Across Europe by River - 2021
A river voyage from the Danube Delta to Amsterdam aboard the MS Royal Crown with highlight performances by London Festival Opera
- 28 May 2021
Join us aboard the charming MS Royal Crown for our ultimate grand tour of Europe as we sail clear across the continent, visit eight countries, travel more than 2200 miles and yet only have to unpack once. This is the perfect trip for those who enjoy seeing something new every day, as the MS Royal Crown transports you in considerable comfort between great cities, towns and villages, past ever-changing landscapes where the slow speed of the vessel allows us to absorb the views of town and country.
Each port of call has its own unique character waiting to be discovered whilst on one of our guided excursions. From historic locations to iconic buildings, our itinerary is brimming with highlights including the grand cities of Vienna and Budapest; the picturesque towns along the Rhine and Main including Miltenberg and Rudesheim; wine tasting in Wurzburg and musical performances. There will of course also be plenty of time to relax on board and enjoy some truly beautiful scenery especially whilst cruising through the dramatic Rhine Gorge and through the spectacular Iron Gates.
If you have never experienced a river journey it is difficult to explain the sheer pleasure that comes from travelling across Europe observing everyday life on the banks of the Danube, Main and Rhine rivers. You can let the world slip by as you relax on the Sun Deck or in the Lounge and delight in awe-inspiring panoramic views of the passing scenery. Guided excursions with excellent local guides and interesting talks by our Guest Speakers will create an enjoyable, informative and lively atmosphere on board as we sail along the European waterways.
Useful links & Travel Advice
Please find a selection of useful websites to refer to for information from the Foreign & Commonwealth Office, on visa requirements, NHS travel health advice and other useful travel tips.
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Special Guest Performances
by London Festival Opera
We are delighted to announce that our long time associates London Festival Opera will be presenting ‘A Feast of Opera’ in three enchanting historic settings - Amorbach Abbey for an Opera Gala featuring the works of the great German, French and Italian composers, Kloster Eberbach for a recital covering three centuries of great operatic repertoire, and Vollrads Castle for a recreation of a 19th century Opera Soirée performed in period evening dress. Bringing together artists from the major British opera companies including the Royal Opera, English National Opera and Glyndebourne Festival Opera, the company has a considerable reputation and has appeared in some of the world’s leading venues including as a guest company in one of the Italy’s greatest opera houses, La Fenice.
Royal Crown
This elegant vessel combines the nostalgic charm of the 1930s with the comfort and service of a four-star vessel. No expense has been spared to create not only a vessel that is beautiful to look at, but also a great joy to travel on. Spacious teak decks, elegant public rooms and staterooms with mahogany, rosewood and marble, together with rich fabrics and specially designed furniture, all blend together to create a unique river vessel. Built in 1996, the 90 passenger MS Royal Crown was designed for the rivers flowing through the heart of Europe. Exquisite furniture, expensive materials and accessories give the vessel its unique atmosphere. Facilities onboard include a library, boutique, fitness area, lounge with panoramic views and a restaurant with open seating. Outside there is a large sun deck, lido bar, a putting green and large scale chessboard. Onboard the efficient air-conditioning system ensures a comfortable temperature. Two powerful engines propel the vessel up to a speed of 12 knots.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Bucharest, Romania.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the MS Royal Crown in Fetesti (approx. 2.5 hour drive). Sail this evening.
Day 2 Danube Delta.
The vast Danube Delta is one of the most important wetlands left in Europe. We will access this unique region from Mila 35 at the entrance to the delta and explore by local boats. Return to the vessel and enjoy a relaxing afternoon sailing along the Danube. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for welcome drinks and dinner.
Day 3 Constanta.
Early this morning we arrive in Cernavoda at the entrance to the Black Sea Canal. Drive to nearby Constanta, a popular resort city. Its colourful history dates back to ancient Greek and Roman times. On a guided tour we will see the Museum of National History and Archaeology and the Museum of Ethnography.
Day 4 Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria.
From Rousse, enjoy a full day tour to the city of 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. Across the river, ancient stone houses seemingly perched on top of each other rise up the steep riverbank. After lunch in a local restaurant, we will visit the museum town of Arbanassi.
Day 5 Belogradchik & Vidin.
