Join us for one of the great river journeys of the world as we navigate the Danube River from Budapest to the delta in the east. Travel from the heart of Europe to the distant Black Sea shores cruising through Hungary, Croatia, Serbia,
Romania and Bulgaria.

From the earliest of times the Danube has been one of Europe’s most important trade routes, linking the Black Sea shores with central Europe. We will travel through some of Europe’s most beautiful landscapes, from the plains of Hungary, past the distant Carpathian Mountains to the delta lands of the Danube. We will visit the great cities of Budapest, Belgrade and Bucharest as well as riverside villages and towns along the Danube, as the great river makes its way to the Black Sea.

Itinerary

Day 1 – London to Budapest. Fly by scheduled flight. Upon arrival, transfer to the MS Rembrandt and embark. Enjoy an orientation tour of this historic city en route to the vessel. Sail in the late evening.

Day 2 – Kalocsa. Famous for its surrounding plains, horses and the production of paprika, Kalocsa has a history dating back over 1000 years. Your tour of the Puszta district will include the town and a spectacular display of horsemanship by the local ‘cowboys’.

Day 3 –Cruising. Enjoy a full day of cruising on the tranquil Danube with Croatia on one side and Serbia on the other.

Day 4 –Belgrade. Arrive in Belgrade for a full day in this interesting city. Your morning tour highlights the city’s main attractions, including Kalemegdan fortress, Saint Sava Cathedral, the largest Orthodox Church in the world, and Tito’s Memorial. The afternoon is free to explore more of this charming city on your own. This evening there will be the opportunity to attend an optional Folklore show. Sail in the late evening.

Day 5 – Cruising the Iron Gate . Sail through picturesque scenery which becomes truly spectacular as you cruise through the Iron Gates, a narrow Danube gorge between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains.

Day 6 – Veliko Tarnovo or Bucharest . Enjoy a full-day tour to Veliko Tarnovo, the capital of the Second Bulgarian Kingdom from 1187 to 1393. The city formed a natural fortress, located on three hills surrounding the Yantra River. A palace, fortifications and churches were built into the terrain. On Tsarevets Hill see the old fortress walls, royal palaces and patriarchal church. After lunch in a local restaurant there will be time to shop for handicrafts in the town market. Visit the museum town of Arbanassi on the way back to the ship in Rousse. Alternatively, take an optional day trip to the Romanian capital of Bucharest. 

Day 7 – Constanta. From the port of Cernavoda join the excursion to Constanta. A city tour will include the excellent Archaeological Museum. Be sure to visit the Treasury and see the gigantic 3rd-century Roman Mosaic. Later, stretch your legs with a walk along the Black Sea waterfront promenade.

Day 8 – Bucharest to London. Disembark after breakfast in Cernavoda and transfer to Bucharest for the return scheduled flight to London. Time permitting, why not explore the boulevards of Bucharest with their decidedly French style on your way to the airport.. Disembark after breakfast and return to London by scheduled flight.

Budapest to the Black Sea - A River Journey along the Danube

Departure Date: 19 - 26 October 2008

Prices are per person - Based on double occupancy

Tour Code: RCRE191008

CAT	CABIN DESCRIPTION	BROCHURE PRICE	EARLY BOOKING PRICE
1	Main deck aft twin	£1445	£945
2	Main deck twin	£1645	£1145
3	Upper deck twin	£1995	£1495
4	Upper deck suite	£2195	£1695
1	For sole use	£2045	£1545
2	For sole use	£2245	£1745

Price includes: Economy class scheduled air travel, 7 nights aboard the MS Rembrandt on full board, shore excursions, entrance fees, local guides, port taxes, services of a cruise director, tour manager, guest speaker, airport taxes.

Not included: Travel insurance, optional excursions shown, gratuities.

N.B. Ports subject to change. Water levels may also affect itinerary. All special offers are subject to availability.

Deck Plans are available on request.

MS REMBRANDT

Built in the Netherlands in 2003, this attractive four star vessel has been associated with us since her launch but only for limited charter periods. However, from 2008 we are offering an extensive season and in addition to the main routes across the continent, we are also operating the vessel on some of the smaller rivers including the Moselle and Neckar.

Very much of the new generation of river vessels, the MS Rembrandt is however smaller than most. With a maximum of just 80 guests rather than the customary 160-200, she is able to offer a yacht-like atmosphere which is enhanced by the stylish décor of beautiful woods and luxurious fabrics. The main lounge is located forward on the Upper deck and the views from both the side and forward windows are marvellous. Likewise the dining room, which offers a single sitting, also has large windows on both sides of the room, so wherever you are you can watch the riverside pass slowly by. The day to day programme will be co-ordinated by the Noble Caledonia cruise director who will provide daily briefings on the forthcoming events. Also on board will be a guest speaker who will provide informal informative talks and accompany us ashore.

Passenger cabins are located over two decks. The cabins on the Main deck have a good size window, whilst those on the Upper deck have a larger window. These cabins have twin beds which convert during the day to a comfortable sofa. In addition there are four suites on the Upper deck each with a double bed and French balcony. All suites and cabins have well designed private bathrooms with shower and toilet. Other facilities in the cabins include satellite television, telephone, hairdryer and individually controlled heating and air-conditioning.

The MS Rembrandt is proud of its excellent reputation for its cuisine. Enjoy international and local dishes in the stylish and welcoming dining room and later relax in the lounge and bar. Coffee and tea is available free of charge in the lounge during the day. The vessel is also famous for its service and hospitality offered by the crew of 24. When sailing and also in port, one of the best places to be is on the Sun and Observation deck where the views can be appreciated from the comfortable deck furniture.

This cruise is operated on our behalf by NOBLE CALEDONIA ATOL 3108