Avalon Waterways
Avalon Visionary
Occupancy: 128
Crew: 35
Length: 361 feet
Built: 2012
Ship Registry: Germany
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Legendary Danube 2013 All-Gay Cruise
from Prague to Budapest
July 29 – August 9, 2013
Avalon Waterways Avalon Visionary
11 day European vacation featuring a fascinating cruise from Nuremberg to Budapest including 2 night pre and post cruise accommodations in Prague and Budapest.
There's no better way to experience Eastern Europe than on one of our signature vacations, an RSVP riverboat cruise. Discovery, camaraderie, style and comfort all come together for the perfect Danube holiday. Onboard the Visionary you'll savor the luxury of Avalon's new all-suite design and the most spacious staterooms of any river cruise ship sailing Europe's waterways.
Your vacation begins in Prague, Czech Republic, where you'll spend two nights at the upscale Prague Marriott Hotel. Prague is a 1,000-year-old city preserved in time. See its best-known treasures, such as the Old Town's Astronomical Clock, once the envy of all of Europe; Hradcany Castle grounds, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the Charles Bridge. Browse the shops for hand-cut crystal or art books, mix with the locals in Wenceslaus Square or stroll along the Vltava River.
Next, we transfer to Nuremberg, Germany to board the Visionary. You'll have all night through noon the next day to explore this historic city which has been restored to its original style after suffering extensive damage during WWII. Marvel at its fabulous gothic churches and elegant patrician houses. Nuremberg's traditions include its famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working.
After we set sail, we'll travel through the Main-Danube Canal to one of Germany's best preserved medieval cities – Regensburg, whose architectural highlights include the Old Town Hall and Porta Pretoria – gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. Before dinner, we'll introduce you to some of Germany's famous beers.
The next morning we stop in Passau, Germany where you can join an optional excursion to Salzburg, Austria to take in the popular "The Sound of Music" sights. Should you choose not to take that excursion, our 2.5 hour stop in Passau will allow ample time to see the sights. Ideally situated at the confluence of the Rivers Inn, Ilz, and Danube; Passau is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets where St. Stephen's Cathedral houses the world's largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. Following our stop in Passau you can enjoy the day onboard the Visionary as we navigate further down river to Linz, Austria.
The following day, we arrive in Melk, whose magnificent Benedictine Abbey dominates the town from its commanding hill site and is one of Europe's largest monasteries. The cruise continues to Durnstein, located in the heart of the magnificent Wachau wine region and known for the baroque Stiftskirche with its blue facade. Above town are the ruins of the castle where England's King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192.
Up next, Vienna, the "City of Music", where our overnight stay allows ample time for dinner, a concert and the fabulous gay night life of this magnificent city. Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria's capital has much to offer: lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ring Boulevard, and awe-inspiring St. Stephen's Cathedral just to name a few of the sights you will enjoy during your city tour. Shop in the Karntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood café.
We leave the Visionary behind in Budapest, where your vacation continues at the luxurious Budapest
Intercontinental Hotel right on the bank of the Danube River. Budapest, often referred to as the "Paris of the East", spans the banks of both sides of the Danube and is Eastern Europe's liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis. Seven bridges connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with Fishermen's Bastion and the Matthias Church are among the impressive sights you'll see on your included city tour.
Whether you're looking to explore the great museums of Prague, listen to an opera where it was written, or just take in the beautiful scenery from the privacy of your own stateroom, let RSVP take care of the details and make you a part of our extended family onboard the Visionary. Experience the intimacy, romance and fun of an RSVP riverboat cruise. Come join us on this, our most popular riverboat cruise ever.
Your Ship - Avalon's Visionary
From meticulous millwork to hand-applied finishes, from designer lighting to enhanced soundproofing, from the conception and flow of the lounges to the placement of the windows, Avalon's Visionary is thoughtfully designed and appointed with materials known for their quality, beauty, and functionality. Making her debut in May 2012; the Visionary features two full decks of suites with wall-to-wall panoramic windows that transform the living space into a unique open-air balcony. Cruise along the legendary Danube River, enjoying fresh breezes and enchanting scenery from the comfort of your suite. Onboard amenities include a fitness center, internet corner, complimentary Wi-Fi access, and a spacious Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, shade system, whirlpool, and the delightful open-air bistro.