Arrive this morning in the Bulgarian port of Vidin. After breakfast on board we will drive to Belogradchik which is located close to the Serbian border. The Belogradchik Rocks are a famous Bulgarian beauty spot. The sandstone has been weathered into all manner of bizarre shapes, and housed amongst the rocks is an Ottoman fort, built on the remains of a Roman structure. Return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon we visit Vidin for a performance by the wonderful Vidin Symphonic Orchestra in the Philharmonic concert hall.
Day 6 Cruising through the Iron Gates.
Today the scenery becomes truly spectacular as you cruise through the Iron Gates, a narrow Danube gorge between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains.
Day 7 Belgrade, Serbia.
Spend the morning in this interesting city. A half day tour highlights the city’s main attractions, including the Kalemegdan fortress as it looms over the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, Saint Sava Cathedral, the largest Orthodox Church in the world, and Tito’s Memorial. Our tour ends with a superb local folklore performance ashore. Sail this afternoon towards Hungary.
Day 8 Pecs & Villany, Hungary.
This morning we arrive in the port of Mohacs for our full day scenic tour of Pecs and Villany. The city of Pecs enjoys a fine position on the slopes of the Mecsek Hills and our tour will feature the sites associated with the city’s Roman Ottoman Hapsburg past, as well as a short organ recital in the splendid Pecs Cathedral. Continue on to the town of Villany for lunch and wine tasting. Villany is one of Hungary’s top wine regions, known for its reds and rosés. Thanks to the area’s sub-Mediterranean climate, wines are full-bodied, spicy and of the highest quality. Sail in the evening towards Budapest.
Day 9 Budapest.
We have the day to explore Hungary’s elegant capital. Spend the morning on an excursion that will include the old quarter, the Matthias Church and the Fishermen’s Bastion. Return to the ship for lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure. Tonight, there will be a ‘Budapest by Night’ cruise as we sail on towards Slovakia.
Day 10 Bratislava, Slovakia.
Cruise through Hungary to Slovakia, arriving in the capital in the mid-afternoon. Enjoy a walking tour of the city and see the old quarter, the ornate Baroque Palace and the ancient city gates. Our tour will finish with a visit to the Klarissen Church where a string quartet will perform a concert of music by Dvorak and Mozart.
Day 11 Vienna, Austria.
A morning city tour of Austria’s elegant capital will take us around the famous Ringstrasse, and the Old Quarter including St Stephan’s Cathedral. Return to the ship for lunch and an afternoon at leisure. Tonight, there will be an optional evening of music ashore at the State Opera House or similar, subject to availability and depending on schedules.
Day 12 Vienna.
After breakfast join our delightful tour to the Vienna Woods, including a visit to the Mayerling hunting lodge, where scandal once rocked the royal family, as well as the Cistercian Abbey of Heiligenkreuz. Return to the ship for lunch and either enjoy an afternoon at leisure or join our optional excursion to Schonbrunn Palace and Gardens, the favourite summer residence of Maria Theresa. Sail overnight towards Melk.
Day 13 Wachau Valley & Melk.
Enjoy a morning cruise as we sail through the beautiful Wachau Valley towards the great Baroque Abbey of Melk, situated high above the Danube. After lunch, depart for a guided tour of the abbey, including the Imperial Staircase, the Marble Hall and the abbey church.
Day 14 Passau, Germany.
Arrive in the early afternoon in Passau, where the Inn and Ilz rivers join the Danube. After lunch on board join a guided walk through the Old Town. Tour the breathtaking Cathedral of St Stephan, which contains the world’s largest church pipe organ. Return to the MS Royal Crown and sail on towards Regensburg.
Day 15 Regensburg.
Enjoy a morning guided stroll around historic Regensburg, Germany’s largest and best-preserved Medieval city. See the twin-spired cathedral Dom St Peter, the treasury and the tower houses. Return to the vessel for lunch and sail on towards Nuremberg.
Day 16 Nuremberg.
Join a morning guided tour of this historic city, capital of Franconia. See the old city within the vast walls and visit Zeppelin Field and the Palace of Justice. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure here to explore further.
Day 17 Bamberg.
