River cruising is contagious. That’s what Cruise West, a Seattle-based company specialized in small ship explorations, is realizing.
After quietly testing out a few river cruises on the Danube River this year, Cruise West is branching out with three different itineraries and three departures for 2010.
“Cruise West offering European river cruising is a natural progression as we continue to provide intimate, up-close experiences not available on larger vessels,” said Cruise West President and CEO Dietmar Wertanzl. “With the value of the euro where it is, cruises provide a cost-effective way for travelers to experience Europe.”
Next year, Cruise West will continue to charter the 148-passenger Amadeus Diamond from the Austrian firm Luftner Cruises, the same river cruise ship it used for the Danube cruises this year.
The ship is brand new, having just launched this year, and boasts modern décor with a warm color palette. In addition to a standard restaurant and panorama bar and lounge, the Diamond has a walking track, bar and small putting area on its sun deck.
Cabins range from 170 to 304 square feet with French balconies in 80% of the staterooms. Also available to guests are a fitness center, hairdresser, masseuse, doctor and Internet station.
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