There's simply no better way to experience the history, culture and allure of Europe. With just 128 lucky guests, the Visionary creates an intimate, small ship ambience that's the hallmark of our riverboat cruises.
Make new friends over an elegant dinner in the ship's restaurant, enjoy a signature RSVP cabaret show, or just watch the charming countryside glide by. On an RSVP riverboat cruise, you're free to do as much or as little as you want...every day!
Dining
Dining is an integral part of your RSVP cruise. We customize the menus to suit your tastes, and the Visionary's onboard culinary staff delivers hearty and satisfying fare with their signature European service. You're free to sit wherever you want and with whomever you want, making it easy to catch up with old friends or make new ones.
The Visionary's spacious dining room provides an elegant, yet relaxed atmosphere and unimpeded views through full panoramic windows. Begin your mornings early or late – it's your choice. Ether way, a sumptuous breakfast awaits. And, for those times when a quiet Continental breakfast in bed sounds appealing, breakfast room service is also available. Enjoy lunch inside or outside. We think you'll agree the delightful open-air seating is the perfect place to lunch while admiring passing landscapes. Dinnertime beckons with 5-star service, the finest chef-inspired recipes, and complimentary regional wines.
With good food, great friends and an elegant setting, your dining experience is sure to be a memorable one.
Incredible Dining Choices
• Self-serve beverage station with complimentary tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees
• Captain's reception with sparkling wine and canapés
• Welcome dinner
• Five-course farewell dinner
• Spacious, open-seating dining room
• Daily early-riser breakfast
• Daily late-riser breakfast
• Full buffet breakfast with sparkling wine and made-to-order egg station
• Complimentary juices with breakfast
• Lunch buffet with carving and pasta stations
• Open-air dining on Sky Deck
• Breakfast buffets with foods that are low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, and high energy
• Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
• Social hour and drink specials in Panorama Lounge
• Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
• Chef-inspired regional & Western recipes
• Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrees and desserts or cheese
• Complimentary regional wines, beer, or soft drinks with dinner, and coffee or tea after dinner
• Complimentary soft drinks with lunches
• Night fare served at 10:30 PM
• All-inclusive drink package for purchase (alcohol or non-alcohol)
• Room service available featuring Continental breakfast and beverages
• Upscale bar serving premium spirits
• Healthy meal options
• Panorama Bistro
• Tastings - sample the destination's famous delicacies
Staterooms
After a day of sightseeing, nothing feels better than retreating to your own personal sanctuary. On any deck, your well-appointed Avalon Deluxe Stateroom is a spacious refuge of inviting home-away-from-home features. Delight in the large bathroom, featuring full shower with glass shower door; deluxe beds with premium mattress covers, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, European-style duvets, and a choice of soft or firm pillows; and ample closet space. You'll love your stateroom so much, you may never want to go home!
Marvel at passing scenery from the comfort of your Avalon Deluxe Stateroom.
You'll enjoy never-ending views from the large windows or floor-to-ceiling sliding-glass doors in every deluxe stateroom on the Visionary. All staterooms enjoy an outside location and more square footage – a minimum of 172 square feet, the largest on the European rivers today and a full 15% larger than the industry standard. In addition, Panorama Suites measure 200 square feet, and Royal Suites are a spacious 300 square feet! You'll be comfortable, relaxed, and fully engaged with the passing scenery!