We will arrive in Bamberg in the morning and enjoy a tour of one of Germany’s loveliest cities. Its relative geographical location, some 40 miles north of Nuremberg, was a key factor in preserving its architectural heritage from the ravages of war. Every single European style from the Romanesque onwards, has left its mark on Bamberg, each bequeathing at least one major building. This afternoon the ship remains in Bamberg, allowing you free time to explore further. Sail onwards in the late afternoon.
Day 18 Wurzburg.
After a morning of scenic cruising, arrive in Wurzburg, the wine capital of Franconia. Our tour of this attractive town will include the old town with its impressive collection of churches and the Prince Bishop’s Residenz Palace. The tour of this magnificent palace will end with a wine tasting in the Residenz Cellar.
Day 19 Miltenberg.
We arrive today in the pretty Franconian town of Miltenberg, renowned for its half-timbered Medieval houses. On a walking tour see the picturesque triangular shaped Marktplatz and the restored castle. Return to the vessel for lunch followed by a short drive to nearby Amorbach Abbey for an afternoon performance of celebrated opera arias and ensembles by London Festival Opera.
Day 20 Eltville & Kloster Eberbach.
Arrive this afternoon into the small town of Eltville and transfer the short distance to nearby Kloster Eberbach, established in the 13th century by Cistercian monks from Clairvaux in France, and the outstanding backdrop to the film “The Name of the Rose”. Our visit here will include a performance of popular repertoire by London Festival Opera and a chance to taste wine made from the world-famous Steinberg vineyard. Afterwards return to the MS Royal Crown and enjoy some free time in Eltville before we sail.
Day 21 Rudesheim.
After breakfast depart by coach to nearby Vollrads Castle. This grand estate has been the Greiffendau residence since the 14th century and the making of wine on this site can be traced back to 1211. We will also sample some of their splendid wines during our tour. Afterwards, enjoy the final concert by London Festival Opera with a performance in period costume for an added visual impact. Return to the MS Royal Crown for lunch and sail this afternoon through the scenic Rhine Gorge as we head towards Cologne.
Day 22 Cologne.
This morning we will visit the city’s famous cathedral. The cathedral is the largest Gothic church in northern Europe with a total area of almost 8000 square metres and room for more than 20,000 people, and the second tallest spire and façade in the world. Enjoy lunch on board and a relaxing afternoon cruising towards Amsterdam.
Day 23 Amsterdam, Netherlands.
Arrive into Amsterdam this morning and visit one of the great art houses of Europe. Choose between the Rijksmuseum, with its splendid collection of old masters, including Rembrandt’s famous “The Night Watch”. Alternatively, you may prefer a visit to the Van Gogh Museum, which offers one of the world’s largest collection of works by the artist, including “Almond Blossom” and “The Bedroom”. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure and this evening join your fellow travellers for the farewell drinks and dinner.
Day 24 Amsterdam to London.
Disembark this morning for the return scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £500 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 28 May to 20 June 2021 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Junior Suite | £7495 | £6995 |
| Superior Suite | £7595 | £7095 |
| Deluxe Suite | £7895 | £7395 |
| Premium Suite | £8295 | £7795 |
| Royal Suite | £8795 | £8295 |
| Deluxe Suite For sole use | £8895 | £8395 |
Tour Reference Code: RCRC280521
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 23 nights aboard the MS Royal Crown on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch and dinner • Shore excursions • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Performances by London Festival Opera • Gratuities • Transfers • Port & airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, optional tour on day 12 and music evening ashore in Vienna on day 11.
Please note: Return flights from UK regional airports are available on request and subject to availability.
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Deckplan
Royal Crown
This elegant vessel combines the nostalgic charm of the 1930s with the comfort and service of a four-star vessel. No expense has been spared to create not only a vessel that is beautiful to look at, but also a great joy to travel on. Spacious teak decks, elegant public rooms and staterooms with mahogany, rosewood and marble, together with rich fabrics and specially designed furniture, all blend together to create a unique river vessel. Built in 1996, the 90 passenger MS Royal Crown was designed for the rivers flowing through the heart of Europe. Exquisite furniture, expensive materials and accessories give the vessel its unique atmosphere. Facilities onboard include a library, boutique, fitness area, lounge with panoramic views and a restaurant with open seating. Outside there is a large sun deck, lido bar, a putting green and large scale chessboard. Onboard the efficient air-conditioning system ensures a comfortable temperature. Two powerful engines propel the vessel up to a speed of 12 knots.
