This journey aboard the wonderfully comfortable, 100-passenger RV Advance from Budapest to Basle travels through the very heart of Europe and includes passages along three great rivers - the Danube, Main and Rhine. Whilst rivers may not always offer the most direct route, they do offer the most interesting. They allow us to weave through the landscape on a meandering journey experiencing the countryside, villages and towns from a very different perspective to that offered by road. A journey such as this will appeal to those who enjoy seeing something different each day but do not find the thought of long coach journeys appealing. We will sail through Europe with great ease, enjoying relaxing interludes on board in between our varied visits ashore.
This detailed look at three of Europe’s great rivers will offer a captivating and endlessly romantic journey. Embarking in the wonderful city of Budapest we will have two weeks ahead of us to take a comprehensive look at an area of infinite cultural riches. Baroque churches, cathedrals and abbeys will be seen in all their splendour, often contrasting with their naturally beautiful, rustic surroundings. Old quarters of winding lanes and alleys lined by Medieval houses contrast with the modern architecture in the city centres. The River Main in particular meanders through some of Bavaria’s most beautiful landscapes, dotted with vineyards, historic towns and villages, peaceful monasteries and imposing Medieval castles.
Advance
The 100-passenger RV Advance is a luxurious, boutique river ship which was built in 2017, and launched into service in 2023. No expense has been spared to create a vessel which is a joy to travel on with stylish public rooms and elegant staterooms along with an expansive Sun Deck. The atmosphere is warm and convivial 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. You will find yourself amongst like-minded people in an English-speaking environment. A musician will play each evening whilst you relax in the lounge, Guest Speakers will provide a series of interesting talks and our Cruise Director will host informative port briefings. After a day exploring ashore, you will return to the comfort and peace of a well-run and exceedingly comfortable vessel.
June Itinerary
Day 1 London to Budapest, Hungary.
Fly by scheduled flight. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to the RV Advance.
Day 2 Budapest.
After breakfast our guided tour of the splendid city of Budapest will include the old quarter, visiting the Mathias’ Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion from where there are stunning views of the city. After lunch on board, the afternoon will be free to explore at leisure. In the early evening join your fellow travellers in the lounge for a piano recital before we sail tonight.
Day 3 Bratislava, Slovakia.
Arrive over lunch in the Slovak capital of Bratislava. Join a guided walking tour of the city, formerly known as Pressburg, a former capital of Hungary. See the old quarter, the ornate Baroque Palace and the ancient city gates. Finish your tour with a visit to St Martin’s cathedral where a string quartet will perform a concert of music by Dvorak and Mozart.
Day 4 Vienna, Austria.
A morning city tour of Austria’s elegant capital will take us around the famous Ringstrasse and the Old Quarter including St Stephen’s Cathedral. Alternatively, travel 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 this afternoon is at leisure to explore this majestic city further at your own pace.
Day 5 Wachau Valley & Melk.
Spend the morning cruising through the beautiful Wachau Valley, famous for its wines and arrive this afternoon in Melk with its majestic Baroque abbey situated on a cliff, 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 6 Passau, Germany.
Arrive over lunch in Passau, where the Inn and Ilz rivers join the Danube. Our guided walking tour will include the old town of this Bavarian city and the breathtaking Cathedral of St Stephen which contains one of the world’s largest church pipe organs.
Day 7 Regensburg.
On our guided morning stroll around this World Heritage listed historic city, widely regarded as the Medieval wonder of Germany we will see the majestic twin-spired cathedral Dom St Peter, the ancient Romanesque Porta Praetoria and the tower houses. The afternoon is free to explore this charming town at your own pace.
Day 8 Nuremberg.
After a morning cruising we arrive in Nuremberg, the capital of Franconia where there will be a choice of tours. A guided tour of the old city sees the vast walls, Zeppelin Field, the site of the Nuremberg Trials and the Palace of Justice. Alternatively join a visit to the lovely Hesperides Gardens, developed in the 17th and 18th centuries by rich tradesmen and often referred to as the “Baroque Gardens”.
Day 9 Bamberg.
Arrive this morning in Bamberg, one of Germany’s most beautiful historic towns. Its relative geographical location, some 40 miles north of Nuremberg was a key factor in preserving its magnificent 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. Return to the ship for lunch and sail later this afternoon.
