On-board guest lectures are of course nothing new in the river cruising world, but the newest river cruise line currently exploring Europe’s rivers, Emerald Waterways, is currently offering a brand new Danube river itinerary featuring some leading names from the world of political punditry.

We talk a lot on RiverVoyages.com about how river cruises take you right to the heart of each destination. It’s true, and as well as ticking off all the must-see landmarks, you can explore the culture and history of each port you visit. Political history in particular is a big part of Europe’s past and with structures like the unmissable Budapest Parliament Building and Bucharest’s huge Palace of the Parliament on your horizon, you’ll find it impossible to ignore.

Emerald Waterways has tapped into the Danube’s massive political potential by enlisting the help of not one but three well-known figures from the field of world affairs; John Simpson the BBC’s World Affairs Editor, former BBC foreign correspondent Martin Bell and BBC Central Europe Correspondent Nick Thorpe.

This politically-savvy trio lead the Danube in Depth Correspondents’ Cruise, which takes you on a fascinating journey along this legendary river from Budapest to Bucharest. As well as these celebrated capitals, you’ll visit a host of other historic destinations such as Hungary’s Kalocsa, Croatia’s Vukovar, Belgrade in Serbia and the Bulgarian clifftop town of Veliko Tarnovo. Along the way, you’ll hear insights, experiences, observations and stories from each of the correspondents as they discuss the events which shaped the regions you travel through. You’ll also be able to join an excellent choice of excursions led by expert guides in each port and there is of course time for some scenic relaxation as you sail through the stunning Iron Gate gorge during one day of your voyage.

Already a fantastic itinerary, this Emerald Waterways cruise is proving even more popular thanks to its added expert political weight but we still have some spaces available, so be sure to call our Cruise Concierge team today on 0800 197 0854 to book your place on-board.