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Ship Directory
SHIP DIRECTORY
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted you have chosen the MS Royal Crown for your upcoming journey.
Built in 1996, the 90 passenger MS Royal Crown is a splendid vessel, specially designed for the rivers flowing through the heart of Europe. This elegant vessel combines the nostalgic charm of the 1930s with comfort and excellent service. No expense has been spared to create not only a vessel that is beautiful to look at, but also a great joy to travel on. Spacious decks, elegant public rooms and staterooms with mahogany, rosewood and marble, together with rich fabrics, all blend together to create a unique river vessel. Facilities on board include a library, boutique, fitness area, lounge with panoramic views and a restaurant with open seating. Outside there is a large sun deck.
The atmosphere on board is friendly and informal and within days you will have made new friends in the open-seating restaurant, on the shore excursions or whilst relaxing in the comfortable public areas on board. You will find yourself amongst like-minded people in an English speaking environment and for those who seek peace and quiet, there will always be the opportunity to find a secluded spot on the sun deck or simply rest in your well-appointed cabin.
We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
AIR CONDITIONING
Cabins and public areas are heated and have air-conditioning. ALARM An alarm will be sounded in the event of an emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do in the event of an emergency.
ALL ABOARD
The daily programme specifies the ship’s arrival and departure times in the various ports visited each day. When participating in shore excursions, our tour guides will ensure that you return to the ship in time for departure. Should you decide to explore on your own, please return to the ship no later than the All Aboard Time indicated on that day’s daily programme. Important: it is the sole responsibility of our guests to be aboard in time for the vessel’s departure.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
The ship is equipped with a PA system. Announcements are made in public areas and cabins. These are kept to a minimum to avoid unnecessary disturbance.
BAR/BEVERAGES
The bar & 1930s Art Deco style lounge is located on Panorama Deck, and is open from 10.00 am until at least midnight offering a fine selection of drinks. Richly textured carpets provide the convivial atmosphere for conversation among friends. Relax in the comfort of carved mahogany sofas and chairs. Complimentary tea & coffee is available 24 hours a day from the self-service drinks station in the Lounge.
CABIN SIZES & FACILITIES
Royal Suites (No.1-6), Panorama Deck Cabin size: 18.2 square metres (200 square feet) Furnishings: Panorama window, sofa and armchair, television, mini-bar/ fridge, dressing table, closet, safe. Bed: Queen sized bed with two separate mattresses Bathroom: 27 square feet with shower, WC, marble sink, golden fixtures, hairdryer, outlet for razor and toiletries.
Premium Suites (No.11, 14, 15 & 16), Select Deck Cabin size: 14 square metres (150 square feet) Furnishings: Two portholes, television, dressing table and stool, closet, safe Bed: Queen sized bed with two separate mattresses Bathroom: 24 square feet with shower, WC, marble sink, golden fixtures, hairdryer, outlet for razor and toiletries.
Deluxe Suites (No. 17-42), Select Deck Cabin size: 13.5 square metres (145 square feet) Furnishings: Two portholes, television, dressing table and stool, closet, safe. Bed: Two single beds Bathroom: 24 square feet with shower, WC, marble sink, golden fixtures, hairdryer, outlet for razor and toiletries.
Junior Suites (No. 43-46), Select Deck Cabin size: 13.5 square metres (145 square feet) Furnishings: Two portholes, television, dressing table and stool, closet, safe. Bed: Two single beds Bathroom: 24 square feet with shower, WC, marble sink, golden fixtures, hairdryer, outlet for razor and toiletries.
Superior Suites (No. 7, 8, 9, 10 & 12), Select Deck Cabin size: 13.5 square metres (145 square feet) Furnishings: Two portholes, television, dressing table and stool, closet, safe. Bed: Two single beds Bathroom: 24 square feet with shower, WC, marble sink, golden fixtures, hairdryer, outlet for razor and toiletries.
Please note that the portholes and windows in the cabins are all non-opening.
Please note that the Junior, Deluxe & Superior Suites are twin bedded. Premium and Royal Suites have double beds with separate mattresses and can be configured as a twin on request.
COMMUNICATION
The Royal Crown is equipped with a direct-dial mobile (GSM) communications system. You can be contacted on board on this number: Tel + 31 625 695 802 (subject to charge).
