com<br />
VOYAGES SMALL SHIP & LUXURY CRUISING<br />
We have partnered with some of the best cruise line companies in the business. Our collection of<br />
cruises, aboard small, luxury ships, represents the perfect exploration and coastal cruises on offer.<br />
Visit some of the world’s most beautiful destinations; relax in the Seychelles, sail the blue waters of the<br />
Mediterranean or see the very best sights on the British coast.<br />
Call 01858 435646 or visit arenatravel.com<br />
CRAFT HOLIDAYS<br />
The ultimate holidays for knitters, stitchers, quilters and textile lovers.<br />
A selection of carefully crafted unique collection of holidays to a wide range of destinations.<br />
Call 01473 794925 or visit stitchtopia.co.uk<br />
FIRST FOR BRIDGE HOLIDAYS<br />
Club standard bridge holidays with EBU Masterpoints awarded and bridge holidays<br />
without Masterpoints.<br />
First for Bridge has over 20 years’ experience of organising bridge holidays and cruises in the UK and<br />
abroad. Our professional service and attention to detail sets us apart from other operators and creates<br />
the high standard our guests are used to.<br />
Call 01473 794926 or visit firstforbridge.com<br />
Arena Travel, Sovereign Park, Lathkill Street,<br />
Market Harborough, Leicestershire LE16 9EG<br />
arenarivercruises.com<br />
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Company Registration No. 02431120<br />
A trading division of Arena Tours Limited