River Cruising

Ocean and river cruising is totally different!

Leisurely cruises on Europe's great rivers have never been more popular and therefore there is now a large choice of vessels. Unlike ocean cruising you discover the heart of a country, slowly passing by awe-inspiring countryside, pretty villages and charming towns. No time is wasted as most river cruises moor in the centre of towns and cities.

You can enjoy the most scenic views from your dining table; sun tanning in a lounge chair while cruising from one village to another town or city. Walk just a 100 yards or so from your cabin into the town, the choice is yours.

Remember as carefully as you would choose your hotel on land, you should be just as selective when choosing your floating hotel.

All Cruise Select staff have experienced river cruising first hand.

That’s why we can say ‘it’s an experience not to be missed’

Cruise Select recommends ….

European Waterways

We’d like to introduce you to the European waterways and to the world of GoBarging.

Their luxury hotel barges, not to be confused with narrow boating, cruise the inland waterways of seven European countries, along canals, rivers, lakes and lochs. This is an opportunity to visit these countries and experience life there, from a truly unique perspective.

Each of there 13 beautifully presented hotel barges accommodate between 6 and 12 guests. Most have a spa pool/Jacuzzi and all carry bicycles for towpath excursions.

You may choose to charter a whole boat with your family and friends or join a small group of like-minded travellers on an individual basis.

Your floating hotel cruises gently along, while you relax, enjoy the fine wines and excellent cuisine prepared by your own Gourmet Chef plus the company of fellow passengers - new friends, family, or old acquaintances. Take a guided tour around the many castles, markets, battlefields and ancient monuments, or go off exploring on your own. Whatever you do, their dedicated and highly trained professional staff will be there to look after you.

Their Captains ensure a safe and yet exciting passage along your chosen route, our Chefs prepare a wide range of exquisite food to suit every taste, the Tour guides are knowledgeable and enthusiastic, and their stewards & stewardesses ensure that high standards are maintained throughout your cruise.

Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises operate cruises on most European Rivers, Russia and Ukraine. All itineraries include shore excursions in practically every port of call. You also have the option of pre-purchasing an ‘All inclusive beverage’ package which includes regional wines, soft drinks and cocktails.

Viking River Cruises also offer a choice of fantastic cruises in China which are fully escorted every step of the way. There are three wonderful itineraries to choose from including an itinerary that includes Tibet. It is worth noting that all their China ships have cabins with balcony as standard as are known to be the most luxurious river vessels in China.

Viking River Cruises is consistently placed on top award lists such Conde Naste Traveler's Gold List.

Julie has cruised with Viking River Cruises and is our specialist.

Ama Waterways

Amadeus Waterways have just introduced four brand new vessels to their luxury fleet. Areas covered are Europe and Russia.

They offer a wonderful 30 day itinerary from Paris to Istanbul sailing along the Romanian / Bulgarian border before continuing to Serbia and through the Iron Gates, a very narrow passage dividing the Alps from the Carpathian Mountains, ending your voyage with 3 nights at the luxurious Ritz Carlton Hotel in Istanbul.

Not only will you enjoy superb dining every day Amadeus Waterways also include unlimited quality Red and White wines from Europe’s great wine regions with dinner every day on board.

Shelley has cruised with Ama Waterways and is our specialist.

Pandaw Cruises ~ Colonial Style Boutique Ships

Pandaw Cruises have four vessels at present with another new ship being introduced in 2008. The brand new 60 berth Orient Pandaw will make its Maiden Voyage in late September 2008 with a new 10 night expedition from Saigon in Vietnam, deep into the heart of Cambodia. Each ship is hand finished in brass and teak by traditional craftsmen.

All Pandaw vessels have a shallow draft allowing them to travel to remote areas off the beaten track. They operate some wonderful and exciting itineraries along the River Mekong, The Chindwin and the Irrawaddy River. Pandaw can also offer short cruises of one or two nights between Mandalay and Pagan.

Rachel has cruised with Pandaw Cruises and is our specialist.

The River Cruise Company

A river cruise can be one of the most relaxing and enthralling holidays you could possible take and The River Cruise Line are experts at combining service and value. Not only are they experts in the classic river cruises of Europe such as the Rhine, Moselle, Danube, Seine and many more, they offer a range of cruises further afield around the waterways of Russia, the mighty Chinese Yangtze and the less visited Mekong and Cambodia Rivers of South East Asia.

These exceptionally good value cruises operate on selected 3 Star plus ship, offering a friendly personal on board cruise experience. With all meals included and an optional programme of well-designed sightseeing excursions, it’s exceptionally good value for money with a dedicated Cruise Manager ensuring your holiday is truly pleasurable.

With a choice of over 10 individual ships offering a wide a choice of over 25 different European itineraries to choose from, there is something for everyone. Whether you choose the popular ms Switzerland II, the mps Lady Anna, the mps Amsterdam or one of the other ships offering exiting European river cruises you won’t be disappointed.

Offering a range of free regional coach departure points, your holiday starts in style and comfort on a modern executive coach. Ask our River Experts for details on selected FREE regional coach departures.

As well as coach transfers the River Cruise Company operate a selection of fly and cruise and Rail and Cruise using the efficient and effortless Eurostar, ask our River Experts for details.