Day 10 Wurzburg.
We spend the morning in historic Wurzburg, the wine capital of Franconia. We will tour this lovely town including the magnificent Prince Bishop’s Residenz Palace. Our visit will end with a wine tasting of local wines in the splendid cellar of the Burgerspital. Also see the old town with its collection of churches which range in style from Romanesque to Gothic, Renaissance to Baroque before returning to the ship.
Day 11 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. Alternatively, visit Mespelbrunn Castle, one of the loveliest castles in northern Bavaria. The castle is located in a small, hidden and picturesque valley within the Spessart forest and it was because of this concealment that it survived the Thirty Years War and remained unscathed during both World Wars. It was first built in the 15th century and then renovated in beautiful Renaissance style.
Day 12 Mannheim for Heidelberg.
From our berth in Mannheim, we visit nearby Heidelberg to enjoy this most picturesque and romantic of German cities which is home to Germany’s oldest university, dating back to 1386. During our guided tour which will include a visit to the city’s castle and gardens, we will stroll through Heidelberg’s enchanting old town and see its Renaissance building, ‘Zum Ritter’, which survived the fire of 1693.
Day 13 Strasbourg, France.
Arrive this morning and after breakfast join a guided tour which will introduce us to the delights of Strasbourg including the fascinating old quarter. Start with the Quai de la Petite France where the River Ill splits into a number of canals, see the Ponts Couverts, a series of wooden bridges dating back to the 13th century, the Place Gutenberg and the Cathedral of Notre Dame, the tallest Medieval building in Europe. Return to the ship for lunch. This afternoon is at leisure, or alternatively join a scenic tour along Alsace’s “Route des Vins”, including a tasting of the region’s splendid wines.
Day 14 Breisach, Germany for Colmar, France.
From our berth in Breisach, we will cross the River Rhine into France and drive to the capital of the Upper Rhine region, Colmar. We begin with a visit to the impressive Unterlinden Museum which dates back to the 13th century. Admire a fine collection of religious Medieval paintings and also paintings from the 20th and 21st centuries including works by Picasso and Monet. The highlight of the Museum is the Isenheim Altar, a wonderful triptych created for the monastery at Isenheim by Mattheus Grunewald. We continue on for a short walk through the charming Old Town, with delightful patrician houses and winding lanes and enjoy some free time before our drive back to Breisach to reboard the RV Advance. This evening join your fellow travellers for farewell drinks and dinner.
Day 15 Strasbourg, France to London.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your return scheduled flight to London.
September Itinerary
Day 1 London to Basle, Switzerland.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the RV Advance and sail this evening.
Day 2 Breisach, Germany for Colmar, France.
From our berth in Breisach, we will cross the River Rhine into France and drive to the capital of the Upper Rhine region, Colmar. We begin with a visit to the impressive Unterlinden Museum which dates back to the 13th century. Admire a fine collection of religious Medieval paintings and also paintings from the 20th and 21st centuries including works by Picasso and Monet. The highlight of the Museum is the Isenheim Altar, a wonderful triptych created for the monastery at Isenheim by Mattheus Grunewald. We continue on for a short walk through the charming Old Town, with delightful patrician houses and winding lanes and enjoy some free time before our drive back to Breisach to reboard the RV Advance.
Day 3 Strasbourg, France.
Arrive this morning and after breakfast join a guided tour which will introduce us to the delights of Strasbourg including the fascinating old quarter. Start with the Quai de la Petite France where the River Ill splits into a number of canals, see the Ponts Couverts, a series of wooden bridges dating back to the 13th century, the Place Gutenberg and the Cathedral of Notre Dame, the tallest Medieval building in Europe. Return to the ship for lunch. This afternoon is at leisure, or alternatively join our included scenic tour along Alsace’s “Route des Vins”, including a tasting of the region’s splendid wines.
Day 4 Mannheim, Germany.
From our berth in Mannheim, we visit nearby Heidelberg where we have a day to enjoy this most picturesque and romantic of German cities which is home to Germany’s oldest university, dating back to 1386. During our guided tour which will include a visit to the city’s castle and gardens, we will stroll through Heidelberg’s enchanting Old Town and see its Renaissance building, ‘Zum Ritter’, which survived the fire of 1693.