CRUISE DIRECTOR
Your professional, English-speaking Cruise Director will look after your comfort, answer questions and help make your river cruise the holiday of a lifetime. Please do not hesitate to contact him/her at any time. A Noble Caledonia Tour Manager will also accompany you on your voyage.
CURRENCY
The currency on board the ship is the Euro. All passengers will have their own ship account, which allows you to sign a chit for all purchases and services throughout your cruise. You may then settle your bill by Visa, Mastercard, Maestro or cash (Euros only) at the end of the cruise. Personal cheques are not accepted. Regrettably, the ship is not able to offer a money-changing service on board as this would be contravening official regulations.
DAILY PROGRAMME
The daily programme is printed on board and delivered to your cabin every evening during dinner. It provides details of the following day’s programme, meal times and other activities, as well as interesting and helpful information about your next port of call.
DISABLED FACILITIES
The ship is not designed for those with severe mobility restrictions or wheelchair dependent passengers. Cabin bathrooms have high thresholds which must be stepped over. There are no lifts or chair lifts aboard.
DRESS CODE
During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate. Evening attire is smart casual though you may like to bring something a little dressier for the welcome and farewell dinners, for example, a jacket and tie for gentlemen, and a dress/trouser suit and blouse for ladies.
DRINKS
Bottled water is available in your cabin and is replenished daily. A small bottle of water is provided per person each day to take on shore excursions. Complimentary house wine, beer and soft drinks are included with every lunch and dinner on board.
ELECTRICITY
Voltage is 220V and sockets accept European-style two round pin plugs. In the bathroom there is an 110V socket which may be used for electric razors only. We recommend that you bring an international adaptor. For safety reasons, the use of electrical irons or other devices such as kettles, are not permitted on board.
EMBARKATION/DISEMBARKATION
Embarkation is approximately 4.00 pm, unless advised otherwise. The official embarkation time will be advised in your final documentation. The official disembarkation time is between 8.30 am to 9.00 am, however your Cruise Director will provide detailed information prior to the end of the cruise. This will include departure transfer information.
EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES
In the unlikely event of an emergency during your cruise please remain calm and follow the instructions of the crew. We request that all guests carefully review the safety instructions on the inside of their cabin door. Should you detect fire or smoke please alert the crew immediately and await instructions. Please note that the ship is a non-smoking environment and smoking is only permitted outside on the Lido Deck.
FIRE SAFETY
On your cabin door is a deck plan displaying your closest (and all other) emergency exits. Emergency exits are marked in green and fire extinguishers fitted in all corridors. Should you detect fire or smoke please alert the reception desk immediately and await instructions from the crew.
FIRST AID
A number of crew are fully trained and certified to provide First Aid. Should you require further medical attention, please contact the Hotel Manager or Cruise Director immediately. Further medical assistance can be sought from one of the hospitals along the river in the event of emergency.
FITNESS ROOM
A small fitness centre, open daily from 6.00 am to 10.00 pm, is located on Panorama Deck, at the aft. A variety of exercise equipment and a sauna are available. The sauna will be heated upon request by notifying reception at least 30 minutes in advance.
GAMES & BOOKS
A selection of games and books is available in the Library. We kindly ask that these items be returned after you are finished using them.
GIFT SHOP/BOUTIQUE
An onboard gift shop is located near the reception area. Here you can purchase a selection of souvenirs and postcards etc. The opening hours are 7.30 am to 09.30 pm.
HAIRDRYER
Each cabin is equipped with a hairdryer, located in the bathroom.
HOUSEKEEPING
The excellent housekeeping staff attend to your cabin twice daily.
KEYS TO CABIN
Each guest will receive their own cabin key. Before leaving the ship please swap the cabin key with a shore pass which will be provided to you by the ship’s reception desk. After your return to the ship, please return your shore pass back to reception in exchange for your cabin key.
LAUNDRY
Laundry service is available on board. Laundry bags and a price list can be found in the closet of your cabin. Once you have filled out the laundry form, please include it in the bag and place it on your bed in the morning before you go to breakfast. Laundered items will be returned next day. Dry cleaning services are not available on board.
LIBRARY
A selection of English books and games are available at all times on a self-serve basis. A daily news print is also supplied.
