As the river cruise world gets all worked up about a river cruise line moving into offering ocean cruises, there hasn’t been as much furore over a company branching out in the opposite direction. However that’s exactly what’s happening as Fred. Olsen Cruise Line has launched their new sister brand Fred.\ River Cruises with its ship the MS Mozart.

Cruises on the ship will now be solely available through Fred.\ River Cruises, with a choice of two different itineraries. Sail the Danube for eight days, or try a 15-day Iron Gates and Danube Delta cruise if you want to escape for longer.

The eight day itinerary begins in Passau and sails to Krems, Esztergom, Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna and Melk before returning to Passau. A number of city tours and excursions are included with optional extras also available such as an evening tour of Vienna or a concert of the Vienna Hofburg Orchestra.

The 15-day itinerary is similar but from Budapest heads to Belgrade, and then into Bulgaria and Romania with posts such as Svistov and Oltenita. Returning through Serbia you can enjoy Novisad before eventually returning via Krems and Melk to Passau.

The MS Mozart is a luxurious ship that was originally built in 1987, with consistent refurbishments since including the latest in 2010. It can host just over 200 passengers in 103 cabins and has an on-board spa, movie nights, live music and more to keep you entertained along with a fantastic restaurant and two bars.

Your cruise includes free water and soft drinks, along with complimentary wine and beer during lunch and dinner. Transfers from the Passau train station are included, and each voyage is led by an English-speaking Cruise Director. Guests can also look forward to a cocktail reception and welcome dinner when they board, and a Captain’s Gala Dinner during the holiday.

By Ian Lewis
Google