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Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection is launching two new European itineraries in 2017, including one with an explicit focus on Germany’s Jewish heritage and the contemporary Jewish community within the country.
“Rhine-Main Discovery & Munich,” a 10-day voyage between Munich and Cologne, will feature onboard lectures covering topics such as the history of Jewish people in Europe, and shoreside excursions will include visits to the Dachau concentration camp and Courtroom 600, where the Nuremberg trials took place.
For guests who don’t want to take the Jewish heritage excursions, alternatives will include a tour of “Mad” King Ludwig’s Castle Neuschwanstein or hiking through the Tauberhase vineyard.
“The introduction of the new Jewish heritage programming on the Rhine-Main came about as a result of guest feedback as well as Uniworld’s desire to expand its current offerings,” said Ellen Bettridge, president and CEO of Uniworld. “This itinerary gives guests the opportunity to explore the deep Jewish history of Germany while also discovering all regions of Germany from a more general perspective.”
The other new itinerary for 2017 is the 10-day “Paris & Impressions of the Seine.” The voyage has a strong focus on art with visits to Auvers-sur-Oise, where van Gogh spent his final two months, and Monet’s home in Giverny, where guests will recognize the iconic water gardens.
The new voyages are among several developments coming next year from Uniworld, which offers itineraries in 26 countries.
Uniworld is changing its policy regarding port fees, which will now be included in the upfront cost of the cruise.
Starting in 2017, the company will offer 24-hour room and butler service, as well as an onboard concierge to assist guests in planning and customizing their voyages. Bettridge said the changes are a result of the company trying to give their guests a luxury experience similar to that of a hotel.
Also coming in 2017 is the Joie de Vivre, which will cruise the Seine on the “Paris & Normandy” itinerary and carry 128 guests in 54 staterooms, eight junior suites and two royal suites, all with Savoir of England beds and marble bathrooms. At 410 feet, the ship is smaller than other Uniworld Super Ships, allowing it to dock in the heart of Paris.
Bettridge said the French “joy of living” philosophy will be reflected throughout the vessel and in its itinerary. “Aboard the S.S. Joie de Vivre, guests will see and feel the splendors of French culture.”
Source: travelweekly.com