LIDO DECK
There are loungers and armchairs available on the Lido Deck as well as a putting green and a giant chess set. The Lido Deck area may be closed in the evenings, and when sailing through sections of the river where bridges are low, to ensure your safety. Please also note that the Lido Deck and its steps may become slippery if the weather is cool or dew forms.
LIFT
There is no lift on board.
LOST PROPERTY
Before you disembark the MS Royal Crown, please check your cabin to ensure that you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any other items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia within 21 days of disembarking.
LOUNGE
The bar & 1930s Art Deco style lounge is located on Panorama Deck, and is open from 10.00 am until at least midnight. Richly textured carpets provide the hushed atmosphere for conversation among friends. Relax in the comfort of carved mahogany sofas and chairs and enjoy a choice of drinks from the bar. Listen to the MS Royal Crown musician playing romantic, background music and more beautiful creations on the Royal Crown’s Steinway & Sons piano.
MEALS
The restaurant is located on Panorama Deck and all meal times are open seating. All meals on board are prepared by European chefs and consist of European-style food which has been tailored to international palates.
The following meals are served during the cruise: • Early Riser • Breakfast Buffet • Lunch Buffet • Afternoon Tea • Served multiple-course dinner • Late night snack Tea and coffee are served with all meals. House wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner are included in your holiday price. Special dietary requests such as gluten free, vegetarian, low salt and low cholesterol diets should be made to Noble Caledonia (in writing) in advance. However, we recommend that you contact your Cruise Director once on board to reconfirm such requests. We regret that not all dietary requests can be guaranteed and the ship is not equipped to prepare or serve kosher or halal cuisine.
MEDICAL
There is no doctor on board, however crew members are trained in first aid and medical personnel can be summoned aboard quickly in the case of an emergency. Passengers requiring special medications are advised to bring a supply with them. Please note that no medication of any kind can be distributed on board the vessel.
MOORING
Docking space is allocated by the local river authorities. Views from cabins may occasionally be restricted. On occasion other river cruise vessels may dock alongside the ship. This may restrict cabin views, and you may find that embarking and disembarking necessitates walking through another ship’s reception area, and/or for their passengers to do the same.
NEWSPAPERS
Select articles from online news sources are downloaded via satellite each day, printed out and placed in the Library. We kindly ask that you return these photocopied news articles once you have read them so other guests may enjoy them as well.
OPERATIONAL CHANGES
Sometimes it is necessary to make amendments to the itinerary, both for logistical and safety reasons. The Captain of the vessel shall decide if necessary and your Cruise Director will inform you of any necessary changes.
ONBOARD ENTERTAINMENT
Entertainment is low key, and the onboard musician will play relaxing background music on the ship’s Steinway & Son’s piano.
PAYMENTS ON BOARD
The ship offers a cash-free system during your cruise and charge all purchases to your onboard account. The day before your cruise ends you will receive an itemised invoice for any onboard charges incurred. Please review the invoice carefully before settling your bill. All onboard charges will be in Euros, payable with Visa, Mastercard, Maestro or cash (Euros only) at the end of the cruise. Personal cheques and debit cards are not accepted.
POST
Please note that although the reception staff may be happy to post letters and postcards on your behalf, they may not be able to do so straightaway or indeed at the port of call at which you make such a request. Please also note that some postal services are unreliable and that any letters or postcards that you ask to be delivered on your behalf may be delayed or even lost en-route.
QUESTIONNAIRES
A questionnaire will be provided to all passengers towards the end of their sailing. We would be grateful if you would complete this and place it in the box at Reception.
QUIETVOX/AUDIO SYSTEM
The ship provides guests with individual Quietvox Systems to use on shore excursions for the duration of the cruise. This device enables you to clearly hear the guide’s commentary so you can enjoy each tour to the fullest. The audio device can be found in your cabin in a charger unit on the desk. Please make sure to always re-insert the device once you return to your room to ensure it is fully charged for the next day.
RECEPTION
Reception can be contacted 24 hours a day, except when the crew member on night watch duty are doing their intermittent safety rounds between 10.00 pm and 6.00 am.
ROOM SERVICE
Should you ever feel unwell and unable to attend meal times at the restaurant, the crew will happily serve you in your cabin. Room service is otherwise not available.