Day 5 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. Alternatively, visit Mespelbrunn Castle, one of the loveliest castles in northern Bavaria. The castle is located in a small, hidden and picturesque valley within the Spessart forest and it was because of this concealment that it survived the Thirty Years War and remained unscathed during both World Wars. It was first built in the 15th century and then renovated in beautiful Renaissance style.
Day 6 Wurzburg.
After a morning cruising we spend the afternoon in historic Wurzburg, the wine capital of Franconia. We will tour this charming town including the magnificent Prince Bishop’s Residenz Palace where our visit ends with a wine tasting of local wines in the splendid cellars. Also see the old town with its collection of churches which range in style from Romanesque to Gothic, Renaissance to Baroque before returning to the ship.
Day 7 Bamberg.
Bamberg is one of Germany’s most beautiful historic towns. Its relative geographical location, some 40 miles north of Nuremberg was a key factor in preserving its magnificent 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.
Day 8 Nuremberg.
Arrive over breakfast in Nuremberg, the capital of Franconia where there will be a choice of tours. A guided tour of the old city sees the vast walls, Zeppelin Field, the site of the Nuremberg Trials and the Palace of Justice. Alternatively join a visit to the lovely Hesperides Gardens, developed in the 17th and 18th centuries by rich tradesmen and often referred to as the “Baroque Gardens”.
Day 9 Regensburg.
On our guided morning stroll around this World Heritage listed historic city, widely regarded as the Medieval wonder of Germany we will see the majestic twin-spired cathedral Dom St Peter, the ancient Romanesque Porta Praetoria and the tower houses. The afternoon is free to explore this charming town at your own pace.
Day 10 Passau.
Spend the day in Passau, where the Inn and Ilz rivers join the Danube. Our guided walking tour will include the old town of this Bavarian city and the breathtaking Cathedral of St Stephen which contains one of the world’s largest church pipe organs.
Day 11 Melk, Austria.
We arrive this morning into in Melk with its majestic Baroque abbey situated on a cliff, high above the Danube, After breakfast, depart for a guided tour of the abbey, including the Imperial Staircase, the Marble Hall and the abbey church. Spend the afternoon cruising through the beautiful Wachau Valley, famous for its wines and arrive this evening into Vienna where we moor overnight.
Day 12 Vienna.
A morning city tour of Austria’s elegant capital will take us around the famous Ringstrasse and the Old Quarter including St Stephen’s Cathedral. Alternatively, travel 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 this afternoon is at leisure to explore this majestic city further at your own pace.
Day 13 Bratislava, Slovakia.
This morning we explore the Slovak capital of Bratislava. Join a guided walking tour of the city, formerly known as Pressburg, a former capital of Hungary. See the old quarter, the ornate Baroque Palace and the ancient city gates. Finish your tour with a visit to the beautiful Klarissen Church where a string quartet will perform a concert of music by Dvorak and Mozart. Spend the afternoon cruising towards Budapest
Day 14 Budapest, Hungary.
After breakfast our guided tour will include the old quarter, visiting the Mathias’ Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion from where there are stunning views of the city. After lunch on board, the afternoon will be free to explore at leisure. In the early evening join your fellow travellers in the lounge for a recital by a renowned Hungarian pianist as we moor overnight.