Deluxe Staterooms Include:
• Comfort Collection by Avalon, featuring premium mattress covers, Egyptian super-combed cotton linens & European-style duvets
• Choice of soft or firm pillows
• Choice of bed configuration (two twins or one queen)
• Nightly turn-down service
• Bedside tables with reading lamps
• Floor-to-ceiling sliding-glass door with French Balcony in most deluxe staterooms
• Large private bathroom featuring full shower with glass door, hairdryer and premium L'Occitane bath amenities
• Spacious closets with shelves for ample storage
• Easy under-bed luggage storage
• Flatscreen satellite TV with movie channels
• Alarm clock
• Writing desk/vanity with comfortable chair and mirror
• Wi-Fi access
• Direct-dial telephone
• Bathrobes and slippers
• Well-stocked minibar
• Complimentary bottled water
• In-room safe
• Individual climate control
• Continental breakfast and beverage room service available
Facilities
From a fitness center and hair salon to Wi-Fi access and a complimentary premium beverage station, the Visionary has an impressive collection of remarkable amenities to enhance your journey all along the way. These include:
• Spacious, open-seating dining room
• Sky Deck with shade system and premium lounge chairs
• Sky Deck whirlpool
• Self-serve beverage station with complimentary tea, hot chocolate and premium coffees
• Lounges and upscale bar serving premium spirits
• Internet corner and Wi-Fi access
• Fitness center
• Well-stocked library
• Hair salon
• Non-smoking interior
On Board
The Visionary will be our intimate and comfortable home away from home for one special week. Enjoy the facilities onboard in any way that suits you. And be sure to catch some of our signature RSVP shows!
• Work out in the generously designed fitness room
• Read a book in the Club Lounge
• Work on your tan while taking in the view from the Sky Deck
• Relax in the whirlpool on the ship's Sky Deck
• Catch up on email from the comfort of your own stateroom
• Enjoy English language TV stations, a large movie selection and a variety of music programs in the privacy of your own stateroom
• Meet new friends at the bar for happy hour
• Enjoy a signature RSVP cabaret act in the ship's main lounge
On Land
On an RSVP riverboat cruise, the star attractions are always the beautiful and historic destinations that we visit. With so many fantastic ports, the possibilities are endless:
• Visit Mozart's birthplace in Austria
• Taste local wines in Durnstein
• Sample Wienerschnitzel in its hometown, Vienna
• Sing along with The Sound of Music as you explore the hills around Salzburg
• Get lost in the medieval alleyways of Regensburg
• Drink a local Grüner Veltliner as you cruise down the Danube
• Tour the Vienna Opera House
• Relax in a lovely café in Salzburg and indulge in Sachertorte and espresso
• Wander the halls and corridors of the massive Benedictine Abbey in Melk
• Marvel at the imperial castle in Nuremberg
Let RSVP entertain you each evening with some of the best comedy and cabaret in the world.
RSVP know how to keep you entertained, and have been doing it strong for over 25 years. A bit closer to the cruise we will update with a list of the events and parties we're planning for you.
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2013 Legendary Danube Cruise Itinerary
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Date |
Port |
Arrive |
Depart |
| 29 Jul |
Prague, Czech Republic |
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| 30 Jul |
Prague, Czech Republic |
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| 31 Jul |
Prague, Czech Republic |
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| 31 Jul |
Nuremberg, Germany, Embarkation |
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| 01 Aug |
Nuremberg, Germany |
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| 02 Aug |
Regensburg, Germany |
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| 03 Aug |
Passau, Germany |
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| 03 Aug |
Linz, Austria |
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| 04 Aug |
Melk, Austria |
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| 04 Aug |
Durnstein, Austria |
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| 05 Aug |
Vienna, Austria |
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| 06 Aug |
Vienna, Austria, Disembarkation |
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| 07 Aug |
Budapest, Hungary |
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| 08 Aug |
Budapest, Hungary |
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| 09 Aug |
Budapest, Hungary |
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Monday, July 29, 2013
Prague, Czech Republic
 Upon arrival to this historic and intriguing city you'll find your home-away-from-home at the Prague Marriott Hotel conveniently located in the heart of old town and within walking distance of many of this cities most visited sites. Take a stroll along the Vltava River and enjoy a traditional pub fare dinner washed down with a local Pilsner and take in the vibrant gay nightlife.