SAFE
Your cabin is equipped with a small safe for your personal use. We recommend placing valuables in the safe whenever you are away from your room. Please remember to remove all items from the safe and leave the safe open before disembarking.
SAFETY
In accordance with international law, the Captain has full control over the ship and every person on board must obey his lawful commands. Captains have the authority to take any action deemed necessary to manage situations where guests are verbally or physically disruptive towards any other person on board or otherwise causing problems during the cruise. We have a zero tolerance policy regarding such disruptions as the safety of our guests, crew and the ship remains our first priority. During the night, a crew member on night watch duty will perform a security check every hour and thus may be away from the front desk for a short time.
SMOKING
Smoking inside the ship is a severe fire hazard and is only permitted on the Lido Deck. For the safety and comfort of all guests on board, your cooperation in observing the no-smoking policy is greatly appreciated.
TELEPHONE
To make an internal call please dial the corresponding cabin number. To make an external call, please contact the reception desk.
TOILETRIES
A selection of L’Occitane toiletries from their Verbena range are provided including shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, soap, manicure set and shower cap.
TOWELS
Towels are available within your cabin’s bathroom and are also on request should you require them on the Lido Deck. The ship aims to be an eco-friendly river cruise line. For this reason, towels are not automatically changed every day. Please place used towels on the floor of the bathroom if you wish to have them replaced with fresh ones. Please note towels left hanging on the towel rack will not be changed.
VALUABLES
We urge you to leave valuable jewellery at home. Neither the ship nor Noble Caledonia is responsible for any valuables left in the cabins. Please beware of pickpockets when ashore.
VISITORS
Visitors are not permitted aboard the vessel without the prior consent of the ship’s Cruise Director. Please provide as much notice as possible to the senior staff so that the necessary arrangements can be made. The ship’s operators reserve the right to deny boarding to any visitors.
WATER
Complimentary bottled water is provided in cabins and replenished as and when required, and smaller bottles are also provided each day on excursions. Tap water on board is filtered and suitable for drinking.
WI-FI
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship. Please note that Internet access is not guaranteed and may be unavailable when the ship sails through rural areas or locks.
PLEASE BE ADVISED: These details should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
V.6 November 2019
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Deck plans
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Deckplan
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Deckplan
Video Library
Special Guest Performances
by London Festival Opera
We are delighted to announce that our long time associates London Festival Opera will be presenting ‘A Feast of Opera’ in three enchanting historic settings - Amorbach Abbey for an Opera Gala featuring the works of the great German, French and Italian composers, Kloster Eberbach for a recital covering three centuries of great operatic repertoire, and Vollrads Castle for a recreation of a 19th century Opera Soirée performed in period evening dress. Bringing together artists from the major British opera companies including the Royal Opera, English National Opera and Glyndebourne Festival Opera, the company has a considerable reputation and has appeared in some of the world’s leading venues including as a guest company in one of the Italy’s greatest opera houses, La Fenice.
Travelling with You
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London Festival Opera
We are delighted to be joined by London Festival Opera on many of our tours and cruises. We have long been associated with London Festival Opera and each year our music themed cruises grow in popularity. London Festival Opera have achieved a considerable reputation for presenting opera in palaces, castles, country houses, theatres, concert halls, embassies and private homes and gardens. Recent engagements have been throughout the UK, Europe and as far afield as Barbados, Marrakech and Moscow.
Particular attention is given to the design and quality of our costumes which are as authentic as possible. Whether it is a period evening dress, such as Regency or Victorian to enhance a gala performance or a full production, the costumes will be of the highest quality and style.
Bringing together artists from the major British opera companies including the Royal Opera, English National Opera and Glyndebourne Festival Opera, the company has a considerable reputation and has appeared in some of the world's leading venues including as a guest company in one of the Italy's greatest opera houses, La Fenice in Venice.
London Festival Opera will be on the following tour dates: 28 May to 20 June 2021 -
Mandy Kinnell
Born in Central Scotland into a family in the hospitality business Mandy’s first trip ‘abroad’ was at the age of six to Spain. The new sights, scenes and smells left a lasting impression and a love for languages and Travel began. So it was natural she should spend her gap year in Spain as a resort Representative for a large Tour Operator … that was the summer of 1987. That summer, Mandy decided that learning about new cultures, looking after people and taking them on adventures to see new things and help them have new experiences was much more interesting and she is happy to confess her Gap Year never ended.
