Adventures by Disney tours rolled out news of a limited number of European river cruises for 2016 in April, and has now tacked on two more dates.
The original sailings, which could accommodate 160 passengers and be aboard AmaWaterways’ new Viola, are slated for July 7, 14, 21 and 28 and one during the holidays on Dec. 22.
Disney has now added two more sailings, one more in the summer on Aug. 4 and another holiday-themed trip on Dec. 15.
“The addition of new dates to next year’s Adventures by Disney Danube River Cruise sailings is very much a testament to how popular these itineraries have been with our guests,” said Adventure By Disney spokesperson Amanda Adler in an e-mail. “The original five sailings have proved very successful thus far.”
Each of the now seven sailings will traverse Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary on seven-night voyages with stops in eight ports including Vienna and Budapest. Each stop offers a variety of guided activities such as castle and brewery tours, trips to equestrian parks and activities like making your own goulash.
The two holiday voyages include visits to Christmas markets in Budapest and Vienna. The latter trip features a trip to a Vienna Boys Choir Christmas performance in the Hofburg Palace Chapel. The new, earlier holiday trip features a private performance and cocktail reception at the Spanish Riding School in Vienna.
So how much of Disney is on these guided tours?
“A lot of times we’re asked if there’s going to be characters, and there is not on Adventures by Disney itineraries” said Disney Destinations spokesperson Maureen Barrett. “It’s more about the culture, and it’s more about the local flavor and the local experts to talk about the stories behind those destinations.”
She said the recommended age is 6- to 8-years old at the youngest.
“Eight is ideal,” she said. “Because it’s about the culture and immersion so a child around 8 years old and up are probably going to benefit more.”
This is the first foray by Disney into river cruising, and a larger tour that a standard Adventures by Disney operation, which is usually 39 guests with tour guides. The river cruises feature eight guides in addition to the ship staff provided by AmaWaterways.
“They’re a leader in river cruising,” said Barrett. “We were told by our consumer research that they delivered an excellent product and we wanted to align ourselves with somebody that we believe would deliver the kind of service and expertise that Adventures by Disney and Disney products deliver for families.”
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