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Prague, Czech Republic
 Prague's rich cultural heritage is much in evidence today. Walk through the narrow medieval cobbled streets, stroll through Old Town Square with its wonderful combination of ornate Baroque, Gothic and Romanesque buildings. Cross the 14th century Charles Bridge, and visit Prague castle. You'll have all day and night to take in all this stunning city has to offer.
Wednesday, July 31, 2013
Prague, Czech Republic - Nuremberg, Germany
 Spend another morning exploring this amazing city before boarding your motor coach for the journey to Nuremberg and the Avalon Visionary. Settle into the comfort of your luxurious stateroom before heading out to see all that Nuremberg has to offer.
Thursday, August 1, 2013
Nuremberg, Germany
 With half a million residents, Nuremburg is dominated by Gothic churches including Sebaldus and St. Lorenz, cobblestoned squares, and the majestic Nuremberg Castle known as the "Kaiserburg". Old Town Nuremberg is almost completely surrounded by a medieval city wall. Explore the market square Hauptmarkt, see Zeppelin Field and visit the Palace of Justice, site of the Nuremberg Trials
Friday, August 2, 2013
Regensburg, Germany
 Regensburg, in Bavaria, is one of Germany's oldest towns, founded by the Romans in 179 A.D. Today Regensburg is a prosperous city of about 150,000 inhabitants, 3 universities and many landmarks, most dated to the Middle Ages including the Cathedral of St. Peter, Old City Hall and Imperial Diet, and the Stone Bridge. Since July 2006 the old city of Regensburg has been a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Saturday, August 3, 2013
Passau, Germany
 In quaint Passau, you'll find picturesque squares like the Domplatz, Residenzplatz and Rathausplatz, the church towers of St. Paul's, a magnificent cathedral and the historic town hall tower. Get lost in the nooks and crannies of this ancient town, or wander down the enchanting footpaths along the Danube and Inn rivers. Or, take an optional full day tour to Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart and the setting for one of the gayest musicals of all time, The Sound of Music.
Saturday, August 3, 2013
Linz, Austria
 Linz is Austria's third largest city and our jumping off point for optional excursions to Salzburg. Christened Europe's Capital of Culture in 2009, Linz brings together the traditional and modern into one city. Spend time in one of the town's many fine museums and explore the local castle. Or, take an optional full day tour to Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart and the setting for one of the gayest musicals of all time, The Sound of Music.
Sunday, August 4, 2013
Melk, Austria
 Melk, Austria is the home of one of Europe's great cultural sites – the Benedictine Abbey of Melk, which was first established in 1089. During your tour of the Abbey, you'll see the 640 foot Imperial Corridor, the Marble Hall with its impressive ceiling fresco, and the view of the village of Melk and the surrounding countryside as seen from the outdoor balcony.
Sunday, August 4, 2013
Durnstein, Austria
 Surrounded by terraced vineyards and fortified walls, this Wachau Valley wine town is one of the most picturesque on the Danube. Durnstein is home of the castle where Richard the Lionhearted was kept prisoner in 1193. Its ruins dominate the high bluff overlooking the river valley.
Monday, August 5, 2013
Tuesday, August 6, 2013
Vienna, Austria
 One of the world's top cultural gems, magnificent Vienna possesses its own unique vibrancy, charm and flair. Known as "The City of Music," Vienna was home to Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert and Johann Strauss. The Vienna Philharmonic is one of the world's top orchestras, and the Vienna Boys' Choir delights audiences both at home and abroad. As you explore this rich city, visit the imperial Hofburg Palace, the Vienna Opera House, awe-inspiring St. Stephen's Cathedral and the National Library. You'll also have the chance to take an optional tour of Schrönbrunn Palace, the historic summer residence of the Habsburg rulers and one of the most significant cultural monuments in Austria.
