Avalon Waterways has announced that it will feature respected Jewish author and lecturer Inge Auerbacher as a guest lecturer aboard the line’s annual Jewish Heritage voyage this October, part of Avalon Waterways’ collection of special theme cruises.

Avalon’s Jewish History Cruise begins in Budapest and concludes in Prague. Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders

Auerbacher was the last Jewish child born in the German village of Kippenheim, in 1934. As a child, she experienced the horrors of Kristallnacht, or the Night of Broken Glass, in which Nazi Germany targeted those of Jewish descent in 1938. Like approximately 30,000 other Jews, Auerbacher was rounded up and sent to a concentration camp.

Unlike many, however, Auerbacher and her parents survived the war. She now travels the world speaking about the horrors of the Holocaust and the importance of tolerance and human rights.

She will share her stories with guests as they sail from Budapest to Prague along the magnificent Danube, providing insight into some of the relevant historic locations along the way.

Prague at night is a magical experience. It’s easy to imagine the year is 1618 … the date of the Defenestration of Prague. Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders

In keeping with Avalon’s dedication to immersive theme cruises, this voyage will also feature special shore excursions that have been tailor-made for the itinerary, including the option to visit Europe’s largest synagogue in Prague, and an optional overland journey to Salzburg to see the World War II Jewish ghetto of Terezin.

More information on Avalon Waterways can be found by viewing our complete company profile here on River Cruise Advisor.