Day 15 Budapest to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
18 June to 2 July 2024 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
D Standard Stateroom on Deck 2 | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
C Standard Stateroom on Deck 3 | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
B Large Stateroom on Deck 2 | £6795 | £6595 |
A Large Stateroom on Deck 3 | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
Suite Two room Suite on Deck 3 | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
D Standard Stateroom on Deck 2 for sole use | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
C Standard Stateroom on Deck 3 for sole use | Fully Booked | Fully Booked |
13 to 27 September 2024 | ||
---|---|---|
Category | Price | |
D Standard Stateroom on Deck 2 | Fully Booked | |
C Standard Stateroom on Deck 3 | Fully Booked | |
B Large Stateroom on Deck 2 | Fully Booked | |
A Large Stateroom on Deck 3 | Fully Booked | |
Suite Two room Suite on Deck 3 | Fully Booked | |
D Standard Stateroom on Deck 2 for sole use | Fully Booked | |
C Standard Stateroom on Deck 3 for sole use | Fully Booked |
Tour Reference Code: RCAD180624/RCAD130924
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 14 nights aboard the RV Advance on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch & dinner • Shore excursions • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Gratuities • Transfers • Port & airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
Advance
The 100-passenger RV Advance is a luxurious, boutique river ship which was built in 2017, and launched into service in 2023. No expense has been spared to create a vessel which is a joy to travel on with stylish public rooms and elegant staterooms along with an expansive Sun Deck. The atmosphere is warm and convivial 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. You will find yourself amongst like-minded people in an English-speaking environment. A musician will play each evening whilst you relax in the lounge, Guest Speakers will provide a series of interesting talks and our Cruise Director will host informative port briefings. After a day exploring ashore, you will return to the comfort and peace of a well-run and exceedingly comfortable vessel.
Travelling with You
Guest Speaker - Major General Stephen Carr-Smith (retd)
On leaving Sandhurst, Stephen Carr-Smith spent 10 of the next 20 years serving in Germany at the height of the Cold War. He commanded 1 Armoured Divisional Signal Regiment. On returning to the UK: he was an Instructor at the Army Staff College at Camberley, and Commandant of the Army Apprentice College at Harrogate. His last 6 years in the Army, were spent serving in NATO: first at the Supreme HQ Allied Powers Europe (SHAPE); and then as the Deputy Director General of the NATO Communications and Information Systems Agency in Brussels. He retired as a Major General in 1995.
On leaving the Army, he carried out a series of consultancies, including: providing security and mine clearance services in remote and hostile countries; as the Senior Military Advisor to an operational analysis company; and as the Chairman of a company developing opportunities to marry-up Russian technology with western finance and production.
From 1999, he sent nearly 8 years as the Ombudsman for Estate Agents, based in Salisbury - a national appointment dealing with redress and financial compensation for buyers and sellers of residential property throughout the UK. In parallel with these appointments: he was the Honorary Colonel of the First Aid Nursing Yeomanry (FANY); a Colonel Commandant of the Royal Signals; and the Chairman of the Winchester Branch of Cancer Research UK. He was also President of the Stragglers of Asia Cricket Club, and, led cricket tours to Sri Lanka in 2004 and to India in 2007.
Since 2007, he has been going around the world, as a guest speaker on a variety of cruise ships. To date, he has been on some 50 cruises, and has spoken on some 70 different historical topics. On this cruise, he will draw on his experience of living in mainland Europe for 11 years in Germany, and 6 years in Belgium- which has given him an insight into European history and thinking. He will be giving Talks on: the Holy Roman Empire – Martin Luther and the Reformation – the Nuremberg Trials – and the Austo-Hungarian Empire.
Major General Stephen Carr-Smith will travel on 13th September 2024 departure
Also of Interest
Christmas on the Danube
A festive cruise aboard the RV Advance with Guest Speaker Professor Richard Butterwick-Pawlikowski
Advance
Itinerary at a glance
- Vienna / Melk / Weissenkirchen / Salzburg / Passau / Vienna
Passage along the Elbe
An eight night river cruise between Prague and Berlin aboard the MS Elbe Princesse
Elbe Princesse
Itinerary at a glance
- Berlin / Potsdam / Magdeburg / Wittenberg / Meissen / Dresden / Saxon switzerland / Prague
Treasures of Burgundy & Provence
Discover the cultural & natural splendours of the Rhone & Saone aboard the MS Camargue
Camargue
Itinerary at a glance
- Lyon / Macon / Cluny Abbey / Vienne / Avignon / Arles / The Camargue / Viviers / Tournon / Lyon
Splendours of Bordeaux & Aquitaine
A sumptuous wine tasting cruise along the Garonne & Gironde Rivers aboard the MS Cyrano de Bergerac
Cyrano de Bergerac
Itinerary at a glance
- Cadillac / Arcachon Basin / Bordeaux / Medoc / Royan / Rochefort / La Rochelle / Libourne / Saint-Emilion
Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000