Wednesday, August 7, 2013
Budapest, Hungary
 Today you bid ado to the Danube and disembark the Visionary to one of the grandest cities in Eastern Europe, Budapest. Settle in to your comfortable room at the
Intercontinental Hotel which is located right on the bank of the beautiful Danube River and surrounded by the cities most iconic landmarks. The Intercontinental will be your home for the next two days as you explore one of the most beautiful and historic cities in Europe.
Thursday, August 8, 2013
Budapest, Hungary
 A famous haven for musicians, writers and artists, modern Budapest retains many of the charms that have attracted visitors for centuries. Visit both halves of the twin cities of Buda and Pest, bisected by the Danube River. From historic Buda Castle, enjoy excellent views of the entire city. Visit the distinctive Fisherman's Bastion, the marvelous Royal Palace and timeless St. Stephen's Basilica.
Friday, August 9, 2013
Budapest, Hungary
 As with all good things this journey too must come to its rightful conclusion. As you take one last look at wonders of Budapest from high above as you depart for home, wonderful memories of your trip and the friends you made along the way will stay with you for a lifetime.
Information about your Blue Danube Discovery Cruise
What's included?
The price of your trip includes two nights pre-cruise at the
Intercontinental Budapest, a deluxe seven night cruise from Budapest to Nuremberg with three meals daily while onboard the Visionary, and two nights post-cruise at the Prague Marriot Hotel. Additional meals are on your own and offer an opportunity to explore local restaurants with your newfound RSVP Vacations friends. Your tour guide is always happy to help with suggestions. Optional tours are available in some ports at an additional cost. The following items are included:
• Shore excursions in Budapest, Vienna, Durnstein, Melk, Passau, Regensburg, Nuremberg and Prague with Local Guide
• Headsets for shore excursions
• Complimentary Wi-Fi access
• Premium coffees, cappuccinos and lattes
• Coffee self-serve beverage station
• Premium L'Occitane bath amenities
• Full buffet breakfast with sparkling wine along with complimentary juices
• Complimentary soft drinks with lunch. Four-course dinners with open seating.
• Complimentary regional wines, soft drinks or beer with dinner
• Night Fare served at 10:30 PM
• English-speaking crew
• Non-smoking interior
• And, much more
Pre cruise hotel Prague, Czech Republic
Prague Marriott Hotel
Two night pre-cruise accommodations (check-in on July 29 – check-out on July 31) in a guest room at the Prague Marriott Hotel City Center location in the heart of Prague, close to the Old Town Square
• Buffet breakfast daily
• City sightseeing tour
• Transfer from the hotel in Prague to the ship in Nuremberg
• Includes all taxes
• Includes porterage fees for two pieces of luggage per person
Post cruise hotel Budapest, Hungary
Intercontinental Budapest
Two night post-cruise accommodations (check-in on August 7 – check-out on August 9) at the Intercontinental Budapest Hotel located right on the Danube River and surrounded by Budapest's most iconic landmarks
• Buffet breakfast daily
• City sightseeing tour
• Transfer from the ship to the hotel in Budapest
• Includes all taxes
• Includes porterage fees for two pieces of luggage per person
What's not included?
The price of your trip does not include airfare, airport transfers, optional shore excursions, alcoholic beverages other than wine and beer with dinner, soft drinks other than with meals, some specialty coffee drinks and salon treatments. Port taxes and gratuities are not included in the price of the trip, but have been added to your reservation as reflected on your invoice.
What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes and good walking shoes while on land. And since there is a whirlpool and fitness room on theVisionary, we suggest a bathing suit and work out clothes.
Currency
For Austria and Germany the currency is the Euro, Czech Republic uses Crowns, and the Hungarian Forint for Hungary. The currency used on the Avalon Visionary is the Euro..
Do I need a passport and visa?
All RSVP Vacations guests require a valid passport at the time of departure. Citizens of the United States and Canada do not require visas for Austria, Czech Republic, Hungary, or Germany. If you are a citizen of another country, or traveling to additional countries on this vacation, you may need visas. You have the sole responsibility for determining your immigration requirements and obtaining appropriate documentation, including but not limited to visas, passports, etc.
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