Having worked all over the world Mandy spent many years at sea as a Cruise Director on mostly all Spanish Cruise Lines. This proved a fabulous opportunity to see many new areas and to not only help guests during their travels but also to entertain.
In 2014 Mandy began working as a Cruise Director on European River Cruises as well as escorting tours to French Chateaux and wineries, Peru and the Caribbean.
Mandy is a gatherer of trivia and loves to share anecdotes with her guests, she is delighted to join Noble Caledonia this year and looks forward to travelling with you.
Mandy Kinnell will be on the following tour dates: 28 May to 20 June 2021 -
Major Gordon Corrigan MBE
Gordon Corrigan spent most of his adult life as an officer of the Royal Gurkha Rifles, serving mainly in the Far East but also in Cyprus, Berlin, Northern Ireland and Belize. He is now a military historian and the author of a number of books on subjects ranging from the Hundred Years War to the Peninsula War to the First and Second World Wars. To date he has been the presenter of five TV series dealing with various aspects of military history, in addition to regular appearances in documentaries. He conducts military history study tours in Europe, India, Pakistan, Nepal, Turkey and North Africa. He has lectured in Russia and Central Asia and is a regular speaker on Noble Caledonia cruises. He has lectured in the United States and Canada and is an Honorary Research Fellow of the Universities of Birmingham and Kent, a Fellow of the Royal Asiatic Society, a Member of the British Commission for Military History, and a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Farriers. During our cruise he will be lecturing on the history of the nations and the areas that we will be visiting or travelling through.
Major Gordon Corrigan MBE will be on the following tour dates: 28 May to 8 June 2021 -
Neil Taylor
Neil visited Germany frequently as a child seeing many ruined towns. He has lectured on group tours and cruises to Austria and Germany most years since the 1970s, having studied German history at Cambridge University. He has followed political developments in them throughout that time, and has a particular interest in comparing how Germany as two countries and Austria as one dealt with the legacy of World War II. He has also kept abreast of the remarkable architectural restoration throughout the area, as evident in the small villages along the Rhine as in the big cities. In 2003 he published a guidebook to Berlin.
Neil Taylor will be on the following tour dates: 8 to 20 June 2021
Tour Extensions
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If you would like to spend some time in Bucharest before embarking the MS Royal Crown, we are offering a three night pre-cruise extension.
Romanian Athenaeum, Bucharest
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Bucharest, Romania.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to your hotel for a three night stay.
Day 2 Discover Bucharest.
After breakfast enjoy a panoramic tour of the city’s highlights, including the National Theatre, the University Square, the National Art Museum, the Opera House, the Military Academy, the Arch of Triumph, and the Free Press House. We complete the morning with a walking tour of the Old Town. Enjoy lunch in “Carul cu Bere”, Bucharest’s oldest beer house, with its colourful Belle Epoque interior and classic Romanian fare. This afternoon we will visit the Parliament Palace, the second largest administrative building in the world at 3.77 million square feet. This gargantuan construction is Ceausescu’s most infamous creation and makes for a fascinating tour. Tonight join your fellow travellers for a welcome drink and dinner in the hotel. (B, L, D)
Day 3 Snagov & Mogosoaia.
After breakfast at the hotel, depart for our visit to Snagov Monastery. This monastery was founded in 1408 by Mircea the Elder, Vlad Dracul’s grandfather. Vlad, also known as Vlad Tepes is the historical character on whom Bram Stoker’s book Dracula is based and is said to be buried here by the monks in 1476. We continue on to visit Mogosoaia Palace, built in the 17th century in the Romanian Renaissance style. After lunch in a local restaurant we return to Bucharest for an evening at leisure. Dinner will be under your own arrangements tonight. (B, L)
Day 4 Bucharest to Fetesti.
After breakfast there will be free time to relax, sightsee or shop at leisure before your afternoon departure for Fetesti (approx. 2.5 hour drive). On arrival embark the MS Royal Crown. (B)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
25 to 28 May 2021 Category Price Twin £795 Single £945 Price Includes: Three nights hotel accommodation with breakfast, meals as indicated (B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner), excursions, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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